About Carriacou

Where Is Carriacou?

We are known for

If you’re looking to experience the Caribbean in its most authentic form, then Carriacou is the island to visit. A trip to Grenada is never complete without a trip to Carriacou. This island’s charm lies in its laidback rejuvenating escape from the fast-paced world and the deeply-rooted traditions that are cherished by its citizens. Carriacou (Karry-a-cou) which means “Isle of Reefs” is just 90 minutes by ferry or 20 minutes by plane from the island of Grenada.

Carriacou is the second-largest island of this unique Caribbean gem (three islands, one destination), measuring just 13 square miles. The tiny island has some of the best dive spots in the world with clear waters, pristine coral reefs, and magical drifts. Carriacou is also the largest and last island in the spectacular sailing paradise of the Grenadines island chain.

Grenada

In 1763, our mainland was named Grenada when the British gained control from the French who had named the country La Grenada. The name originates from Granada given by the Spaniards in the 1520s. When the British regained control, they failed in their attempts to rid the island of French influences imposed since 1649 when the French settled the island. Years on, our islands reveal influences of Amerindian customs, French and English…

Grenada

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Our People

Our Culture

Kayaks have rich traditions and customs passed through generations influenced by their African and European ancestors. There are many cultural experiences to take in and memorable celebrations – as a witness to a traditional wedding or boat-launching event, the Big Drum Nation Dance or Shakespeare Mas, the All Saints Candle Lighting ‘Pass Play’ and Fishermen’s Birthday Celebrations.

Carriacou has its own culinary traditions. Take your taste buds back in time with Carriacou’s traditional Smoke Food that reflects the heritage of the island. Smoke Food is found in all of Carriacou’s cultural and historical celebrations including Saraca, Tombstone Feast, Parang Festival, Maroon & String Band Music Festival, Shakespeare Mas (the re-enactment of plays by William Shakespeare during Carriacou’s pre-Lenten Carnival celebrations); and other cultural activities. There’s always a great time for some Smoke Food in Carriacou.

Our History

Carriacou got its name from the Kalinago (Caribs) – ‘Kayryouacou’, meaning, ‘land surrounded by reefs’. Discoveries of pottery tools reveal that Arawaks from South America were the first settlers on the island, followed by various waves and ending with the Kalinago.

The French were the first European settlers in Carriacou around the 1740s. In 1763, it was surrendered along with Grenada to the British. Although the majority of Carriacou’s inhabitants are of African descent, European influences can still be found in the way Kayaks live and also in the names of our towns, cities and people.

Grenada

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Our Stories

Grenada Heritage Map

Pure Grenada has been shaped by an interesting and thrilling mixture of French, African and British influences. Today, accents of our rich and colorful history still remain from our Georgian architecture to beautiful historical forts and ancient rum distilleries. By downloading the Grenada Heritage Map, you will have at your fingertips a virtual map that allows you to browse historical and natural/landscapes – points of interest in Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique and get directions to them. These well-preserved points of interest will surely allow you to step back in history to find out what makes our destination unique. The App is available via the Google and Apple Stores. Just Search ‘Grenada Heritage Map’.