Northern Sights – Buggy in the North

If you’re looking for a way to see some of the most scenic and varied parts of St Lucia’s north without the hassle of driving yourself, the Northern Sights – Buggy in the North tour offers a lively, flexible experience. For around $154 per person and lasting about two to three hours, this adventure whisks you along ocean highways, back-country lanes, and scenic viewpoints, all in open-air buggies designed for either two or four travelers.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines breathtaking ocean views—think Atlantic and Caribbean coastlines—and visits to iconic landmarks like Pigeon Island and Point Hardy. The guides are praised for their friendliness and local knowledge, making each stop more than just a photo opportunity—they’re filled with stories and insights that bring the island’s spirit to life. Plus, the tour includes refreshments, which are a small but appreciated touch after some spirited driving.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is relatively short—just a couple of hours—so if you’re craving a full-day adventure or off-road thrill, this may feel a bit limited. Also, some reviews mention minor issues like a broken wiper blade, so don’t expect perfection. It’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, easygoing exploration, and authentic island vistas. If you’re traveling with a group seeking a fun, flexible introduction to northern St Lucia, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience panoramic sights of both the Atlantic and Caribbean coasts.
• Personalized Experience: Choose between two-seater or four-seater buggies depending on your group size.
• Flexible Pickup: Pickup is available from the northern parts of the island, making logistics simpler.
• Informative Guides: Guides are praised for their friendly attitude and island knowledge.
• Refreshments Included: Water and soft drinks are provided, perfect for staying refreshed.
• Short Duration: Ideal for a quick taste of the north, but may leave some wanting more.

An In-Depth Look at the Northern Sights Buggy Tour

Location and Booking

Starting from Rodney Bay, the tour is designed for travelers who want a glimpse of northern St Lucia’s beauty without committing to a full-day excursion. It’s usually booked about 47 days in advance, suggesting good availability for most peak travel times. The tour includes pickup options from the northern end of the island, making it easy to add on to your day without extra transportation stress.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The tour’s relaxed two to three hours make it perfect for those with limited time or a desire for a light adventure. It begins with a pickup and quick check-in—simply showing your mobile ticket suffices—before setting off in either two or four-seater buggies. The small group size (max 4 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

The first stop is in Gros Islet, a lively town known for its local vibe. From there, the journey takes you along ocean roads with spectacular views of both the Atlantic and Caribbean waters, giving you ample opportunities for photos and awe.

Highlights of the Tour

You’ll visit Point Hardy, where the scenery is spectacular—think rugged coastlines and sweeping vistas—plus Monte Citron for more panoramic views. The back-country roads winding through hillside communities reveal local life away from tourist hotspots. Beach lovers will enjoy Cas en Bas Beach, famous for its calm waters and kite surfers, perfect for a quick stop or a chance to stretch your legs. The Pigeon Island landmark is another highlight, offering a glimpse into St Lucia’s pirate past and commanding views of the sea.

The Guides and Their Stories

Based on reviews, the guides—nicknamed “Snoop Dog” and others—are friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating. They’re praised for sharing interesting tidbits about the island’s culture and making the ride more engaging. Many visitors appreciated how guides took time to allow photos or explain local sights, making it more than just a drive.

The Experience of Driving a Buggy

The open-air buggies add a sense of adventure, especially on the off-road sections, which some reviews describe as “some off-road adventure and a couple of nice stops.” We loved the way the wind and scenery combined for a feeling of freedom—and a bit of a thrill. Note that some reviewers mention minor mechanical hiccups, like broken wiper blades, so don’t expect a perfectly polished experience. Still, these are small issues in an otherwise fun outing.

Refreshments and Comfort

The inclusion of bottled water and soft drinks is a thoughtful touch, especially if the sun is shining. It’s a reminder that this is a casual, fun experience, not a high-intensity adventure. The small group size (max 4 travelers) also contributes to a relaxed atmosphere, allowing guides to tailor the experience more personally.

Price and Value

At $153.85, the tour isn’t the cheapest activity in St Lucia, but considering the personalized service, scenic stops, and the guided storytelling, many find it worth the cost. It’s a comfortable way to explore without renting a car or planning complicated routes, making it good value for a quick, scenic introduction.

What Could Be Better?

Some travelers express a wish that the tour lasted longer, as one review notes, “Wished it lasted longer.” The short duration means you might not see everything on your wish list, especially if you want a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Also, one review mentions that the driver wasn’t as friendly as the guide, which could influence the overall vibe.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This activity suits travelers who want a quick, scenic escape with some off-road fun in a small group. It’s great for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy picturesque views, easygoing driving, and learning about local culture. It’s less ideal if you’re craving multi-hour adventures or extensive off-road riding, but perfect for a balanced introduction to northern St Lucia.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a light-hearted, scenic ride through some of the most beautiful parts of the island, this buggy tour hits the right notes. The friendly guides, stunning vistas, and flexibility in vehicle choice make it appealing. It’s a good value for those who want a short but sweet adventure that captures the essence of northern St Lucia.

However, if your travel style leans toward longer, more intense off-road experiences or full-day explorations, you might find this tour a little brief. Still, for a snapshot of the island’s highlights with a bit of fun and sun, it’s a solid choice.

In all, this experience offers a balancing act—it’s relaxed yet lively, scenic yet casual, personal yet affordable. Perfect for those wanting to see the sights without the fuss and enjoy a bit of island breeze in a small group.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, making it a perfect short activity to add between other excursions.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the buggy ride, pick-up from the northern end of St Lucia, and refreshments including bottled water and soft drinks.

Are there options for different group sizes?
Yes, you can choose between two-seater or four-seater buggies, which is ideal for couples or small groups.

Is the tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
The tour is recommended for travelers with moderate physical fitness. It involves some driving on back roads and scenic stops, but no strenuous activity.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the booking offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is the tour appropriate for children?
While the information doesn’t specify age restrictions, the small group size and nature of the activity suggest it’s best suited for older children or teens comfortable with simple off-road driving.

What are some highlights I will see?
Expect ocean views at Point Hardy and Monte Citron, stops at Cas en Bas Beach, and pictures of Pigeon Island, along with scenic countryside shots.

How is the guide’s approach?
Reviews highlight guides as being friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating, often sharing local stories and taking photos of travelers.

Do I need to prepare anything for the tour?
Just bring your mobile ticket, comfortable clothing, and a sense of adventure. The tour provides refreshments, so no need to pack extra water or drinks.

If you’re eager to explore some of St Lucia’s scenic northern highlights in a fun, relaxed way, the Northern Sights – Buggy in the North tour offers a memorable, picture-worthy experience. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy small-group tours, scenic drives, and local insights without the heavy price tag.