Mastic Trail

The Mastic Trail follows a footpath cut over two centuries ago across the middle of Grand Cayman, and walking it is the closest anyone gets to seeing the island as it was: about two hours through old-growth dry forest, black mangrove swamp and ancient ironshore rock, with mastic and other native hardwoods, wild orchids, hermit crabs underfoot and the West Indian woodpecker and Caribbean dove overhead. The National Trust maintains it and runs guided walks that make sense of what would otherwise be an anonymous green tunnel. It is one of the last substantial patches of untouched habitat on a heavily developed island.

The landscape

• Old-growth dry forest - native hardwoods and orchids along the path.
• Black mangrove swamp - the wet middle section on raised rock.
• Endemic and native birds - woodpeckers, doves and warblers.
• Guided National Trust walks - the interpretation that makes the trail land.

When to go

The drier, cooler months from November to April are far more comfortable; summer walking here is hot, humid and mosquito-heavy. Mornings are the sensible time. After heavy rain sections become genuinely wet and rough.

Things to know

This is not a manicured path - the footing is jagged ironshore limestone, uneven and ankle-turning, and proper closed shoes are essential. Mosquitoes can be severe. There is no water or shade shelter along it, and phone signal is patchy. Walking it unguided is legal but you will see and understand a fraction of what a guide shows you. Allow the full two to three hours.

Nearby

The botanic park, Rum Point and the East End coast.

Key facts