Syndicate Nature Trail
An easy loop through rainforest on Morne Diablotin, the best place to see the sisserou parrot.
Updated 2 September 2026
The Syndicate trail loops for about a kilometre and a half through mature rainforest on the western slopes of Morne Diablotin, and it exists because this is the core range of the sisserou, the imperial amazon, a parrot found only on this island and reduced to a very small population. Red-necked amazons are commoner and noisier. A viewpoint on the loop looks down the valley towards the sea. The walking is flat and easy by local standards.
What's there
- The sisserou - the imperial amazon, found only on this island, in its core range.
- The jaco parrots - the commoner red-necked amazons, heard constantly.
- The mature rainforest - tall canopy with buttressed trunks along the loop.
- The valley viewpoint - the outlook down towards the western sea.
When to go
December to June is the drier half and parrots are most active in the breeding months. Dawn and late afternoon are the times to see them. Rain is frequent at any season.
Before you go
Sisserou sightings are far from guaranteed and most visitors hear rather than see them. Binoculars and patience are essential. The trail is short and the birds are the entire point.
Nearby
Morne Diablotin is above, and Portsmouth is north.
What to pack for Syndicate Nature Trail
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Strong insect repellent - DEET or picaridin; the jungle is where bites and disease risk are highest. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
- Long, light, quick-dry clothing - Covers skin from insects and sun without cooking you in the humidity. Find on Amazon
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