Wellhouse: Wildlife at Marizayra Sanctuary

Wellhouse combines a specific sense of place with a distinctive theme: at Marizayra Sanctuary, the wildlife of Barbados and the Caribbean takes centre stage. What began as a refuge for rescued animals has grown into an attraction for locals and visitors. The Wellhouse Dispensary at Wellhouse Corner also offers a practical landmark; check its opening hours before visiting.

Wildlife at Marizayra Sanctuary

The sanctuary aims to educate locals and visitors about the wildlife and fauna of Barbados and the Caribbean region. The animals living there include various bird species, iguanas, red-footed tortoises and green monkeys. Rather than focusing on a single species, it showcases a diverse selection that draws attention to the region’s wildlife.

Snakes are also among the animals there, including ball pythons that can grow up to six feet long; an alligator also lives there. Visitors are urged to exercise caution. Cane toads are also part of the sanctuary’s wildlife. They were introduced to control cane beetles, which destroyed the sugar cane harvest in Barbados’ early history. The toads are considered endangered and secrete a poisonous substance when threatened. This contrast—a species introduced for pest control and a defensive reaction for protection—makes it worth considering the animals’ history and characteristics as well as their presence.

Wellhouse and the wider destination of Saint Philip

Wellhouse is in Saint Philip. The wider destination is the largest of Barbados’ eleven parishes and encompasses the island’s southeast coast. This setting offers a range of themes for planning a holiday: wildlife in Wellhouse, coastal scenery, history and other experiences in Saint Philip. The kind of trip you have in mind may also influence your search for a holiday rental in Wellhouse.

Coast and scenery

Crane Beach in Saint Philip is known for its pink sand and blue water. You can swim there or relax on a beach lounger beneath a parasol. Bottom Bay offers a different kind of scenery: its white-sand beach lies beneath coconut palms on Barbados’ cliff-lined east coast and is a popular picnic spot. If you’re choosing between a day at the beach and a picnic setting, these two coastal locations offer different views of the region. Shark Hole is a secluded coastal spot on the east coast of Barbados in Saint Philip; local knowledge or a map can help you find it.

History, rum and motorsport

The region’s cultural history offers several points of interest. Sunbury Plantation House dates back to 1660, and St. Philip Parish Church is one of the oldest buildings in Barbados. East Point Lighthouse was built in 1875 at the edge of Ragged Point in Saint Philip and is no longer active. The Foursquare Rum Distillery and Heritage Park has exhibitions and paintings; a self-guided tour covers the rum-making process from beginning to end. These places offer different perspectives on architectural history, regional heritage and the tradition of rum production.

Motorsport enthusiasts can also visit the Bushy Park Racing Circuit in Saint Philip: this FIA Grade 3 circuit has a 2.2-kilometre track. It has hosted events including Global RallyCross races. Coast, cultural heritage, rum production and motorsport cater to different interests that you can take into account when choosing the focus of your holiday.

A practical landmark in Wellhouse

The Wellhouse Dispensary is located at Wellhouse Corner in Wellhouse, Saint Philip. It is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Holiday opening hours have not been confirmed. Call before travelling: opening hours and participation in the Drug Service may change.

Discover more destinations: Ruby, Ocean City, Work Hall.

Go to the wider travel guide: Saint Philip.