The Queen Elizabeth Botanical Park is a hidden gem here in the Cayman Islands. The lush foliage and flowers, the Woodland Trail, Heritage Garden, the lake, orchid boardwalk, lily pond and of course the extra special Grand Cayman Blue Iguanas are just a few of the attractions.
About a 45 minute drive from Silver Sands, the park can offer a nice change of scenery from the beautiful beach and will allow you to discover a different side of the Cayman Islands. It is recommended getting there when they open at 9am to avoid the heat of the day. You can spend as long as you want wandering around the grounds, and keep a keen eye out for rare birds and the iguanas, they are wild animals and if you are quiet and calm, your close encounter can be one to remember! Finish your experience at the gift shop where you can buy your favorite Cayman souvenirs. 
The National Trust of the Cayman Islands began its work with the Grand Cayman Blue Iguana soon after its formation in 1987, with an ultimate repopulation goal of 1000. The Habitat has become an exceptionally popular area as the captive breeding grounds for these fascinating reptiles, who only two decades ago were facing extinction. These intriguing creatures are frequently found freely roaming the grounds of the Park, and delight both local and foreign visitors who happen upon them. They will not hurt you and if you are calm you can have quite a close encounter, and if you are lucky they will strike a pose for you to get the perfect pic.
Visitors can even take a Blue Iguana Safari Tour and check out the breeding grounds and see where the magic happens. Reservations are necessary and can be made by phoning +1-345-749-1132 or emailing: tours@nationaltrust.org.ky
For a past post we did on these "Blue Dragons" check out:
The Orchid Boardwalk features native orchids as well as non native species. It is fun to walk along the wooden boardwalk through the lush garden and spot these elusive blooming beauties. The Botanical Park teams up with the Cayman Islands Orchid Society to have their annual Orchid Show and sale. A fun event for all the orchid enthusiasts out there.
