Here’s a detailed look at the geography of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines:
Geography of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
General Overview
- A multi-island country located in the southeastern Caribbean Sea, at the northern end of the Grenadines island chain.
- Part of the Lesser Antilles archipelago.
Island Composition
- Comprises Saint Vincent (the largest and main island) and 32 smaller islands and cays, collectively known as the Grenadines.
- Not all Grenadine islands belong to Saint Vincent; some belong to Grenada (to the south).
Main Island: Saint Vincent
- Area: ~344 km² (133 sq mi)
- Mountainous and volcanic in nature.
- Capital city: Kingstown (on the southwestern coast)
Key Grenadine Islands (north to south)
- Bequia
- Mustique
- Canouan
- Mayreau
- Union Island
- Palm Island
- Petit St. Vincent
Total Land Area
- Approximately 389 km² (150 sq mi)
Location
- Latitude: ~13°15′N
- Longitude: ~61°12′W
- Neighbors:
- North: Saint Lucia
- South: Grenada
- East: Barbados (across the sea)
- West: Caribbean Sea
Topography
- Mountainous terrain on Saint Vincent, with steep valleys and forested hills.
- Highest peak: La Soufrière volcano – 1,234 meters (4,049 ft)
- An active stratovolcano (last erupted in April 2021)
- Fertile valleys and coastal plains in southern parts of Saint Vincent.
Coastline & Waters
- Surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean.
- Beautiful beaches, coral reefs, bays, and natural harbors.
- The Grenadines feature turquoise lagoons, coral atolls, and marine biodiversity.
Climate
- Tropical climate with a distinct wet and dry season.
- Wet season: June to November (hurricane season)
- Dry season: December to May
- Average temperatures: 24°C – 31°C (75°F – 88°F)
- Humid throughout the year
Ecosystems & Natural Features
- Rainforests on the main island.
- Rich marine ecosystems with coral reefs, seagrasses, and mangroves.
- Protected areas and nature trails like the Vermont Nature Trail.
- Home to the St. Vincent Parrot (Amazona guildingii) – the national bird and an endangered species.
Natural Hazards
- Volcanic eruptions (notably La Soufrière)
- Hurricanes and tropical storms
- Flooding and landslides in mountainous regions
Geographical Importance
- Strategic location between the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean.
- Attracts tourism, marine exploration, and eco-tourism development.
- The Grenadines are especially known for luxury yachting and diving.
