About Rainforest Adventures St Maarten
Rainforest Adventures St Maarten is an eco-adventure park on the Dutch side of the island (Rockland Estate, Cul de Sac) that mixes rainforest tours with history and thrill rides. It opened in November 2017 as a new attraction on the former Emilio Wilson plantation (www.soualigapost.com ). Signature features include the Emilio Wilson Museum (in a restored 18th-century plantation great house) and Emilio’s Restaurant (in the plantation’s sugar boiler house) (emilios-sxm.com ) (www.soualigapost.com ). The park is best known for its two major aerial rides: the Soualiga Sky Explorer chairlift (taking guests up to 1,115 feet elevation) and the Flying Dutchman zip line, reputedly the world’s steepest (www.soualigapost.com ). In fact, tourism officials touted the new park as proof that St. Maarten tourism had “come back” after Hurricane Irma, saying Rainforest Adventures would show that “our Friendly Island is back and open” (www.soualigapost.com ). Rainforest Adventures is part of an international chain, with sister parks in places like Costa Rica and St. Lucia. The parent company preserves some 2,700 acres of rainforest across its parks and includes sustainability education as part of its mission (stmaartennews.com ). Today the St. Maarten park has become a landmark in its own right, blending adrenaline (for example, a 56 mph zip-line drop) with local culture and history (the museum tells of slavery and emancipation on the island) (www.getyourguide.com ) (www.soualigapost.com ).
Events and Programming
Rainforest Adventures operates daily as an activity venue rather than a traditional concert hall, but it also hosts special events and themed experiences. On a typical day the main “program” is self-guided: visitors ride the Sky Explorer chairlift to the mountaintop viewing decks and then take the ziplines back down (Flying Dutchman and the cross-mountain Sentry Hill line) (www.getyourguide.com ) (rainforestadventure.com ). These attractions are run year-round (weather permitting) and many visitors book a “big three” combo of chairlift + both ziplines in sequence (www.civitatis.com ). Beyond the standard adventure tours, RA also runs scheduled parties and happy hours on the mountaintop. For example, the weekly “Sunset Hora Loca” event offers sunset cocktails up on the deck (4–8 PM happy hour with a refreshed bar) (rainforestadventure.com ). The park also hosts themed dance parties with DJs – notably the popular “SOLELUNA” all-white sunset music nights under the stars (an electronic house-music party with a top-deck bar) (rainforestadventure.com ). These occasional events are advertised on St. Maarten events calendars, but on normal days the programming is simply the adventure rides themselves (with staff safety orientations and instructional briefings before each ride). Throughout the day you can purchase souvenirs and ride-photos in the park’s gift shop, and grab a bite or drink at Emilio’s Restaurant (open same hours as the park) once you’re done with the rides (www.getyourguide.com ) (www.soualigapost.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Admission to Rainforest Adventures is typically sold as packages that combine the various rides. Standard packages include chairlift + Flying Dutchman zipline, and there are combo options that add the Sentry Hill zip or the Schooner inner-tube slide (www.civitatis.com ). For example, one common tour option is a single chairlift ride up followed by the Flying Dutchman descent (www.civitatis.com ). Tickets can be bought on-site at the main entrance (they accept credit cards too, as the site notes “Payment 100% Secured” icons (rainforestadventure.com )), or in advance through tour operators. Advanced booking is wise for busy cruise ship days. Prices vary by package and season, but expect general admission (chairlift + one zip) to be in the range of a few dozen US dollars per person; full “all attractions” packages cost more. Local travel desks and cruise excursion vendors also sell combo tickets (the official park web site and partners like GetYourGuide or Civitatis show all-inclusive options). For the best chance at availability, it’s often recommended to reserve as soon as you know your date – especially if your trip coincides with a weekend or holiday. There is no separate “festival ticket” – day admissions simply cover all rides booked for that day. The park generally opens for ticket sales at 11:00 AM and stops issuing new rides by 4:00 PM (rainforestadventure.com ) (so arrive a bit before noon to have plenty of time).
Seating and Layout
Rainforest Adventures has an open-air, tiered layout on a mountainside. There is no fixed seating like in a theatre; instead visitors move station to station. The entry area is the restored plantation house at the base, which doubles as the Emilio Wilson Museum and reception area. From there, guests step onto the chairlift (Soualiga Sky Explorer) or Ziplines. The Sky Explorer uses four-passenger bench chairs to carry people to a mountaintop “upper deck” – a 360° vista platform ringed by observation decks (www.soualigapost.com ). These decks encircle the summit (at about 1,115 ft elevation) so you can walk around and pick your spots for photos. The Flying Dutchman & Sentry Hill ziplines each launch from separate platforms on that top deck. Many visitors find the best views are from those upper viewing decks (where you see the Big Mountain scenery and far-off neighboring islands (www.getyourguide.com )). On the way down, if you’re not zip-lining you simply ride the chairlift back down the other way. There is also a single-track “Schooner Ride” mountain slide (inner tube water slide) that travels sidewise down the hill. In summary: the park layout is base ⇢ chairlift ⇢ top deck ⇢ zip lines & slide ⇢ return chairlift. The main “front-of-house” facilities (entrance desk, gift shop, restrooms, Emilio’s Restaurant) are all at base level by the parking lot and museum. Because it’s outdoors and on a slope, there are no blocked-off rows or seats to avoid; just wear closed-toe shoes and be prepared for a bit of hiking between stations.
Getting There and Parking
Rainforest Adventures is easily reached by road. It’s located at Rockland Estate on L.B. Scott Road (#59), Dutch Cul de Sac, Sint Maarten (rainforestadventure.com ). From Philipsburg you take W.J. Nisbeth Road (Pondfill Drive) east toward the airport, keep the Great Salt Pond on your right, go through the lights and follow to the big Cul de Sac roundabout. Turn north at the roundabout onto L.B. Scott Road and you’ll see the park entrance on the left in less than a mile (www.visitstmaarten.com ). By car the drive from downtown Philipsburg is only about 10 minutes (5–6 km). From Princess Juliana Airport it’s even quicker – roughly 5 minutes by car. Taxis and shuttles are common; they run on flat-zone fares (for example the route from the port or airport is typically about USD$15–20 for two people). There is no direct bus stop at Rainforest Adventures, so most visitors arrive by taxi, tour bus or rental car. Ample on-site parking is available free of charge next to the entrance (the base station parking lot). After parking, just follow the signs into the main building for ticketing. There are clear directional signs along the way (official tourist maps and Google Maps label “Rainforest Adventures” at the address above).
Inside the Venue
Upon entering the park’s plantation house, you find the ticket counter, gift shop and museum exhibits on plantation life. Restrooms are available here. Guides will orient you to safety procedures before the first ride. Movement inside is mostly outdoors on paths, stairways, and deck pathways, so expect some steps at each zip-line platform. The Sky Explorer chairlift has bench seats that you sit on and straddle; they are open-air so be ready to climb up carefully when boarding. After your chairlift ride, you step off onto the mountaintop platform. Staff will secure you in your harness before each zip-line launch. Back at the base after all rides, you can browse the gift shop (which sells souvenir T-shirts, hats and the attraction photos taken of you on the Flying Dutchman) (www.getyourguide.com ). If you get hungry or thirsty, the on-site Emilio’s Restaurant (in the old boiling house building) is open daily for lunch and drinks (www.soualigapost.com ). (Emilio’s has a souvenir corner too.) If you do the Sunset events, there is a small bar on the upper deck; on regular days the only bar is in the restaurant. There is usually phone signal on the mountain, but Wi-Fi is limited so plan ahead. In summary, RA has standard security (bag checks and harness fitting) but a relaxed, friendly atmosphere – you’ll spend most of your time outside taking in the views or traveling on the lifts and ziplines.
Nearby Amenities
The park sits in the Dutch Cul de Sac area, with several restaurants and hotels just minutes away. In fact, Emilio’s Restaurant is on-site if you want a sit-down meal. Within a short drive or walk you’ll find highly rated eateries: for example, Le Martin Boutique Hotel (with fine Caribbean-French cuisine) topped TripAdvisor’s Cul de Sac list (www.tripadvisor.com ). Others include Le Taitu (modern French/Caribbean cuisine, about 0.4 mi away) (www.tripadvisor.com ), Lulu’s Corner (a cozy breakfast & lunch cafe), Le Samuraï (a casual barbecue/sushi joint), Chez Hercule Resto Creole (local Creole dishes) and Enzo Pizza (family-friendly Italian; ~0.6 mi) (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). For bars and nightlife, many visitors combine a trip here with the nearby Simpson Bay/Maho area (about 5 minutes by taxi) which has beach clubs and casinos. If you’re staying overnight, a handful of small hotels and condo complexes fill Cul de Sac. As noted, the TripAdvisor list ranks Le Martin Boutique Hotel as a top local lodging (www.tripadvisor.com ). A few resorts (like Princess Yacht Marina or Sonesta Maho and Divi Little Bay) are also within a quick drive to the west. Families often stop by nearby Sunset Café convenience store (right across LB Scott Rd) for snacks. Late-night transport back from the park is usually by taxi (no public bus runs after dark), so plan rides ahead or check taxi phone lines. In short, Rainforest Adventures is tucked between highway and hillside, but several dining and lodging options surround it within a few kilometers.
What Makes This Venue Special
Rainforest Adventures St Maarten stands out because it combines thrilling adventure with real local history and culture. Firstly, the Flying Dutchman zip line is a one-of-a-kind ride – the steepest in the world (racing riders 56 mph, plunging 1,050 ft in elevation over a 2,630 ft line) (www.soualigapost.com ). The chairlift ride is equally noteworthy for its breathtaking 360° panorama of the island, with views stretching to Anguilla, St. Barths, Saba and beyond (www.getyourguide.com ). The park experience is also a story of heritage: it’s set on the historic Rockland Estate with a plantation museum. It tells the story of Trace and Emilio Wilson (former owner and his descendant), whose life story is tied to the island’s slave history. Rainforest Adventures even drew its name and buildings from that legacy – the restaurant is literally in Emilio’s old sugar-boiling house, and the destroyed “great house” is now the museum ruin (emilios-sxm.com ). Guests often comment that the mix of adrenaline and education – even with interpretive panels about St. Maarten’s nickname “The Friendly Island” – gives Rainforest an unmatched character. Finally, the venue made history itself by winning the 2018 Cruisetourism “Innovative Shorex Award” for offering outstanding excursions to cruise visitors (rainforestadventure.com ). In short, both the epic zip rides and the aged plantation setting give Rainforest Adventures an exclusive blend of thrills, scenic wonder and cultural significance that you won’t find elsewhere on St. Maarten.
Visitor Tips and Information
To make the most of your visit, come prepared. Closed-toe athletic shoes are mandatory for all rides (rainforestadventure.com ). Wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, as much of the experience is in full sun. Plan to arrive early (11 AM opening) when it’s cooler and lines are shorter. If you’re afraid of heights or motion, know that the Flying Dutchman is launched from a chair-style harness – entrants should be able to climb into and sit securely. Younger kids (minimum 8 years old) must always be accompanied by an adult on rides (www.saintmaartentours.com ). Be honest about weight limits (Flying Dutchman min 100 lb, max 275 lb (rainforestadventure.com )) — the staff will check before each ride. Cameras and phones are allowed on the chairlift and viewing decks (one reviewer even noted they used their own camera for the panoramic shots) (rainforestadventure.com ), but secure them tightly – you cannot hold loose items during launch. Follow all safety briefings closely. Pregnant guests or anyone with recent surgery, heart/back problems or similar conditions should avoid the ziplines (www.saintmaartentours.com ), though they could still enjoy the Sky Explorer scenic ride. There’s no strict dress code beyond shoes – T-shirts, shorts or activewear are fine. Remember that it can be significantly cooler at the top, so a light cover-up might be useful. Finally, buy your tickets early on the day or online to avoid sell-outs on busy days. The park serves as both a fun outing and a living tour; ask questions if you like, as staff can share stories about the plantation’s history. Above all, expect stairs and sloping paths – the adventure is fully open-air, so pace yourself especially on hot afternoons. By keeping these tips in mind (comfortable shoes, sun protection, an early start, and proper respect for the park’s rules) you’ll have a safe and unforgettable Rainforest Adventures experience.
What are the opening hours of Rainforest Adventures St Maarten?
Rainforest Adventures is open daily, typically from about 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM . (These hours are generally consistent year-round but can vary during holidays or private events.) Arriving close to opening time is wise to avoid the midday rush and heat, since ride operations begin when the park opens around 11 AM.
Where exactly is Rainforest Adventures located, and how do I get there?
The park is at Rockland Estate, L.B. Scott Road #59, Cul de Sac, Sint Maarten (rainforestadventure.com ). From Philipsburg, drive east on W.J. Nisbeth Road (Pondfill) toward SXM airport, keep the Great Salt Pond on your right, go through the main lights and continue to the roundabout. Turn north at the roundabout onto L.B. Scott Rd – Rainforest Adventures will be on your left within a short distance (www.visitstmaarten.com ). From Princess Juliana Airport it’s just a 5-minute drive north on the same route. The park’s own parking lot is directly in front of the entrance, free of charge. (Note: there is no direct public bus stop at the park, so most visitors come by taxi, shuttle or rental car.)
How much do tickets cost and how do I purchase them?
Ticket prices vary by package. The park sells combination tickets on-site (cash or credit cards accepted) that cover different rides. For example, a basic package including the chairlift and Flying Dutchman zipline might be on the order of tens of US dollars per person, while “all-inclusive” packages (chairlift + both ziplines + Schooner ride) cost more. You can buy tickets at the Rainforest Adventures gate when you arrive, or book ahead through tour operators or the official website to guarantee a spot. Booking in advance is recommended on cruise ship or holiday days to avoid sell-outs.
What activities are included in a visit to Rainforest Adventures?
A visit typically includes the Soualiga Sky Explorer chairlift (a scenic 4-person lift ride uphill) and one or more zip rides. Standard tours usually pair the chairlift with the flagship Flying Dutchman zip line – the world’s steepest zip line dropping 1,050 feet down from the top (www.soualigapost.com ). You can also add the Sentry Hill Zipline (a less steep line across the ridge) or the Schooner Ride (an inner-tube slide down a winding asphalt track) to your package (www.civitatis.com ). All combos include a safety briefing and the opportunity to explore the plantation museum. (Check which rides your ticket covers – combos like “chairlift + Flying Dutchman” or “all rides included” are common.)
What are the height, weight, and age restrictions for the zip lines?
There are specific safety limits. For the Flying Dutchman zip line you must be between 52 and 80 inches tall (about 4'4"–6'8") and weigh between 100 and 275 pounds (rainforestadventure.com ). The Sentry Hill zip line has similar height limits (52–80 in) with a minimum weight of ~80 lbs. The Schooner inner-tube slide has a slightly lower height minimum (42 in) but the same upper limit. Also, all zip rides have a minimum age of 8; children under 12 must ride with an accompanying adult (www.saintmaartentours.com ). If you fall outside these ranges (or if you’re pregnant or have certain medical conditions), you won’t be allowed to ride those attractions (www.saintmaartentours.com ) for safety reasons. The chairlift itself has no strict age/weight limit beyond basic safety, but very young children must sit with adults and follow the attendant’s instructions.
What should I wear and bring for my visit?
Dress in comfortable activewear and remember to wear closed-toe shoes – this is mandatory for all rides (rainforestadventure.com ). Flip-flops or sandals are not allowed. Lightweight clothing and a swimsuit are fine (the Schooner Ride can get wet), and bring sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses) since much of the park is exposed. It can be cooler atop the mountain, so a light cover-up isn’t a bad idea. Bugs are not a big issue, but a small repellent won’t hurt. You’ll need a valid ID or credit card for any incidental purchases. Also carry a printed or digital ticket voucher if booked in advance. You can also bring a camera or phone – just be prepared to hold onto it securely (a wrist strap or zippered pocket) during the rides.
Are cameras or phones allowed on the rides?
Yes, you may bring a camera or smartphone for photos on the station platforms and the chairlift. Many guests take advantage of the 360° viewing decks to snap selfies (one reviewer noted you can “use your own camera for panoramic shots” (rainforestadventure.com )). However, on the actual zipline you cannot hold loose items in your hands. It’s safest to put your phone or camera in a secure pocket or hand it to a staff member if they offer to hold it. The park also has a professional photographer on the Flying Dutchman, and you can purchase a photo of your ride as a souvenir in the gift shop.
Is Rainforest Adventures wheelchair or stroller accessible?
Partial accessibility at best. Rainforest Adventures is built on a mountain slope with outdoor trails and platforms. The museum and base area are on flat ground, but the chairlift platforms and zipline areas involve climbing steps. The chairlift requires boarding at a gated platform (there is no elevator), so a standard wheelchair cannot go up the lift. Strollers are not practical beyond the base. In short, mobility-impaired guests should be aware that while the park welcomes everyone, most of the attraction involves stairs and walking. The staff can advise if you need assistance, and non-zip options (like just riding the chairlift or enjoying the restaurant) may be easier picks.
Is there parking available at the park, and is there a fee?
Yes – there is a dedicated parking lot right next to the Rainforest Adventures entrance. The lot is large enough for cars and small buses, and parking is free for guests. Just park and proceed to the main plantation-house building to buy tickets or check in. On busy days the lot generally handles the crowds, but it’s still wise to arrive early if you’re worried about space. (If the lot ever filled, overflow options like street parking on L.B. Scott Road are sometimes used by larger tour buses.)
Can I buy food or drinks inside the park?
Yes. Emilio’s Restaurant (named after the estate’s former owner) is inside the park building and serves a lunch menu of Caribbean/Creole-inspired dishes, sandwiches and drinks (emilios-sxm.com ) (www.soualigapost.com ). It’s open the same hours as the park and has seating inside 17th-century stone walls. Outside of the restaurant, a small bar is available on the viewing deck during the park’s special events (e.g. sunset cocktail hours). You can’t bring outside food or alcohol onto the zipline platforms, but resting-area water fountains and a picnic spot are provided. After your last ride, plenty of guests stop in Emilio’s to cool off and grab a meal or cold drink.
What happens if it rains or is windy – are the zip lines still open?
All outdoor activities at Rainforest Adventures are weather-dependent. In light rain the park often remains open (the chairlift and Schooner slide can run in drizzle), but the zip lines will close in heavy rain, strong winds or thunderstorms for safety. If inclement weather is expected, it’s best to call ahead. On a daily basis, park staff have final say – for example, they will stop the Flying Dutchman launches if a high wind gust hits. Sunny mornings are usually safe and calm, so if your schedule is flexible you may prefer to go early. Remember that the mountain can be wetter and windier than sea level. If a ride does close due to weather, the park will usually let you do an open alternative or give credit for a future visit.
Are children allowed on the zip lines and rides?
Yes – kids 8 and older can ride the ziplines under supervision (www.saintmaartentours.com ). Children must generally meet the same height/weight limits as adults (52–80″ tall) or have an adult slot in their harness. Usually, a child 8–12 years old must ride with a parent or guardian. For the chairlift and Schooner slide, there is no strict lower age limit, but a child must be able to sit safely (kids under 12 must be accompanied). Toddlers cannot go on the zip lines at all. The park is family-friendly, but plan for an adult to help younger kids with the equipment and to reassure them – some kids find the Flying Dutchman especially intimidating. There is no additional discount for children, so any child riding the attraction requires a paid ticket just like an adult.
Is photography allowed inside Rainforest Adventures?
Absolutely. You can take photos anywhere except on the launching ramp of the ziplines. Most visitors snap pictures on the sky-lift and at the viewing decks – one guest review even notes the park is “clean, well-managed” and you’re welcome to use your own camera for panoramic shots (rainforestadventure.com ). (Staff will secure your belongings during zip runs, but feel free to carry a small camera or phone on the chairlift.) The park’s own photographer will capture every ride on the Flying Dutchman and Sentry Hill lines, and those photos are available for purchase if you like. Just be mindful of safety rules: don’t use a camera or phone during the actual zipline descent unless it’s in a secure case.)
Are pets allowed at Rainforest Adventures?
No. Rainforest Adventures does not allow pets (even leashed dogs) inside the park. This is both for safety in the adventure areas and to maintain the park environment. Service animals for disabled guests are a special case – if you have a legitimate trained service animal, contact the park ahead of time. Otherwise any other pets will be asked to stay with your vehicle or not enter.
Is Rainforest Adventures good for families or only for thrill-seekers?
Both! While the zip lines are certainly adrenaline-inducing, the park offers activities for a wide range of ages. Children and non-zipper family members can still enjoy the sky-lift, sight-seeing deck and museum. Parents can ride the Flying Dutchman one at a time or take turns. The Schooner inner-tube slide is a more moderate thrill (and allows younger kids under 8 with an adult in the inner tube). Guests frequently say it’s a “must-do” for families visiting St. Maarten. Just note: everyone (kids included) needs closed shoes and riders must meet the safety limits. With kids under 8, the chairlift ride and Emilio’s Restaurant visit still make a fun outing even if they skip the big zips. The friendly island theme makes it suitable for families, but be prepared for heights and activity if you do the major rides.
Is there an age or height limit for the Flying Dutchman zip line?
Yes. All riders on the Flying Dutchman must be at least 52 inches tall. There is no strict minimum age stated beyond that height (practically speaking, that’s usually 8+ years old) (www.saintmaartentours.com ). Riders also must weigh between 100 and 275 pounds (rainforestadventure.com ). If a person is shorter or lighter than these limits, they won’t be allowed on the Flying Dutchman for safety. The operator will usually measure and weigh you at the launch area. Younger children under the height limit can still do the chairlift and Schooner slide, though.
Are the rides at Rainforest Adventures safe?
Yes. Staff are trained to secure everyone with harnesses and safety checks. Each zipliner is locked into a double-harnessed seat chair and double-checked before launch. The launches are controlled by certified guides (you sit in a metal chair attached to the cable) and there is an emergency stop at the end. The chairlift is a standard ski-lift type with a brake system and attendant operators. In more than a decade of operations, Rainforest Adventures sites have good safety records. Of course, you play a key role – follow the guide’s instructions, sit properly, and use the restraints they check on you. (No one with heart/back injuries or who is pregnant should ride the ziplines (www.saintmaartentours.com ).) Overall, the park emphasizes safety: they limit riders by weight/age and do a safety briefing before each ride. You’ll likely wear a helmet on the ziplines as well. If you have any concerns, just ask the staff – they can explain the safety gear step by step.
Are the park rides covered by any insurance or liability waiver?
All participants must sign a release waiver before participating in any ride. This is a standard liability waiver acknowledging the risks involved in adventure activities. The park does not automatically cover injuries under any special insurance – by signing the waiver you agree that you understand the risks. (If you decline to sign, you cannot ride the attractions.) Rainforest Adventures adheres to international safety standards, but it’s wise to have your own travel insurance whenever doing zip lines and other physical activities. In case of minor issues the park has staff on site; for serious medical needs there is first aid aid available, but visitors typically rely on standard island emergency services if needed. Always check your travel insurance policy for adventure coverage just to be safe.
Do I need to reserve a time slot or is it walk-in?
Walk-ins are generally welcome, but on busy days it’s best to book ahead. The park runs customers on an ongoing basis (you arrive, pay, and go through orientation on the spot). However, if you’re visiting on a peak tourist day or a large cruise day, reservations can secure your spot without waiting. Group tours and cruise excursions often reserve time blocks. If coming independently, you can usually just purchase tickets at the gate upon arrival. There is no formal “time slot” system; rides operate continuously during park hours in the order people arrive. If you have a big group, you might call or email the park in advance to let them know. Otherwise, showing up early in the schedule is the simplest plan.
What if I have dietary restrictions or want to bring my own food?
Emilio’s Restaurant serves a variety of dishes so many people with specific diets usually find something (salad, seafood, etc.). If you have severe allergies or dietary needs, it might be safer to eat beforehand or after. Outside snacks and drinks are not encouraged inside the park (food is only sold at Emilio’s Restaurant). There are picnic tables on the lawn by the museum building if you had a small snack or drink, but heavy meals should be at Emilio’s. Note: all drink purchases inside must be bought there, and no outside alcohol is allowed. In practice, most visitors eat lunch either before arriving or after leaving RA, except those going through Emilio’s.
