The Smallest Two Islands-Constitution Nation in the World
Saint Kitts and Nevis, officially known as the Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis, is the smallest two-island constitution nation in the entire world. With a total land area of 261 square kilometers, it is about 2.5 times the size of Washington, D.C.
Rare Mongoose Population
Introduced as a measure to combat rats in sugarcane fields in the 19th century, the mongoose population has since thrived in Saint Kitts and Nevis. Now, the islands are almost rat-free but home to one of the highest densities of Mongooses in the world.
The Nation's Sugar Train
Historically, sugar production was the main industry on the islands. The St. Kitts Scenic Railway, also known as the "Sugar Train," was initially built to transport sugar cane from the island's fields to the sugar mill in Basseterre. Today, it is a tourist attraction offering scenic tours around the island.
It Was Once a Pirates' Haven
In the 17th and 18th centuries, due to its strategic location, Saint Kitts and Nevis was a popular hideout for pirates, including the infamous Captain William Kidd.
A Volcanic Island
Did you know that the Mount Liamuiga on Saint Kitts is an active volcano? It is also the highest peak in the Federation at 3,792 feet.
World’s First Debt for Nature Swap
Saint Kitts and Nevis was the first country to implement a debt-for-nature swap. In 1991, they made an agreement with an American non-profit organization to swap $16 million in national debt for conservation efforts.
The Unusual Nationality Name
Citizens of Saint Kitts and Nevis have a unique demonym: they are known as “Kittitians” and “Nevisians” respectively.
The Home of Batik Art
Known for its vibrant and varied batik art, Saint Kitts and Nevis is home to Caribelle Batik, a studio located in the historic Romney Manor that attracts artists and enthusiasts globally.
Geothermic Energy Potential
Saint Kitts has substantial geothermal energy potential, and if fully exploited, can provide enough electricity to power the entire nation and even export to neighboring islands.
Green Vervet Monkeys in Numbers
There are more green vervet monkeys on the islands than humans. These monkeys were brought on the islands as pets in the 17th century and their number has significantly multiplied over the decades.
Ribbons of Love
Saint Kitts and Nevis has an unusual national emblem. It features two brown pelicans (the national bird), a scarlet flower (the national flower), and two white ribbons that read "I Geames" – Latin for "I Shine" and "Omnibus" – meaning "For All."
Sporting Heroes
Saint Kitts and Nevis may be small, but it has produced some world-class athletes. Sprinter Kim Collins, for example, won the World Championships in Athletics in 2001.
Year-Round Turtle Nesting
The islands are one of the few places in the world where sea turtles nest year-round. You can witness four different species: green, leatherback, hawksbill and loggerhead turtles.
The National Dish
The national dish of Saint Kitts and Nevis is stewed saltfish served with spicy plantains, coconut dumplings and seasoned breadfruit.
Oldest Clock in the Caribbean
Saint Kitts is home to the oldest clock in the Caribbean. Sitting atop the Old Treasury Building in Basseterre, the Berkeley Memorial Clock has been keeping time since 1883.
Only Circumnavigatory Railway in the Caribbean
The 'Sugar Train' in Saint Kitts is the only railway in the Caribbean that circumnavigates an entire country.
Marriage Destination
Saint Kitts and Nevis is a popular worldwide wedding and honeymoon destination due to its beautiful and romantic beaches.
Home of the Caribbean’s Largest Fortress
Located in Saint Kitts, Brimstone Hill Fortress is one of the best preserved historical fortifications in the Americas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the largest fortress in the Caribbean.
Airport Named After a Living Person
Saint Kitts is home to the R.L. Bradshaw International Airport, one of the few airports in the world named after a person who was alive at the time it was named.
No Rivers on Nevis
Despite its lush landscape, there are no rivers on the island of Nevis. The island, however, has numerous hot springs and boils due to its volcanic origin.