The relationship between Cayman and turtles goes back a long
way. In fact, the islands were originally called Las Tortugas by Christopher
Columbus and his crew when they passed through on 10 May, 1503.
The turtle has always been part of Cayman’s history, with a significant portion
of the local population heading out to sea, in days gone by, to capture turtles
for food and other uses, and though the islands were soon renamed – more of
that later – the turtle remains a huge element of Cayman’s identity (just check
out Cayman Airways’ logo for evidence of that)
Cayman Turtle Farm is located in West Bay and is a must-visit for its plethora
of attractions.
Kids and adults can get up close and personal with the
critters in touch tanks and the big boys have a breeding pond to splash about
in (that’s the turtles, not the humans). Fear not, though – if you want to get
in amongst it you can swim and snorkel in the saltwater lagoon. There is also a
predator tank with windows so you can catch a glimpse of the sharks as they
swim by.
Latterly, there’s been a brand new addition to the park – a
9ft crocodile called, appropriately, Smiley. Historically, too, Caiman is the
Taino word for crocodile, which again gave the islands their current name. Smiley
draws great crowds when she is fed every day at noon – it is quite an
extraordinary thing to witness as she utilizes her mega-powerful jaws to grab
the meat as provided by her brave handlers. This saltwater crocodile is a mix
of American and Cuban crocs which environmentalists do not consider suitable to
release in the wild. She is a living, breathing example of a vital part of
Cayman’s past.
The fab aviary is home to beautiful birds, including a pair
of breeding native Cayman Green Parrots. Caymanian Street, meanwhile, features
a replica of old-style Caymanian houses, as well as local artisans
demonstrating traditional skills such as thatch-weaving and much more. It’s a
great way to experience living history.
This 23-acre facility also features a bar and grill, and a gift shop where you
can purchase cute versions of those amazing turtles and many more goodies to
remind you of the time you came face to face with a crocodile... and lived to
tell the tale.