Basseterre in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Basseterre
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect cruise weather with minimal rainfall - only 51mm (2.0 inches) across 10 days, meaning brief morning showers followed by sunshine ideal for shore excursions
- Carnival season brings authentic local celebrations including Calypso competitions and street parties that most tourists never experience, running January through early March
- Trade winds at 15-20 knots (28-37 km/h) provide natural cooling, making the 28°C (83°F) highs comfortable for walking Accra and the historic district
- Sea conditions are calmest of the year for ferry trips to Nevis - 20-minute crossings instead of the 35-45 minutes in windier months, with departures every 2 hours
Considerations
- Peak cruise ship season means 3-4 ships weekly docking at Port Zante, creating crowds of 6,000+ passengers on Tuesdays and Fridays between 8am-4pm
- Accommodation rates peak at 40-60% above low season, with waterfront hotels averaging US$280-450 per night versus US$180-280 in September-November
- Afternoon humidity spikes to 85-90% between 1-4pm, making midday historic walking tours uncomfortable - locals retreat indoors during these hours
Best Activities in February
Brimstone Hill Fortress UNESCO Site Tours
February's dry conditions and trade winds make the 244m (800ft) climb to the Gibraltar of the Caribbean comfortable. Morning visits (7-10am) avoid both cruise crowds and afternoon heat. The fortress offers panoramic views to six neighboring islands, clearest in February's low-humidity air. Military reenactments occur most weekends during carnival season.
St. Kitts Scenic Railway Train Journeys
The narrow-gauge railway built for sugar cane transport offers 30km (18.6 mile) circuits around the island. February's clear skies provide unobstructed views of volcanic peaks and Atlantic coastline. Double-decker trains with open-air upper levels are perfect in 70% humidity with consistent trade winds. The 3.5-hour journey includes rum tastings and local music.
Rainforest Hiking and Waterfall Adventures
February's 51mm (2.0 inches) rainfall keeps waterfalls flowing while minimizing muddy trail conditions. Morning hikes to Mount Liamuiga crater (1,156m/3,793ft) benefit from cooler 23°C (73°F) temperatures and clear visibility. The moderate 3-4 hour trek through cloud forest reveals endemic wildlife most active in February's optimal conditions.
Catamaran Snorkeling and Beach Hopping
February's calm seas and minimal rainfall create ideal conditions for full-day sailing excursions. Water visibility reaches 25-30m (82-98ft) around pristine reefs. Popular routes include Shitten Bay and the protected marine areas off Southeast Peninsula, accessible only by boat. Consistent 15-knot (28 km/h) trade winds provide perfect sailing conditions.
Historic Basseterre Walking and Food Tours
February's carnival season brings street food vendors to Accra serving traditional dishes like saltfish patties and goat water stew. Early morning (7-10am) or late afternoon (4-7pm) tours avoid midday heat while experiencing authentic local breakfast or dinner culture. Georgian and Victorian architecture tours benefit from February's clear light for photography.
Day Trips to Nevis Island
February's calm waters make the 20-minute ferry crossing comfortable, with departures every 2 hours from 7am-6pm. Nevis offers uncrowded beaches, historic plantation tours, and hot spring treatments. The island's smaller scale and fewer cruise visitors provide authentic Caribbean experiences away from Basseterre's crowds.
February Events & Festivals
St. Kitts Music Festival
The island's premier cultural event features local calypso, soca, and reggae artists alongside international performers. Multiple venues from Accra to Kim Collins Stadium host concerts, competitions, and street parties. This authentic celebration draws minimal tourist crowds compared to other Caribbean festivals.
Carnival Celebrations
Traditional pre-Lenten festivities including Calypso King and Queen competitions, mas bands, and street parades. Local participation-focused rather than tourist spectacle, offering genuine cultural immersion. Food stalls and craft vendors line Bay Road during peak celebrations.