Wander 3,000 tropical species — heliconias, bromeliads, rare orchids — in a hilltop garden that rivals Kew, then cross a series of rope suspension bridges 12 metres above the canopy for a hummingbird-eye view of the rainforest and the bay below.
What to expect
Set in the hills above Fort-de-France with a postcard view of Martinique's lush interior, Balata was created by horticulturalist Jean-Philippe Thoze around a Creole house modelled on Sacré-Cœur. Thirteen rope bridges weave through the upper canopy, each offering a different angle on the forest. Hummingbirds, lizards, and butterflies treat you as furniture. The guided path takes 90 minutes at a leisurely pace, after which you can linger in the orchid pavilion or the on-site café over a fresh fruit sorbet.
Good to know
Balata is 30 minutes by taxi or private car from the cruise pier — arrange a return transfer when you book your driver so you control departure time. Garden opens at 9 am; aim to arrive at doors-open. Wear comfortable walking shoes (some paths are stepped). The bridges have a maximum load, so a private or small-group visit is strongly preferable to avoid queuing mid-canopy.