Garden of Perfumes and Spices

This botanical garden in Saint-Philippe displays around 1,500 plant species across expansive grounds, including vanilla, cardamom, and plants found nowhere else on the island. The collection features aromatic herbs, spice plants, and different forest types organized in separate sections.

The site was established in 1783 when its volcanic soils and humid conditions proved ideal for growing spices and aromatic plants. This natural foundation shaped the growth and direction of the gardens over the following centuries.

The garden's sections are named after the plants cultivated there, and you can observe how aromatic herbs feature in Creole cooking throughout your visit. The spices and medicinal plants grown here remain important to the daily life and food traditions of local people.

Wear sturdy shoes as paths can be slippery, especially after rain, and the terrain is uneven in places. Bring water and sun protection to stay comfortable while exploring the large grounds.

The grounds produce a wide range of goods made and sold on-site, from coffee to essential oils and homemade jams created from the plants you see growing. These products demonstrate how the plants are used in practice and bring traditional production methods to life.