Our Story
The concept of the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park dates back to the early 1980s, emerging alongside efforts to establish the National Trust for the Cayman Islands. After an initially unsuccessful search for a suitable location, land for the Park was ultimately secured through generous donations. A real estate developer donated thirty acres to the Trust, which were combined with an additional thirty-five acres of crown land owned by the Cayman Islands Government to create the Park’s current sixty-five-acre site.
The early development of the Park is a testament to community spirit and collaboration. Scores of volunteers—including prison inmates—dedicated countless hours to clearing and preparing the grounds. Their efforts were supported by contributions in both cash and kind from across Caymanian society.
During its formative years, there was considerable debate about the Park’s direction. Some advocated for preserving the land as untouched wilderness, while others supported the creation of a cultivated, decorative garden. Ultimately, a balanced approach was adopted—combining natural preservation with curated landscapes—a decision that has since earned praise from horticultural experts and helped establish the Park’s unique identity.
