Most island tours gallivant around the central, northern and eastern areas of the island treating you to photo stops at the best viewpoints, a diverse array of impressive scenery and coastline, plus the odd historical sight, and lunch somewhere. Here’s a selection of recommended operators:

• Eco Adventures Barbados 1 246 2349010 Highly experienced certified operation offering cultural walking tours of Bridgetown, a range of guided hikes packed full of info on the local geology, flora and fauna, as well as longer bespoke van tours round the island. Of particular note is the Freedom Footprint heritage tour, which focuses on the histories of Barbadians’ enslaved ancestors and present-day culture (only for groups of 15–30 people).
• Island Safari 1 246 4295373 Offering the terrestrial version of a booze-cruise, the zebra-striped safari vehicles career over to the East Coast, with the blowholes of Little Bay, a highlight – expect some off-road bumps, bucket-loads of rum punch and a buffet lunch to round off. The only wildlife you’re likely to spot is the odd monkey or mongoose scampering across the road. Adventure Safari (Adults US$155; Children US$120); shorter Discovery Safari (Adults US$100; Children US$80).
• Williams Tours 1 246 4271043. Over 30 years of experience taking visitors round the island. The 7hr Exotic Barbados excursion is a coastal tour that ticks off the main sights in Bridgetown, Holetown and Speightstown, before heading to the far north, and bringing you down the East Coast. Other more specialised excursions include a rum tasting tour and one that includes Harrison’s Cave and nearby Hunte’s Gardens. 7hr round-the-coast bus tour (Adults US$100; Children US$50).