Watefall plunge pool in the Northern Range

Photographer: Stephen Broadbridge

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Trinidad: a world of natural diversity

A couple of thousand years ago, Trinidad was connected to the South American mainland. Today, we’re separated by a sea channel. But this natural history has bequeathed our small island of 1,700 square miles the legacy of an awesome bio-diversity, and the resulting blend of island and continental ecology gives Trinidad a wide range of systems (mountain, forest, swamp, rivers, plains, coasts) to explore.

Natural environment

There are three mountain ranges in Trinidad: the Northern, Central and Southern Ranges. The Northern Range is the highest, with El Cerro del Aripo and El Tucuche reaching more than 900m (3,000ft). Cloaked in tropical rainforest, they watch over the island’s varied landscape of coastline, caves, gorges, mangrove swamp, rivers, lagoons and waterfalls.

Trinidad’s waters are fed year-round by the Orinoco and other South American rivers. Its two main inland bodies of water are the Caroni and Nariva Swamps, both Ramsar Sites (protected wetlands of international importance). Caroni is particularly known for its roosting scarlet ibis, while Nariva is the home of the elusive West Indian manatee. There are coral reefs off Chaguaramas and Toco.

Flora & fauna

There are over 430 different bird species in Trinidad and Tobago, 620 species of butterfly, 2,300 different flowering shrubs and plants (700 of them orchids), 108 different mammals, including 57 bats and 70 different reptiles: these figures should give you some idea of the country’s staggering ecological diversity. And you don’t have to travel far to see them, either. Forest-covered mountains, mangrove swamps, seashores, rivers and tropical savannah all lie within easy reach of the main towns.

Vegetation ranges from littoral woodland behind the beaches to montane rainforest and elfin woodland high in the mountains. Within these habitats are:

2,500 flowering shrubs, including 700 orchids
370 species of trees
300 species of ferns
620 butterfly species
430 bird species
108 recorded mammal species (57 of them bats)
70 species of reptile (some, like leatherback turtles, are protected)
30 amphibian species
countless insect species

To ensure you get the most out of your experience, make sure to go with an experienced eco-tour operator or guide. Here is a listing of our main eco attractions:

Chaguaramas

This national heritage park just 20 minutes west of Port of Spain is mostly undeveloped, and offers some of the island’s best hiking, biking, kayaking and golf (learn more in our Sports section). It’s also the gateway to several offshore islands. Two highlights are the 76m (250ft) Edith Falls, and Morne Catherine, the highest peak in the area. Offshore, the 30m (90ft) deep limestone Gasparee Caves are breathtakingly beautiful. If you don’t want anything too strenuous, try a picnic in Tucker Valley’s Samaan Park. For more: the Chaguaramas Development Authority (CDA): 634-4227, www.chagdev.com

Chacachacare: In 1877 the British established a leprosarium on this island. The shells of what once used to be a hospital, nunnery, doctor’s residence and chapel still stand. The site itself, however, has long been deserted. If you’re fit enough you can walk to the functioning lighthouse at the end of the only road. Boat rides can be prearranged with the Chaguaramas Development Authority.
Edith Falls: A three-fingered waterfall, most striking during the wet season when rainfall is heavy. The trail to the 250-foot falls is a 30–40 minute walk. Call the Chaguaramas Development Authority seven days in advance to arrange a guided tour.
Gasparee Caves: Approximately 90 feet deep, this underground limestone system on the nearby island of Gaspar Grande (Gasparee) comprises three main areas: The Entrance, The Twilight, and the Dark Zone. In each, fascinating geological formations are enhanced by natural light reflections. The Twilight Zone also has a saline pool, three feet deep at its shallowest. Tours must be prearranged with the Chaguaramas Development Authority.
Institute of Marine Affairs: A library and information centre conducting research on the marine environment. Regular marine life exhibits can be seen, by request.
Morne Catherine: The highest peak in the Chaguaramas area. A winding seven-mile road leads to the summit, with trails you may want to explore for wildlife sightings. The climb to Morne Catherine is a must if only for the captivating Tucker Valley and sea views.

Northern Range

Trinidad’s lush Northern Range is a continuation of one branch of the great South American cordilleras, rising to over 3,000 feet into elfin woodland at El Tucuche and Cerro del Aripo. There are several adventures to be had here, most requiring a good guide. In the Heights of Guanapo, the Guanapo Gorge, and La Laja and Sombasson waterfalls are the main attraction. Large colonies of bats and oilbirds inhabit the Aripo Caves. The climb to El Tucuche provides a challenge even to seasoned hikers. Nearby, the Maracas Waterfall is a popular excursion. Here's more:

Aripo Caves: Large colonies of oilbirds and bats can be spotted here. Guided tours are necessary.
Asa Wright Nature Centre and Lodge: nestled in the hills above Arima at the head of the Arima valley, this 193-acre eco centre and former estate house is now a world-renowned lodge where visitors can experience an amazing variety of bird life, including Squirrel Cuckoos, Toucans, and Tufted Coquettes. Originally a cocoa and coffee plantation, it was bought by the English Dr Newcome Wright and his Icelandic wife Asa in 1947. Two years later, the New York Zoological Society established a research station to investigate its tremendous biodiversity. After Newcome’s death, Mrs Wright sold the land on condition that it remained a conservation area; a non-profit trust was set up in 1967. There are guided tours, nature trails, bird watching, a plunge pool, restaurant, gift shop and more onsite. The verandah has fantastic views and is a great place for bird photography. Guides offer informative forest tours. There’s also a swimming hole. The lodge incorporates a restaurant serving good local cuisine. Reservations recommended: 667-4655, www.asawright.org
Caura Valley: A popular spot for river limes and hiking.
El Tucuche: At 3,075 feet Trinidad’s second highest peak. A challenging hike, so find an experienced guide before attempting it.
Heights of Guanapo: This area’s main attractions are the Guanapo Gorge, and La Laja and Sombasson waterfalls. Hiking in this area must be done in the company of a guide.
Maracas Waterfall: Best seen in the rainy season, these falls, north of St Joseph, are approximately 300 feet high.
Mount St Benedict Church and Monastery: An excellent bird watching site 800 feet above sea level. Nectar-feeders like honeycreepers and hummingbirds are regular visitors, attracted by the area’s many flowering plants. The verandah of the guest house offers great views of the valley and the Caroni plain.
Three Pools: Three large freshwater bathing pools and a natural water slide, an easy 30-minute hike up the Marianne River from the village of Blanchisseuse.
Mt. Tamana & the Tamana Caves: Offering some of the best views of the Central Plains, Mt Tamana’s caves are home to over a million bats, which pour out each evening in a spectacular display.

North-east

The rugged north-eastern coast is one of the loveliest and most unspoilt stretches in all of Trinidad, and a prime location for turtle-watching.

Trinidad’s Grande Rivière, on the north coast, is the second largest leatherback turtle nesting ground in the world. During nesting months (March–August), huge endangered leatherback turtles return to the beaches on which they were born to lay their eggs, which hatch two months later. During peak season, hundreds of turtles come ashore here and at northeastern beaches like Matura. It is an astounding and humbling experience, but do take care not to disturb the turtles when nesting. Permit/guide required. Nature Seekers (Matura): 668-7337, www.natureseekers.org; Grande Rivière Tourism Development Organisation: 469-1288

Grande Rivière: A small, friendly fishing village, whose main beach is a primary nesting location for leatherback turtles. Great for bird watching; home to species such as the endangered Blue-throated Piping-Guan (Pawi), Crimson-crested Woodpecker, and Swallow-tailed Kite. Though one of the more remote areas on the island, there are a number of hotels, guest houses and cottages for rent. Local tour guides are available for rain forest hikes.
Matelot Village: Matelot Waterfall is a half-day hike from the village centre (ask in the village for directions), or can be reached by boat from where the road ends to the pristine beach at Paria Bay. Great for bird watching. The Paria Waterfall is a shorter, half-mile hike into the forest.
Matura: Another important spot for leatherback turtle nesting. The award-winning local conservation group, Nature Seekers Inc., is responsible for protecting the area and turtle-watching tours.

Central

Trinidad’s central plain is the island’s sugar belt, but also home to one of its richest ecosystems.

Caroni Bird Sanctuary: an extensive area of lagoon, marshland and swamp on the west coast. The highlight is witnessing flocks of rare scarlet ibis fly home to roost each evening at dusk – an awesome sight. Informative boat tours last a couple of hours from late afternoon to dusk (thought T&T Sightseeing Tours operates tours all day). Don’t forget your insect repellent!

South-east

Inland from Trinidad’s windswept Atlantic coast lies a extensive wetland rich in unusual wildlife species.

Nariva Swamp and Bush-Bush Wildlife Sanctuary: You'll need a guide to tour the swamp (the largest in Trinidad) by kayak for a glimpse of manatees in their natural habitat, and — if you’re lucky — anacondas, caimans, and Blue-and-yellow Macaws. You’ll need a permit to visit, which can be arranged through your registered guide or tour operator.

South

A bird sanctuary in the middle of an oil refinery? Mud volcanoes? These are some of the natural attractions of Trinidad’s southern region.

Devil’s Woodyard: East of Princes Town near Indian Walk, these small mud volcanoes are good viewing. These 1–2m volcanos, cousins of the sulphur spring, abound in south Trinidad. Devil’s Woodyard is the most accessible, while those at Piparo are the most active. Check out the large and impressive pineapple estates on the drive from Princes Town.
Oropouche Lagoon: Wetland area, home to a profusion of wildlife, including butterflies. The Shores of Peace cremation site is also situated here. It’s best to visit with a tour guide.
Pointe-à-Pierre Wild Fowl Trust: A must-see. Housed on oil refinery lands, this non-profit Trust covers 25 hectares and is a sanctuary for endangered birds (including the scarlet ibis). The Trust protects endangered birds and waterfowl, and breeds other birds for return to the wild. So you can view free-roaming wildlife and enclosed animals. There are also two lakes, trails, a learning centre with natural history displays and a small Amerindian museum, and accommodation on site. Reservations required: 628-4145, www.triniwetlands.org
The Pitch Lake at La Brea: Covering about half a square kilometre and producing some of the world’s finest asphalt (mined and exported since 1859), this is one of only three such lakes in the world. Guided tours are available, and there’s a museum onsite. La Brea Pitch Lake Tour Guides Association: 651-1232

Tips & tricks

Only hire Trinidad & Tobago Incoming Tour Operators’ Association (TTITOA) registered guides. They are professionally trained and have public liability insurance
When turtle watching, do not use flash photography, touch or otherwise disturb nesting turtles, as this can cause them severe distress
Keep Trinidad clean: don’t discard your rubbish in waterways and in the outdoors. This can cause flooding and environmental pollution
Permits are needed for some locations and activities (like camping and turtle-watching) but any reputable guide or tour operator will arrange these
Don’t attempt a long hike or difficult trail without a reputable, certified guide: it’s easy to get lost or have an accident
Snake bites and scorpion stings are rare; the biggest natural danger is the Portuguese Man-o’-War which infests coastal waters and the sap and fruit of the manchineel tree (most common on beaches). Seek local advice on whether these are present
Wear long trousers for lengthy bush treks, and never wear open-toed sandals. Comfortable shoes with good grip are recommended
Take a little knapsack with a change of clothes, socks and something to eat, stored in a waterproof bag. If your carry a camera that’s not waterproof, you’ll want to keep it here too
Avoid wearing black: it attracts mosquitoes, and if you’re in the open, soaks up the heat