Nature's Best -Englishman's Bay

Tobago is known to be the home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches. Bordered by the Caribbean and Atlantic Oceans, you're surrounded by family-friendly or more adventurous waters. Whether you want to catch a few waves or go snorkelling, maybe explore the island by boat, or simply bathe in its calm, shallow waters, Tobago's beaches cater for all tastes.

Englishman’s Bay is a famous spot and one of Tobago's jewels, it’s a green-blue sea surrounded by a wall of lush, shady trees including almond and coconut palms. The Englishman's Bay River meets Rockly River directly behind the beach. These rivers separate the beach from a patch of woodland between the beach and the road.

If you’re looking for a great spot to relax and enjoy nature’s peace then Englishman’s Bay is the place to be. Just call 622-2095 for directions.

Fort King George Park

Fort King George is a Tobago icon, the best preserved colonial fort on the island, and a must see for visitors wishing to spend a quiet afternoon, and another excellent place to watch the sun dip below the horizon on a balmy Caribbean evening.

You can see military arsenal like old canon, artillery, gun powder barracks, punishment cells, ancient history.  The great surprise is the view overlooking Tobago’s coastline, it’s just picture perfect.

There is a small museum at Fort King George with some interesting Island Carib artifacts. While there are no Amerindians in Tobago these days, there was a significant number in the past who successfully fort off invading forces in the early days, until their eventual demise.

You’ve got to see this Fort with its breath taking view of the beautiful island.

There are tours available, if interested please e-mail jevegems@gmail.com

Canari Bay

Canari Bay is a hidden gem situated on the Southern Coast  between the dense forest of Moruga and Guayaguayare. The beach with its silky smooth sand is uninhabited and almost a mile long. A prominent feature at the entrance to the bay is the tall bamboo and almond trees. 

The shrubs that boarders the coastline are red mangrove, seaside mahoe, savonette jaune, coconut and prickly vegetation. At the top of the hill, the abandon ruins of the Canari Estate House still exist and within the vicinity of the estate, cocoa and citrus trees struggle against the rugged elements of nature. At the eastern end of the beach, there is a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary who acts as a guardian to the coast.

The three mile walk to the beach will take one and a half hours, on a wide clear path shaded by the canopy of the trees. A variety of wildlife inhabits the forest making it a popular spot for hunters and along the way the red howler monkeys can be spotted in the tree tops. 

You don't want to miss this!!!!!! Just call 645-2906

Rio Seco Falls

The Rio Seco Falls can be described as one of the most attractive nature spots for an outdoor recreation.  It is a huge plunge pool perfect for swimmers.  The band of rock encircling the falls creates such a relaxing atmosphere; as nature lovers and sit and enjoy this spectacular land for.  The refreshing air, enchanting harmony of the birds, evergreen foliage with its autumn leaves and the softness of Salybia waters enhance the perfection of this environment.

Come and taste the wonders of the island that exists. Tours are available singly or group, e-mail jevegems@gmail.com

  

Arnos Vale Adventure Farm

This farm is a nature reserve and organic farm located on the Arnos Vale Road on the outskirts of Plymouth, Tobago.  The reserve is noted for its birds, butterflies, iguanas, mangoes and citrus orchards.  It is said to be the habitat of the humming birds in particular. 

 What a truly spectacular experience to see these magnificent creatures show their colourful feathers by flying in splendour in the beautiful tropical grounds. Maps are available for directions or call toll free at 1-868-923-2496

Caroni Bird Sanctuary

The Caroni Swamp is the second largest mangrove wetland in Trinidad and Tobago. It is located on the west coast of Trinidad, south of Port of Spain, where the Caroni River meets the Gulf of Paria.

The Caroni Swamp is an estuarine system comprising hectares of mangrove forest and herbaceous marsh, interrupted by numerous channels, and brackish and saline lagoons, and with extensive intertidal mudflats on the seaward side. The wetland provides a variety of habitats for flora and faunal species and as such, supports a rich biodiversity. It is highly productive system that provides food and protection and is a nursery for marine and freshwater species.

This Swamp provides an important habitat for the Scarlet Ibis one of the national birds of Trinidad and Tobago. It is also home to many other species of birds and houses.

Daily boating trips are conducted to get onsite of this magnificent site of national birds flying in the golden sunset. 

There are also other recreational activities which include game fishing, hunting and most popular crab catching.

Don't miss the splendour of this beauty!!!!! Tours are available on site Mondays to Fridays 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Wonder of the World

The Pitch Lake is the largest natural deposit of asphalt in the world.  It is located at La Brea in southwest Trinidad.  It has fascinated explorers and scientist, and attracts every aspect of the globe as a natural wonder.

It is the largest and most significant pitch lake in the world, measuring one hundred acres, and is approximately 76 metres deep in the center.  The liquid asphalt is black and viscous, but the surface is semisolid, and can be walked upon.

Although named one of the Wonder of the World, people occasionally take a swim in the crystal clear water which some say is therapeutic because of its sulphur content.

This is such a natural beauty, nothing but amazing, Trinidad and Tobago has been truly blessed with this Wonder of the World.

Come and share the experience of nature’s best in south Trinidad. You can call the Ministry of Tourism at 625-2987

La Vega Garden

La Vega Estate is a unique combination of a garden centre, plant nursery, nature and recreation park. The Garden Centre stocks an extensive collection of plants grown here in their Plant Nursery from both local sources and around the world. There is a Nature & Recreation Park that features acres of green, scenic spaces for picnicking, playing, relaxing and enjoying the refreshing outdoors. 

This is a place of great beauty that offers a truly authentic outdoor experience. Whether you are in search of an open air adventure or searching for a tranquil retreat, La Vega has the ideal spot for you, your family or group.

The Garden is situated in picturesque central Trinidad and is located on Gran Couva Main Road, La Vega Village, just 15 minutes off the Solomon Hochoy High Way. There are also Tours available & contact can be made to Sharon Jagroop at 636-6735

Just take a drop by, you won't regret it!!!!!!

Rain Forest

The Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve is recorded as one of the oldest legally protected forest reserve geared specifically towards conservation.

The Main Ridge is literally the backbone of the island of Tobago, it encompasses 3958 hectares of tropical rainforest specifically lower montane, lowland and xerophytic rainforest. This area receives the greatest amount of rainfall, the greatest exposure to wind and the lowest temperatures, making it an Evergreen Forest. The lowland rainforest is characterized by copious growth and is said to be the most prolific of all forest types.

The Main Ridge Forest Reserve is home to a number of flora and fauna; it is estimated that the rainforest provides habitats for twelve to sixteen species of mammals out of the nearly ninety mammal species in the Caribbean region.

Also, the Main Ridge Forest Reserve was voted the "World's Leading Eco-Tourism destination" for three years by the World Travel Awards.

For tours please e-mail jevegems@gmail.com or call 639-2006

Maracas Waterfall

Maracas Waterfall is one of the most accessible waterfalls on the island. The scenery offers breathtaking natural beauty. You can access it via Waterfall Road in Maracas Valley in St. Joseph. Once there, the walk should take you no longer than 25 minutes...but be sure instead to walk slowly and let your senses come alive to remarkable scenes of nature. The variety of tree species ranges from Puoi to Immortels, to Mahot and much more. There is an explosion of colour in every nook, corner and up every tree. 

The trail is open and well kept...for a hike that is.

When you arrive at the falls, you are transplanted into another realm. The water falls ever so slowly as if smoke is descending very casually to the base. It falls from a dizzying height and evokes nothing less than wonder.

The silence envelops the traveler like a shroud and all you hear are the gentle breezes and the sound of water from the gods...inviting you to refresh your soul.

Tour hikes are availabe in the dry season so e-mail soon at jevegems@gmail.com

House of Lopinot

The Lopinot historical site is in the Lopinot Valley, a beautifully green area that looked like a lush green mirage during this boiling hot dry season that we are having. Driving along the Eastern Main Road just turn onto Lopinot road, which is quiet, narrow and winding. The beautiful scenery of the village is breath taking as you drive. Along the road at different intervals were a series of wooden crosses. 

Lopinot Historical Site

This site was once a cocoa estate called La Reconnaissance and was owned by a Frenchman named Count Charles Joseph of Lopinot. Here on this sweeping estate is a main house, where the count lived from 1806 to 1819, a cocoa house, a jailhouse, a clay oven and the tombs of the Count and his wife.

A look at Lopinot on a cold day.

For tours to this historical site please call 646-2244

Lopinot's Great Plantation House and two cocoa drying houses are the only parts of his complex that have been preserved. The Great House has been converted into a small museum which is open to the public from 6am to 6pm.

Caura River

The Caura River is normally very busy with people buzzing looking for a great river lime.  This river is situated in the Northern Range on the island of Trinidad.

Caura is considered one of the most popular location in Trinidad for a river lime with the most popular spots being at the abandoned pump house and are called Pool Number 1 and Pool Number 2. The river is so popular however that on a weekend there is insufficient space at these locations for all the people who go to this valley and so every stretch of the river that has a clearing is used for a lime, usually involving cooking at the riverside.

The atmospheric view of the tall bamboo trees provides great scenery and shade from the hot sunshine which you see barely peeping through the trees.

People normally leave their homes relatively early so that a good spot can be caputred for cooking, setting up tents and a good card game.

So if you're looking for a good lime try Caura River today!!!!!

Map is available at the Ministry of Tourism, Waterfront, Wrightson Road, POS or call 625-3687

Gasparee Cave

An extraordinary cave system filled with stalactites and stalagmites on one of the offshore islands – Gaspar Grande. See the natural wonders, sinkholes, a crystal pool that shimmers like glass, reflecting the colours of the light that filter through the cave.

Gasparee Caves, is situated at Point Baleine on the north-eastern side of Gaspar Grande Island which is a favorite destination for local and foreign visitors. The Island’s geological features consist of limestone rocks composed mostly of coral, oolites and sea shells. Formation of the main cave occurred when water containing carbon dioxide dissolved the limestone to form crystals of calcium bicarbonate. 

Over time, the crystals accumulate creating stalagmites, they extend upward from the cave floor, and stalactites that extend downward from the roof. The crystals grow and evolve into pillars that stem from the roof to the floor. The crystals in the cave have transformed themselves into fascinating shapes, and some have the appearance of a dinosaur head, a chandelier and even flowers. What makes the cave most attractive is that the sea water enters the cave through an underground source to create a translucent blue pond.

Interested persons can contact Mario @ 749-2956 or visit www.Islandhikers.com

The amazing Nylon Pool

The Nylon Pool was given its name by Princess Margaret in 1962.  It is also one of Trinidad and Tobago's most visited attractions

This pool is a shallow oasis of warm and caressing currents, sunny skies and sandy footing, the Nylon Pool is a favorite stop for visitors to Tobago. It is located just a mile or so offshore, between Pigeon Point and Buccoo Bay, and sits in the middle of Buccoo Reef, which is actually a series of five flat reefs covering 30 square miles.

The surrounding reefs comprises of various coral species and the hordes of tropical marine life that rely on them. No doubt, it’s a fantastic  snorkeling site, but the real magic lies in the sandy Nylon Pool area…

Hey!!!!! what's more interesting about this pool, just take a dip and you are guaranteed to shed ten years of your age.  Come and enjoy!!!!! Book now @ 639-2446 contact Jimmy Doon.

Heading to Tobago

This internationally known reef is a must see on a visit to Tobago. The glass bottom boats glide over various types of coral and aquatic life.  It is truly a paradise and a relaxing trip.

Tours typically start from Store Bay one of the closest beach to ANR Robinson Airport and Pigeon Point. Pigeon Point Beach is a wonderful, clean and well - maintained resort area.  Just perfect for a fun and relaxing holiday.

The tour normally starts with the boats trekking out to the reef; a brief glide over coral and fish beds will give you some idea of Nature's beauty. At a certain area, the boat will allow people to get into the water to get a feel of nature's best crystalized water.

During the journey the boats head to the Nylon Pool. This is an area offshore with a sand bar, of crystal clear water. With a low current, it is a beautiful place to take a dip in the sea: safe for children and fun. The white sand at the Nylon Pool is actually made up of tiny coral fragments the consistency between fine sand and clay. It feels wonderful to squeeze or rub on your body; warm water is refreshing and calming. Total time on the tour is between two to threehours.

If it catches your interest feel free to call Aaron @639-4356.

Argyle Waterfall

This is reputed to be one of the most pristine and beautiful waterfalls in this corner of the universe. These falls flow with such serene power, one that soothes the world-weary spirit and caresses the body with the hands of a gentle masseuse.  Argyle Waterfall is a scenic drive from Scarborough, the capital of Tobago. The falls are situated on the Argyle River, just west of Roxborough Village. There is a trail that begins from the Windward Main Road, a short one minute drive or six minute walk. The river and falls are a part of the Main Ridge reserve and is one of the oldest protected rainforest reserve in the western hemisphere.

The trail abounds with a breathtaking variety of butterflies, spiders, lizards and snakes. You can hear the sound of exotic birds such as cocricos and parrots create a cacophonic orchestra of chirps as if to serenade the unspoilt beauty of this eden. In a small marsh, miniature caimans play hide and seek between the floating water lilies. The vegetation reflects an incredible diversity and the land is a loosely knit tapestry of trees including the poui, mango, cocoa, wild pines, bois cano, silk cotton, cedar and pawpaw among others. Adding to the richness and colour are bursts of wild blossoms such as orchids, mimosa and heliconia.

For tour visit call toll free 1-868-3998

Toco Lighthouse

Toco marks the northeastern tip of Trinidad. You’ll find craft and tourism projects, and a small folk museum at Toco Composite School. There are beautiful beaches great for bathing at Salybia and Patience Bay. Turn right in the centre of the village for Salybia Bay, a long, scenic bay, often windswept, with surging breakers and a small fringing reef. This is a popular surfing spot between October and April when the waves are up. There are changing rooms and shower facilities. At the end of this side road, the Toco Lighthouse (1897) stands on a rocky outcrop overlooking Galera Point, and affords a view of the rocky coast shaped by wind and ocean currents, as well as the point here the deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean meet the turquoise ones of the Caribbean Sea.

Although Toco remains sparsely populated, the numbers have grown since the olden days. The villagers of Toco are often very friendly. With its serene atmosphere and picturesque beaches, Toco remains one of the most popular surfing and vacationing spots in Trinidad and Tobago.

Come and enjoy the journey in eastern Trinidad.

Turtle Watching in Matura

Trinidad has one of the most interesting leather-back sea turtle nesting sights in the world. During peak season some beaches report up to 300 nesting leatherbacks in a single night. It is estimated that approximately 20 percent of the world's leather-back sea turtle population is of Trinidadian ancestry.

What is also amazing is when you actually witness the leather-back sea turtle hatchlings, as they scamper down the beach early on a cool Caribbean morning, and slip away into the tumbling surf to make their way seaward into the environment.

There are five main types of sea turtles which have been seen nesting along the northern and eastern coasts of Trinidad and Tobago such as Leatherbacks, Hawksbills, Green Turtles, Olive Ridleys and Loggerhead.

The main nesting season for local sea turtles runs from March to September of each year. Three of the main nesting beaches are Matura, Fishing Pond and Grande Rivière.

Applications for Turtle Watching Permits can be obtained at the following Forestry Division offices, between the hours of 9:00 am and 2:00 pm, Monday to Friday (except on public holidays).

Port-of-Spain	Sangre Grande	San Fernando
Long Circular Road St. James Tel: 868-622-7476	400 Eastern Main Road Damarie Hill, Guaico Tel: 868-668-3825	Balisier Ave Pleasantville Tel: 868-657-8391/7257

Asawrigt Nature Centre

This centre was established in 1967 by a group of naturalists and bird-watchers to protect part of the Arima Valley in a natural state and to create a conservation and study area for the protection of wildlife and for the enjoyment of all.  It was one of the first nature centres to be established in the Caribbean.

The compound comprises of approximately 1,500 acres of mainly forested land in the Arima and Aripo Valleys of the Northern Range.  The main stay is to retain the properties under forest cover in perpetuity, protection of the community watershed and provide important wildlife habitat.

The Centre’s main facilities are located on a former cocoa-coffee-citrus plantation, previously known as the Spring Hill Estate. This estate has been surrounded by impressive rainforest, where some original climax forest on the steeper slopes have a canopy of 100-150 feet. The whole effect is one of being deep in tropical rainforest.

For all nature lovers, this is definitely the place to be!!!!!! call for tours at 645-3598 (Ricky Bhal)

Mermaid Pool

The beautiful Island of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is rich and endowed with the blessings of nature. There are amazing places and majestic mountains, lush forests, astonishing coastal beaches, pristine waterfalls, fantastic rivers and picturesque gorges.  These natural sites is mostly embedded in the Northern Range which is historically part of the Andes chain of South America.

Having been hiking for the past five years, rest assured that you will never regret visiting these amazing and beautiful places.  If you are adventurous then you will certainly enjoy these untouched places.  So I encourage you to momentarily leave your busy urban lifestyle that can be so hectic and enjoy the rural treats of our twin island. 

In addition, to the locals who never heard or visited these places, who knows it can definately create an interest for you to know your country a bit better.

Come share the experience to this beautiful natural site.

Contact Judith Jones, Co-ordinator of hikers in Trinidad & Tobago at 625-2765 or email at jevegems@gmail.com for further details.