Explore
You can make a difference by responsibly exploring and enjoying places of renowned natural beauty in Trinidad and Tobago. It is in such hotspots of biodiversity that everyone can enjoy wildlife in the wild.
We strongly recommend you explore safely and responsibly with a reputable tour guiding association, like the Trinidad and Tobago Tour Guides Association.
Leatherback Turtle Watching
Trinidad and Tobago is a world renowned destination for nesting endangered leatherback turtles. From March to September, guided tours in both islands allow access to protected beaches and give visitors up close experience with these gentle creatures measuring up to 2 meters long and 700kg. Local conservation efforts have been featured by the BBC on Blue Planet II, highlighting Grand Riviere Beach on Trinidad’s north-east coast where hundreds of leatherbacks congregate nightly at one of the densest nesting sites on earth.
Nature Hikes at Main Ridge Forest Reserve
Main Ridge is a lushly rainforested mountain running through the heart of Tobago and reaching 604 meters. Protected since 1776, this is the oldest conservation forest reserve in the western hemisphere. It is the only place on earth you can find the Ocellated Gecko and is also home to the exceedingly rare White-tailed sabrewing hummingbird. Explore hiking trails, bike paths, and waterfalls and you might spot some of the over a dozen mammal species and 210 birds species that inhabit this UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Reserve.
Tours at Winston Nanan Caroni Bird Sanctuary
Most famous for being the world’s premier destination for viewing Scarlet Ibis, this stunning nature preserve on the west coast of Trinidad is also home to Flamingoes, Silky Anteaters, Tree Boas, Black Hawks, Mudskippers, Blue Herons, and many other species. Those listed here are all frequently seen on tours offered each evening which showcase the biodiversity of this protected wetland. Caroni Bird Sanctuary is easily accessible from the Uriah Butler Highway, and several services offer tours.
Watching Red Howler Monkeys in Chaguaramas
Chaguaramas Heritage Park encompasses a large portion of Trinidad’s north-western tip, including the small islands off the coast. Diverse attractions such as caves, salt ponds, ziplining, beaches, hiking trails, and a golf course make this area a popular destination. At the golf course and hiking trails, visitors may have a unique opportunity to view native Red Howler monkeys in their natural environment, swinging from the trees along the path to Edith Falls or teasing golfers from adjacent foliage. Also visible are troupes of invasive Wedge Capped Capuchins, which now compete with the Red Howlers for this coveted territory.