A warm welcome awaits visitors to Trinidad, an island that blends flamboyant festivals and colonial heritage with natural wonders such as tropical beaches, cave systems and colorful wildlife. Trinidad is the larger of the two islands that make up Trinidad and Tobago, a Caribbean nation located off the coast of Venezuela.
Port of Spain is Trinidad’s capital. See traditional bazaars, malls, cathedrals and mosques standing in front of undulating hills. Visit the British-built Fort George, the architecturally impressive Independence Square and Emperor Valley Zoo. Watch cricket matches at Queen’s Park Oval and visit the Royal Botanic Gardens at Queen’s Park Savannah.
Away from the capital, pristine Atlantic Ocean beaches are scattered along Trinidad’s northern coast. Maracas Beach, Tyrico Beach and Las Cuevas Bay are idyllic palm-fringed beaches within an hour’s drive from Port of Spain. See nesting leatherback turtles at Grande Riviere, hike to a waterfall at Blanchisseuse and relax at the sleepy village of Toco. Quinam Beach is one of several idyllic spots on the Caribbean coast on the island’s south side.
Beyond the beaches, Trinidad offers stunning natural attractions and myriad wildlife. Spot some of the island’s 400-plus bird species at the ASA Wright Nature Centre and Caroni Bird Sanctuary. Swim in warm sulfur pools at Pitch Lake. Explore the fascinating limestone Aripo Caves and Tamana Bat Caves. Kayak to the offshore islets set around the Chaguaramas peninsula.
Trinidad’s diverse mix of cultures is the catalyst for a captivating line-up of festivals and a thriving culinary scene. Dance to the beat of calypso music and steel bands during the world-famous Carnival in the spring. Experience an explosion of color and vivacity during autumn’s Hindu festival of Diwali. Try typical Creole street food such as a doubles, a curried chickpea and flatbread sandwich.
Reach Trinidad by flying to Piarco International Airport and get around via rented car, public bus or organized tours. Trinidad has year-round mild temperatures and rarely suffers from hurricanes. Combine your Trinidad vacation with a trip to Tobago, an island paradise of beaches, ecotourism and watersports.
