Tourist attractions

Pitch Lake (La Brea Pitch Lake)

Region: Southwestern Trinidad

Nature

Natural asphalt lake approximately 90m in diameter. Experience strange sensation of slowly sinking when walking.

Maracas Beach

Region: Northern Trinidad

Nature

Country's premier beach spot with bow-shaped white sand and palm groves. Famous 'Bake & Shark' stalls line up.

Caroni Swamp & Bird Sanctuary

Region: Near Port of Spain

Nature

Ramsar Convention site known for Scarlet Ibis flocking at dusk.

Asa Wright Nature Centre

Region: Central Trinidad mountains

Nature

Eco-lodge and research facility for observing over 400 bird species including hummingbirds.

Buccoo Reef & Nylon Pool

Region: Southwest offshore Tobago

Nature

Enjoy snorkeling and glass-bottom boats at coral reef and shallow lagoon.

Fort King George

Region: Scarborough (Tobago)

Cultural heritage

18th century British fortress ruins. Has Tobago history museum and scenic viewpoint.

Magnificent Seven

Region: West of Port of Spain Savannah

Modern architecture

Seven luxurious colonial mansions from Victorian to Moorish styles.

Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve

Region: Central Tobago

Nature

World's oldest protected forest. Sanctuary for waterfall tours and birdwatching.

Gasparee Caves

Region: Gasparee, Chacachacare Islands

Nature

Sea caves formed by limestone. Swimming in turquoise underground lake is popular.

Emperor Valley Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Region: Port of Spain

Nature/Education

19th century botanical gardens and urban oasis with diverse Caribbean animals.

San Fernando Hill

Region: San Fernando City

Nature

192m hill offering panoramic views of southern industrial zone and gulf.

Devil's Woodyard Mud Volcano

Region: Southern Trinidad

Nature

Mini mud volcano group with mud bubbling to surface. Can experience mud bath foot soak.

Temple in the Sea (Waterloo)

Region: Waterloo

Cultural heritage

Hindu chapel built at sea by devotees themselves. Famous sunset photography spot.

Memorial Park & Brian Lara Promenade

Region: Port of Spain center

Urban landscape

Public green space and shopping street. Abundant street food.

Woodford Square & Red House Parliament

Region: Port of Spain

Historic building

Square that served as independence movement gathering place and colonial architecture parliament building.

Suggested itineraries

Carnival Complete Attack 5 Days

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Carnival Monday/Tuesday street parades, Panorama finals, Mas camp visit, Maracas Beach

Intensive short plan efficiently combining music events and tourism while staying in capital, with costume rental arrangements.

Nature and Healing Tobago Island 7 Days

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Buccoo Reef snorkeling, Main Ridge forest hiking, Scarborough old town tour, Blue Food Fest experience

Long stay based at dive resort enjoying eco-tours and local cuisine, relaxing at spa at end.

Energy Industry and Multicultural History Tour 3 Days

Duration (days): 3

Highlights: Pitch Lake tour, San Fernando industrial zone drive, Temple in the Sea, Magnificent Seven

Short course combining industrial observation and cultural heritage for business travelers.

Travel tips

  • Dry season (December-April) is best travel season but Carnival period has high prices.
  • Rainy season squalls are short but intense so portable raincoat is convenient.
  • Tap water is drinkable but bottled water use is safer.
  • Do not walk alone at night in east downtown area or Laventille district.
  • City buses have limited service so use maxi taxi or ride-hailing apps.
  • Between Trinidad and Tobago islands: fast ferry (about 3 hours) and domestic flight (about 25 minutes).
  • US dollars widely accepted but street stalls and taxis often only take local currency cash.
  • Strong sunlight so high SPF sunscreen and hat are essential.
  • Carry insect repellent for mosquito-borne dengue and chikungunya prevention.
  • Many road holes and speed bumps so drive rental cars moderately.
  • Voltage is mixed 115V/230V, plugs are predominantly British Type G.
  • Manage valuables with waterproof case and neck strap at Carnival venues.
  • Public beach changing rooms and showers may be paid (around 5TT$).
  • Vegetarian and halal restaurants abundant, easy to obtain religious foods.
  • Domestic rum and pepper sauce reasonably priced at supermarkets.