Trinidad and Tobago are synonymous with tropical beach holidays, but on this trip we aim to show you the aspects of these tropical islands overlooked or ignored by the vast majority of visitors. Separated from the South American continent by a narrow stretch of water, they are home to expanses of rainforest clinging to high mountains, populated by a huge array of birdlife exceeding any other islands in the Caribbean. The culture is a mix of African and East Indian (amongst others), a diversity is reflected in the food and music - and of course the warm waters beckon.

Port of Spain & Wildlife Wetlands
Sandwiched between the Atlantic and the Caribbean, Trinidad has soaring mountains, primary rainforest and an array of dazzling beaches. We visit Port of Spain, famous for its carnival, and with luck witness one of the steel bands at practice. We travel by boat through Caroni swamp and watch flocks of scarlet ibis and egrets return to their nests at dusk.

Caribbean Exploration & Carib Indians
Leaving the capital behind, we head to Maracas Bay to beach comb, hike to waterfalls or kayak in a rainforest lagoon. In the interior we overnight in a Carib Indian village to truly experience a totally different aspect of these tropical isles. Before leaving Trinidad, a stay in Grand Riviere may give us the opportunity to watch leatherback turtles lay their eggs (seasonal), or walk along Shark River.

Tobago - Nature's Island
We take a ferry to the South of Tobago and have time to relax, snorkel over Bucco Reef and visit the pristine sands of Pigeon Point. We head to the northwest of the island and stay in the fishing village of Castara. From here we visit Little Tobago by boat, home to the red-billed tropic bird and one of the highlights for any nature lover.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Port of Spain. 2 & 3 In Port of Spain; city tour and visit Caroni bird sanctuary. Optional excursion to south of island. 4 Drive to Maracas Bay. 5 Swimming and relaxing, optional kayaking and waterfall hike. 6 Drive Paria Springs, homestay. 7 Drive Grand Riviere. 8 In Grand Riviere, optional shark river and turtle spotting (Apr-Oct). 9 Drive and ferry to Crown Point (Tobago). 10 & 11 At Crown point, beachcombing, optional snorkelling. 12 Drive Castara. 13 & 14 In Castara village, visit Little Tobago island. 15 Fly Port of Spain where tour ends.

Accommodation: 6nts hotel, 7nts guest house, 1nt village house; 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 1 dinner included.
Transport: Buses/Ferry/Flights as itinerary/ On foot.
Comment: We spend 2 weeks exploring some of the most beautiful islands of the Caribbean. Driving distances are short, there is plenty of time to swim, birdwatch and walk. Accommodation is simple, but allowing us to see the "real" Caribbean.
Group: Approx. 14 to 18.
Staff: Explore Tour leader plus driver(s).
Trip Reference: TNT