trinidad tobago tourism

beyond ordinary

Where unspoilt traditions, untouched natural beauty and undiscovered gems merge to create the idyllic Caribbean escape 

Go Experience

Indulge in a truly authentic Caribbean escape where the wild and untamed beauty of nature is rivaled only by the genuine warmth and hospitality of its people.

On island you will find a variety of accommodation choices suited to your needs and budget. Choose from luxurious villas, family friendly resorts or even a quaint bed and breakfast.

For on the go travelers who want to spend most of their time outdoors, a self- catering apartment might be your best bet.Whatever, the final choice, we are sure that your first and perhaps most important choice in your destination planning will be a good one.

Craft an extraordinary escape with a conveniently scheduled flight and charming accommodations perfectly suited to your needs. Your journey to paradise begins here.

Bacolet bay Beach was the location for the 1960 movie, Swiss Family Robinson and a favorite frolicking spot for the Beatles in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Bloody Bay, on the Leeward coast, is named after a bloody naval battle that is reputed to have turned the blue waters red with blood. However, some claim that the beach was stained by red earth deposits.

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Destination Guide | Travel & Vacation Planner

Our 5 (well, more than 5) favourite Tobago beaches for 2023

OK, no matter what else you may have come to Tobago to explore, enjoying its truly stunning beaches is bound to feature high up on your list of things to do! So here are our top five — plus many of our other favourites. One quick tip: the further north you go, the quieter the beaches tend to be. And, of course, if you want the low-down on all Tobago’s beaches, make sure to check out the rest of our Beaches section!

25+ cool & important facts about Trinidad & Tobago

There are many people and things that have landed Trinidad and Tobago in the history books …or which are just plain cool! Here are just some. And if you know more that you think should be here, feel free to give us a shout! We always love to hear from our readers.

Watching out for Trinidad & Tobago’s turtles

Your guide to turtle-watching and turtle conservation in both Trinidad and Tobago

Go hiking: popular Trinidad hikes for your bucket list

Of all the out-doorsy things you can do in Trinidad & Tobago , hiking is one of the best. Much like the country, hikes can accommodate almost everyone, from the gentle soul who’s looking for equally gentle terrain to the most intrepid, bring-it-on types. Here are some of Trinidad’s most popular hikes — from easy waterfall hikes, to caves with over a million bats, and the country’s most gruelling climb

Mishael Morgan: Trinidad-born, Emmy-winning history maker

Trinidad-born Mishael Morgan made history in June as the first woman of colour to win the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. A few weeks after her historic win, Caroline Taylor caught up with her for a wide-ranging chat about her career, living a purpose-driven life — and what’s next for her

Tobago sightseeing — and boons for birders!

Our favourite sightseeing spots, day trips , and birdwatching sites

Becoming a Payge Turner: meet Trinidad’s Paige Roopchan (part 2)

With a wealth of both musical and athletic talent, Trinidad-born Paige “ Payge Turner ” Roopchan’s path, however winding, seems destined for stardom

Tobago achieves two green travel milestones

Northeast Tobago declared a UNESCO Man & Biosphere Reserve, right after three Tobago beaches achieve Blue Flag Pilot status Earlier today, the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited and the Environmental Research Institute, Charlotteville (ERIC) celebrated the island obtaining the UNESCO Man & the Biosphere (MAB) designation, which TTAL described as an opportunity to develop and promote …

Saving Trinidad’s Asa Wright Nature Centre

The treasured eco centre needs to urgently raise capital in order to stay operational Exactly a month ago, on the 24th of September, the Asa Wright Nature Centre ’s Facebook page put out an SOS for help. “Due to COVID-19, we need your help now!” The post read, explaining that donors had the opportunity to double …

Trinidad Tourism begins to prepare for T&T border re-opening

Trinidad’s tourism stakeholders are one step closer to safely re-opening the sector to international travellers. Tourism Trinidad Limited (TTL), in collaboration with the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), hosted a webinar called Train the Trainer: COVID-19 Health Guidelines for Reopening the Tourism Sector & the Tourism Health Information System on 14th October. Over 200 tourism …

Meet the Johnsons | The making of a Trini Payge Turner (part 1)

With roots in a multi-talented and musical Trinidadian family, Paige Roopchan is fruit falling very close to the tree By now, you’ve no doubt seen 28-year-old Payge Turner ‘s stunning performance on the season premiere of The Voice last Monday. If not, you can check it out below. You can also read our full profile on …

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Getty Images/LOOK

While Trinidad booms with industry and parties all night, tiny Tobago (just 42km across at its widest point) kicks back in a hammock with a beer in hand watching its crystalline waters shimmer in the sun. Though Tobago is proud of its rainforests, fantastic dive sites, stunning aquamarine bays and nature reserves, it’s OK with not being mentioned in a Beach Boys' song. It accepts its tourists without vigor, but rather with languor, and allows them to choose between plush oceanside hotels or tiny guesthouses in villages where you walk straight to the open-air bar with sandy bare feet, and laugh with the locals drinking rum.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Pirate’s Bay

Past Charlotteville's pier, a dirt track winds up and around the cliff to concrete steps that descend to Pirate’s Bay, which offers excellent snorkeling…

Corbin Local Wildlife Park

Established by hunter turned conservationist Roy Corbin in Tobago's forest-covered interior, just inland of the windward coast's Hope Bay, this nonprofit…

Fort King George

Atop a hill at the end of Fort St, this sizable fort was built by the British between 1777 and 1779, and is worth a visit to see its restored colonial-era…

Mt Irvine Hotel Beach

Just south of the main Mt Irvine Beach, a turnoff from the main road leads to an adjoining swath of sand, where the swimming in calm emerald waters is…

Stonehaven Bay

Northeast of Mt Irvine, this fabulous sweep of coarse yellow sand, also known as Grafton Bay, offers some fabulous swimming and bodyboarding in clear…

Tobago Forest Reserve

A 20-minute drive east of Castara, at Bloody Bay, the Roxborough–Parlatuvier Rd strikes inland, meeting the Windward coast at Roxborough. This smooth,…

Little Tobago

Also known as Bird of Paradise Island (though it isn't home to any of the eponymous birds), Little Tobago was a cotton plantation during the late 1800s,…

The wide sweep of Castara's main bay, overlooked at its centre by a large fishers' facility, mixes commerce with tourism. Fisherfolk tend boats and pull…

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

Get to the heart of Tobago with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Trinidad & Tobago   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Timothy Corbin | Getty Images

8 Best Things To Do in Trinidad & Tobago

Updated April 24, 2024

Trinidad is popular with nature lovers and bird-watchers, but if you're looking for beach activities, we recommend a ferry ride to Tobago. Resplendent beaches line the island's coast and many remain untouched and desolate. Some of the best

• All Things To Do

Fort George (Trinidad) Fort George (Trinidad) free

Not to be confused with Tobago's  Fort King George in Scarborough, this historic Trinidadian structure provides visitors with a taste of the island's colonial heritage. Fort George was built in 1804 by former British Governor Brigadier-General Sir Thomas Hislop to protect the Port of Spain from any perceived military threats. However, the formidable structure never saw conflict and the military eventually retired it in 1846.

One of Fort George's best known features is its intricate wooden signal station, which provides a stark contrast to the fort's original cannons and dungeons still on display here. Constructed in 1883, this less intimidating, almost quaint structure was designed by Prince Kofi Nti, an Ashanti royal from West Africa who immigrated to Trinidad in 1881.

Store Bay (Tobago) Store Bay (Tobago) free

A cheaper alternative to neighboring Pigeon Point , Store Bay's free beach offers travelers a relaxing place to soak up some sun and cool off in Tobago's famous clear, blue waters. But visitors don't just come for the beach. Beachgoers can watch planes come in and land at nearby Arthur Napolean Raymond Robinson International Airport. Store Bay's other big draw is its array of street food vendors, which serve up affordable, local delicacies like crab and dumpling, bake and shark, and pelau (a mixture of rice, vegetables and meat or crab that’s been browned in sugar). Additionally, this beach is one of two departure points for trips to the area's popular snorkeling spot Buccoo Reef .

The beach at Store Bay is free to enter, but visitors looking to use one of the beachside loungers or changing facilities should expect to pay a small fee. Some recent beachgoers also warn that Store Bay may not be ideal for those who are elderly or in need of handicap accessible ramps since beach access sits at the bottom of several flights of stairs. The beach is open 24 hours daily, but for those looking for an on-duty lifeguard, plan your visit between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Fort King George (Tobago) Fort King George (Tobago) free

Much like Fort George in Trinidad, this mountaintop fort mixes stunning ocean and city views with a dose of Tobago's military and colonial history. Built after the French captured Tobago from the British in 1781, this military compound was controlled by the French until 1793 when it was recaptured by the British. In 1804, it was named Fort King George in honor of King George III, and in 1854 it stopped operating as a military structure.

Within Fort King George, travelers can explore the prison and officers' mess, as well as the quaint Tobago Museum located inside of the former barrack guardhouse. The Tobago Museum features weapons and pre-Columbian artifacts found in Scarborough alongside old Tobago maps and photographs. Outside of the historic buildings, visitors can find several canons and expansive views of Scarborough Bay.

Popular Tours

Tobago Buccoo Reef Glass Bottom Boat Cruise and Island Sightseeing Tour

(21 reviews)

from $ 110.00

Tobago Buccoo Reef Glass Bottom Boat Tour

(54 reviews)

from $ 76.00

Mini Island Tour of Trinidad

(36 reviews)

Pigeon Point (Tobago) Pigeon Point (Tobago)

There is a beach with all of the stereotypical Caribbean amenities — the swaying coconut trees, the bone-white sand, the sparking aquamarine water — and it resides in southwest Tobago. If you haven't picked a resort near Pigeon Point, just about everyone says you need to make a special trip to this beach for at least a couple of hours of beach time.

If there's a drawback, it would be this: Pigeon Point charges a minimal entry fee to enjoy its beautiful shores, and considering there are Tobagonian and Caribbean beaches to visit for free, it could be all too tempting to pass up a day lounging on this one. If you do decide to spend the cash to visit Pigeon Point, also consider taking a snorkel tour of the nearby Buccoo Reef .

Asa Wright Nature Centre (Trinidad) Asa Wright Nature Centre (Trinidad)

The Asa Wright Nature Centre is home to more than 400 species of native birds, plus 55 different reptile species, 25 amphibians, more than 600 butterflies and more than 2,000 types of flowering plants. In short, northern Trinidad's Asa Wright Nature Centre is bursting at the seams; it's the ultimate stop for both novice and experienced bird-watchers and nature lovers.

You could easily spend a day at the expansive park (in fact, the center offers overnight accommodations) but most only took two hours to explore the grounds. Be sure to wear insect repellent and long-sleeved clothes since there are plenty of mosquitos on the property.

Yerette (Trinidad) Yerette (Trinidad)

Nestled within Trinidad's Maracas Valley, this lush sanctuary is home to a variety of native flora and 13 of Trinidad and Tobago's 17 species of hummingbirds. Started accidentally by Dr. Theodore Ferguson and his wife, Gloria, to make it easier to photograph birds (one of the doctor's hobbies), Yerette, which borrows its name from the Amerindian word for "hummingbird," is one of Trinidad's most popular bird-watching spots.

Visitors of Yerette rave about the property's vibrant grounds and unparalleled access to the country's hummingbird population. According to previous travelers, so many hummingbirds visit Yerette that it's easy to hear the buzz of their wings. The property is also a favorite among photographers, who claim that the close proximity provides plenty of opportunities for capturing high quality photos.

Caroni Bird Sanctuary (Trinidad) Caroni Bird Sanctuary (Trinidad)

Located about 9 miles southeast of Port of Spain, Caroni Bird Sanctuary offers many of the same thrills of the Asa Wright Nature Centre without requiring the far pilgrimage to the island's northern rainforest. But the real reason to visit Caroni is to observe the scarlet ibis, the national bird of Trinidad and Tobago that resembles a brilliant blood orange flamingo. The best time to see the ibis is in the late afternoon; arrive a little early and you can enjoy a glass-bottom boat tour of the swampland while you're waiting for the ibis to appear.

Like any swamp, this one has plenty of mosquitoes a-biting and reptiles a-crawling. If you're at odds with nature, you might want to skip this bird sanctuary altogether. Even if you like the great outdoors, be sure to slather on the insect repellant and wear long sleeves and pants.

Buccoo Reef (Tobago) Buccoo Reef (Tobago)

Situated just off the coast of Tobago's Pigeon Point Beach and within 2 miles of Store Bay , Buccoo Reef is highly regarded by locals and visitors as one of Trinidad and Tobago's best areas for snorkeling. Even though parts of this massive reef are starting to die off due to poor conservation efforts, recent travelers said they saw a wide variety of fish and coral while snorkeling. However, more experienced snorkelers may want to skip Buccoo and try out the island's better protected Speyside reefs instead.

To visit Buccoo, visitors will need to sign up for one of several glass-bottom boat tours departing from Pigeon Point and Store Bay. The tours typically last two hours and include snorkeling equipment and a stopover at Nylon Pool, a natural, in-sea coral pool that's located just around the corner from Buccoo Reef. Prior visitors note, though, that the cheaper half-day tours, which start at $20 USD, do not include food or restroom facilities. To avoid an additional beach admission fee, choose a tour that departs from Store Bay. Tours are offered daily throughout the day and can be booked through a hotel concierge, at Pigeon Point or Store Bay, or by contacting one of several glass-bottom boat tour companies. Hew’s Tours and Pops Tours both receive favorable reviews from recent travelers.

Trinidad Airport Transfer to Port of Spain Hotels

from $ 50.00

Trinidad Island Circle Tour with Pickup

from $ 135.00

Port of Spain Airport (POS) to Port of Spain -Round-Trip Transfer

from $ 93.82

Explore More of Trinidad & Tobago

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Trinidad and Tobago

• 1.1 History
• 1.3 Economy
• 1.4 Climate
• 1.5 Terrain
• 1.6 Holidays
• 1.7 Visitor information
• 4 Other destinations
• 5.1 Entry requirements
• 5.2.1 Airlines serving Trinidad
• 5.2.2 Airlines serving Tobago
• 5.3 By boat
• 6.1.1 By ride hailing
• 6.1.2.1 Some tips
• 6.1.3 By bus
• 6.1.4 By ferry
• 6.1.5.1 Road conditions and traffic
• 6.1.6 Time and distance
• 6.2 Inter-island transport
• 7.1 Beaches
• 7.2 Bucco Reef and the nylon pool
• 7.3 Caroni Bird Sanctuary
• 7.4 Divali and the Divali Nagar
• 7.5 Emperor Valley Zoo (Port of Spain) and the Botanical Gardens
• 7.6 Fort George (Tobago)
• 7.7 Goat races (Tobago)
• 7.8 TTPBA Great Race
• 7.9 La Brea Pitch Lake
• 7.10 Leatherback turtles on Mathura Beach
• 7.11 Tobago heritage festival
• 7.12 Trinidad's north coast (Toco/Matelot/Grand Riviere)
• 8.1 Pre-Lenten Carnival
• 8.2 Nightlife
• 10.2 Tipping
• 10.3 Shopping
• 10.4 Weights and measures
• 11.1 Grocery shopping
• 12.1 Non-alcoholic
• 12.2.2 Beer
• 12.2.3 Wine and other spirits
• 12.2.4 Laws related to alcohol
• 16 Stay safe
• 17.1 Healthcare
• 19.1 The telecommunications authority
• 19.2 Landline telephones
• 19.3 Mobile telephones
• 19.4 Payphones
• 19.5 Internet access
• 19.6 Postal facilities
• 19.7.1.1 Importing equipment
• 19.7.1.2 Repeaters and local frequencies
• 19.7.3 Personal radio services (FRS, GMRS, MURS, PMR446)
• 19.7.4 Marine radios
• 19.8.1 Radio

Trinidad and Tobago (TT) is a nation consisting primarily of two Caribbean islands , Trinidad and Tobago , just off the northeastern coast of Venezuela . The country is the most industrialised and one of the most prosperous in the Caribbean. Overall, tourism is not a major industry (though the island of Tobago has proportionally more), leaving the islands replete with natural unspoiled beauty not found in most other Caribbean countries.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

The islands were first inhabited by Arawak and Carib people, who settled here from the South American mainland, and whose descendants make up a small minority of the population. Trinidad was sighted by Christopher Columbus, who claimed it for Spain. Under Spanish rule, many French settlers established cocoa plantations in Trinidad and imported slaves to work them. The British seized the island in 1798, and abolished slavery. To make up for the labour shortage the government encouraged heavy immigration from countries such as Portugal, France, Germany, China, and most importantly India. Trinidad was united with Tobago in the 1880s. Throughout the early 1900s the country welcomed thousands of mostly black immigrants from other Caribbean countries, as well as Venezuela and Colombia. Following World War II, TT was combined with various other British Caribbean countries into the West Indies Federation. However, the different groups of islands could not get along and the federation soon collapsed. TT eventually achieved complete independence on August 31, 1962. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the country prospered thanks to large deposits of oil and natural gas, becoming the wealthiest nation in the Caribbean. However, in the late 1980s, oil prices dropped significantly, causing a major economic meltdown. Thousands of Trinidadians left the country at this time, in search of better opportunities elsewhere. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s the country recovered dramatically and the nation's living standards continue to improve today.

People [ edit ]

The country has a cosmopolitan society inhabited by many different peoples and cultures who live together in relative peace and harmony. Ethnic Indians form a plurality of the population, while black people of African descent form the second largest group.

Economy [ edit ]

The two islands have distinct personalities. Trinidad is the larger of the two, and is the location of most of the country's cities and activity. It is also the country's industrial centre, noted for petroleum and natural gas production, which make T&T one of the most prosperous countries in the Caribbean. Tobago is known for tourism, which is its main industry and is a popular tourist destination. Both islands have a share of natural beauty.

Climate [ edit ]

Trinidad and Tobago, well within the tropics, enjoy a generally pleasant maritime tropical climate influenced by the northeast trade winds. In Trinidad the annual mean temperature is 26°C (78.8°F), and the average maximum temperature is 34°C (93.2°F). The humidity is high, particularly during the rainy season, when it averages 85 to 87%. The island receives an average of 2,110 millimetres (83.1 in) of rainfall per year, usually concentrated in the months of June through December, when brief, intense showers frequently occur. Precipitation is highest in the Northern Range, which may receive as much as 3,810mm (150 in). During the dry season, drought plagues the island's central interior. Tobago's climate is similar to Trinidad's but slightly cooler. Its rainy season extends from June to December; the annual rainfall is 2,500mm (98.4 in). The islands lie outside the hurricane belt; despite this, Hurricane Flora damaged Tobago in 1963, and Tropical Storm Alma hit Trinidad in 1974, causing damage before obtaining full strength.

Terrain [ edit ]

Trinidad is traversed by three distinct mountain ranges. The Northern Range, an outlier of the Andes Mountains of Venezuela, consists of rugged hills that parallel the coast. This range rises into two peaks. The highest, El Cerro del Aripo, is 940m (3,084 ft) high; the other, El Tucuche, reaches 936m. The Central Range extends diagonally across the island and is a low-lying range. The Caroni Plain, extends southward, separating the Northern Range and Central Range. The Southern Range consists of a broken line of hills with a maximum elevation of 305m (1,001 ft). There are numerous rivers and streams on the island of Trinidad; the most significant are the Ortoire River, and Caroni River.

Tobago is mountainous and dominated by the Main Ridge, which is 29 kilometres long with elevations up to 640m. There are deep, fertile valleys running north and south of the Main Ridge. The southwestern tip of the island has a coral platform. Although Tobago is volcanic in origin, there are no active volcanoes. There are numerous rivers and streams, but flooding and erosion are less severe than in Trinidad.

Holidays [ edit ]

• 1 January : New Year's Day
• February / early March : Carnival (not an official holiday); just before Ash Wednesday (Lent)
• March 30 : Spiritual Baptist/Shouter Liberation Day
• Easter (moveable)
• Corpus Christi (moveable)
• May 30 : Indian Arrival Day
• June 19 : Labour Day
• August 1 : Emancipation Day
• August 31 : Independence Day
• September 24 : Republic Day
• Eid al-Fitr : (variable)
• December 25 : Christmas
• December 26 : Boxing Day

Visitor information [ edit ]

• [ Visit Trinidad and Tobago

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• 10.666667 -61.516667 1 Port-of-Spain - Capital city
• 10.625 -61.279167 2 Arima - birthplace of famous calypso artiste "Lord Kitchener"
• 10.514444 -61.4075 3 Chaguanas - fastest growing and largest municipality mostly populated by descendants of East Indian indentured labourers
• 10.683333 -61.633333 4 Chaguaramas - area in northwest Trinidad that is the yachting centre of the country with many facilities for boat owners
• 10.166667 -61.666667 5 Point Fortin - south western municipality, which lies on the outskirts of the La Brea Pitch Lake and is known for oil production
• 10.283333 -61.466667 6 San Fernando - Southern city
• 11.183333 -60.733333 7 Scarborough (Capital of Tobago)

Other destinations [ edit ]

• Caroni Bird Sanctuary and former sugar cane estates (very nice place to watch birds, many mosquitoes)
• North coast beaches (Maracas, Las Cuevas)
• La Brea Pitch Lake
• Lopinot Historical Site - museum built on former cocoa estate owned by French Count Charles Joseph de Lopinot
• Roxborough - Northern Tobago, tropical rainforest reserve
• Down the Islands - the small islands off the north-west peninsula offer a calm retreat.

Get in [ edit ]

Entry requirements [ edit ].

All visitors must have: a passport valid for the length of the stay, a return ticket, proof of funds to maintain themselves, an address in TT, such as a hotel or family/friend.

Citizens of the UK , USA , Canada , Caricom countries (except Haiti ), Singapore and most EEA and Latin American countries do not require a visa for vacation or business of 90 days or less. Other nationalities need to apply for a visa in advance at an embassy or consulate of TT abroad. When leaving the country, there is a departure tax of TT$5 on the ferry to Venezuela.

By plane [ edit ]

The main airport is Piarco International Airport ( POS  IATA ) on Trinidad , approximately 25 km southeast of Port of Spain . Direct air service is available from Amsterdam, Ft. Lauderdale, Houston, Miami, Orlando, New York (JFK), and Newark, USA; Toronto, Canada; London, UK; Caracas and Porlomar, Venezuela; Panama City, Panama; Paramaribo, Suriname; Georgetown, Guyana; Barbados and various other islands in the Caribbean.

Airlines serving Trinidad [ edit ]

Caribbean Airlines (the National Airline), direct flights from Miami, New York, Ft Lauderdale, Orlando, Toronto, Caracas, Georgetown, Kingston, Paramaribo, Barbados, and other Caribbean islands to Port-of-Spain ( POS  IATA ).

Air Canada Rouge, direct flights from Toronto

American Airlines , direct flights from Miami

British Airways , direct flights from London Gatwick

Caribbean Airlines direct flights from North America, South America, and throughout the Caribbean.

Copa Airlines , direct flights from Panamá City.

JetBlue, direct flights from Ft. Lauderdale and New York-JFK.

KLM, direct flights from Amsterdam

Surinam Airways , direct flights from Paramaribo and Curaçao

United Airlines , direct flights from Houston and Newark

WestJet, direct flights from Toronto

Airlines serving Tobago [ edit ]

Tobago's Arthur Napoleon Raymond Robinson International Airport ( TAB  IATA ) has limited direct services, mostly from London

Caribbean Airlines, offering domestic flights from Trinidad and a direct flight from New York (JFK)

Virgin Atlantic, direct flights from Gatwick London

British Airways, direct Flights from Gatwick London

Condor, charter service from Frankfurt, Germany

International departure tax is TT$200 as of 2014, which is included in the cost of your ticket at the point of sale.

By boat [ edit ]

Trinidad is a popular location among yacht owners. Most anchor in the Chaguaramas area on the far northwest side of the island. The Trinidad and Tobago Sailing Association provides services to boaters, who are locally known as "Yachties". Cruise ships can also dock at the Cruise Ship Complex in Port of Spain.

Get around [ edit ]

Within the islands [ edit ], by ride hailing [ edit ].

TTRS Trinidad and Tobago Ride share is a safe and convenient way to get around. Download the app and get verified before you go. You can pay the driver in TT dollars or with your credit card, but you have to enter before the trip begins. Uber does not operate in Trinidad.

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxicabs are simply normal passenger cars with no special markings. However, their license plates start with the letter "H". They are found at Taxi stands which may be at a street corner or at the side of the road. Taxi stands in the cities and boroughs are usually marked, but outside of the city they are not. However, one can hail a taxi from the side of the road and ask where they are going and the fare before hiring the taxi. One pays for an individual seat and the taxicabs are shared, but a whole car can be hired if so desired, and if there are not a lot of passengers waiting. Airport taxis are an exception to this in that one almost always has to hire the whole car.

There are larger taxis, called "Maxitaxis" or simply "Maxis" that go along a specified route. These are similar to mini buses and are painted white or beige and have a coloured band around them. Each maxi usually holds approximately 11 or 25 passengers. The colour of the band indicates the area in which they travel. They have their own taxi stands and terminals. In Port of Spain, the maxis depart and arrive at the City Gate terminal, and in San Fernando they depart and arrive at the bus terminal at King's Wharf. These Maxi Taxis travel to the east, south and central areas of the island. In order to travel to the west there are a few designated areas such as the Diego martin/Petit Valley/Carenage/Chagaramas maxi stand located a few kilometers away from City Gate. A maxi taxi can be hired for a whole day on a chartered trip. These can be negotiated directly with the maxi taxi drivers in advance. Prices vary.

Gypsy cabs are available as well. Locally they are called "PH" because they are private cars illegally used for hire. Use caution as "PH" drivers have been linked to crime including murder, kidnapping and robbery and carry no insurance for hired passengers.

Some tips [ edit ]

• All taxi fares are to be paid in cash in TT dollars. Some drivers accept US dollars, Canadian dollars or euros, but they may not give you a favorable exchange rate. It's okay to ask your fare in advance. In Maxi taxis, pay the conductor, or the driver if there is no conductor. Tipping is not expected except for airport taxis. However, if you feel generous, you can give a tip if you desire. Taxi drivers usually do not provide receipts.
• If going off the usual designated route (usually the main road), tell the taxi driver before you board the taxi. Some may not want to go off the main road due to crime or bad roads. If you fail to notify them in advance, they may just drop you off at a close point to your destination and you'll have to walk. Maxi taxis will usually not go off the designated route, however, some of them will ask passengers if an alternate route can be taken if there is excessive traffic. If in doubt as to whether the maxi will miss your destination, ask the conductor.
• Avoid looking for a taxi or maxi during rush hour (AM and PM, but PM is worse). The taxi stands tend to be crowded, and others may resort to stopping the taxi before the taxi stand. The net result is that the taxi is full before it reaches the stand and the wait may be exceedingly long.
• Some maxi and taxi drivers will want to put more than the legal number of passengers in the vehicle. This is a dangerous and illegal practice, as there is no insurance coverage for any of the passengers if the maxi taxi is overloaded and gets into an accident. Politely decline or at least know what you're risking.
• If your taxi or maxi is involved in a crash, make a report to the police as soon as possible in order to secure your legal rights. Taxi drivers are required to carry insurance for all passengers. Police reports can be made in person to the police station that has jurisdiction. Ask a local. They will know. If you or someone requires immediate medical attention, dial 999 or 990.
• Some taxi stands will fill up the taxis from the back going forward. This is more common in the cities and boroughs.
• To stop a maxi taxi while on it (i.e. at your destination) push the stop button. They will sometimes not be labeled, but by law maxi taxis are required to have them.
• Smoking in public buildings is against the law.

By bus [ edit ]

Buses are run by the Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC) owned by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago. Buses and bus tickets are available at City Gate in Port-of-Spain, King's Wharf in San Fernando and various other terminals and bus stops. A ticket is required to board the bus. Bus drivers do not accept cash or credit cards.

By ferry [ edit ]

There is a domestic ferry operating on the island of Trinidad between the two main cities of Port-of-Spain in the north and San Fernando in the south. The ferry ride is approximately 45 minutes between destinations and a one-way trip costs TT$15 (approximately US$2.50).

By car [ edit ]

Car rental is widely available, and driving is on the left side (British style). There are several companies that rent cars including international chains such as Budget and Hertz. There are also local companies such as Auto Rentals, Kalloo's and many others. It is best to reserve a car in advance. However, one can rent a car at the airport upon arrival. The license plates of rental cars are usually designated with an "R" (meaning "Rental") as the first letter. Some private individuals will rent cars with plates designated with the letter "P" (meaning "Private"), but this is an illegal practice and it is better to rent a car with an "R" plate.

However, it is becoming common practice for criminals to target drivers of rental cars since many locals seem to believe all foreigners are rich. So more and more car rental firms are now outfitting their cars with "P" in hopes that it would disguise the fact that the car is actually a rental.

Road conditions and traffic [ edit ]

Beware of drivers who do not follow the laws of the road. They may not stop at red lights, and make unannounced turns. If you're only accustomed to right-side driving, strongly consider not driving at all. Drive to stay alive. If you foresee the possibility of unpleasantness, especially one that can turn into a road rage incident, avoid it.

Speed limits are in effect (80 km/h on highways), but rarely enforced. Many road signs are old and not highly visible and distances are marked in kilometers. It is a fun experience, if you can drive well, to enjoy the roads especially late at night or early morning. Avoid speeding on the main highways in rush hour or around the Queen's Park Savannah at any time. Other than that, chances that you will be pulled over are next to nil.

Although you will see many drivers doing it, it is against the law to make a left turn on red (equivalent to a right turn on red in left-hand drive countries such as the United States). U-turns are also illegal.

Taxis and Maxi Taxis in particular have been linked to a lot of crashes and traffic deaths. They will often stop without warning to pick up or drop off passengers, make risky maneuvers and generally drive recklessly. While these may illegal, the police don't seem to bother them except for occasional spot checks and road blocks. Police action involving Maxi Taxis and Taxis usually happens when they cause serious traffic problems, in which case, it is not uncommon for the Police and the town or city to relocate the Maxi Taxis.

People will also park their vehicles in the middle of the road where there is no shoulder. Wait until the opposite lane clears, then go around the parked car.

In more populated areas, such as the cities of Port of Spain and San Fernando, watch out for pedestrians, as jaywalking is the norm. Pedestrian crossing traffic signals are few and far between. Additionally, they require people to push the button in most cases. Most people don't bother and just wait for traffic to clear, or run across the road. Be cautious as hitting a pedestrian, jaywalking or not, can land you in more trouble than hitting a car.

Time and distance [ edit ]

If planning to go to the other side of the island (Trinidad), get an early start and allow the entire day with nothing important scheduled for the late afternoon. Although the island is not huge, getting somewhere can take longer than you might think. With the influx of used cars from Asia (locally called "foreign used") cars and the growing economy, more people own cars than ever. Therefore traffic jams are not uncommon, especially when going to Port of Spain.

Inter-island transport [ edit ]

There are two options for travel between Trinidad and Tobago - by ferry and by air.

Travelling by air will cost TT$300 round trip or TT$150 one way per person. There are twelve flights per day. Flight time is approximately 25 minutes each way. Caribbean Airlines ( http://www.caribbean-airlines.com ) runs the service.

There are two types of ferry service - fast and conventional.

Travelling by fast ferry costs TT$50 one way and TT$100 return. Vessels are the T&T Express and The T&T Spirit, which are both owned by the Port Authority of Trinidad and Tobago. The journey is approximately 2.75 hours. The Express is the faster of the two ships, but the Spirit is newer and has better facilities.

Travelling by conventional ferry costs TT$37.50 one way and TT$75 return, but the journey is approximately 5½ hours. Vessels are the MF Panorama and Warrior Spirit.

Vehicles can be taken aboard the ferry, but this incurs a different charge which varies by size and weight. A return trip for a private car costs TT$350. This includes the cost of the driver. You are unlikely to be able to take a rental car on the ferry since you need to show vehicle registration documents.

Only tickets for same day travel can be purchased at the ferry terminals in Port of Spain and Scarborough. For advance tickets, you must purchase tickets from some select travel agencies - at peak times tickets sell out quickly, particularly for vehicles. For ferry schedules and travel agencies, see the Port Authority website .

See [ edit ]

Beaches [ edit ].

Tobago's beaches are extremely beautiful. Popular beaches in Tobago include

• Bucco, Grange

Bucco Reef and the nylon pool [ edit ]

Caroni bird sanctuary [ edit ], divali and the divali nagar [ edit ], emperor valley zoo (port of spain) and the botanical gardens [ edit ].

Fort George (Tobago) [ edit ]

Tobago's Fort George offers a glimpse into Tobago's colonial history and beautiful views of the ocean.

Goat races (Tobago) [ edit ]

Goat racing in Tobago on Easter Tuesday is a tradition dating back to 1925. Amazingly, it shares many similarities to horse racing, where there are owners, stables and trainers.

TTPBA Great Race [ edit ]

During the month of August (mainly in second or last weekend of August) there is an annual power boat race from Trinidad to Tobago called the Great Race. [1] . It starts at Pier 1 in Chaguaramas, Trinidad and ends at Store Bay in Tobago. There are places to see the boats racing live (such as Maracas Bay). The boats typically travel around the North West peninsula, then along the north coast then make a bee line to Tobago. The first finishers typically finish in an hour.

La Brea Pitch Lake [ edit ]

Leatherback turtles on mathura beach [ edit ].

The Leatherback sea turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) can be seen on Trinidad's Mathura beach. Every year around Easter, the turtles return to Trinidad to lay their eggs. Tours are available from conservation groups. Volunteer opportunities are also available. Since the turtles are an endangered species, it is illegal to kill the turtles or the eggs, therefore care and caution should be exercised so as not to disturb the turtles.

Tobago heritage festival [ edit ]

Every year during the last week in July and first week in August, the Tobago heritage festival takes place. It is a two-week-long show of Tobagonian dance, music, story telling, culture and food. It is a showpiece into Tobago's long held traditions and a unique glimpse into the island's way of life.

Trinidad's north coast (Toco/Matelot/Grand Riviere) [ edit ]

The north coast of Trinidad is beautiful and largely unspoilt. There are a lot of scenic beaches and undeveloped areas. At the North East tip of the island is the village of Toco. The North East trade wind blows literally 24 hours per day and lounging on the beach can be quite relaxing.

Do [ edit ]

Pre-lenten carnival [ edit ].

Nightlife [ edit ]

There are quite a few nightclubs in Trinidad and Tobago, especially in the Chaguaramas area, such as Pier 1, Anchorage, Base, and MoBS2. Some very popular night clubs are Club Zen and 51 Degrees Lounge in Port of Spain and Sting nightclub in La Romaine, as well as Space la Nouba and Prive, both also in La Romaine. However, due to the crime situation, caution is advised and it is a good idea to be with a group rather than by yourself.

Golf [ edit ]

One can play golf at several golf courses throughout Trinidad and Tobago. Some courses are 9 holes and others are 18 holes. Two popular golf courses are the St. Andrews' Golf course [2] in Maraval (just outside of Port of Spain) and the Mt. Irvine Golf Course in Tobago.

Talk [ edit ]

English is the official language. Words are spelt with British spellings (e.g. colour, programme, tyre). English Creole (though it is not referred to by locals by that name) is very frequently used for informal communication among locals. It's mostly an oral language, and is seldom written (and then just by ad-lib ). A Trinidadian Dictionary, "Cote Ci Cote La" can be found at one of the many bookstores in the country and is an excellent souvenir to remember your vacation to Trinidad and Tobago. Here's an example of just one of those many words that have radically different meanings from American English:

Also, Hindi, French (mostly Creole or Patois), Spanish, and Chinese are occasionally heard. It may seem, at times, you are in a country that only speaks a foreign language. However, since virtually everyone knows standard (British) English, there's no need to ask. Of course, if someone does suddenly start talking in standard English, take notice! They may very well be talking to you.

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

The currency is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar , denoted " TT$ " (ISO currency code: TTD ), also known as the "TT" (pronounced teetee ). US dollars are also widely accepted. There is an active black market for US currency in Trinidad, exchange rates are up to 30% higher than the official rates listed online, as of April 2022. Bringing cash can significantly reduce the price of travel.

Coins of Trinidad and Tobago come in denominations of 5, 10, 25 and 50 cents and TT$1. Banknotes of Trinidad and Tobago come in denominations of TT$1, TT$5, TT$10, TT$20, TT$50 and TT$100. The current series of banknotes issued since 2020-2021 are issued entirely on polymer.

Visa and MasterCards are accepted at many stores. American Express, Diners' Club, Discover, JCB and others are only accepted in a few upmarket places. ATM (ABM) cards using Cirrus and Plus networks will work in local ATMs and will allow you to make withdrawals in TT dollars converted to your home currency. The exchange rate when withdrawing from the ATM is slightly better than when exchanging cash. There are also ATMs in a few places such as shopping malls that will dispense US dollars. Most Trinidad and Tobago ATMs do not accept PINs longer than four digits. Consider changing it to four digits before you travel. Republic Bank ATMs (Blue Machines) accept six-digit PINs.

Tipping [ edit ]

Tipping has not been a custom, but has become more commonplace. Some restaurants, especially those in hotels or those that serve foreign tourists expect a tip. Most do not. Only airport taxis expect a tip. Local taxis do not.

Shopping [ edit ]

Prices in shops and stores are generally displayed and do not change according to the customer. Outdoor vendors, however, are another story: they are likely to charge a different, higher price for a foreigner than for a local. A few will even suggest or demand payment in US dollars. You can try haggling, or just grin and bear it.

Most items except necessities and certain other items that are zero rated attract Value Added Tax (VAT) at the rate of 15%. The tax is collected at the time of sale.

Weights and measures [ edit ]

Weights and measures are officially in metric, however it is not uncommon for imperial (English) units to still be used. Although most of the other units are the same, the imperial gallon is larger at 4.546 L than the US gallon at only 3.785 L.

Eat [ edit ]

Due to its varied background, Trinidad and Tobago has excellent and varied food options. In particular, the Indian roots have added to some of the best foods of any country in the world. If you can't tolerate extremely hot and spicy food, be sure to let the cook or waiter know in advance.

Popular throughout T&T are tasty rotis , which are Indian-style flatbreads stuffed with channa (chickpea curry), usually some meat, and condiments or vegetables such as green beans, pumpkin, or mangoes. There are several types of roti available in Trinidad:

• sada , which is similar to pita or naan;
• bara , which is a fried flat bread;
• dhalpouri , which is filled with ground yellow split peas; and
• buss up shut , a heartier bread with a silken texture and a name that refers to a busted shirt.

Cheap breakfasts of sada roti and choka (fire-roasted vegetables) are available for about TT$12.

The most popular fast snack is a doubles . Doubles is curried chickpeas ( chnana ) enclosed in two pieces of fried flat bread ( bara roti ), and served with your choice of condiments. It is a roadside snack, available everywhere at about TT$6. Eat hot. One famous spot is "George Doubles" located in Woodbrook outside the ever-famous "Brooklyn Bar". "Ali's Doubles" is a chain that sells doubles. There are a few locations around Trinidad, mostly in San Fernando.

Phoulourie is another popular roadside snack. Phoulourie are small balls, made of fried ground chickpeas and flour. It and other popular snack foods like roast corn, cow heel soup, aloo pies (fried potato pies) and saheena (spinach dipped in batter and fried), are often available from street vendors, especially around the Savannah.

Trinidad and Tobago is also famous for its mouth watering callaloo – a soup made from green leafy vegetables, similar to spinach or kale, sometimes with crab or pigtail added (vegetarians beware!). Callalloo is not the most appetizing of foods to look at, but it is certainly worth a try.

Another must try in T&T is the famous Bake and Shark or Shark 'n Bake. Most easily obtained along the north coast near Maracas Bay , pieces of shark are deep fried, served in cut fried bread called "fried bake", and accompanied by various sauces, most popular of which is a puree of shadon-beni (culantro, which is similar to cilantro but more strongly flavored).

Another popular food traditionally associated with beach limes is pelau , usually accompanied with coleslaw. Pelau, is not, however, available for purchase at the beach, although you may be able to find it in a creole restaurant.

If you have a sweet tooth, there are many local sweets and candies to sample like Toolum, Tambran Ball, Guava Cheese, Sugar Cake, Paw Paw Ball, Benna Ball, Jub Jub, Kurma, Barfi, Ladoo, Peera. Many of these will be available on the "lookout" on the way to Maracas Beach, and prepackaged in some supermarkets.

A few American-style fast food chains are available including KFC, Subway, Pizza Hut and Burger King. There are also a few franchised eat-in restaurants such as TGI Friday's and Ruby Tuesday. There are a few local chains such as Royal Castle (chicken and chips), and Chicken Unlimited. These local fried chicken chains have a different taste from American or European fried chicken chains. Pizza Boys and Mario's are two popular local pizza chains. The pizza is quite different from American or Italian pizza.

Chinese food is available in many places from Chinese takeout stores. It is Cantonese style but the spices are uniquely Trinidadian.

Barbecued chicken is another popular Trinbagonian dish. It is similar to American barbecue, but with local spices. There are roadside barbecue stands that sell a box of barbecued chicken (quarter) with fries, salad and garlic bread. One popular place is The Barbecue Hut which is an open air tent where patrons will buy barbecue to sit down and eat or take away. It is on the South Trunk Road in La Romaine, South Trinidad close to the Gulf City mall. Be aware that it is run by Muslims therefore no alcohol is allowed on the compound.

The condiments available in Trinbagonian restaurants are ketchup, plain mustard, garlic sauce, shadon-beni sauce (culantro, which is a cilantro-like herb), hot pepper and many more depending on location. Soy sauce is available in Chinese restaurants, along with an extremely hot Chinese style pepper sauce. If taking hot pepper as a condiment, be warned! It is extremely hot! You may see locals putting a lot of pepper on their food, but remember they have been eating it for years so they are accustomed to it. It is best to try a little, and if you feel comfortable, add more. If in doubt, avoid it. Salt and black pepper are generally not available as in American restaurants.

Local bakeries sell pastries such as beef and chicken pies and currant rolls. They also sell hops bread which are rolls made with white or whole wheat flour. Hops bread is best eaten hot and can be enjoyed with cheese or butter for a quick snack.

Grocery shopping [ edit ]

Grocery stores sell a wide variety of packaged goods and produce. However, for really fresh produce, one can go to the market. Towns usually have a market day (or days) where sellers, usually local farmers, will bring their produce to sell. The Government publishes prices for produce, however one may be able to bargain to get a better price. Again, while weights and measures are officially in Metric, most sellers use imperial units.

Halal food is readily available most food outlets usually have signs. Fast food outlets such as KFC and McDonald's also serve halal food. Many supermarkets also carry a wide range of halal fresh and processed meats as well.

Drink [ edit ]

Non-alcoholic [ edit ]

The most refreshing drink on a hot sunny day is a large glass of a very cold delicious Mauby, a beverage made with the bark of the mauby tree and spices, such as anise and cinnamon. It is very refreshing and cooling, but may be an acquired taste, since it has a bitter aftertaste.

Cold soft jelly coconut water – available along the roadsides – costs about TT$4. And do try all the many varied local fruit juices, readily available chilled in most groceries.

Sorrel is a popular drink available during Christmas time. It is made from the boiled flowers of the Roselle (hibiscus sabdariffa) plant. It is red in colour and best enjoyed cold.

Soft drinks are sweetened with cane sugar, rather than high-fructose corn syrup as is the common practice in the United States. Some argue that this gives soft drinks a better taste.

Malta is a popular drink, made from malt and hops and available from local bars, restaurants and supermarkets. It is high calorie and full of B vitamins, and best enjoyed ice cold.

Alcoholic drinks [ edit ]

Rum [ edit ].

Being a former sugar cane colony, Trinidad and Tobago is famous for its rum. Popular brands of rum are Black Label and Vat 19 by Fernandes and White Oak, Old Oak by Angostura. Some bars will allow you to buy individual rum drinks either straight with or without a chaser, or mixed. Some bars will allow you to purchase a whole bottle of rum, or a "half", which is equivalent to half a bottle. Some bars will sell a "nip" which is less than half. One can also purchase bottles of rum in stores and at duty-free stores at the airport to carry home. Puncheon rum is a stronger type of rum (no less than 75% alcohol/150 proof). It is not quite like moonshine but definitely stronger than regular rum. In fact, it may not be legal to take it back with you. However, it is legal in Trinidad and Tobago and is available from many local bars.

Beer [ edit ]

Beer is available and quite popular. The two most popular brands of beer are Carib and Stag, which are brewed locally. Additionally, some imported beer such as Miller is available. Other malt liquor drinks are available, brewed locally, such as Smirnoff Ice, and various stouts (Mackeson, Guinness Export, etc.) There are no microbreweries in Trinidad, and beer-lovers may find the local beers not to their taste. However, a few bars do import a wider variety of beers. Of particular note is the All Out bar at the Queen's Park Oval cricket ground in Port of Spain (94 Tragarete Road), where you will find a reasonable selection of English ales on draft, sold by the pint.

Wine and other spirits [ edit ]

Wine, vodka, tequila and other spirits are usually imported. There are no wineries in Trinidad and Tobago, as the tropical climate is not conducive to the growing of grapes. Many restaurants will serve a range of imported wines, however, and wine bars, such as More Vino in Woodbrook have opened in the past few years.

Laws related to alcohol [ edit ]

Drinking alcohol in public is not frowned upon in Trinidad and Tobago. It is legal to drink alcohol in public. Public drunkenness may get you arrested only if you engage in disorderly conduct. Also the legal drinking age is 18 years. However, during election day, sale of alcohol is prohibited and must not be overtly displayed.

Sleep [ edit ]

There are a wide variety of lodging options. There are major hotels such as Crowne Plaza, Hyatt, and the Hilton. There are also smaller guest houses, particularly in Tobago and beach houses at the coasts (especially the East coast). Rates vary. On Trinidad, many cities and towns of limited interest to the typical tourist do not have any official accommodations. Staying with locals may be the only option. However, Trinidad has developed a sporting and cultural infrastructure being multi cultural with different religious denominations and can even boast of having world-class facilities for swimming, cycling, football, cricket, netball and the arts. For persons or groups of persons willing to experience or connect with similar groups at competitive rates, guest houses such as The Little Inn and the Miracle Healing cater for these niches.

Learn [ edit ]

• University of the West Indies St. Augustine campus
• University of the Southern Caribbean .
• University of Trinidad and Tobago
• Other smaller colleges offer external degrees and diplomas from foreign institutions such as the University of London and City and Guilds of London.

Work [ edit ]

Tourist visas do not permit employment. In order to work, one must obtain a work permit for the job and there must be no suitably qualified nationals to fill the job. In addition, to pay taxes, one needs to apply for a BIR file number (used like a social security number) and a PAYE number. One must file tax returns every year if taxes are owed, and pay those taxes.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Be careful where you park. High-end hotels like the Nornandie have reported a drastic increase in vehicular break-ins. One was reported while the secured car park was almost empty and two security guards were on duty.

Trinidad and Tobago has been known for its increasingly high murder rate, although this is associated with isolated areas of the country. The capital Port of Spain, is relatively safe but as with all major cities around the world there are depressed areas which are not safe for tourists. East Port of Spain, areas east of Charlotte Street, become increasingly unsafe and should be avoided as well as Belmont, Morvant and Laventille. The city is known for is vibrant night life with many restaurants, bars, lounges and clubs. It is recommended that you travel with companions at night time and avoid wandering into any side streets. Hotels can provide guidance to assist you. Tobago on the other hand is relatively safe and more tourist friendly.

In previous years crime tended to peak in the Carnival (January-March) and around Christmas (October-December) seasons, but crimes happen year-round. Exercise some caution at night time while in Trinidad and Tobago.

For extended stays, register yourself at your country's nearest diplomatic mission. They can provide assistance to their citizens. A listing of diplomatic missions in Trinidad and Tobago is available on the Trinidad and Tobago Government's website .

In an emergency dial 999 from any telephone for the police. Dial 990 for the fire department and 811 for an ambulance. These calls are free of charge from any telephone, including payphones (no coins or cards required). Unlike countries that have reliable police emergency assistance, when dialing "999" in an emergency, the police do not always answer the call or show up when assistance is needed.

The islands are in an earthquake zone, though serious quakes are extremely rare.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

The Tobago Tourist Board boasts that "the wildlife in Tobago won't kill you", which is mostly true. The islands do have mosquitoes and isolated cases of dengue fever have been reported. The tap water is generally safe to drink, though many visitors prefer bottled water because the public water often has a strong chlorine taste. Use your best judgement if in an area where homes collect rain water from the roof, but very few problems are reported.

The adult HIV/AIDS prevalence at 3.0% or 1 in 33 adults, which is 5 times higher than the USA. The best advice is to use caution and use protection if engaging in sexual activity. Condoms are available from pharmacies to help prevent the spread of AIDS and other STDs.

If you need prescription medication, it is best to bring enough with you for the duration of your trip. There is no guarantee that what you need will be available. American OTC drugs are often available in many pharmacies; however, don't expect everything to be available. They may also be under different names whether American or European market names.

For information on COVID-19, consult the Ministry of Health .

Healthcare [ edit ]

Public healthcare is free to everyone in Trinidad and Tobago and is paid for by the taxpayers. Healthcare services are offered on a walk-in basis. There are a few major hospitals throughout the country as well as smaller health centers and clinics located regionally. These can be found on the Ministry of Health's website. The public health facilities are way below the standard of what can be found in developed countries. Industrial action (strikes and sickouts) by doctors and nurses happen from time to time, and some healthcare facilities are overcrowded and understaffed, with older equipment and medicines. As an alternative, there are also private healthcare facilities that offer healthcare services. Prices will vary and can be quite expensive. Private doctors are also available on an appointment basis.

Public ambulance services are available to everyone by dialing 990. This service is operated by the fire department. However these may prove to be unreliable since ambulances are limited and fire stations are often far away. Private ambulance services are available. They are generally more reliable but are not free. In an emergency it may be better to arrange one's own transportation to a healthcare facility.

Respect [ edit ]

It's a good idea to greet a stranger before asking him or her a question. It's a better idea to avoid strangers when not in the company of others.

Many Trinbagonians like to discuss sports. Being a former British colony, these discussions usually centre mostly around cricket and football.

There is no nude or topless bathing anywhere in Trinidad and Tobago.

In Trinidad and Tobago, many of the world's great religions are well represented. Christianity is the majority religion of the country, and there are also significant Hindu and Muslim minorities.

Trinidadians can be extremely friendly and hospitable, especially with guests who share a common religion with them. Be sure to bring small gifts to show your appreciation, as some visitors who had no intention of visiting or staying with locals end up doing so anyway.

Some homes (including a few guest houses) in rural areas are not connected to any underground water mains. However, they may still have running water from a large, round, black outdoor water tank. If staying in such a place, be sure to conserve water , especially in the dry season (or year-round, if it doesn't collect rainwater from the roof). If the tanks run dry, water trucks for refills may be available. However, even underground piped water may be rationed during the dry season. In short, if you are not staying in a major hotel, ask about the water situation.

Connect [ edit ]

Trinidad's international area code is 868 under the North American Numbering Plan. From the U.S. and Canada, it's no different than calling other states and provinces (1+868), but costs more. Its top level domain is .tt and its ITU callsign prefixes are 9Y and 9Z .

The telecommunications authority [ edit ]

All telecommunications in Trinidad and Tobago are now under the authority of the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT). All telecommunications and broadcasting licenses and franchises in Trinidad and Tobago are obtained from and administered by TATT. Complaints about telecommunications service providers can also be made to them.

Landline telephones [ edit ]

Landline telephones are available in larger hotels but may be unavailable in guest rooms of smaller guest houses. The telephone company is Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago , which is jointly owned by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago and Cable and Wireless. Local calls incur toll charges, however, calls in the same area code and telephone exchange are billed at a flat rate for the whole call. Hotels, of course, may charge more if you use their telephones. There are calling cafes around the country. For visitors who want to make international calls, it might be a good idea to use calling cafes.

Mobile telephones [ edit ]

Trinidad and Tobago has two active operating mobile telephone carriers - bmobile and Digicel . They both operate under the GSM standard, with bmobile using the 1800MHz frequency band, and Digicel using the 850MHz and 1900MHz frequency bands. There are roaming agreements with GSM carriers such as AT&T in the US, however the cost to roam may be prohibitive and calling within Trinidad may incur international toll charges. One can purchase a prepaid SIM card and GSM phone from Digicel or bmobile stores for as little as TT$100 and use that card in an unlocked GSM phone for the duration of their stay. You can also purchase a phone with SIM for that price. CDMA (Verizon) phones will work in Trinidad and Tobago. They will appear to be active due to TSTT's EVDO data only network, but you can make or receive calls on the CDMA network.

Payphones [ edit ]

Pay phones are a hit or miss in Trinidad. Some phones may be vandalized, full and in need of maintenance or simply not working. If you are lucky enough to find a working payphone, you can use either 25 cent coins or calling cards with an 800 number to access them. Some phones also accept phonecards which are pre-paid with a magnetic stripe. Insert the card and make your call. Some phones in hotels and at the airport allow the use of foreign calling cards. Calls to local 800 numbers, 999 and 990 are free.

Internet access [ edit ]

Internet cafés offer Internet access on public terminals at an hourly rate usually from TT$1 to TT$10.

Broadband internet options in Trinidad are available. Two major companies that provide these serives are TSTT (blink) and FLOW (Columbus Communications.)

Wi-Fi access is available in a few places such as Piarco airport, Movie Towne and select hotels and restaurants. EVDO and EDGE broadband access are also available, but may require contracts and a service commitment. Some hotels and guest houses provide free high speed internet.

There are other options including fixed wireless, DSL, cable modem (only in a few areas) and satellite but these are generally not available to touriststouristshort term stay.

A good discussion of Trinidad and Tobago WiFi options is available at the TTCS website.

Postal facilities [ edit ]

The postal service is run by the Trinidad and Tobago Postal Corporation, TTPost . Postal rates are available on the TTPost website. Post offices are located close to the center of town in many places with red drop-off boxes in some places. Thanks to restructuring of the postal service, TTPost has become comparable to the postal service in many developed countries and is generally reliable. Additionally, other services such as US visa fee payment, bill payment and the purchase of inter island ferry tickets are available from TTPost.

Two way radio [ edit ]

Amateur radio [ edit ].

Ham radio tourism and DXpeditions are very risky in Trinidad and Tobago, mostly because of the difficulty in importing equipment. Please see the nite about importing equipment below.

The internationally allocated ITU prefixes in Trinidad and Tobago are 9Y and 9Z.

In order to operate an Amateur Radio Station in Trinidad and Tobago, one needs a licence. If one's country of citizenship is a signatory to the IARP agreement and one holds a licence equivalent to US General class (Novice and US Technician licences are excluded) in that country, one can simply operate with 9y4/home callsign. For example, if your home callsign is W1ZZZ, you operate using 9Y4/W1ZZZ.

Otherwise one will need to apply for a licence at TATT. The following are needed:

• Photo ID and photocopy (passport)
• Original and copy of certificate(s) showing a pass in an amateur radio exam, in English or accompanied by an English translation.
• Original and copy of your home amateur radio licence, in English, or accompanied by an English translation.
• Form L-2 from TATT website, filled out and photocopied
• TT$20 application fee and TT$100 license fee

Appear in person at the TATT office at 76 Boundary Road, San Juan, Trinidad to apply. Processing time varies. If you want to have the licence arranged in advance, contact the Trinidad and Tobago Amateur Radio Society who can assist you. Foreigners will be granted 9Y4/homecall for the duration of their stay. It is at the discretion of the Technical officer issuing your license, but generally a licence equivalent to US General class and above (or its equivalent) gets full privileges including HF. Technician gets privileges above 30 MHz only. In some cases they may deny Novice or Technician class amateurs altogether.

Importing equipment [ edit ]

Importing equipment can be painless and easy or it can be a long, drawn out bureaucratic process. The difficulty of importing ham radio equipment has caused many tourists to simply forget about doing any ham radio activities in Trinidad and Tobago. It is best to operate at a local's station if you can.

You will need to have the equipment type approved by TATT. There is a form on their website. Call them in advance. One should also get a receipt showing the value of one's equipment.

When you go through customs and they search your bags, the customs officer will ask about the ham radio equipment if they see it. You should tell them what it is and show them your licence. They will tell you that you need to pay a bond equal to the value of the equipment and you will retrieve it before you leave. Otherwise they will probably seize your equipment and there is no guarantee that you'll get it back. Sometimes you'll just get lucky and they'll tell you to walk through. Sometimes they'll let you go with it but charge 20% customs duty. The law says that ham radio equipment is duty free for nationals. It's a gamble. It is best to not have your radio in the original boxes as this will more likely encourage customs officers to charge you a bond or duty.

You should carry as much of your equipment in your carry-on luggage as possible. Incidents of theft from checked luggage, while not very frequent, do happen.

Repeaters and local frequencies [ edit ]

There are a few local repeaters that you can say hello on. Those are:

• 147.930MHz -600kHz 9Y4TT (North)
• 146.940MHz -600kHz 9Y4TT (Central/South)
• 147.760MHz -600kHz 9Y4TT (Tobago)
• 146.100MHz +600kHz 9Y4NG (Central/South)
• 147.705MHz -600kHz 9Y4TTL (North)

In addition 146.520MHz is often monitored as a simplex channel. In the South (San Fernando) 146.550MHz is monitored and there is also an echolink node run by 9Y4NG on that frequency.

The local custom for a general call on the repeater is to say, "QRZ? This is <your callsign>, is anyone on frequency?"

CB [ edit ]

Citizens Band radio (CB) was legalised in 2021. No licence is required.

Personal radio services (FRS, GMRS, MURS, PMR446) [ edit ]

These are not licensed for use in Trinidad and Tobago. The radios may be seized by customs. Best to leave them at home. It is also illegal to use these within the territorial waters of Trinidad and Tobago. This means that if you are on a cruise ship or other vessel docked in TT waters, leave the FRS/GMRS/MURS/PMR446 radios off and do not transmit. Other licensed services use those frequencies and you may interfere with them.

Marine radios [ edit ]

Provided your radios are part of your boat's equipment and licensed by your home country, you should not have any issues bringing these in. Bringing these in other than installed in boats could result in them being seized.

Broadcast radio and TV [ edit ]

Radio [ edit ].

Thanks to the liberalization of the telecommunications market, there are now many radio stations on the FM band. Most of the stations play music, with Indian music and calypso/soca being popular.

TV [ edit ]

There are some local TV stations, the major one being TV6 on Channels 6 and 18. Most of them carry local programming, but TV6 carries American series, sitcoms and soap operas. Some stations are cable only whereas others are low power so they are only available regionally. Gayelle The Channel on Channels 23 and 27 is a 100% local television station that can give visitors to Trinidad and Tobago an interesting and entertaining insight into local life and culture. Other local channels include; NCC 4, Synergy TV, Trinity Television and the Islamic Channel.

Cable television is also available. Most major American networks are available on cable including CBS, NBC and ABC. Cable TV is available at hotels and guest houses.

Satellite TV from DirecTV Latin America is also available, but their offerings are not as good as cable and they tend to feature more Spanish language programming.

Big dish satellite TV is also available.

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12 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Trinidad and Tobago

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Feb 7, 2023

Trinidad and Tobago are two islands joined as one nation with very different characters and attractions.

Trinidad , near Venezuela , is the busier of the two and the southernmost of all the West Indian islands. In the bustling capital, Port of Spain , you will find some impressive examples of colonial and Renaissance-style architecture, as well as an eclectic cultural mix of Creoles, Africans, Amerindians, Europeans, and East Indians.

Naturally beautiful Tobago is Trinidad's less-developed younger sister, although you will find luxury resorts. Rainforests, reefs, and white-sand beaches are the prime tourist attractions here, with excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving.

The islands attract many independent travelers who appreciate the unpretentious ambience and dramatic topography. In particular, both islands are renowned for their excellent birding , with many avian species from nearby South America enriching the biodiversity. Trinidad and Tobago is also famous for its Carnival, held on the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday.

Discover the best places to visit and most rewarding things to do in these alluring islands with our list of the top attractions in Trinidad & Tobago.

1. Port of Spain, Trinidad

2. maracas bay, trinidad, 3. pigeon point, tobago, 4. nylon pool, tobago, 5. argyle falls, tobago, 6. fort king george & the tobago museum, tobago, 7. englishman's bay, tobago, 8. caroni bird sanctuary, trinidad, 9. little tobago island, 10. mount st. benedict monastery, trinidad, 11. pointe-a-pierre wildfowl trust, trinidad, 12. main ridge forest reserve, tobago, map of trinidad and tobago - top-rated tourist attractions.

Capital of the nation, this bustling business center is known for its many fine examples of colonial-style architecture, as well as a few tourist attractions.

One of the most popular things to do in Port of Spain is to soak up the architectural highlights around Queen's Park Savannah . Here, elegant mansions called the "Magnificent Seven," line the sprawling green space. Architecture fans should also visit the impressive Red House Parliament in Woodford Square.

Near Queen's Park Savannah, you will also find the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, bordering the president's grand residence, and the National Museum and Art Gallery, with exhibits on local art, history, and culture.

Carnival: Port of Spain is perhaps most famous for its exuberant Carnival. The city comes alive the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday with an extravaganza of colorful costumes, limbo competitions, and contagious calypso and soca rhythms.

Fringed by coconut palms, Maracas Bay is one of Trinidad's most famous beaches. From Port of Spain, the scenic 40-minute drive through mountainous rainforest provides breathtaking views of lush peninsulas jutting into the sea.

The beach itself is one of the most beautiful beaches close to the city . A deep blue bay laps this idyllic crescent of golden sand, and lushly-cloaked hillsides rise at its edges.

You can rent umbrellas and chairs to make your beach time more comfortable, and food trucks and vendors provide tasty snacks along the beach, including Richard's Bake & Shark, a local favorite. Showers are also available.

If you're looking for places to spend the day in Trinidad and soak up the local vibe, this is a great choice. Locals love to "lime" here (hang out and enjoy the scene), in fact this is one of the most popular places to lime in Trinidad.

If you're looking for a more low-key beach day, beautiful Las Cuevas Beach , about 15 minutes from Maracas Bay, is much quieter and less crowded. The calmer waters here also make it a better choice for families.

Address: North Coast Road, Port of Spain, Trinidad

Also known as the Pigeon Point Heritage Park , Pigeon Point is one of the most popular stretches of coast on Tobago. White coral-sand rims the aqua waters here, and you'll find a range of different water sports, including stand up paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling.

Amenities: Unlike Englishman's Bay, this beach offers many amenities, which makes it a great place to base yourself for a day. Snack bars, shops, change rooms, and thatch-covered seating are all available, and you can also rent sun loungers. But the beach does require an entrance fee.

Boats leave from here for snorkeling trips to Buccoo Reef and a swim at Nylon Pool , a meter-deep offshore sandbar with crystal-clear turquoise water that looks like a giant swimming pool.

As mentioned earlier, the unique Nylon Pool lies just off Pigeon Point and provides an unforgettable swimming experience . It is set in the sea and features waist-high water so crystalline that visitors can see straight to the soft, white coral base.

This natural pool is one of the best places to visit in Tobago for its relaxing locale and optimal swimming conditions. It is easily reached by boat from Pigeon Point and Store Bay.

Nylon Pool is perfect for families , as the water is clear, warm, and shallow. Everyone will love the feeling of being able to stand in the middle of an ocean, and kids will love the glass bottom boat expedition.

Nylon Pool was named by Princess Margaret, who honeymooned in the area in 1962. She thought the water's transparent qualities resembled a nylon, hence the name. It has since become a highly romantic destination for couples in the area.

Argyle Falls is the highest waterfall in Tobago . Dropping 54 meters, this resplendent cascade is both beautiful and relaxing. Named after the Argyle River, the falls end in deep pools of water that are crisp and clear.

How to Get There: To reach the falls, visitors must embark on an easy 1.2-mile trail located near St. Paul on the east side of Tobago. Depending on how quickly you walk, it could take 20 minutes or longer to wander this trail through the rainforest. Along the way, walkers will encounter some of the area's most beautiful flora and fauna, including kingfishers and butterflies.

Once you arrive, you'll realize the trek was worthwhile. The soothing sound of water crashing over the cascade is extremely relaxing, while a dip in one of the refreshing pools is a welcome reward for visitors of all ages.

Built in the 1780s overlooking Scarborough Bay, Fort King George is one of the top historical tourist attractions in Tobago and the most well-preserved fort on the island . It offers beautiful views over town and the coast, and is a lovely spot to wander around, with lush lawns, magnificent old trees, and beautiful plantings.

Still surviving are remnants of the original brick and stone walls, an early prison, the officers' mess, several cannons, and a lighthouse.

Also on the grounds, The Tobago Museum adds context to the fort's history. It displays collections of antique maps, African Art, Amerindian artifacts, coins, and shells.

For a quintessential slice of coastal beauty in Tobago, pack a picnic and head to Englishman's Bay. This secluded beach lies about 1.5 kilometers from Castara along a twisty narrow road, and it's worth the journey. Kicking back on these dazzling shores is one of the top things to do in Tobago.

Jungle-cloaked hills, peppered with palms, tumble down to this gorgeous crescent of golden sand and jade-green sea — if you're looking for the perfect postcard shot to make all your friends at home jealous, this is the place to bring your camera.

The tucked-away location of this picturesque slice of coast makes it one of the most romantic places in Trinidad & Tobago . You can swim and snorkel in the clear sea, and if you want to make your beach basking more comfortable, you can rent chairs and umbrellas from the little café in the car park.

A couple of gift shops here sell bamboo bird feeders and other knick knacks. But it's the scenery that steals the show.

Caroni Bird Sanctuary (Caroni Swamp), just south of Port of Spain, is a nirvana for nature lovers. This series of mangrove-lined waterways is the nesting place of the scarlet ibis, the national bird of Trinidad and Tobago.

Afternoon boat tours cruise the estuaries in search of these spectacular flame-colored birds. Sign up for a cruise just before sunset, and you can capture beautiful photos of the birds as they descend on the trees in large flocks to roost for the evening. It makes a great photo op.

The area is rich in biodiversity, and you can also spot many other species of wildlife, such as herons, egrets, cormorants, tree boas, anteaters, and caimans. Fishing and photography tours are also available.

Address: Butler Highway, Caroni, Trinidad

On the east end of Tobago, across from Speyside, Little Tobago Island is one of the most important sea-bird sanctuaries in the Caribbean . The island is uninhabited, and several kilometers of trails weave through the lush foliage.

Look seaward from the hilltops for the most spectacular views, and you can see red-footed boobies, red-billed tropicbirds, and frigate birds swoop in large flocks. More than 50 species of birds live on the island, including Audubon's shearwater and laughing gulls.

Tours: Glass-bottomed boats whisk you to the island, revealing the coral reefs below as they circle past the smaller Goat Island in Tyrrell's Bay. Tours often include snorkeling on the nearby reef and a hike to the island's peak.

Rising above the Northern Range Hills over Tunapuna, the red-roofed church tower of Mount St. Benedict Monastery is one of the most striking landmarks east of Port of Spain.

Benedictine monks established this community in 1912, and the monastery is the largest and oldest in the Caribbean. Founded on the principles of self-sufficiency and hospitality to strangers, the monastery complex encompasses religious buildings, a farm, a rehabilitation center, and guesthouse.

Hiking and birding opportunities abound in the surrounding forest, and the monastery is famous for its yogurt, which is shipped to supermarkets across the country.

The middle of an oil refinery may seem an odd place to visit a nature sanctuary, but this is one of the best bird-watching spots in Trinidad . Surrounded by lush tropical foliage, the 30-hectare sanctuary encompasses an interpretive center and nature trails along lily-topped lakes, where you can spot species such as the scarlet ibis, black-bellied whistling duck, and white-cheeked pintail.

This is a great spot for photographers hoping to catch a close-up shot of one of these feathered beauties.

The Pointe-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust protects the sanctuary and operates rehabilitation and captive breeding programs for endangered species.

Address: San Fernando, Trinidad

Rich in biodiversity, the Main Ridge Forest Reserve is purportedly the oldest legally protected forest in the Western Hemisphere. The reserve harbors more than half the island's bird species, including the blue-backed manakin, collared trogon, and many species of hummingbirds - the rare white-tailed sabrewing hummingbird is also a resident here.

Hiking through the lush foliage, you can also spot frogs, lizards, snakes, and butterflies. The road through the reserve from north to south, near the eastern end of Tobago, is one of the more scenic ways to see the forest. At the top of the ridge are hiking trails and freelance guides.

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Trinidad And Tobago Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Trinidad and Tobago travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Officially called The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, this Caribbean nation consists of two islands:

Trinidad and Tobago.

Though the “sister islands” share many traits, they have their own distinct personalities and cultures. Two travelers could visit Trinidad and Tobago and have completely different experiences depending on where they decide to spend their trip!

If you’re looking for a relaxing Caribbean beach vacation , Tobago is the place to go.

Home to lush rainforests and surrounded by white sand beaches, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the country’s natural wonders on this island. Tobago is a diver’s paradise, with many reefs to explore and 45 registered dive sites like Bucco Reef . The culture of the island is also deeply influenced by African traditions, which you can savor through Tobago’s cuisine.

Trinidad, on the other hand, is home to most of the country’s major metropolitan areas and moves at a faster pace than its sister island.

Most cruises to Trinidad and Tobago dock in the nation’s capital, Port of Spain, where travelers can learn more about the country’s culture and history at the National Museum and Art Gallery as well as Trinity Cathedral.

If you’re looking to experience Carnival, Trinidad is also the place to go; the massive, colorful celebration happens every year in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday.

Street food lovers should also check out Trinidad, where you can find plenty of Indo-Caribbean goodies like roti and bake and shark at local Trinidad markets .

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Trinidad and Tobago — one of the top places to travel in the Caribbean .

Note: This guide to Trinidad and Tobago travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Map Of Trinidad And Tobago

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Activities In Trinidad & Tobago

Learn about what to do in Trinidad and Tobago for an incredible trip!

Trinidad And Tobago’s Best Outdoor Experiences

Learning To Stand Up Paddleboard In Tobago

Taking The Scenic Route: Driving Up North Coast Road In Trinidad

Tips For Planning A Trip To Trinidad And Tobago

These guides can help you plan the ultimate Trinidad and Tobago vacation !

Are You A Trinidad Or Tobago Traveler?

6 Signs You’ve Survived A Trip To Trinidad And Tobago

12 Things You Didn’t Know About Trinidad And Tobago

Top Trinidad And Tobago Tours

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• Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool Adventure in Buccoo, Tobago
• Steel Pan Drumming Class In Crown Point, Tobago
• Trinidad Mud Volcano Hike & Food Experience From Port Of Spain
• Cocoa Community Chocolate Immersion Tour In Brasso Seco Village, Trinidad
• Trinidad Rainforest Hike to Waterfall from Port Of Spain

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Trinidad & Tobago Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Trinidad and Tobago tour. When visiting Trinidad and Tobago — or any other destination in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Trinidad and Tobago itinerary.

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Trinidad And Tobago Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling Trinidad and Tobago .

Q: Why are Trinidad and Tobago called a twin island republic?

Trinidad and Tobago are known as a twin island republic due to the fact that the two islands are officially part of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Q: How do you travel from Trinidad to Tobago?

You can take a boat from Trinidad to Tobago via the Trinidad and Tobago Inter-Island Ferry Service.

Q: Is Trinidad and Tobago expensive?

Compared to other islands in the Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago is one of the least expensive to visit. Budget travelers can expect to spend about $85-$100 per day, not including flights.

Q: What is the best time to visit Trinidad and Tobago?

The best time to visit Trinidad and Tobago is January through May, which is outside of the rainy season.

Q: What are the most exciting places to see in Trinidad and Tobago as a tourist?

You’ll definitely want to experience all the natural wonders Trinidad and Tobago have to offer on your trip. Birdwatchers will love Yerette , a sanctuary in St. Joseph, a town on Trinidad that’s home to 13 different species of colorful hummingbirds. Divers and snorkelers should head to Buccoo Reef off the coast of Tobago, the island’s largest and best-preserved coral reef. If you’re not feeling a swim, you can also experience the reef through a glass bottom boat tour.

History buffs should check out Fort King George in Scarborough for a glimpse at Trinidad and Tobago’s British colonial past. The fort’s location atop a hill will give you incredible views of the shore and the island’s mountains. While you’re there, head to the Tobago Museum to learn more about the island’s native history and see some Amerindian artifacts.

Of course no island vacation is complete without a trip to the beach! Tobago’s Pigeon Point is considered the country’s best with white sand and plenty of opportunities for water sports. Try stand-up paddleboarding in Tobago or windsurfing through the beach’s calm waters.

Q: Is Trinidad and Tobago dangerous for tourists?

There are a fair amount of things to watch out for when traveling to Trinidad and Tobago. Both violent crime and petty crime are common throughout the country, particularly in certain areas of the capital, Port of Spain. Try not to go out alone after dark and avoid secluded beaches, as these can be targets for robberies and assaults.

And of course, always be aware of your surroundings — as well as your belongings. Investing in pickpocket-proof clothing can help.

Home break-ins also occur in the country, particularly on the island of Tobago. If you are renting a home or villa, make sure it has a 24-hour security system and keep the contact information for local authorities handy.

Tourists are also frequently the targets of scams in Trinidad and Tobago. Be firm with street hawkers and vendors and do not take rides from anyone you don’t know, particularly at the airport. Also, be sure to inspect any ATMs before inserting your card, as ATM scams are common. And never ever give your pin number to a stranger!

Q: How does Tobago differ from Trinidad?

While Trinidad has more of an urban feel with bustling business hubs like Port of Spain, Tobago more closely resembles the typical laid-back Caribbean island.

On Tobago, you’ll find white sand beaches, resorts and water sports as well as more of an African influence on the culture and cuisine.

Thanks to its booming oil and natural gas industry, the island of Trinidad has become a big business destination. If you’re looking to explore the nation’s cities, this is the place to be.

Q: What are the cultures of Trinidad and Tobago?

The country’s colonial history has had a huge impact on its culture, with many diverse populations living among each other on the islands. The majority of Trinidadian residents are East Indian (Caribbeans of Indian or South Asian descent) or African and many others consider themselves mixed race.

As the country was a British colony for many years, English is the official language and is widely spoken on both islands. You’ll also see European, Creole and Spanish influences throughout the country, particularly in the cuisine.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Trinidad and Tobago?

Visitors from the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom as well as many other countries do not need a visa to visit Trinidad and Tobago for less than 90 days. Other countries may require a visa to enter the islands.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Trinidad and Tobago International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements. You can also contact the Consulate General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Trinidad and Tobago?

Many large hotels and tourist operators accept credit cards, particularly MasterCard and Visa, though it’s recommended to carry some cash for making purchases from smaller restaurants and street stalls.

Q: What is the local currency in Trinidad and Tobago?

The local currency in Trinidad and Tobago is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar.

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Sitting pretty just off the coast of the South American mainland it was once part of, the twin-island republic of Trinidad and Tobago (often shortened to “T&T”) is one of the Caribbean’s most diverse and underexplored destinations. The islands boast spectacular rainforests, waterfalls, savannahs and reefs, and the endless undeveloped beaches are some of the prettiest in the region, from palm-lined white sand fringed by limpid waters to secluded, wave-whipped outcrops. As the home and heart of West Indian Carnival and the place where calypso, soca and steel pan were invented, T&T is a cultural pacemaker for the Caribbean and a fantastic place to party.

Where to go in Trinidad & Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago’s economy is the most diversified and industrialized in the English-speaking Caribbean, with an average of 151,000 barrels of oil and 40 billion cubic metres of natural gas produced here each year. Because gas and oil are the main economic earners, both islands remain largely unfettered by the more noxious elements of Caribbean tourism, and are well suited to independent travellers without being fully fledged resorts. Visitors are not generally corralled in all-inclusives or holed-up on private swathes of sand and the beaches are enjoyed by locals and foreigners alike, with visitors often in the minority. Sun and sea are by no means the only draw here, however: no other Caribbean island offers such a variety of wildlife and habitats in so compact an area (roughly half the size of Hawaii Island). In Trinidad, there are tropical rainforests of mahogany and teak patrolled by howler monkeys and ocelots, wetlands harbouring manatees and anacondas, and remote beaches where giant leatherback turtles lay their eggs, while Tobago is best known for its stunning coral reefs, favoured by manta rays and shoals of brightly coloured tropical fish. Both islands also offer some brilliant opportunities for birdwatching; with more than 430 recorded species T&T has one of the richest concentrations of birds per square kilometre in the world.

The crowded and dynamic towns and cities are equally engaging, with fretworked “gingerbread” homes sitting side by side with temples, mosques, Catholic cathedrals and Anglican churches. The many ethnic groups brought to labour in the islands after slaves were freed in 1834 have given rise to a remarkably varied populace, hailing from India, China, Portugal and Syria as well as Africa, England, France and Spain. Though racial tensions are inevitably present, Trinbagonians (as they’re collectively known) generally coexist with good humour, and are proud of the multiculturalism that has so enriched the islands. This easy-going mentality is best expressed in the local propensity for “liming” – taking time out to meet friends and talk, usually over food and a beer or glass of rum.

Both islands share a party-hard ethic, and Trinidad has an electrifying music scene that rivals even that of Jamaica. T&T is the birthplace of calypso and the more fast-paced soca, as well as that quintessential sound of the Caribbean, the steel pan; you’ll hear plenty of all three year-round, but especially during the republic’s most famous party, its annual pre-Lenten Carnival. During this unique and explosive event, the no-holds-barred debauchery of the Jouvert “dirty mas” parades is followed by two days of pure joy as 5000-strong bands of intricately costumed revellers take to the streets in a celebration of life.

Bound together for the convenience of the British Empire, Trinidad and Tobago are vastly different places. Trinidad offers culture, ethnic diversity, music, clubs, great food, pristine rainforest and a wealth of undeveloped beaches. Tobago is more of a conventional Caribbean resort, its southwest replete with busy strips of white sand and hotels of every stripe, as well as plenty of bars, restaurants and places to dance under the stars. The rest of the island is relatively undeveloped, with plenty of fantastic small-scale guesthouses, but nowhere in Tobago will you find the high-rise hotels and slick resort areas of other islands in the region. It’s impossible to get a full picture of T&T without visiting both Trinidad and Tobago, and regular and inexpensive plane and ferry services between the two make it easy to see the best of each even during a short stay.

A visit to Trinidad will inevitably begin in Port of Spain, the vibrant capital which, with its restaurants, nightlife and accommodation, is a natural base from which to explore the rest of the country. To the west, Chaguaramas is the capital’s playground, with a newly redeveloped waterfront at Williams Bay and the zip line, walking and mountain biking trails, golf course and great beach of Tucker Valley. Chaguaramas is also the jumping-off point for boat trips to the rocky, wooded islands of the Bocas. A sweeping curve of powdery sand and powerful waves, Maracas Bay is the first of many lovely beaches along the north coast, some reachable by road, others only on foot. Inland, the densely forested peaks of the Northern Range offer excellent hiking and birdwatching opportunities. South of the hills, the East–West Corridor provides access to caves, swimmable rivers and waterfalls, the Yerette hummingbird centre, and the oldest Benedictine monastery in the Caribbean at Mount St Benedict.

The flat agricultural plains of central Trinidad provide a fascinating contrast to the north. From the ethereal Waterloo Temple in the Sea and the nearby Hanuman Murti statue to the busy market town of Chaguanas, Indian culture predominates; there’s plenty of natural allure too, from the scarlet ibis that inhabit the mangrove labyrinth of Caroni Swamp to the manatees and monkeys in the protected wetlands at Nariva. Endless swathes of fine brown sand lined by groves of coconut palms make Manzanilla and Mayaro favourite spots for some beach time. The burgeoning city of San Fernando is a friendly base from which to explore the largely unvisited “deep south”, where modern oil towns such as Fyzabad contrast with the spectacular coastline and wetlands around Cedros and Icacos.

Most people travelling to Tobago head for the translucent waters, coral reefs and excellent facilities around Crown Point on the low-lying southwestern tip. The vibrant capital, Scarborough, with its market and historic fort, offers a more genuine picture of local life, while the rugged windward (or Atlantic) coast is best known for the waterfall and cocoa estate at Argyle and the island’s finest snorkelling and scuba diving at Speyside. The leeward (or Caribbean) coast promises some superb beaches, kicking off with the clear green waters of Mount Irvine and the wide sweeps of sand at Stonehaven Bay and Turtle Beach; further afield there’s the twin bays at Castara to the palm-lined swathe of Englishman’s Bay. On the northeast tip, the pretty village of Charlotteville has the sublime Pirate’s Bay as well as the none-too-shabby Man O’War Bay.

Top image © PHB.cz (Richard Semik)/Shutterstock

Discover more places in Trinidad Tobago

• Tobago Travel Guide

Trinidad’s Carnival is all about participation: rather than watching from the sidelines as in Rio – whether young or old, big or small, anyone with a willingness to “wine their waist” and “get on bad” is welcome to sign up with a masquerade band, which gets you a costume and the chance to dance through the streets alongside tens of thousands of fellow revellers. Preceded by weeks of all-night outdoor fetes, as parties here are known, as well as competitions for the best steel bands and calypso and soca singers, the main event starts at 4am on Carnival Sunday with Jouvert (pronounced “jou-vay”). This anarchic and raunchy street party is pure, unadulterated bacchanalia, with generous coatings of mud, chocolate, oil or body paint – and libations of local rum, of course – helping you lose all inhibitions and slip and slide through the streets until morning in an anonymous mass of dirty, drunken, happy humanity, chipping along to steel bands, sound-system trucks or the traditional “rhythm section” percussionists. Once the sun is fully up, and a sluice down with a hose has dispensed with the worst of the mud, the masquerade bands hit the streets, their costumed followers dancing along in the wake of the pounding soca. Monday is a mere warm-up for the main parade the following day, however, when full costumes are worn and the streets are awash with colour. The music trucks are back in earnest and the city reverberates with music, becoming one giant street party, until “las lap” and total exhaustion closes proceedings for another year.

• Standing at about 1.34 million, T&T’s population is around 40 percent Indian, 39 percent black, 18 percent mixed-race, 0.6 percent white and 0.4 percent Chinese. Its population is theologically diverse, too: with 26 percent Roman Catholic, 25 percent Protestant, 23 percent Hindu, 6 percent Muslim, 3 percent Presbyterian and 6 percent adhered to African-based religions such as Spiritual Baptist and Orisha.

• Go into almost any bar in the world and you’ll see a bottle of Angostura bitters , produced in Trinidad and an essential ingredient of many classic cocktails. Its aromatic blend of herbs, spices and alcohol is such a guarded secret that no single person is permitted to know the full recipe.

• Trinidad is one of the world’s most important nesting sites for the giant leatherback turtle . Grande Riviere on the north coast sees one of the world’s highest density of nests, with some 500 turtles visiting per night at the height of the season.

• The peculiar Pitch Lake , at La Brea on Trinidad’s southwestern coast, is the world’s largest natural reservoir of asphalt.

• In 2006, T&T became the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup , though the Soca Warriors didn’t manage to score a goal in the tournament, drawing one match and losing two more before being knocked out.

• T&T lie outside the region’s hurricane belt, and haven’t suffered a big blast since Flora in 1963, though minor earthquakes occur at an average of one per month.

• Native to southern Trinidad, the Moruga Scorpion is officially the second hottest pepper in the world, notching up two million units on the Scoville heat scale, just a fraction less than the Carolina Reaper.

Travel advice for Trinidad and Tobago

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Trinidad and Tobago

• Culture and Etiquette in Trinidad & Tobago
• Eating and drinking in Trinidad & Tobago
• Getting around Trinidad & Tobago: Transportation Tips
• Outdoor activities
• Crime and personal safety tips Trinidad & Tobago
• How to get to Trinidad & Tobago
• Shopping tips for Trinidad & Tobago
• Travel Tips Trinidad & Tobago for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Trinidad & Tobago

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written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

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Trinidad and Tobago

Travel Advisory July 17, 2023

Trinidad and tobago - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Reconsider travel to Trinidad and Tobago due to  crime . Exercise increased caution in Trinidad and Tobago due to  terrorism  and  kidnapping . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

U.S. government personnel are prohibited from travelling to the following areas in Port of Spain: Laventille, Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah. After dark, U.S. government personnel are prohibited from travelling to downtown Port of Spain, Fort George overlook, and all beaches. Violence and shootings occur regularly in some areas of Port of Spain.

Country Summary : Violent crime, such as murder, robbery, assault, sexual assault, home invasion, and kidnapping, is common.

Gang activity, such as narcotics trafficking, is common. A significant portion of violent crime is gang-related.

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Trinidad and Tobago.

If you decide to travel to Trinidad and Tobago:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Trinidad and Tobago. 
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not display overt signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting ATMs.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

1 page per entry stamp.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Port of Spain

15 Queen’s Park West Port of Spain Trinidad and Tobago Telephone: +(868) 622-6371 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(868) 622-6371 Fax: +(868) 822-5955 [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the  Embassy of Trinidad and Tobago  website for the most current visa information.                   

Dual nationals should obtain a U.S. passport prior to departing the United States to avoid significant delays when returning.                        

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Trinidad and Tobago.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:   Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) 

For more information, see our Terrorism page. 

Crime:  Violent crime, including assault, kidnapping for ransom, sexual assault, home invasions, and murder, is common throughout Trinidad & Tobago. Avoid traveling alone, particularly after dark or in secluded areas. 

Avoid the following places after dark:

• Downtown Port of Spain
• Fort George
• Queen’s Park Savannah

Tourists are particularly vulnerable to pick-pocketing and armed assaults in these locations. Criminal activity often increases before and during holiday periods.

Exercise caution at waterfalls and on isolated beaches in Tobago due to muggings. Violent home invasions have occurred in Tobago, in particular in the Mt. Irvine, Buccoo Bay and Bacolet areas. 

Criminals may use copied sets of house keys to gain entry to residences. If you rent a property, ensure that adequate, 24-hour security measures are in place.

Review the  Crime & Safety Report  for Trinidad and Tobago.  

International Financial Scams: Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Trinidad and Tobago.  Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters.  Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help.  Never provide personal or financial information to unknown parties via email, telephone, mail, or fax. See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages on scams for more information.

Common scams include:  

• Romance/Online dating
• Money transfers

Victims of Crime:   Report crimes to the local police at 999 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(868) 622-6371.  

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

Emergency telephone numbers:

• Police: 999
• Ambulance: 990 or 811
• Coast Guard: 634-4440
• Anti-Crime Hotline: 555 or 800-TIPS
• Kidnapping Hotline: 623-6793Children’s Authority: 996 or 800-2014
• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical
• support in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:   U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

It may be illegal to take pictures of government and military facilities. Get permission before taking such pictures.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Trinidad and Tobago are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.

It is illegal to carry ammunition when arriving, departing, or transiting through Trinidad and Tobago. Individuals found with as little as one bullet, a previously discharged bullet casing, or spent ammunition used in items such as jewelry or keyrings on their person or in their luggage at the airport have been detained, charged, and fined.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States regardless of local law.  For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Camouflage Warning:  It is prohibited to import any camouflage-pattern material without approval from the Ministry of National Security. Wearing camouflage clothing in public is prohibited. Camouflage uniforms may be worn if you are in Trinidad and Tobago on official military business.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:   See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers  
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad   

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  The law in Trinidad and Tobago criminalizes consensual same-sex sexual conduct between adults, but the government does not enforce it, and a court ruling in April 2018 deemed the law unconstitutional.  As of September 2021, the government’s appeal of the ruling was pending.

See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:   The law in Trinidad and Tobago prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities, and the law is not enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States.  Most sidewalks are impassible for wheelchairs, due to the deep gutters that run alongside most roads. Many sidewalks are also narrow and uneven. Cars parked on sidewalks, uncovered manholes, and other obstacles may force persons with mobility issues onto the main roadways in what can be very dangerous traffic conditions. 

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Trinidad and Tobago, dial: 999 for police or 990 for Fire/EMS.

Ambulance services are not widely available, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Public ambulance service is limited and often has slow response times due to low availability and high demand. There are private ambulance services.  The patient has to pay prior to receiving the service. 

See  this page  for a list of private air and regular ambulance services in Trinidad and Tobago.

Medical care is below U.S. standards. While care at some private facilities is better than at most public health facilities, patients may need to prove ability to pay before receiving assistance, even in emergencies. Patients requiring blood transfusions are expected to arrange for at least the same amount to be donated on their behalf. Physicians and nurses have been known to go on strike, straining public medical services. 

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.  

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Many care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas. 

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Government of Trinidad and Tobago to ensure the medication is legal in Trinidad and Tobago. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Please note that many medicines prescribed in the United States are not easily accessible through the local pharmacies. It is recommended to have enough stock of medicines for at least 6 months. 

The following diseases are present:

• Chikungunya
• Yellow Fever
• Travelers' Diarrhea. A high risk exists throughout the country, with moderate risk in deluxe accommodations.

Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.  Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays. 

Vaccinations:  Be up to date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Swimming Safety:  Do not enter the water at unmarked, unpatrolled beaches. Tides and undercurrents can be dangerous, and waves can exceed five feet in height.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. 

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Trinidad and Tobago.  

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  It is illegal to use mobile phones while driving, except in hands-free mode. The penalty for talking or texting while driving is USD $240 or three months of imprisonment. Police administer breathalyzer tests at unannounced checkpoints and conduct traffic stops if they suspect someone is driving while intoxicated.

Roadside assistance exists but is limited and may involve lengthy delays. Drunk drivers are a particular concern on the weekends, especially after dark. Drive defensively and be careful on narrow and winding roads near beach areas and small towns.

Traffic Laws:  Vehicles drive on the left side of the road. Most vehicles are right-hand drive, but left-hand drive vehicles are permitted. Rental cars are available and are generally right-hand drive. U.S. driver's licenses and International Driving Permits are valid for up to 90 days after arrival. Seatbelts are required for drivers and front seat passengers, and violators may be fined.

Public Transportation:  Unmarked taxis and “maxi taxis” (minibuses) may stop abruptly in the middle of the road or veer across several lanes of traffic to pick up or drop off passengers. Only use private taxis in Port of Spain. For travel between cities, use private taxis or full-sized inter-city buses.

Vehicle Accident Procedures:  Contact local authorities immediately. If safe, render aid or assistance and remain on the scene until authorities arrive. Make sure to file an accident report with the local police station nearest the accident site within 24 hours.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the website of Trinidad and Tobago’s  national tourist office  and  national authority responsible for road safety .

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Trinidad and Tobago’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Trinidad and Tobago’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners arriving aboard a private vessel must register any firearms with local customs authorities. Mariners planning travel to Trinidad and Tobago should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings .  If you are a mariner and need assistance, you should contact the Master of your vessel.  You may also send an email to [email protected] or contact the various mariner advocacy organizations. 

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Trinidad and Tobago was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Trinidad and Tobago.  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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We are the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts. #ofcourse we celebrate our women! Today we honour all the amazing women that contribute to the sectors. To all of our tourism, culture and arts stakeholders, Happy International Women's Day. 🤩 #IWD2024 #InspireInclusion #investinwomen #internationalwomensday #AccelerateProgress #trending #ofcoursetrend #ofcoursechallenge Gender and Child Affairs United Nations Tourism Trinidad ... See More See Less

• Comments: 7

Comment on Facebook

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMENS DAY👏💪🙏🏆

Awesomeness!!!! 🇹🇹💃🤩🎶

Hey Ladies from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts Trinidad & Tobago. Happy International Women's Day 🎆

Love this! So many beautiful humans in one video. Happy International Women's Day ladies!

.... it nice,.... real nice

When will you be promoting Trinbago, outside of Trinbago, like internationally?

The stale jokes... lol Happy International Women's Day ladies!

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Happy International Women's Day from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts! May we continue to work together towards greater inclusion and acceleration of the women within our sector and nation. ... See More See Less

• Comments: 1

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMENS DAY ALL GOD FEARING VIRTUOUS INTEGRITY UPHOLDING LAW ABIDING WOMEN HAVE A GLORIOUS AND BLESSED DAY 2024🙏❤

WAYA (We Ask You Answer) Wednesday Can you spot some of the exciting sites and attractions tourists enjoy when in Destination Trinidad? ... See More See Less

• Comments: 10

Paramin, kayaking, beach, maracas waterfall, city tour, angostura house, bird sanctuary

1.Angostura House. 2.City Tour. 3.Beach. 4.Bird Sanctuary. 5.Maracas WaterFall .

1.)Angostura House. 2)..Bird Sanctuary 3.)Beach 4.)City Tour 5.)Maracas WaterFall 6.) Paramin 7.) Beach

Angostura House Maracas Waterfall Bird Sanctuary Beach

Angostura house City tour Beach Bird sanctuary Maracas water fall Paramin Kayaking

Angostura House, Bird Sanctuary, Maracas Water Falls, City Tour

Angostura House, Lift, City Tour, Beach, Bird Sanctuary, Maracas Water Fall...

Maracas Waterfall, Beach, Angostura House, Bird Sanctuary, Kayaking, Paramin,

Angostura House Kayaking Maracas Waterfall Bird Sanctuary City Tour Beach Paramin

Angostura House Kayaking Maracas Waterfall Bird Sanctuary City Tour Beach Paramin.

tourismcultureandarts

Calling all Trinidad and Tobago pianists! The Chilean Cultural Corporation of Viña del Mar has opened the XLVI International Musical Contest “Dr. Luis Sigall” 2023 - Piano Mention contest. This competition is open to musicians born between July 6th, 1991 and October 3rd, 2006. We encourage local pianists to apply to showcase the best of Trinbago artistry. Interested persons must submit their Registration form, chosen repertoire and all requested information in a Microsoft Word file by June 15, 2023 Key Information Needed: 1. A brief Curriculum Vitae outlining your name, nationality, studies, concert schedule in the last 3 years (including reviews or criticisms if available), and awards obtained in your artistic career 2. A scanned PDF copy of your Passport 3. A video file showcasing the repertoire shown in 1st STAGE 4. A signed, scanned letter of recommendation from a Music School or Teacher 5. 2 JPG photographers (300dpi) for promotional purposes For more information, please visit https://www.culturaviva.cl/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/2_BASES_INGLES-Sigall-2019-2023-PIANO.pdf ...

Happy International Museum Day! Today we celebrate art, history and culture! This year’s theme highlights Museums, Sustainability and Well-being. Let’s discover the treasures that define our heritage and celebrate the power of museums to educate and inspire us! ...

Call for Public Comments! The Ministry of Tourism is seeking YOUR feedback on the Draft Ecotourism Sub-policy currently being developed. Tourism stakeholders and members of the public are invited to read the draft sub-policy and offer constructive feedback. We value your thoughts as we work together to protect and cultivate our ecotourism assets. Interested persons can read the policy and download the feedback form at https://mtca.gov.tt/downloads/. ...

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts congratulates all of the applicants who participated in last week's MSC Cruises Recruitment Drive and were successful! Over 200 applicants were interviewed by a recruitment team comprising MSC Cruises and Meridian Recruitment Agency Ltd. officials. The Ministry is pleased to announce that over 90 per cent of applicants interviewed during the MSC Cruises recruitment drive at Queen’s Hall, Port of Spain from May 10-12, 2023, will receive letters of intent from the cruise line. The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts supported the initiative and provided the relevant technical facilities. See below for full press release! @cnc3news @ttgovcommunications @tttliveonline @ttguardian @ttnewsday @trinidadexpress @loopnewstt ...

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts is seeking to recruit suitably qualified candidates for various positions. See poster for more information. Interested candidates can apply by emailing: [email protected]. The closing date for application is: May 31st, 2023 at 4:15pm. Job descriptions can be found at https://mtca.gov.tt/about/#vacancies . ...

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts joins the cultural community in mourning the loss of a great leader, visionary, cultural ambassador and local icon, Patrick Arnold, who has passed away at age 84. The Ministry is deeply saddened by the loss of this great leader who served as a former @pantrinbago President for many years. See above for full press release. ...

The deadline to apply for MSC Cruises' Recruitment Drive is fast approaching! Suitably qualified nationals are invited to apply online and submit their applications through www.meridianrecruitments.com by May 5, 2023! Applications must include: - proof of COVID-19 vaccination - ID, passport - resume/CV, and - copies of relevant certificates MSC Cruises looks forward to having you join their team! ...

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts (MTCA) advises the public, that, in accordance with Section 26 of the Public Procurement and disposal of Public Property Act (2015) effective Wednesday, 26th April 2023 any party seeking to provide goods, works and services to the MTCA must be registered with the Procurement Depository of Trinidad and Tobago, as established by the Office of Procurement Regulation (OPR). ...

It's #throwbacktuesday! The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts met with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Trinidad and Tobago on Thursday, April 27, 2023, at the Ministry’s Head Office to discuss strengthening bilateral cultural relations between both countries. Ms Jasmine Pascal, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, and other key Ministry staff, met with Mr. Liu Pengfei, Director of the Political Section at the Chinese Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago to discuss several areas of interest including: Promotion of Local Culture and Heritage, Cruise Tourism, the 22nd China Shanghai International Arts Festival and Performing Arts Fair (China SPAF 2023), the establishment of a Research Centre in the Caribbean Region, the promotion of Tourism, opportunities for collaboration and more. We at the Ministry will continue to facilitate opportunities for collaboration with our international stakeholders. @cnc3news @news.gov.tt @loopnewstt @tttliveonline @ttguardian @ttgovcommunications @trinidadexpress @ttnewsday ...

As a proud supporter of the festival for many years, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts welcomed the official launch of the NGC Bocas Lit Fest 2023, with approximately 80 activities taking place throughout this past weekend. Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, Ms. Jasmine Pascal, was pleased to deliver remarks and to declare the festival officially open at the festival’s opening ceremony which took place on April 28, 2023, at 10 a.m. at the Old Fire Station, Port of Spain. See full press release 🎉 ...

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts (MTCA) is a proud supporter of Trinidad and Tobago’s Gospel Music Industry, having given over $100,000 in sponsorships to Celian Group in support of this year’s Trinidad and Tobago Gospel Music Festival. Ministry representatives were pleased to join in celebrating the official opening of the festival earlier today (April 27, 2023) at the Government Plaza, Port of Spain. See below for full press release. @tttliveonline @cnc3news @loopnewstt @ttnewsday @trinidadexpress @celian_international ...

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts (the Ministry) is pleased to support MSC Cruises in collaboration with Meridian Recruitment Agency Ltd. as they seek to recruit 200 suitably qualified nationals to be a part of the MSC Cruises team. The Meridian Recruitment Agency, will be leading the recruitment initiative to fill vacancies in the areas of Food and Beverage, Housekeeping, Entertainment, Guest Services and Galley Jobs on behalf of MSC Cruises. See full release. ...

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Tourism Trinidad NEDCO and PTSC Empower Transport Operators With Incentives Workshop

Apr 22, 2024

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Mar 15, 2024

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Mar 13, 2024

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1 month ago

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Cruise Ship Arrivals 2023-2024 # of Ship Arrivals 18     |    # of Passengers Arrived 40 ,966      |     Avg. Spend Per Passenger   US$30

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VACANCY – Senior Human Resource Specialist

24 April 2024

TTL Updated Public Statement of TTL 2023

National Tourism Policy Trinidad & Tobago

Public Statements for Tourism Trinidad as at December 2021

Burris’s welcome note on Tobago tourism

THA Secretary of Tourism, Culture, Antiquities and Transportation Tashia Burris offered a frank and comprehensive report on the status of Tobago’s tourism industry at a post-executive council briefing on Wednesday.

“We still have a challenge with our service,” she said.

The Tobago tourism division made a call in March via Facebook for tourism community ambassadors, and received 275 expressions of interest from people who want to be trained.

It’s unclear exactly what exactly a THA tourism ambassador would do, but if the training focuses on improving visitors’ experience on the island, then it’s a move in the right direction.

Trinidad has its own problems with customer service across the board, so the issue is national; but Tobago depends on successful tourist interactions to grow its economy.

Ms Burris correctly noted that service in the tourism sector is part of a business transaction and not a regression to subservience or slavery. Authoritative service both offers respect to customers and brings a unique character to the country’s hospitality workers.

Customer service has been a priority for the THA since 2021, when former chief secretary Ancil Dennis introduced a three-year initiative to change the service culture on the island.

To its credit, the Farley Augustine administration has continued the project, which is being managed by the Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute. Two thousand workers across multiple sectors of the industry have been trained.

This refreshed approach to the Tobago tourism product will focus on the “feel” of Tobago, developing a customer experience that reflects the character of the island, which experienced a cosmopolitan profile of colonialism.

Establishing an elite cadre of tourism ambassadors with a specialty focus on bringing the nuances of Tobago’s tourism product to life is an idea with potential, but it must find the right audience.

According to Ms Burris, cruise-ship visits have increased by 56 per cent over last year, bringing a total of 99,000 visitors to the island.

But fewer are expected next season; and an increase in cruise-ship visitors, unfortunately, isn’t the improvement that Tobago should be hoping for.

These monster ships are in the business of not just providing a satisfying and expensive cruise experience, they are also quite designed to shake loose any additional cash their travellers bring aboard. So cruise-ship visitors are the batti mamzelles of tourism and notoriously bad spenders during their fleeting stopovers.

According to the Caribbean Tourism organisation, in 2015, the Caribbean received 28.7 million stay-over tourists and 24.4 million cruise-ship passengers. Stay-over tourists outspent cruise-ship visitors 11.5 times over, spending US$27 billion to US$2.4 billion respectively.

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• Learn more about COVID-19 travel requirements for Trinidad here .

• Virtual Tours
• Sports in Trinidad | Play Big in Trinidad
• Trinidad Festivals & Events
• Street Food in Port of Spain, Trinidad with Mark Wiens
• Indo-Trinidadian Food in Trinidad with Mark Wiens
• Breakfast and Sunday Lunch in Paramin, Trinidad with Mark Wiens
• Mayaro, Brasso Seco & Maracas Bay in Trinidad with Mark Wiens
• A Taste of Toco Food Tour in Trinidad with Mark Wiens
• Tour Trinidad TV: Episode One
• Tour Trinidad TV: Episode Two
• Tour Trinidad TV: Episode Three
• Tour Trinidad TV: Episode Four
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• Trinidad Travel Guidelines
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Home / Plan Your Trip / Travel Tips & Information

GET TO KNOW OUR ISLAND

ABOUT TRINIDAD

Welcome to a modern, cosmopolitan, naturally beautiful island. Trinidad is the most southerly island in the Caribbean Sea. It is one of the two  islands that make up the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, the other being Tobago. Here are some key facts and information about Trinidad:

Geography: Trinidad is the larger and more populous of the two islands. It covers an area of approximately 4,768 square kilometers and is characterized by diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, mountains, rolling hills, and fertile plains.

Capital and Largest City: The capital of Trinidad and Tobago is Port of Spain, which is located on the northwest coast of Trinidad. It serves as the economic, cultural and administrative hub of the country.

Population: Trinidad has a population of approximately 1.4 million people. The population is ethnically and culturally diverse, with people of African, East Indian, European, and Indigenous descent, among others.

Culture: Trinidad has a rich cultural heritage influenced by its diverse population. It is famous for its vibrant Carnival celebration, known for its colorful costumes, music, and dance. The national instrument – the steelpan – as well as calvpso and Soca music originated in Trinidad and are integral to its culture. The island also has a diverse culinary scene with influences from various cultures.

One of the things that makes us distinctively Trinidadian is the warmth and friendliness of our people. When you arrive at Trinidad you’ll know that you have arrived at the place that is always in season!

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Visitors must also have an onward or return ticket to travel to the destination.

Persons entering trinidad must have a valid passport (valid for six months after the date of their departure) from their country of citizenship., visas are not required for most countries unless you plan to stay longer than 90-days..

Trinidad & Tobago

With a year-round temperature averaging between 22.7 to-31.3C / 75-92F, comfortable, light cotton clothing is recommended during your stay.

Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers are recommended as protection against mosquitoes during tours through the mangrove and rainforests. Dining in the evening is generally elegantly casual attire. Most places have a dress code in effect.

Military camouflage or camouflage clothing of any kind is illegal, reserved solely on the island for the military forces. Public nudity is also prohibited on the island.

A walk through the Aripo Savannas

TRINI KEEPSAKES

Take a piece of Trinidad back home with our unique souvenirs and mementos. These keepsakes might include items that capture the essence of Trinidad’s culture, natural beauty, and heritage. Some popular Trinidad keepsakes might include:

Steelpan Instruments: Trinidad and Tobago is famous for inventing the steelpan, a musical instrument made from oil drums. Miniature steel pan keychains or small decorative steel pans can be unique keepsakes.

Local Art and Crafts: Trinidad has a vibrant arts and crafts scene. You can find paintings, pottery, sculptures, and other handmade items created by local artistes as keepsakes.

Carnival Memorabilia: Trinidad’s Carnival is world-renowned. You might find Carnival-themed souvenirs such as masks, costumes, or miniature figurines representing Carnival dancers.

Local Spices and Seasonings: Trinidad is known for its spicy cuisine. You could bring back local spices, hot sauces, or seasoning blends as keepsakes for food enthusiasts.

Jewelry: Jewelry made from local gemstones or inspired by Trinidad’s natural beauty can make for beautiful keepsakes.

Rum: Trinidad is famous for its rum production. A bottle of Trinidadian rum or miniature rum bottles can be a memorable keepsake.

Local Music: CDs or digital downloads of Trinidadian music, especially genres like calypso or soca, can remind you of your visit.

Postcards and Prints: Collecting postcards or art prints featuring Trinidad’s landscapes or landmarks is a simple way to preserve memories.

A steelpan, Trinidad and Tobago's national instrument

Trinidadians take nightlife and entertainment seriously. Trinis are “Limers” and the word “Liming” is equivalent to ‘Hanging Out’ whether with one person or a group of friends. There is a multitude of roadside food and drink vendors, bars, nightclubs, lounges and VIP clubs with sizzling cocktails to keep you entertained all night. If the need for a concert, play or movie arises, you’re covered too.

Port-of-Spain at night

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE SITES ON TOUR ROUTES

Brian Lara Promenade, Treasury Building, Woodford Square, National Academy for Performing Arts, Queen’s Park Savannah.

North Western: Chaguaramas Boardwalk, Chaguaramas Military, History and Aerospace Museum, UPickTT.

Eastern: Mount St. Benedict Monastery, UWI Campus, Pax Guesthouse, Mt. St. Benedict, St. Joseph.

Historical Sites: Killarney / (Stollmeyer’s Castle), Mille Fleurs, Angelo Bissessarsingh Heritage House, Angostura Distillery Tour.

Wheelchair Accessible Beach: Maracas Beach

Accessible Parkes and Sites: Royal Botanical Gardens, Nanan’s Caroni Bird Sanctuary Tours.

Bird Watching: Caroni Bird Sanctuary Tours.

Castle Killarney / Stollmeyer's Castle, one of the Magnificent Seven

Movie Towne: Movie Towne in Port of Spain, Trinidad, is a bustling hub for entertainment. It offers a variety of activities including movies, dining, and shopping, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Shopping Centres & Malls: The large shopping centres of Trinidad are in the capital city Port-of-Spain, the City of San Fernando and the Borough of Chaguanas.  Shopping malls are also located in areas such as Valsayn, Trincity, West Mall, St. James, Sangre Grande and Arima.

Markets & Artisans: A visit to the market or markets in the inner cities provides an ambiance of lively trade where an abundance of fresh vegetables, fruit, meat, fish and other locally produced items are on offer. Across the island are several Green Markets and Farmers’ markets.  The San Antonio Green Market is another popular spot and is nestled in the Santa Cruz Valley. An array of locally produced items and haberdashery items are available, as well as handmade jewellery– whether from natural materials such as wood and pearls or from gold and silver. All of which can also be used as beautiful souvenirs. Click here to discover unique artisans from the Trinidad and Tobago Craft Entrepreneur Network.

Downtown: Downtown Port-of-Spain is the bustling heart of Trinidad and Tobago’s capital city, offering a mix of historical and modern elements, Caribbean culture, commerce, and entertainment. Visitors can explore historic landmarks, government buildings, cultural attractions, shopping and dining, and enjoy the waterfront view.

Locally-made wine / Photo Credit: Damian Luk Pat

ELECTRICITY

Electrical outlets in Trinidad and Tobago supply electricity between 110/220 volts.  Standard two-prong plugs can be used, however; it is advisable to travel with an adapter as a precautionary measure. Adapters can also be purchased at local electronic stores.

Trinidad and Tobago are on AST – Atlantic Standard Time / Atlantic Time (Standard Time).

The country does not observe Daylight Savings Time, which means that the country is 5-hrs behind UTC/GMT in the summer and 4-hrs behind UTC/GMT in the winter.

The local currency is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar. US dollars are widely accepted at an approximate rate of TT$6.8 to US$1. You can find rate information at local banks, or the daily newspapers. Euro and the Pound Sterling (GBP) are not as widely accepted as US dollars. International credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants and malls. However, travellers’ cheques are not accepted. ATMs are also widely available, but bank fees will apply. Applicable taxes are as follows: Value Added Tax (VAT) 12.5%, 10% hotel taxes and 10% service charge.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

The international code for Trinidad is + 1-868, followed by the seven-digit phone number. There are two primary telecommunications service providers:

It is advisable to check with your local service provider to find out more about the cost of international roaming. Wi-Fi is widely available at hotels, restaurants and shopping centres and at various hotspots throughout the island. Free Wi-Fi access is available in bzone areas across the island. To register for bzone Wi-Fi access, click here .

We wish you an enjoyable stay and as with any trip away from home you are advised to take the necessary precautions to make your experience a truly memorable one. Please keep in mind the following general safety suggestions:

Comply with all laws and respect local customs. Be sure to drive on the left side of the road and heed all traffic signals and warnings. Avoid hitchhiking and/or picking up hitchhikers. Remain alert, trust your instincts, and pay attention to your surroundings. Report any suspicious activities to the police. Avoid leaving bags, cameras, and valuables unattended. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and expensive jewellery and placing cameras round your necks. Avoid leaving similar items in full view in your vehicle. Use appropriate banks and cambios for all foreign exchange transactions. Should your passport, credit card or Traveller’s cheques be lost or stolen, report it immediately to the police and your banking agent. Call 999 for the nearest police station. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol. Avoid isolated areas after dark. Purchase food and beverages from vendors with valid food badges. When on the beach, follow the advice of the lifeguards. They are trained in beach and water safety. Store expensive items in your hotel safe. Lock cars at all times. Use an official tour guide for excursions. Licensed taxis have a number plate that begin with ‘H.’ Ask your hotel reception/tourist office representative for assistance.

English is the official language of Trinidad, however we do have a unique creative dialect which is often spoken informally.