Gasparee Caves

'Welcome to Gaspar Grande'

The closest island to Chaguaramas Bay, up the northwestern archipelago, Gaspar Grande houses underground caves which were once used by pirates and smugglers for hidden treasures. Gasparee Caves, situated at Point Baleine on the northwestern end of Gaspar Grande Island, is one of Trinidad’s most popular tourist attractions. 

Staircase leading inside

Leading to the cave there is a concrete footpath, and the refurbished gunnery at the top of the hill. The journey begins at Point Baleine, ten minutes from the cave lodge, with the assistance of a tour guide to explore this natural wonder as the trail descends to the shimmering waters of the underground pool, in which is reflected the surrounding stalactites and stalagmites. 

Pool inside cave

Its unique translucent blue pond, which has an average depth of 10-20 feet is what makes this cave so appealing. Seawater emerges through an underground source into the cave to create this natural pool. 

Overview of cave

Cave formations

Due to the wave action, acidic rainfall and percolating ground-water, the limestone has been dissolved, forming sculptured caverns, caves and sinkholes which make up Gasparee Caves. Gasparee Caves are approximately 90 feet deep, with the underground limestone system consisting of three main areas: The Entrance, The Twilight, and the Dark Zone. In each, fascinating geological formations are enhanced by natural light reflections. The Twilight Zone also has a saline pool, three feet deep at its shallowest.

War cannon

Some fascinating creatures found at this site are bats in the cave, the yellow-headed parrot, rufus-necked wood rail and pelicans.

Additionally, a trek across Gaspar Grande will lead to a World War II cannon originally mounted for the defence of the bay. Finally, before returning to Chaguaramas, a boat trip can be taken around the tip of the mainland to Scotland Bay for a soothing sea bath.

The Tourist Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago restored the cave to accommodate visitors with an inside staircase and supplied electricity. The cave is managed by the Chaguaramas Development Authority (CDA) who conducts daily tours to the Island.

Geography Facts:

• Island’s geological features consist of limestone which is sedimentary rock formed under the sea and composed of coral, oolites, seashells and other marine creatures.
• The cave originated when water deposits of carbon dioxide dissolved the limestone into crystals of calcium carbonate, a chemical formula known as CaCO3 which is a compound of calcium, carbon and oxygen. 
• Over time, the accumulations of crystals create stalagmites, which extend up, from the cave floor, and stalactites extend down from the roof. Those that stem all the way from the ceiling to the ground are called pillars. Some of the crystals transform into fascinating shapes, resembling a dinosaur head, a chandelier, two lovers hugging and even flowers.

Historical Facts:

• In 1783, Governor Don Jose Maria Chacon granted the island to Gaspar De Percin Roque to plant cotton. 
• 1826 to 1864 - a flourishing whaling station was established at Point Baleine or Whale Point. When the whaling industry declined, Cannings of the Queens Park Hotel acquired the land and built a luxurious hotel at Point Baleine. 
• During World War II (1939-1945) the Americans occupied the island and at its highest point 399 feet, where there are historical guns built as a defence against enemy attack.

Tobago Explorations 2

Lovely spot at the mangrove

Through the plantation estates in Lowlands, Tobago , along the island's beautiful coastline, the grounds offer nature trails and canopy walks through a virgin mangrove forest at one of the Tobago's resorts.

Wooden path through the mangrove

On the Caribbean coast, the Bon Accord trail system offers a great glimpse of the Bon Accord lagoon. 

The track is covered overhead by mangrove trees, so any time of day

offers a cool walk. The trail is used mainly by crab hunters, fishermen and adventurous bike riders. However, it is not always clear, it can be flooded in the rainy season. It is a great location for bird watching and beautiful sunsets but notorious for insects in the morning and late evenings.

By the Lagoon

On the Atlantic coast, the Kilgwyn trail system winds through a number of old coconut estates and some of the last undisturbed mangrove forest in Tobago. 

Nature Trail

This area was one of the sites of the earliest Amerindian settlements in Tobago and is littered with old single tracks and even a couple of sugar mills from the colonial era.

Colonial artifacts

Can you see yourself on a bike riding adventure in these parts?

Tobago Explorations 1

Speyside, Tobago

Speyside, Tobago - Speyside is a village in northern Tobago within Saint John Parish. It lies on the leeward coast, across from the island of Little Tobago, 26 km northeast of Scarborough, overlooking Tyrrel's Bay. Speyside has some of the best coral reefs on the island of Tobago, and is a popular diving site. The reefs here are less disturbed than the more famous Buccoo Reef in the southwestern part of Tobago. The main activities here include: fishing, agriculture, bird-watching, snorkeling scuba diving.

Castara, Tobago

Big Bay, Castara - Castara has two beautiful golden sand beaches (2.4km), both great for swimming. Big Bay is the focus of the village. A visit first thing in the morning could have you helping the fisherman pull in their nets. A late afternoon stroll will reward you with fantastic views of the sun setting over the Caribbean. Little Bay, which is also known as Heavenly Bay, is more secluded and great for snorkeling - you may even be lucky enough to see a manta ray. Views are spectacular from every hillside around the village and there is a waterfall within easy reach of the village, where you can also have a swim. Emerald Bay is also a small secluded bay just off Castara's main bay.

Parlatuvier - View of the Jetty

 Dirt oven in Parlatuvier, Tobago

Parlatuvier, Tobago - No visit to this part of the island would be complete without viewing and tasting the locally baked pumpkin breads, cakes, sweetbread, and coconut drops from the Parlatuvier Dirt Oven. An old time dirt oven that uses a wood fire, the dough is wrapped in wet banana leaves and prepared using methods developed years ago. These delicious products are baked by a group of senior citizens who have been baking with this method for decades. 

Dirt Oven

The entire process can be witnessed from the firing of the oven to the placement of the dough to the removal of the finished product that fills the air with a wondrous aroma. Locals and visitors alike come from surrounding areas to purchase and observe the rare baking method.

Peechon Cove

Headland on route

The seascape, Peechon Cove is a small inlet located just before the top of the hill on Trinidad's Maracas North Coast Road and is one of the many beaches of La Vache Bay, comprising of Saut D’eau, Mal D’estomac Bay, Negmawah Bay, Cyril Bay, Lovers Bay, Balata Bay and Marquette Bay. 

'Pacro' a.k.a. Chitons

The expedition to Peechon Cove takes approximately 1 ½ hours and starts at Stollmeyer Estate, situated at the end of Blazney Road in La Pastora, Santa Cruz. The first part of the journey is a 35-minute uphill trek to the top of the Maracas North Coast Road. At the top of the road the view of the Santa Cruz Valley is breathtaking. The trek continues downhill for a further 30 minutes on the other side of the mountain towards the beach. 

Cove

This picturesque landscape is full of unexposed treasures and welcomes the opportunity for adventure. Apart from the beach, which is situated in a cozy little area, there is a stream with a 30-foot waterfall that drops directly into the sea. The water cascading from the mountains has created several jacuzzi-like pools ideal for taking a rinse from the salt water.

Enjoying the cove

The sea has eroded the landscape to form an arch and along the sandy shoreline there are small caves worth exploring. Overlooking the beach there is a headland from which thrill-seekers can enjoy a 20-foot jump into the sea, and the rocky peninsulas that surround the seaside provide perfect conditions for fishing and relaxing.

Bibliography:

Trinidad and Tobago Guardian Online, 2012. Adventure awaits at Peechon Cove. Available at: https://guardian.co.tt/lifestyle/2012-10-25/adventure-awaits-peechon-cove Accessed: 28 July, 2016

Cumaca Oil-bird Caves

The Cumaca Oil-bird Caves is a large cave system nested in the folds of the southeastern area of the Northern Range, Trinidad in the quiet village of Cumaca. The one hour bumpy, dirt road drive to Cumaca starts two miles from Valencia Junction on the road to Toco. Along the way, there is the Turure Bridge, Cumaca Quarry and splendid views of the Central Plains.

Inside the cave

The caves are home to bats and Oil-birds (Steatornis caripensis). These are the only nocturnal fruit eating birds in the world. They forage at night, navigating by echo-location in the same way as bats, but with a high-pitched clicking sound audible to humans. Unlike other caves, the bats are difficult to spot and roosting takes place in side passages which are not accessible.

Cave creatures

The cave is also home to hypogean fishes. Most notably the semi-blind catfish, Rhamdia quelen or South American Catfish, which was at first believed to be a distinct cave species and was named Caecorhamdia urichi. But it is now known as a troglobite form of Rhamdia quelen, with reduced eye size and reduced pigmentation.

On route

The journey to the caves takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes from where the vehicles are parked. The trail passes through an abandoned cocoa estate and in some areas there are concrete crossings that have been over-taken by erosion and forest growth. Showing evidence of once a thriving estate, a dilapidated house sits in the middle of the forest. Venturing inside the cave is optional and requires the use of a headlamp and getting wet. 

Resting Oil-bird

The main attraction is the Guarcharo Cave, which has the largest oil-bird colony in Trinidad. Flowing through the cave is the start of the Oropuche River that emerges from an underground source in the vicinity of Aripo. 

Bats inside cave

On the walls of each side of the cavern, the oil-bird's nest in their hundreds and the sight of upcoming visitors send them into frenzy. Avoid shinning light on the birds as this disturbs them. The cave approximately 200 metres long, consists of three chambers and to access the third requires one to bend under the rocks. A variety of bats are housed in the caves and in the last chamber fascinating nocturnal fishes are found. 

Oil-bird ready to take flight

On the return, one can divert from the main path and head towards the river to see the sulphur springs, situated at the confluence of the Rio Grande and Oropuche River. After the hike, there is an option to take a refreshing bath in the River.

Fun Facts:

In 1911, United States 26th President Theodore Roosevelt visited the caves. 

Native Amerindians would use the oil from the birds to provide fuel for lamps.

A blind white catfish reported originally thought to be a species (Caecorhamdia urichi) unique to the cave, is now thought to be a cave-dwelling morph of the common catfish Rhamdia quelen.

Mermaid Pool

On route to Toco, Matura Village is a place blessed with an abundance of natural resources, within its landscape. The name 'Matura' originated from the Amerindian and Spanish dialect and is referred to as a region of dense and unbroken forest. Meandering through the vast landscape of never-ending Mora forest, there is the timeless Matura River. To experience the treasures of Matura, one has to explore the river's fascinating pools, waterfall, and gorges. Mermaid Pool, a popular destination on this side of the island of Trinidad, attracts a lot of nature lovers to swim, relax and enjoy the scenic ambiance. 

Fire Observation Tower close to Mermaid Pool

The journey to this mystic beauty, Mermaid Pool, begins at Thomas Trace located just before the Matura Outreach Centre. The walk begins on a wide forest bench trail before it descends into a narrow trail located on the right. On a thirty-minutes walk down to the river, towering pine trees planted by the Forestry Division in preservation of the environment, are noticed. These strategically placed pines, in the close proximity to a fire observation tower used to see miles of territory, are grown to withstand the pressures of bush fires, upkeep the watershed, prevent soil erosion and at the same time beautify the forest. Further down the undulating trail, there are two shallow areas to cross the river at knee deep. 

Reaching Mermaid Pool

On approaching the area, the limestone formation along the riverbed create many fascinating pools ideal for bathing. Along the path are the Mermaid Pool and further upstream, the Manuelot Falls, a series of jacuzzi-like gorges and even a rock said to be in the shape of the continent of Africa. This sight is absolutely breathtaking to the adventurer. The sunshine on the crystal clear waters of Mermaid Pool radiate vibrant colors of emerald green. The name 'Mermaid' refers to the serenity of the surroundings, where one can sit on the rocks with swaying feet in the river's soothing waters. 

Enjoying Mermaid Pool

The Matura villagers are making progress in their environmental efforts, becoming well-known for the conservation of the Leather-back Turtles. Visitors travel from across the world to observe the nesting of the Leather-back Turtles, along the seven miles long coastline, another hidden beauty waiting to be unveiled in it’s true magnificence.

Sambasson and Lalaja Falls

Beginning the journey

La Laja is a small farming settlement located in the hills, ten kilometres east from Arima on the Arima-Blanchisseuse Road. The name comes from Spanish origin which means “the slab.” The Guanapo River and Gorge flow deep down in the valley with the source originating from the foothills of El Cerro Del Aripo. Distant in the forest, on the eastern outskirts there are a series of cascades the two most popular are Sambasson and La Laja.

These falls can be access from two directions. The first is from The Heights of Guanapo Valley situated on the southern end and the trek from the river is a steep ascent. 

Snake on the trail

The preferred and easier route is from La Laja and the walk through the seasonal, evergreen woodland is mostly flat and will take 1 ½ hours to reach the destination. 

Climbing the falls

Along the way, there is a diversion from the main path to a smaller one on the left. This route continues for a further thirty minutes to the accessible Sambasson Falls, however concealed at higher levels are a set of cascades that include the sensational La Laja Falls. 

Falls from a different angle

The falls from below

Exploring the upper rapids is optional since it can be challenging and requires some experience of the terrain. During the months of July and August most prominent on the trail is the national flower of Trinidad and Tobago the Chaconia ( warzewiczia Coccinea) with its brilliant scarlet petals.

Falls up close

For those wishing for an extra challenge, there is an option to do the expedition as a circuit and return in the other direction towards the river followed by a steep ascent through a citrus orchid.

Balandra Basins

Balandra is a Spanish word for sloop, which historically is a small square-rigged sailing warship with two or three masts. This area with its tranquil waters would have naturally provided a safe location for early Spanish settlers.

A place with a lot to discover, Balandra is situated on Trinidad's northeastern coast between Salybia and Rampanalgas, about midway on the Toco Main Road. Sheltered from the rough waters of the Atlantic, the calm bay is a favorite of sea-bathers. The natural resources of the rich landscape allow the residents to capitalize on agriculture, fishing and beaches. 

Through the predominant Mora forest situated opposite to the Bay, the network of multiple trails leads to captivating rivers and waterfalls. These pathways extend all the way to Rio Seco Falls and surrounding villages.

Starting at Alcindor Trace, the 1 hour trek 2 km into the forest will take you to the river and secluded along its course are the Balandra Basins. The trail descends to the river, crossing it, then rises to the top of the hill and along the way the boisterous bell bird can be heard echoing through the forest. 

A short walk leads to the first basin located at the end of the gorge, which is broad and shallow and ideal for non-swimmers. Its breath-taking waters appear bright green in the tree-filtered sunlight. Further downstream, the second pool contains a deep hollow basin, with an abundance of crayfish hiding among the rocks. The boulders along the bed provide a comfortable spot to sit and revel in the serene surroundings. 

The Balandra Forest has a network of intricate trails that nature-lovers will find fascinating, and can arrive at the basins via Rio Seco (three hours), Tabateau Trace (one and a half hours) and Alcindor Trace (one hour). 

Enjoy the remarkable atmosphere on this magical trail that leads to not one but two incredible pools. and cross streams that leads to a lush and welcoming forest. This nature trail is truly an incredible adventure!

Historical Fact: Loggers created some of these trails (partly through the Mora forest) in the 1960’s

Turure Falls

The Turure River located in the evergreen valley of Cumaca is a fascinating ecological gem. The source originated from the limestone region of Platanal and placed along its bed are layers of sedimentary rock. 

The river with its Jacuzzi-like pools and picturesque waterfalls is a nature lover delight. The rocks along its path magnificently carved into natural water-steps that lead upstream to the falls. 

Along its course, there are several captivating waterfalls and the centre of attraction is the wide vertical falls which resemble a curtain. At both, the base and top there are pools to splash and the best time to visit is during the rainy season when it appears more superb. The falls provides a safe and fun opportunity to rock climb.

The exploration starts from the Turure Bridge on the Cumaca Road in Valencia and will take thirty minutes to reach the limestone pavements. The trail placed parallel to the river crosses its path on several occasions. 

The calcium carbonate deposits make the rocks less slippery and provide easier conditions for stepping. Further, upstream there are more cascades to discover, and behind one of the overhangs there is a hidden cave. 

The serenity of the forest comes alive with the courtship display of the golden-headed manakin (pipra erythrocephala) and the echoing sound of the bearded bellbird (procnias averano).

Matelot Waterfall

There is something magical about Matelot. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it a place to relax and escape from the busy hustle of city life. It is the last village on Trinidad’s north-eastern coast located at the end of the Toco/Paria Main Road and 26.7 km from Toco.

Matelot is a sleepy village surrounded by stunning beaches, rivers and waterfalls. The name Matelot is a French word that means “sailor”, and before roads were constructed it was a place for seamen. The village population is about 600 and their primary sources of income come from fishing, agriculture, and eco-tourism. The scenic drive from Arima along the winding coastal road can take as long as three hours to Matelot. Prominent communities along the route are Matura, Salybia, Balandra, Rampanalgas, Cumana, Toco, San Souci and Grand Riviere, each known for its unique characteristics, rich heritage and natural resources.

The sky is the limit in Matelot. The peaceful ambiance and picturesque seascape, enclosed by high mountains, makes it a top choice for nature lovers and anyone seeking relaxation and wellness. Wildlife is abundant and roaming freely around the village are the agouti and the manicou. Nearby, in the forest, is home to the endangered ocelot. Matelot is also a place to see rare birds like the pawi or Trinidad’s piping-guan sometimes lurching on treetops. This large turkey- like bird was hunted to almost extinction.

During April to June, the forest becomes laden with flowers when the trees are in full bloom. Most distinct are the various species of butterflies such as the Blue Morpho or Emperor Butterfly, the Monarch, and Swallow Tail. The numerous hiking trails lead to breathtaking rivers, mountains, waterfalls and secluded beaches.

The river located on the western end of the village provides a constant water supply and is a favourite recreation spot for a river lime. The Matelot Falls, located three kilometres upstream, is sensational and has a deep, clear basin to refresh and swim. Beyond the falls, the large pools are a joy to explore. 

The Limestone Terraces of Matelot are sited off the beaten path. The Terraces are set in pristine forest where the only distinct trails present are those made by wild animals. Endemic species of avi-fauna also flourish here. People who really wish to commune with nature will indeed find an eco-utopia here.

Madamas Falls

In the heart of the Northern Range is the Village of Brasso Seco and area surrounded by some of the highest mountains El Cerro Del Aripo (940m) and Mt Bleu (716m). Numerous tributaries flow from the watershed of these mountains creating spectacular waterfalls. 

In the peaceful village of Madamas Valley lies a wide dirt road which leads to a river, across which, the road continues into a narrow trail into the forest. A gentle, uphill trek on the eastern outskirts of the village on a winding terrain and an equally downhill walk eventually presents Madamas River, to which streams flow from various directions to form. Trekking upstream through shallow waters leads to the infamous Madamas River and Waterfall. 

The adventure continues downstream to the "Gorges" where swimming through deep, fresh water is a treat and easy to take. Along its path, popular bathing spots are Double River Falls and Macajuel Pond. Plunge into the wide 8 feet deep Macajuel Pond and enjoy a well-deserved, refreshing swim. The adventure resumes with a trek upstream through another river, until a trail points back to the main trail of this adventurous hike. Further upstream, located (11.26km) 7 miles east of the village is the Madamas Waterfall, its source comes from an area in the forest known as El Chiquero. This landscape is within the vicinity of the Plane Crash Site of sports hero Mikey Cipriani that occurred on the 3rd June 1934.

The expedition to the fall’s starts at Pole #90 on the Madamas Road and the estimated time to get there will take 2 1/2 hours. The first path of the journey is a flat walk along the Madamas Road to the river. The trail narrows and continues through the forest over a ridge that descends higher upstream. The river at this point is shallow and easy to walk. The Falls positioned in an open area higher up the river. Alongside the bank, prominent flowers are the Maraval Liles (Spathiphyllum Cannifolium), Mountain Roses (Brownea Coccinea) and the Hot Lips (Psychotria Poeppigana).

The Madamas waterfall 30-foot high has a single drop and at its base, there is a shallow pool to refresh oneself. At the top the falls the river divided into two tributaries and placed on each course, there are small waterfalls to discover.

Twin Rivers Waterfall

The source of the splendid Twin Rivers Waterfall originates from the Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve. The Twin Rivers Waterfall is located at the confluence of two tributaries, the Great River and the Goldsborough River, which is on the East Coast between the villages of Goodwood and Pembroke. Hence, the name Twin Rivers. The hike to Twin Rivers Waterfall begins on Cow Farm Road, which turns left after Goodwood high school before the bridge, next to the Rainbow Nature Resorts, where vehicles can be parked. There is the option to visit Rainbow Waterfall, a shorter hike with a small fee attached. Hiking upstream to the Twin Rivers Waterfall along the stony Goldsborough river bed will take approximately forty minutes.  

The journey to the top of the falls begins at the junction, where the two rivers join on the steep and challenging trail, which is not recommended for the inexperienced hiker. The river is wide and shallow and the walk continues for the most part on gravel and small rocks, forming an easy walkway. Taking the tributary on the right, the valley closes in with more varied vegetation. At this point, the slippery rocks seem to slow you down, while testing your balance. Around the river's sharp turn, the magnificent falls stand welcoming. 

The falls in its entirety is very high but is broken into a series of smaller falls. The landscape's natural staircase of the falls makes it unique and tempting to explore the secret pools and waterfalls located at the top of the watercourse. Below rests a deep cool pool offering fun and entertainment for those who venture in. Take time here to enjoy the scenery, the sun and the tropical rain-forest all around. It's a hiker's delight splashing and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of this seemingly unexplored land. For those adrenaline junkies, climbing the rocks around the pools should supply that rush. 

Return via the same route down the river. Be sure to use the track and take the right turn at the huge Samaan trees to get back to the river and thereafter the parking area. For the bold explorer, there is one deviation from the outward journey, an opportunity to swim Tobago’s own gorge. Continuing along the river past the track entered on, the river narrows and passes between high rocks with a channel of some six feet in width. The river here is deep and has to be swum. (Non-swimmers beware as this route may not be for you). A short distance away is one of Tobago's beautiful gorges.

Certainly an indelible trip!!!!

Fun Fact: Over 230 species of birds, 25 of which are known only to Tobago, making it one of the best places to view birds in the Caribbean.