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.