Trinidad & Tobago Birding Tour – Full Itinerary
The scheduled departure for this birding tour is 8 June 2026
Day 1:
Arrival in Trinidad
Welcome to Trinidad! You should arrive in the afternoon at Piarco International Airport, where you will be met by your guide and transferred by pre-arranged transport to your accommodation for the first 2 nights of your Trinidad and Tobago birding adventure.
Day 2:
Maracas Valley and Caroni Swamp
Trinidad is a melting pot of cultures and humanity that has served to transform the island into a sea of vivid colors, and our Trinidad and Tobago Birding tour begins (after a leisurely breakfast at our hotel), with a visit to a site in the lush Maracas Valley known as the ‘Home of the Hummingbird’. Here, dozens of hummingbirds from up to 14 different species fill the air, feeding right before your eyes! We will enjoy a stroll through the tropical garden of this Hummingbird haven, before settling down for a lunch of local cuisine.
The afternoon we are off to the world-renowned Caroni Swamp – the second largest mangrove wetland in Trinidad & Tobago, just a short 20-minute drive away. Once here, we travel on a private flat-bottomed boat and explore the mangroves that dominate this natural wonder. To delve deep into the very heart of an established mangrove swamp is something alike to journeying into a prehistoric ecosystem where everything appears to remain frozen in time. Mangroves have been on the planet for 250 million years and with their pattern of elaborate, interlaced aerial roots and entwined branches, appear determined to shield and protect the inhabitants of the swamp from the encroaching threats of the modern world.
The serene charm of this enchanting location beckons an impressive array of avian and wildlife species. Here, the domain of Herons unfolds in all its diversity, from the slender-necked Tricolored Herons to the robust Boat-billed Herons. Amidst the tangled mangroves, Gray-cowled Wood-Rails move stealthily, while American Pygmy Kingfishers and Green Kingfishers dart around. Bicolored Conebills and Black-crested Antshrikes grace the upper canopy, and Masked Cardinals dart energetically between tributaries, with Tropical Screech-Owls keeping watch nearby. Other denizens of the swamp include the Green-throated Mango, White-tailed Goldenthroat, Greater Ani, Straight-billed Woodcreeper, Olivaceous Saltator, Rufous-browed Peppershrike, Yellow-breasted Flycatcher, and Pied Water-Tyrant. Above, Trinidad’s skies host a diverse array of raptors, including Short-tailed Hawks, Long-winged Harriers, Plumbeous Kites, Gray-lined Hawks, and Bat Falcons.
Yet, the swamp’s allure extends beyond avian life; Spectacled Caiman bask along its banks, Cook’s Tree Boa hunts in its branches, and Silky Anteaters occasionally venture out during the day, nestled within the mangroves. As the sun sets, an expanse of water reveals American Flamingos feeding, joined by Cattle, Great and Snowy Egrets, Tricolored Herons, and Little Blue Herons adorning the emerald isles. Relishing rum punches and homemade cake aboard our boat, we witness the sky painted with scarlet hues as Scarlet Ibis flock in, orchestrating their graceful descent to their roosts.
A brief journey returns us to our accommodations, where we can unwind before dinner, savoring the memories of the day’s wildlife encounters.
Day 3:
Birding in the South of the island
After breakfast, our pre-arranged transportation takes us for a leisurely birding expedition in the southern regions, affectionately known to locals as “in South.” Tranquil farm roads wind through rural villages, leading us to expansive sites dominated by wetlands and semi-wild pastures bordered by mangroves. These prime habitats reliably yield a wide variety of target species, often challenging to find elsewhere on the island. Among them are the Ruddy-breasted Seedeater, Striped Cuckoo, Pinnated Bittern, Yellow-chinned Spinetail, Limpkin, Spotted Tody Flycatcher, Yellow-hooded Blackbird, Red-breasted Blackbird, and Masked Yellowthroat. Additionally, Wattled Jacanas, Ringed Kingfishers, White-headed Marsh Tyrants, Purple Gallinules, Striated Herons, Black-bellied Whistling-ducks, Blue-gray and White-lined Tanagers, Black-tailed Tityras, and kettles of Black Vultures are regularly sighted.
Following a local lunch featuring Indian delicacies, we proceed to the extensive tidal mudflats along the island’s west coast. These flats often host large numbers of Yellow-billed and striking Large-billed Terns, along with Collared Plovers. Depending on the season, migrant shorebirds may be observed voraciously feeding to replenish fat reserves before embarking on lengthy flights.
The shallow waters of the Gulf of Paria provide a refuge from harsh weather, attracting a substantial list of vagrant birds to Trinidad. Among them are the Maguari Stork, Terek Sandpiper, Audouin’s, Kelp, and Greater Black-backed Gulls. Along this coastline, the rare resident Rufous Crab-Hawk has also been spotted.
Another point of significant interest in this area is the stunning Hindu Temple of the Sea, considered a National Treasure of Trinidad and Tobago. This temple stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of Seedas Sadhu, an Indian indentured laborer who single-handedly built it over 25 years in the mid-20th century, reclaiming the land from the sea. While the story behind the temple’s construction is both sorrowful and inspiring, its beauty captivates visitors.
Subsequently, we journey to the recently reopened and refurbished Asa Wright Nature Center, renowned worldwide and serving as our base for the next three days. Undoubtedly a birders’ paradise!
Day 4:
Exploring Asa Wright
Stepping onto the verandah of the main lodge at Asa Wright, we find ourselves immersed in what undoubtedly ranks among the most extraordinary birding experiences in the Western Hemisphere. Set against a backdrop of vast expanses of lush tropical rainforest, the scene is immediately alive with the presence of dozens of Hummingbirds, representing up to 13 different species. They flit about, feeding on lantana sage, vervain shrubs, and numerous feeders suspended at eye level from the lodge’s roof. Photo opportunities abound as brilliant Tufted Coquettes, skittish Long-billed Starthroats, pugnacious White-necked Jacobins, robust Black-throated Mangoes, Copper-rumped Hummingbirds, White-chested Emeralds, Blue-Chinned Sapphires, and many others hover almost within reach of our fingertips.
The vast expanse of forest sprawling before us harbors a myriad of bird species, their colors defying belief. Today, we venture out to explore the grounds of this magnificent sanctuary. Among the species awaiting our discovery are Purple Honeycreepers, breathtaking Violaceous Euphonias, Squirrel Cuckoos, Barred Antshrikes, Golden Olive Woodpeckers, an array of tanagers including Silver-beaked and Bay-headed, and many more, all found along the clearly marked paths.
Following a delectable buffet lunch, we embark on a 40-minute descent to one of Asa Wright’s most captivating attractions – the deep fissure known as Dunston Cave. Along the way, we keep watch for two of the lodge’s most abundant and beloved non-avian residents – the Red-rumped Agouti and the impressive Golden Tegu Lizard. Upon reaching the cave’s entrance, eerie noises emanating from within draw our attention to the darkness ahead, signaling an encounter with one of the trip’s most unusual species.
A primary motivation behind the establishment of the Asa Wright Center by the World Wildlife Fund in the 1960s was the protection of one of the world’s most accessible colonies of Oilbirds. Soon, we will come face to face with this unique and enigmatic bird, the sole species in the genus Steatornis. It’s an encounter not to be missed.
After yet another delightful meal, we retire to the verandah to observe the forest’s nocturnal activities as they begin to stir to life.
Day 5:
Blanchisseuse road and surrounds
The day begins with a picturesque drive deep into Trinidad’s mountainous Northern Range along the renowned birding route, Blanchisseuse Road. Our journey includes birding stops that offer prime vistas of species typically found at higher elevations. Among them are the Speckled Tanager, Streaked Xenops, White Hawk, Ornate Hawk Eagle, Collared and Guianan Trogons, Channel-billed Toucan, White-necked Thrush, Yellow Oriole, Cocoa Woodcreeper, Little Hermit, and Lilac-tailed Parrotlet.
A delightful local lunch awaits us in the charming rural village of Brasso Seco, followed by a cacao demonstration featuring chocolate samples from a local farmer participating in a community initiative. Surrounded by cocoa plants, we may also be graced by the presence of Turquoise Tanager, Lineated and Chestnut Woodpeckers, and Green Hermit.
In the afternoon, our journey continues through the mountains to the village of Morne la Croix, where an idyllic setting awaits. Here, we may encounter the Rufous-tailed Jacamar, Yellow-rumped Cacique, Yellow-headed Caracara, Crested Oropendola, and Long-billed Gnatwren. While settling down with tea and cakes or a home-brewed rum punch, we have the pleasure of witnessing the dazzlingly colorful Blue-headed Parrots flying into their roosts, presenting a fantastic photo opportunity. Eventually, we return to our accommodations for dinner.
After enjoying a delicious three-course meal, those interested can don their head torches and join a knowledgeable guide for a night walk along the center’s long winding driveway. Flanked by lush forests on both sides, this well-paved road offers an incredible chance for encounters with various nocturnal species. Trinidad Chevron Tarantulas, Coral Snakes, Spectacled Owls, Tailless Whip Scorpions, and many others may make an appearance during this intriguing expedition.
Day 6:
Onwards to Grand Riviere
In Trinidad, exceptional birding opportunities are never far away. On our final morning at the lodge, as the dawn chorus fills the air, we revel in yet more sightings of the diverse species drawn to the feeders and the abundant flowering plants and trees adorning the lodge’s verandah.
Throughout the grounds of the Center, numerous bird species dwell deep within the forest. Among them are various antbirds, antwrens, and the striking Trinidad Motmot. Venturing into the forest, we visit hidden leks where Golden-headed and White-bearded Manakins captivate us with their territorial displays.
We scan the trees for Orange-winged Amazons and Boat-billed Kiskadees, then embark on a final stroll along the Discovery Trail, uncovering treasures such as the elusive Gray-throated Leaftosser and the Black-faced Antthrush. Our exploration culminates in an unforgettable encounter at a reliable spot for up-close sightings of the remarkable Bearded Bellbird. Along the way, we keep watch for splendid Blue Morpho butterflies and Giant Tree Frogs adding to the forest’s enchantment.
In the afternoon, we head for the charming fishing village of Grande Riviere on Trinidad’s rugged north coast. Upon arrival, timing dependent on daylight, we seek an encounter with the critically endangered Trinidad Piping-Guan as small flocks settle in to roost. This site stands as the sole remaining reliable location on Earth to witness a bird that was once abundant but now faces imminent extinction, with fewer than 150 individuals remaining. We then settle into our accommodation—a laid-back, boutique beachfront hotel featuring air-conditioned rooms and private baths.
As we dine by candlelight on locally sourced classic Trinidadian seafood, anticipation builds for one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. The one-kilometer stretch of unspoiled quartz-rich sand in front of the hotel serves as one of the world’s most important nesting grounds for Leatherback Turtles. From March to August, hundreds of these colossal prehistoric marine reptiles make their way ashore, clamoring over one another to lay their eggs along this protected coastline—a truly mesmerizing event to behold.
Day 7:
Trinidad Piping-Guan sighting
Within a brief 10-minute drive, armed with a packed breakfast, we find ourselves once again enveloped in the verdant embrace of the lush forests, the cherished domain of the endemic Trinidad Piping-Guan, affectionately known as the Pawi. Even if we were fortunate to catch a glimpse of these birds on our first evening, another encounter in different lighting conditions ensures every opportunity for capturing ideal views. The early morning hours also present the best chance to observe the guans actively feeding in the Wild Nutmeg Trees. Surrounding the guan site lies a sprawling cacao estate, its paved road largely deserted. Seizing the dawn’s quietude, we leisurely stroll along the forest-lined road, eagerly seeking out a myriad of other avian treasures. Among them are the elusive Little Tinamou, the gregarious Smooth-billed Ani, the serene White-tipped Dove, the dainty White-flanked Antwren, and an array of colorful honeycreepers including the Purple, Red-legged, and Green Honeycreepers. We also keep our eyes peeled for the Pale-breasted Spinetail and the enchanting hummingbirds flitting about.
After indulging in a local lunch, the afternoon presents an opportunity to unwind and savor the tranquility of our idyllic surroundings.
Day 8:
Onwards to Tobago
After breakfast, we embark on a relaxed journey to the airport, making intermittent stops for roadside birding along the way. Our destination: the charming and quintessentially Caribbean island of Tobago, just a 20-minute flight away.
Upon landing at Tobago’s ANR Robinson International Airport, the distinct geological, cultural, and ornithological differences between Tobago and its larger sister island, Trinidad, become immediately apparent. While there is notable species overlap due to their proximity, Tobago boasts its own unique avian treasures, some exclusively found here or more readily observed. From the airport, we venture to a small mangrove wetland, aiming to spot two such species—the White-fringed Antwren and the recently classified Tobago Greenlet.
Our accommodations on Tobago await at the serene Cuffie River Nature Retreat. Nestled on the fringes of the historic Main Ridge Forest Reserve, this locally owned ecolodge features ten Caribbean-style rooms, each boasting a private balcony offering panoramic views of forested mountains, babbling streams, and lush tropical foliage. Here, we immerse ourselves in the tranquility of the rainforest, enveloped in comfort and eco-friendly luxury. The retreat even offers a remarkable raised-deck saltwater swimming pool, inviting us to unwind amidst the natural splendor.
As the day draws to a close, we gather for a delectable dinner of impeccably prepared local cuisine, served in the open-air dining room. Against the backdrop of the cool night air, punctuated by the eerie calls of nocturnal creatures, we relish in the flavors of Tobago and anticipate the adventures that lie ahead.
Day 9:
Main Ridge Forest Reserve
After a hearty breakfast, we ascend into the lofty heights of the Main Ridge Forest Reserve, embarking on a serene exploration of its verdant trails, beginning with the picturesque streamside path known as Gilpin Trace. Here, we are enveloped by ancient, untouched forest adorned with lush mosses and entwined with graceful lianas, resonating with the melodic calls of its diverse inhabitants. A hidden gem awaits us as we visit a secluded lek frequented by the dazzling Blue-backed Manakin, treating us to their captivating aerial displays.
Another highlight awaits in the form of the resplendent Yellow-legged Thrush, typically elusive in high elevation forests but often spotted along Gilpin Trace, where they gracefully perch and bathe in tranquil streams, offering unparalleled photo opportunities. This magical place also presents opportunities to encounter other remarkable species such as the Striped Owl, Trinidad Motmot, White-winged Becard, and the striking White-tailed Sabrewing, found exclusively in Tobago and a dwindling region in Venezuela.
Following a leisurely lunch featuring locally sourced delicacies at a quaint restaurant just outside the reserve’s boundary, we return to the comforting embrace of Cuffie River. The soft afternoon light casts a gentle glow on the feeders and illuminates the vibrant tropical flora. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to wander the grounds and nearby trails, perhaps accompanied by a local guide if desired, or to settle in a favored spot on the main balcony and witness the mesmerizing spectacle of hummingbirds, including the magnificent Sabrewing. Over 100 species of birds have been spotted in this tranquil haven, including the Golden-olive Woodpecker, Red-crowned Woodpecker, Barred Antshrike, Great Black-Hawk, and Collared Trogon. As dusk approaches, the air fills with the raucous calls of parrots, parrotlets, and chachalacas returning to their roosts for the night.
Before dinner, enjoy a refreshing rum punch if you choose, followed by another delectable Caribbean-inspired meal. Then, just a short stroll down the driveway brings us to a remarkable encounter with the diminutive near-endemic White-tailed Nightjar, offering a close-up view that’s perfect for capturing with your camera or phone. Sightings of the Common Potoo and Common Pauraque are also distinct possibilities. As the day draws to a close, we savor our dinner amidst the open-air ambiance of the dining room, serenaded by the eerie calls of nocturnal creatures signaling the transition to another enchanting night in Tobago’s embrace.
Day 10:
Speyside and Little Tobago Island
After breakfast, we embark on a picturesque journey along coastal bays and vibrant villages, heading towards the serene seaside enclave of Speyside. Here, we embark on a delightful excursion to Little Tobago Island, a renowned wildlife sanctuary of significant importance in the country.
As we approach the island by boat, the air is alive with the graceful dance of numerous seabirds wheeling and soaring above the waves. Stepping onto the jetty, we commence a gradual ascent into the island’s dry tropical forest, where countless towering cliffs punctuate the landscape.
Arriving at a breathtaking lookout perched high atop one of these cliffs, we are treated to unparalleled views of Red-billed Tropicbirds, White-tailed Tropicbirds, Red-footed and Brown Boobies, and Magnificent Frigatebirds soaring at eye level. Among them, elegant Bridled, Sooty, Roseate, and Royal Terns gracefully glide by, accompanied by Brown Noddies and Laughing Gulls. This unique experience offers an encounter unlike any other on our tour and is highly recommended. Along the ascent, we may also catch sight of the strikingly patterned Trinidad and Tobago endemic Ocellated Gecko and other small island inhabitants.
For those seeking a less strenuous option, the option to remain at the dock provides excellent views of several seabird species. For those continuing the ascent, walking poles are available to ensure comfort throughout the journey.
Upon departing the island, the captain may pause, weather permitting, to search for vibrant tropical fish and possibly Hawksbill Turtles near a former coral garden off Goat Island. Back at the dock, we savor a delectable local lunch at the Birder’s Restaurant, where freshly made-to-order dishes tantalize our taste buds amid the tranquil coastal surroundings.
Following lunch, we return to Cuffie River, where we have one last chance to witness the bustling activity at the lodge’s feeders and bask in the unrivaled serenity of this remote retreat.
Day 11:
Departure
After breakfast, we board our pre-arranged transfer to the airport for our return 20-minute flight from Tobago to Trinidad and our onward journey home.
To join us on this exciting birding adventure, contact our team at info@naturetravelbirding.com
