Tobago: Rainforest Tour
Eastern Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago
The oldest protected forest in the Western Hemisphere – you are hiking along a well-established trail guided by an expert leader who will keep you informed, entertained and safe!
Tour Overview
This guided hike explores Tobago’s Main Ridge Forest Reserve, the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere, suitable for nature lovers and moderate hikers.
Highlights
- Scenic tour along the Caribbean coast
- Gilpin Trace hike (easy to moderate level)
- Main Ridge Forest Reserve, oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere
- Lush vegetation and diverse wildlife sightings
Description
The tour begins with a drive along the Caribbean coast, passing small villages and offering coastal and forest views. The main activity is a moderate hike into the Main Ridge Forest Reserve, which covers about two-thirds of Tobago and is the oldest legal forest reserve in the Western Hemisphere.
Hikers follow the Gilpin Trail, the oldest and best-marked trail on the island. The terrain is generally flat and easy, suitable for walkers at a relaxed pace. Wildlife encountered may include various bird species, manicou (opossums), crabs, hanging bats, and digging armadillos—species emblematic of Tobago’s unique biodiversity.
The reserve hosts impressive plant life such as bamboo groves, spiny palms, and scarlet heliconia flowers. Your guide will highlight the natural healing properties of many plants. The rainforest air is fresh and pure. Notably, Tobago has no poisonous snakes.
Additional information: Established as a Crown Reserve in 1776, the Main Ridge Forest Reserve covers over 4,046 hectares of tropical rainforest—lower montane, lowland, and xerophytic types—rising to 604 metres in elevation. It supports 12 to 16 mammal species, 24 non-poisonous snakes, 16 lizard species, and 210 birds, including the rare White-tailed Sabrewing Hummingbird, endemic to Tobago. The reserve also shelters the Rufous-vented Chachalaca (national bird) and the ocellated gecko, unique to this area. The forest was named “World’s Leading Eco-Tourism Destination” by the World Travel Awards multiple times between 2003 and 2006.
Tip: This hike can be combined with a visit to Argyle Waterfall. Inquire when booking.
Includes
- Transportation to and from your hotel
- Professional tour guide
- Bottled water
Excludes
- Lunch
- Gratuities (optional and at your discretion)
Important Information
- Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking
- Bring suntan lotion and a sunhat
- A plastic bag for muddy footwear is recommended
- Optional: change of clothing
Cancellation Policy
Full refund if canceled up to 24 hours before the tour.
