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5 Unique Places To Visit 

By

Jeanette G. Awai

March 5, 2025


Chacachacare Adventure Tour

A beautiful, haunted island surrounded by sun, sea, and poisonous manchineel trees? Yes, this is Chacachacare. Located five miles off the coast of Trinidad, it's one of five Bocas islands that lie between Trinidad and Venezuela, in the Bocas del Dragón. Experience its rich history up close as the site of a former cotton plantation, whaling station, and leper colony. Visitors will explore relics such as the French Dominican Sisters' nuns' convent, chapel, and a cemetery. Further along, via a short hike, is a picturesque salt pond that's worth the trip. Group adventure tours are available through the National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago. https://nationaltrust.tt/home/tours-and-events/ 

Fort Abercromby, Las Cuevas 

Observe rare, uninterrupted views of endless Caribbean seas from the best vantage point at Fort Abercromby. In the village of Las Cuevas lies a historical landmark dating back to 1797—a time when the colonial British forces needed a strategic defence against hostile invaders and a point of exit in case of evacuation. The former military fortification is now a place of calm and tranquillity. Go on an adventurous trek up concrete steps and into the hills to look out at the beautiful beaches, like La Fillette, from all angles.

Knollys Tunnel, Tabaquite

Picture a concrete tunnel almost as wide as two American football fields; such is the scale of Knollys Tunnel. Built in 1898, this 660-foot-long engineering marvel is the only man-made tunnel in Trinidad and Tobago and is an epic sight to witness. It gets its name from Sir Clement Courtenay Knollys, then acting colonial governor of Trinidad and Tobago. It served as a means to transport cocoa in Tabaquite via the Trinidad Government Railways (TGR). Although the railway system became defunct in 1965, the tunnel's value to the country made it a heritage site. Take a drive through this scenic location or strike a pose at its entrance, but be aware of fruit bats lurking in the darkness.

The Cocal, Manzanilla

Some palm trees appear in a neat row in the pages of tourist brochures, and then there's the Cocal—a fifteen-mile stretch of twisted coconut palms that are as moody and atmospheric as a Caribbean gothic novel come to life. This unique location is found along the Manzanilla-Mayaro road and was once a thriving coconut plantation. Now, it's a popular backdrop for photos, liming or hanging out with friends and family on the beach, and fishing. Prepare for a scenic drive and a newfound appreciation for a different kind of Caribbean beach.

The Arboretum, Chaguaramas  

Connect with nature in an outdoor museum of trees at the Arboretum in Tucker Valley, Chaguaramas. This green space helps conserve the beautiful forest that lies within. Bask in the shade of towering bamboo trees at the Bamboo Cathedral. Bonus: You'll be greeted by a chorus of howler monkeys and tropical birds! There are so many activities you can join while taking in the scenery. Enjoy strolling along a nature trail, swimming in the spring water of a clear blue pool or having a fun picnic with the whole family; there’s something for everyone.

http://chagconserv.com/the-arboretum/