Ecotourism in Tobago

Awaken your wild side on a trip to the exciting island of Tobago where an array of ecotourism adventures await. 

Travelers can immerse themselves in Tobago's flora and fauna. The island is home to the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere (which is also listed by UNESCO). There are abundant opportunities to see colorful marine life, explore vibrant reefs, visit therapeutic waterfalls and more. 

Underwater Adventures

One of the most popular ways to delve into Tobago's natural amenities is to explore below the surface of the sea. 

Snorkeling and scuba diving showcase the island's marine biodiversity and its pristine waters. The island has many highly trained instructors, meaning it's a welcoming destination for both novice and experienced underwater explorers. 

Divers will discover unspoiled reefs thick with sponges and corals - including the world's largest known brain coral. There are schools of fish, moray eels, lobsters and seahorses as well as larger marine life, including barracudas, tarpons, turtles, nurse sharks and rays.

Blue gray tanager, Tobago (Photo Credit: Blue gray tanager, Tobago)

Adventures on Land

On land, Tobago is well-known for birdwatching. The peak season for birders is December to April, especially March and early April, when many forest species are at their most active and migratory species are stopping in on Tobago on the way to North America. It is estimated that 260 species are on the island at this time.

You don't have to venture far to spot birds, and even non-experts will be amazed by the range of permanent resident birds on the island. 

Argyle Waterfall, Tobago (Photo Credit: Tobago Tourism)

In addition to watching the birds, adventurers can also take advantage of numerous hiking and mountain biking opportunities on Tobago. The rolling hills offer rugged terrain and scenic trails create many picturesque sights. For hikers, there are several smooth, steady, unencumbered climbs with views of stunning waterfalls, remote beaches and breathtaking vistas. Mountain bikers will find endurance-building uphill and exhilarating downhills. 

Unique Sightings

There are a variety of unique sights on Tobago, as well.

For travelers visiting the island between March and September, they will be able to witness the rare sighting of giant leatherback turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs under the cover of darkness. Nesting sites can be found on Turtle Beach, Grafton Bay and Stonehaven Bay.

Bioluminescence tours present another unique opportunity to visitors, nighttime tours through the mangroves along the coastline are available on kayaks or standup paddle boards where visitors can see some of the ocean's smallest but most dazzling organisms.

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