Sunday July 06, 2008

Unspoiled natural areas provide travelers with eco-adventures

Setting Up Camp

With large areas of unspoiled forests, slopes, and oceans, campers and eco-adventurers in Trinidad and Tobago have rich and numerous opportunities to satisfy their thirst for nature and adventure. Whether taking in a rare species of bird, or mountain biking to a spectacular ocean view, travelers are sure to enjoy the ecology of the islands.

Although the waters at many of the beaches in Trinidad and Tobago are too rough for the average swimmer, the scenic views along the miles of unspoiled sands provide travelers with good options for camping. Many of the beaches have facilities helpful to campers such as parking, restrooms, and changing areas, and some may even have nearby food and drink vendors. Vessigny in Trinidad and Canoe Bay in Tobago are two beaches that have established camping facilities available for use. Contact the Forestry Division in Trinidad and Tobago at 868-622-4521 or at 868-622-7476 when making your plans.

Other travelers may wish to hike and camp in one of Trinidad and Tobago's dense and lush rainforests. Guides are recommended here, and many adventure services and even some eco-adventure oriented hotels can offer guests guided hiking and camping tours. Many nature preserve areas, such as the Asa Wright Nature Centre, may have small eco-lodges or guest houses nearby. Accommodations in these areas can start as low as $25(USD) to $40(USD) for shared accommodations, and run from $60(USD) to $185(USD) per person for private accommodations during high season.

Even for those who are not interested in hiking or camping, Trinidad and Tobago offer an abundance of wildlife and natural environments that anyone can enjoy. Bird watching is immensely popular on the islands, and Trinidad and Tobago are home to hundreds of species of unique and exotic birds. The Asa Wright Nature Centre and the Caroni Bird Sanctuary are both popular destinations for bird lovers. Tobago is a popular destination for both scuba divers and snorkelers with diverse fish and coral species coloring the ocean floor. Windsurfing, kayaking, mountain biking, and fishing are all popular as well. Bikes can be rented for as low as $7(USD) a day. Many adventure services will offer tours for hiking, biking, and bird watching.

The rich flora and fauna, both in the water and out, make Trinidad and Tobago prime areas for eco-adventurers who seek the thrill of experiencing new and diverse environments.