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Trinidad And Tobago Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Trinidad and Tobago travel guide?

Then you’re in the right place!

Officially called The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, this Caribbean nation consists of two islands:

Trinidad and Tobago.

Though the “sister islands” share many traits, they have their own distinct personalities and cultures. Two travelers could visit Trinidad and Tobago and have completely different experiences depending on where they decide to spend their trip!

If you’re looking for a relaxing Caribbean beach vacation, Tobago is the place to go.

Home to lush rainforests and surrounded by white sand beaches, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the country’s natural wonders on this island. Tobago is a diver’s paradise, with many reefs to explore and 45 registered dive sites like Bucco Reef. The culture of the island is also deeply influenced by African traditions, which you can savor through Tobago’s cuisine.

Trinidad, on the other hand, is home to most of the country’s major metropolitan areas and moves at a faster pace than its sister island.

Most cruises to Trinidad and Tobago dock in the nation’s capital, Port of Spain, where travelers can learn more about the country’s culture and history at the National Museum and Art Gallery as well as Trinity Cathedral.

If you’re looking to experience Carnival, Trinidad is also the place to go; the massive, colorful celebration happens every year in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday.

Street food lovers should also check out Trinidad, where you can find plenty of Indo-Caribbean goodies like roti and bake and shark at local Trinidad markets.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Trinidad and Tobago — one of the top places to travel in the Caribbean.

Note: This guide to Trinidad and Tobago travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Map Of Trinidad And Tobago

Use this map to begin your Trinidad and Tobago trip planning!

map of trinidad and tobago

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the graphic.

Activities In Trinidad & Tobago

Learn about what to do in Trinidad and Tobago for an incredible trip!

Tips For Planning A Trip To Trinidad And Tobago

These guides can help you plan the ultimate Trinidad and Tobago vacation!

Top Trinidad And Tobago Tours

Book a tour and get to know the cultures of Trinidad and Tobago through a local.

  • Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool Adventure in Buccoo, Tobago
  • Steel Pan Drumming Class In Crown Point, Tobago
  • Trinidad Mud Volcano Hike & Food Experience From Port Of Spain
  • Cocoa Community Chocolate Immersion Tour In Brasso Seco Village, Trinidad
  • Trinidad Rainforest Hike to Waterfall from Port Of Spain

Renting A Car In Trinidad And Tobago

Need a rental car for your Trinidad and Tobago trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Their comparison tool does the homework for you, so there’s no need to have up 10+ tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. Actually, you can save up to 70% using their tool!

Hotels In Trinidad And Tobago

Click here to browse hotels in Trinidad and Tobago!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Trinidad & Tobago Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Trinidad and Tobago tour. When visiting Trinidad and Tobago — or any other destination in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Trinidad and Tobago itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks.

Trinidad And Tobago Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling Trinidad and Tobago.

Q: Why are Trinidad and Tobago called a twin island republic?

Trinidad and Tobago are known as a twin island republic due to the fact that the two islands are officially part of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Q: How do you travel from Trinidad to Tobago?

You can take a boat from Trinidad to Tobago via the Trinidad and Tobago Inter-Island Ferry Service.

Q: Is Trinidad and Tobago expensive?

Compared to other islands in the Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago is one of the least expensive to visit. Budget travelers can expect to spend about $85-$100 per day, not including flights.

Q: What is the best time to visit Trinidad and Tobago?

The best time to visit Trinidad and Tobago is January through May, which is outside of the rainy season.

Q: What are the most exciting places to see in Trinidad and Tobago as a tourist?

You’ll definitely want to experience all the natural wonders Trinidad and Tobago have to offer on your trip. Birdwatchers will love Yerette, a sanctuary in St. Joseph, a town on Trinidad that’s home to 13 different species of colorful hummingbirds. Divers and snorkelers should head to Buccoo Reef off the coast of Tobago, the island’s largest and best-preserved coral reef. If you’re not feeling a swim, you can also experience the reef through a glass bottom boat tour.

History buffs should check out Fort King George in Scarborough for a glimpse at Trinidad and Tobago’s British colonial past. The fort’s location atop a hill will give you incredible views of the shore and the island’s mountains. While you’re there, head to the Tobago Museum to learn more about the island’s native history and see some Amerindian artifacts.

Of course no island vacation is complete without a trip to the beach! Tobago’s Pigeon Point is considered the country’s best with white sand and plenty of opportunities for water sports. Try stand-up paddleboarding in Tobago or windsurfing through the beach’s calm waters.

Q: Is Trinidad and Tobago dangerous for tourists?

There are a fair amount of things to watch out for when traveling to Trinidad and Tobago. Both violent crime and petty crime are common throughout the country, particularly in certain areas of the capital, Port of Spain. Try not to go out alone after dark and avoid secluded beaches, as these can be targets for robberies and assaults.

And of course, always be aware of your surroundings — as well as your belongings. Investing in pickpocket-proof clothing can help.

Home break-ins also occur in the country, particularly on the island of Tobago. If you are renting a home or villa, make sure it has a 24-hour security system and keep the contact information for local authorities handy.

Tourists are also frequently the targets of scams in Trinidad and Tobago. Be firm with street hawkers and vendors and do not take rides from anyone you don’t know, particularly at the airport. Also, be sure to inspect any ATMs before inserting your card, as ATM scams are common. And never ever give your pin number to a stranger!

Q: How does Tobago differ from Trinidad?

While Trinidad has more of an urban feel with bustling business hubs like Port of Spain, Tobago more closely resembles the typical laid-back Caribbean island.

On Tobago, you’ll find white sand beaches, resorts and water sports as well as more of an African influence on the culture and cuisine.

Thanks to its booming oil and natural gas industry, the island of Trinidad has become a big business destination. If you’re looking to explore the nation’s cities, this is the place to be.

Q: What are the cultures of Trinidad and Tobago?

The country’s colonial history has had a huge impact on its culture, with many diverse populations living among each other on the islands. The majority of Trinidadian residents are East Indian (Caribbeans of Indian or South Asian descent) or African and many others consider themselves mixed race.

As the country was a British colony for many years, English is the official language and is widely spoken on both islands. You’ll also see European, Creole and Spanish influences throughout the country, particularly in the cuisine.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Trinidad and Tobago?

Visitors from the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom as well as many other countries do not need a visa to visit Trinidad and Tobago for less than 90 days. Other countries may require a visa to enter the islands.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Trinidad and Tobago International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements. You can also contact the Consulate General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Trinidad and Tobago?

Many large hotels and tourist operators accept credit cards, particularly MasterCard and Visa, though it’s recommended to carry some cash for making purchases from smaller restaurants and street stalls.

Q: What is the local currency in Trinidad and Tobago?

The local currency in Trinidad and Tobago is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar.

What would you add to this Trinidad and Tobago travel guide?