Tobago Travel Guide

Planning a vacation to Tobago? Our comprehensive travel guide has everything you need to know, from places to visit, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, what to eat and buy, to local culture, safety and health, and more!


Introduction to Tobago

Tobago is a picturesque island in the Caribbean Sea, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. It is part of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, located in the Lesser Antilles, North America. This tropical paradise is one of the must-visit destinations for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering a diverse range of activities, from hiking to snorkeling, to sightseeing and cultural experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Tobago

Here’s a list of some of the top places to visit and things to do in Tobago:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort King George - a colonial-era fort that played an important role in Tobago’s history
  • Tobago Museum - a showcase of the island’s culture and heritage
  • The Mystery Tombstone - a mysterious tombstone with a cryptic inscription

Natural Attractions of Tobago: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pigeon Point Beach - one of the most popular beaches in Tobago, known for its clear water and white sand
  • Buccoo Reef - a protected underwater park that offers snorkeling and boat tours
  • Argyle Falls - a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest
  • Nylon Pool - a natural shallow pool located inside the Buccoo Reef lagoon, featuring crystal-clear water that’s believed to have healing properties

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tobago

Tobago boasts many hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that allow visitors to explore the island’s natural beauty.

  • Main Ridge Forest Reserve - the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere, showcasing Tobago’s diverse flora and fauna
  • Gilpin Trace - a challenging hiking trail that offers scenic views of the island’s east coast
  • The Tobago Plantations Estate - a flat terrain with beautiful scenery that’s perfect for bike riding

Best Things to Do in Tobago: Activities and Tours

There’s no shortage of things to do in Tobago, whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation. Here are some of the best activities and tours on offer:

  • Snorkeling and Diving - explore Tobago’s underwater world and admire the colorful marine life
  • Glass-Bottom Boat Tours - see the Buccoo Reef without getting wet
  • Island Tours - explore Tobago’s rich culture and history with a local guide
  • Deep Sea Fishing - test your skills against some of the Caribbean’s most sought-after game fish
  • Sunset Cruise - relax and enjoy the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea at sunset

Week-Long Itinerary for Tobago

If you’re planning a week-long vacation in Tobago, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive in Tobago, check-in to your accommodation, and relax on the beach
Day 2 Island tour of Tobago’s cultural and natural attractions
Day 3 Snorkeling excursion to Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool
Day 4 Hiking in Main Ridge Forest Reserve
Day 5 Deep-sea fishing excursion
Day 6 Explore the beaches of Tobago
Day 7 Sunset cruise around Tobago

Food and Drink Scene of Tobago

Tobago’s food scene is heavily influenced by its African and Indian heritage. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Roti - a flatbread filled with curry and vegetables or meat
  • Crab and Dumplings - a dish featuring fresh crab meat served with boiled dumplings and a flavorful sauce
  • Shark and Bake - a popular beach food made with fried shark fillet served in a bun with toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and tamarind sauce

Local Beverages

  • Carib Beer - a light, refreshing lager that’s perfect for the beach
  • Rum - Tobago is famous for its rum, which is used in many cocktails and can be bought at local shops and distilleries
  • Sorrel - a sweet, tangy drink made from the flowers of the hibiscus plant

Where to Stay in Tobago: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tobago offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels.

  • Luxury Hotels - Coco Reef Resort & Spa, Magdalena Grand Beach & Golf Resort, and The Villas At Stonehaven
  • Mid-Range Hotels - Tropikist Beach Hotel & Resort, The Hummingbird Hotel, and Le Grand Courlan Spa Resort
  • Guesthouses/Hostels - Bacolet Beach Club, Miller’s Guesthouse, and Sheer Seclusion Boutique Resort

What to Buy in Tobago: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local arts and crafts - Tobago is known for its intricate and colorful batik fabrics, pottery, and handmade jewelry
  • Spices - Tobago’s cuisine features a variety of spices, such as nutmeg, cinnamon, and cumin. You can buy them at local markets and stores.
  • Local Rum - bring back a bottle of Tobago’s famous rum as a souvenir or gift for friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Tobago

Tobago’s culture is a unique blend of African, Indian, and European influences. The island has a laid-back vibe, and locals are friendly and welcoming to visitors. Some customs to keep in mind include:

  • Dress code - dress modestly when visiting religious or cultural sites
  • Tipping - tipping is not expected but is appreciated
  • Language - English is the official language of Tobago, and locals also speak Creole.

Best Time to Visit Tobago

The best time to visit Tobago is from December to April, when the weather is dry and sunny. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so prices may be higher and popular attractions may be crowded. The rainy season is from May to November, but this is also when you can find great deals on accommodation and tourist activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tobago

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Tobago:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Protect the environment by using eco-friendly products and disposing of your trash properly

Don’t:

  • Take coral or shells from the beach
  • Engage in disrespectful behavior or language towards locals or other tourists
  • Walk alone on deserted beaches or at night

Safety and Health

Tobago is a relatively safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should still take precautions, such as being vigilant in tourist areas and not leaving valuables unattended. As for health, travelers should be up to date on routine vaccinations and take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever and Zika virus.

Getting to Tobago: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tobago is accessible by air and sea.

Airports Near Tobago

  • Tobago International Airport (TAB)
  • Piarco International Airport (POS) on the nearby island of Trinidad

Bus Stations Near Tobago

  • Scarborough Bus Station - the main bus station on Tobago

Other Options

  • Ferries - These are available from Trinidad which are approximately 2 hours long.

How to Get Around in Tobago

Public transportation is limited in Tobago, but there are taxi services, car rentals, and bike rentals available. Hitchhiking is also common and safe, especially for shorter distances.

Where to Go Next from Tobago: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Trinidad - the nearby island offers a unique blend of culture, history, and nightlife
  • The Grenadines - a string of 32 islands and cays that offer an even more secluded and intimate experience
  • The Amazon Rainforest - for adventure and nature enthusiasts, a trip to the Amazon rainforest in neighboring Brazil, Guyana, or Venezuela is a must-visit.

Conclusion

Tobago is a hidden gem in the Caribbean, offering visitors a unique blend of culture, natural beauty, and adventure. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the island’s rich history and culture, or embark on an adrenaline-filled adventure, Tobago has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to plan a memorable and enjoyable vacation to Tobago!

Buccoo Reef Buccoo Reef Pigeon Point Pigeon Point


    Castara
    Crown Point
    Scarborough