Castara Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit and activities to do in Castara, Tobago. Learn about local culture, food, and transportation options, and plan your dream vacation to this Caribbean paradise.


Introduction to Castara

Located in Tobago, Castara is a hidden gem of the Caribbean that offers breathtaking scenery, incredible food, and a rich cultural experience. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an outdoor adventure, or an immersive cultural experience, Castara has it all. This travel guide is your ultimate resource for planning your trip to Castara, with everything you need to know about the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay. Let’s get started!

List of Places to Visit in Castara

Castara is a village full of cultural and natural attractions that cater to everyone’s tastes. Here are some of the must-visit places you should add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Castara Heritage Museum
  • Fort Cambleton
  • Tobago Cocoa Estate

Natural Attractions of Castara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Castara Bay Beach
  • Little Englishman’s Bay
  • Angel Reef
  • Castara Waterfall
  • Main Ridge Forest Reserve

Hiking/Biking Routes of Castara

Tobago is known for its scenic hiking and biking trails, and Castara is no exception. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual adventurer, there are plenty of routes to explore and enjoy the beautiful views. Some of the most popular routes in Castara include:

  • Castara to Bloody Bay
  • Castara to Englishman’s Bay
  • Castara to Parlatuvier

Best Things to Do in Castara: Activities and Tours

Aside from outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, Castara is known for its many activities and tours that cater to all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Castara:

  • Snorkeling and Diving
  • Boat Tours and Fishing Expeditions
  • Yoga and Wellness Events
  • Cooking Classes and Food Tours
  • Local Festivals and Music Events

Week-Long Itinerary for Castara

If you’re planning to spend a week in Castara, here is a suggested itinerary that will help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Castara Village, visit Castara Bay Beach, and have dinner at The Boat House
Day 2 Take a boat tour to visit local attractions such as Nylon Pool and Buccoo Reef
Day 3 Go hiking in the Main Ridge Forest Reserve and have lunch at Argyle Falls
Day 4 Attend a yoga class and have lunch at Morshead’s Kitchen
Day 5 Take a food tour to sample local delicacies such as crab and dumplings, and visit the Tobago Cocoa Estate
Day 6 Go on a fishing expedition or try snorkeling to explore the colorful reefs of Castara
Day 7 Relax and unwind on Little Englishman’s Bay or go on a sunset cruise to end your trip in style

Food and Drink Scene of Castara

Food lovers will not be disappointed in Castara, where you can find fresh seafood, local fruits, and a variety of dishes inspired by African, Indian, and European cuisines. Here are some of the must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crab and Dumplings
  • Callaloo Soup
  • Shark and Bake Sandwich
  • Green Fig and Saltfish

Local Beverages

  • Rum Punch
  • Coconut Water
  • Mango Juice

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

Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort or a budget-friendly option, Castara has a variety of accommodation choices that cater to all budgets and preferences. Some of the top options include:

  • Castara Bliss Apartments
  • Rainbow Nature Resort
  • Whim Apartments
  • Sealevel Guesthouse

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

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir to remind you of your trip to Castara, consider purchasing some of the local products that the village has to offer, such as:

  • Handmade Crafts and Jewelry
  • Tobago Cocoa and Chocolate
  • Local Artwork
  • Spices and Seasonings

Local Culture and Customs of Castara

Castara is a village that takes pride in its cultural heritage and local customs. As visitors, it’s important to respect and appreciate the traditions of the community, such as attending local festivals, supporting the artists and craftsmen, and participating in respectful discussions about the village’s history and customs.

Best Time to Visit Castara

The best time to visit Castara is from December to April, when the weather is sunny and dry. However, if you prefer a less crowded and more affordable experience, you can also consider visiting during the off-peak season, from May to November, when the rainforest is lush and the weather is mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Castara

When visiting Castara, it’s important to be respectful of the locals and the environment. Here are some of the do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions
  • Support local businesses and artisans
  • Be mindful of your environmental impact
  • Enjoy the natural beauty and local attractions

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local customs
  • Litter or damage the natural habitats
  • Engage in illegal activities
  • Disregard the safety guidelines and recommendations

Safety and Health

One of the main concerns for travelers is the safety and health precautions needed to have a safe and enjoyable vacation. Here are some tips to keep in mind when visiting Castara:

Safety in Castara

  • Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place
  • Book tours and activities with reputable companies
  • Follow the safety guidelines and recommendations of the locals

Health in Castara

  • Make sure to bring mosquito repellent and sunblock
  • Drink bottled or filtered water
  • Get vaccinated before traveling to Tobago
  • Be aware of the local health services and clinics

Getting to Castara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Castara is located on the northwestern coast of Tobago and can be accessed by air or ground transportation. Here are some of the options available:

Airports Near Castara

  • Arthur Napoleon Raymond Robinson International Airport (TAB)

Bus Stations Near Castara

  • Scarborough Bus Terminal
  • Speyside Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Taxis and Private Transfers
  • Car Rentals

How to Get Around in Castara

Once you arrive in Castara, the best form of transportation is by walking or renting a car if you want to explore further. Taxis and private transfers are also available, but they can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Castara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re not ready to leave Tobago yet, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring, such as:

  • Pigeon Point Beach
  • Argyle Waterfall
  • Buccoo Reef
  • The Tobago Cays

Conclusion

Castara is a Caribbean paradise that offers something for everyone, from cultural experiences and outdoor adventures to delicious food and stunning scenery. With this comprehensive travel guide, you now have all the information you need to plan your dream vacation in Castara. We hope you enjoy your stay!