San Fernando Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, this guide has everything you need to plan your trip to San Fernando.


Introduction to San Fernando

San Fernando is a city located in the southern region of Trinidad and Tobago, in the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean. Known as the “Industrial Capital” of Trinidad and Tobago due to its oil and gas refineries, it is also a cultural hub with plenty of things to see and do.

List of Places to Visit in San Fernando

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • San Fernando Hill - one of the best spots to get a panoramic view of the city and surrounding areas. It’s the highest point in the area and has a statue of Christ the Redeemer near the top.
  • San Fernando City Hall - built in the early 1900s, this historic building is still in use today.
  • The San Fernando Waterfront - a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. It offers scenic views of the Gulf of Paria and is a great place to watch the sunset.

Natural Attractions of San Fernando: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • La Brea Pitch Lake - the world’s largest natural asphalt lake and one of Trinidad’s top tourist attractions.
  • Morne Diablo Trail - a hiking trail that leads to the Morne Diablo hill. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The Pointe-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust - a nature reserve that houses a variety of bird species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Fernando

San Fernando has several hiking and biking trails, including the Morne Diablo Trail and the San Fernando Hill Trail. Both trails offer scenic views and are suitable for beginners and experienced hikers alike.

Best Things to Do in San Fernando: Activities and Tours

  • Chaguanas Street Market - a bustling market where you can find everything from local produce to handmade crafts.
  • Southern Games - an annual sporting event that takes place in San Fernando.
  • Pepper Sauce Factory Tour - a unique opportunity to see how Trinidad’s famous pepper sauce is made.

Week-Long Itinerary for San Fernando

Day 1: Arrive in San Fernando, relax Day 2: Explore San Fernando Hill, San Fernando City Hall, and the Waterfront. Day 3: Visit La Brea Pitch Lake. Day 4: Hike the Morne Diablo Trail. Day 5: Visit the Pointe-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust. Day 6: Take a Pepper Sauce Factory tour. Day 7: Departure from San Fernando.

Food and Drink Scene of San Fernando

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bake and Shark - a popular Trinidadian street food made with fried shark meat and bread.
  • Roti - a flatbread filled with curried vegetables, meat, or seafood.
  • Doubles - a fried bread stuffed with spicy chana (chickpeas).

Local Beverages

  • Carib Beer - Trinidad and Tobago’s most popular beer.
  • Rum Punch - a rum-based cocktail made with fruit juice and spices.
  • Sorrel - a traditional Christmas drink made from the petals of the sorrel plant.

Where to Stay in San Fernando: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Palmiste Guest House - a budget-friendly guest house located in the Palmiste area.
  • Ambassador Hotel - a mid-range hotel located in the heart of the city.
  • Tradewinds Hotel - a luxury hotel with a swimming pool and restaurant.

What to Buy in San Fernando: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Caribbean spices - Trinidad and Tobago is known for its spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
  • Handmade crafts - local artisans sell a variety of handmade goods, including jewelry and pottery.
  • Trinidadian rum - a souvenir that can be enjoyed back home.

Local Culture and Customs of San Fernando

Trinidad and Tobago is a culturally diverse country with influences from African, Indian, and European cultures. It’s common to hear a mix of English, Creole, and Hindi spoken in San Fernando. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and dress modestly in religious sites.

Best Time to Visit San Fernando

The best time to visit San Fernando is between December and April, during the dry season. Temperatures are mild, and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Fernando

Do:

  • Do try local cuisine and drinks.
  • Do respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t use drugs or participate in illegal activities.
  • Don’t leave valuables unattended in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in San Fernando

San Fernando is a relatively safe city, but visitors should take precautions to avoid petty crimes like theft. Avoid walking alone at night and take taxis in unfamiliar areas.

Health in San Fernando

Trinidad and Tobago is a developing country, and visitors should take care to avoid drinking tap water and eating street food that may not be properly cooked or cleaned. Visitors should also take precautions to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and Zika.

Getting to San Fernando: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near San Fernando

The nearest airport to San Fernando is Piarco International Airport, located about 45 minutes away by car.

Bus Stations Near San Fernando

San Fernando has several bus terminals that connect to other parts of Trinidad and Tobago.

Other Options

Taxis and rental cars are also available for visitors who prefer more flexibility and convenience.

How to Get Around in San Fernando

San Fernando is a walkable city, and visitors can easily explore the city on foot or by taxi. Rental cars are also available for visitors who prefer more independence.

Where to Go Next from San Fernando: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Port of Spain - Trinidad and Tobago’s capital city, located about an hour away by car.
  • Maracas Bay - a popular beach destination located on the North Coast of Trinidad.
  • Tobago - a nearby island with beautiful beaches and natural attractions.

Conclusion

San Fernando is a bustling city with plenty of natural beauty and cultural landmarks. From hiking trails to street markets, there’s something for everyone here. With a little planning, visitors can explore the best of what San Fernando has to offer.