Why Hike in Trinidad and Tobago?

Trinidad and Tobago's rich history, diverse culture and breath-taking natural attractions make us the ideal location for hikers - whether you're up for the most challenging routes or just looking to get outdoors and breathe-in the crisp, cool air. Trinidad is home to many historic sites and places of interest, such as Knolly’s tunnel/ The Hanuman Statue, The Temple in Sea, Pitch Lake, Asa Wright Nature Centre, Caroni Bird Sanctuary or the Mud Volcano at Lamoshelle.

Our remote and captivating forest trails make the journey all the more exciting. These trails are the remains of old and historic bench roads used by ancestors. They are the pathways for accessing the islands' grand rivers and waterfalls which are not otherwise accessible.

The other islands scattered across the north-western coast are commonly referred to as "Down de Islands" and they offer an opportunity to explore other remote coastal beaches, inlets and caves. One of the more popular attractions at these islands is known as the Gasparee Caves, a natural limestone cave system with a mysterious pool at its base.

Tobago also offers moderate hike trails such as the route through the Main Ridge Forest or the relaxing journey to Argyle Waterfalls. For less challenging trails and the most intriguing destination points, hikers will find great pleasure in exploring Tobago.

Hikers will also be educated about the flora, fauna, and history of Trinbago. They may even be lucky to experience an intimate encounter with the animals in their natural habitat.

Hiking Must-Haves

Here's a concise check-list for you adventure-seekers to consider on your next hike!

The good news is that they are all readily available at sport stores and even some groceries near to you.

Now there is nothing stopping you from enjoying what nature has to offer you.

• Backpack with multiple compartments
• Hiking Boots or hiking shoes suited to terrain
• Wicking T-shirt (synthetic or wool)
• Wicking underwear
• Quick-drying pants or shorts
• Long-sleeve shirt (for sun, bugs)
• Sun-shielding hat
• Sunglasses
• Knife or multi-tool
• Binoculars
• Gloves
• Flashlight
• Water bottles or hydration reservoirs
• Map (with protective case)
• Compass
• Extra batteries
• Matches or lighter
• Waterproof container
• First-aid kit

Hikers may need to consider the special needs for unique terrains.

Be sure to research your terrain before your journey in order to be fully prepared.

Tips for Hiking With Your Child

Try a dry run without your child.

Familiarize yourself with the trail (get to know the difficulty level and duration). If your favorite places have lots of water, you might discover you have to go inland to seek out little creeks and swimming holes. Others might choose a particular trail based on the proximity of restrooms and air-conditioned restaurants.

Choose a trail that's the right distance and terrain for your youngest hiker.

Nothing spoils an outdoor trek more quickly than an unhappy hiker. Whether you're taking a group of children or going with just one, be sure the youngest will enjoy the hike as much as the oldest.

Go early.

You want your child to have his batteries fully charged when you hit the trail.The earlier you get there, the sooner you can get back home for lunch and nap-time for the little ones. With an older child who can hike longer distances, starting early will still get you back to your car before the sun starts to set.

Plan rest stops.

Children tire easily, so plan to stop and explore more often than not. Choose a couple spots throughout the journey to rest and refuel with snacks and water. Sometimes a waterfall, lake, or beautiful vista at the top of a trail is an exciting goal to hike toward. However, just remember your child will likely be more energized by the journey than the destination, so be flexible and prepared to let go of goals if your child gets sidetracked by nature's beauty.

Make it fun for everyone.

Think of educational and fun activities to do along the way that will keep your child entertained. Learn to identify some of the local trees and flowers so you can point them out to your child as you wander. Singing, playing games, and telling stories will also keep children interested and make the experience enjoyable for everyone.

Perfect Homemade Snacks to Take Hiking

Curry + Sriracha Roasted Chickpeas

Ingredients

2 cups cooked garbanzo beans (chickpeas/channa), or 1 can (15oz), drained, rinsed and patted dry

1 heaping teaspoon sesame, coconut or olive oil

1 heaping teaspoon sriracha

1 heaping teaspoon curry powder

dash or two garlic powder

mineral salt, to taste

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Place ingredients in a medium size bowl and combine well to coat. Place in a single layer on a roasting pan or rimmed cookie sheet. Bake for about 40-45 minutes mixing them around every 15 minutes or so until chickpeas have a nice roasted look and are crispy. Keep a close eye on them in the last 10-15 minutes as some may burn.

Fruit and Nut Trail Mix

Ingredients

1/4 cup raw almonds

1/4 cup raw cashews

1/4 cup raw walnut halves

Sea salt or kosher salt

1/4 cup golden raisins

1/4 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup dried apricots

1/4 cup banana chips

Preheat the oven to 350°. Toss the nuts with a pinch of salt and spread on a baking sheet. Toast for 10 minutes until golden, stirring halfway through. Let the nuts cool completely. Mix the nuts with the dried fruits.

Double Chocolate Granola

Ingredients

3 cups rolled oats

½ cup pumpkin seeds

3 Tbsp hemp hearts

2 Tbsp chia seeds

½ cup sunflower seeds

1 cup chopped almonds

3 Tbsp cocoa powder

½ cup honey

¼ c coconut oil (measured when solid)

1 cup chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 300 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, combine the first six ingredients.

In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the honey and coconut oil and microwave 30-45 seconds.

Stir in cocoa powder and mix well.

Pour over oat mixture and stir until well coated.

Pour granola onto lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, stirring every 10.

Remove from oven and let cool.

Mix in the chocolate chips when almost cool if you want them to melt a bit, or wait until completely cooled before adding them.

Amazing Hiking Spots in Trinidad and Tobago

Paria Waterfalls

A 120 minute walk through the forest from the north coast village of Blanchisseuse will take you to Paria Beach. This is a predominantly coastal hike that begins on a gravel road and then continues along a forest trail. The hike has a series of uphill and downhill portions interspersed with beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea. The end result is the breath-taking view of the Paria Waterfall, one of Trinidad's most talked about falls.

Matura Waterfalls

The Matura Waterfall/Manuelot Falls is best known for its unique folds of limestone that serves as a backdrop for the clear water flowing over its edge. This cool, clear water meets to form a wide pool at the base which is suitable for bathing. Though the trek is a challenging three hour hike that goes through Mora forest, the destination is one worth travelling far and wide for.

Rampanalgas

For the less adventurous hikers, this is fortunately a short hike of approximately twenty minutes, without steep hill climbs, to a two level waterfall. It forms small deep pools that are suitable for swimming. On most weekends as you approach the waterfall you can hear the shouts of delight from the neighborhood children bathing in the pools.

Argyle Waterfalls

Argyle Waterfall is a scenic 25 kilometre drive from Scarborough, the capital of Tobago. The trail abounds with a breathtaking variety of butterflies, spiders, lizards, snakes and bursts of wild blossoms such as orchids, mimosa and heliconia. This hike is one of the less challenging routes however the cool, refreshing water and beautiful falls are surprisingly amazing,

There are many more beautiful natural gems, gently tucked away in the far corners of Trinidad and Tobago. One only has to pack a bag and take the journey with loved ones to enjoy all that the islands have to offer!

Hacks for Hiking

Here are some neat tricks for your next hiking trip:

Maximize on your backpack space for those lengthy hikes.

Easily determine the remaining daylight hours. 

Think of innovative ways to save on space.

Get to know which plant species are not your friends.

Protect your belongings with plastic bags.

Don't forget your first-aid kit. Create this compact take-along with all your essentials using a medicine container.

What other hacks can you think of? Share your ideas here!

The World's Most Breathtaking Hiking Trails

For the more adventurous hike-seekers out there, are you up for the challenge?

Here's what's out there waiting for you :)

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Garhwal Himalaya

Zion National Park, Utah

Precipice Trail, Acadia National Park, Maine

Glacier National Park, Montana

Have you travelled the world and experienced other note-worthy natural attractions?

Share your pictures!

Want to see more interesting hiking trails? Follow this link: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1603766299900099.1073741829.1602254360051293&type=3&uploaded=9

Hiking - Therapy for the body and mind

Body

Why spend hundreds of dollars at the gym when mother nature gives you a cheaper alternative?

Studies show that hiking:

• Lowers your risk of heart disease;
• Improves your blood pressure and blood sugar levels;
• Boosts bone density, since walking is a weight-bearing exercise;
• Builds strength in your glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and the muscles in your hips and lower legs
• Strengthens your core;
• Improves balance; and
• Helps control your weight.

Mind

Ease your stress and anxiety levels. How?

• Use the opportunity to bond with your loved ones
• When you look better, you feel better
• Get away from your regular stressful environments
• Breathe cleaner, fresher air (free from toxins and carcinogens)
• Nature's sounds soothe and relax the mind

Let mother nature help you, help yourself.