ABOUT DESTINATION TRINIDAD
Trinidad, the larger of the two islands that make up the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, is the birthplace of the steelpan instrument and one of the Caribbean’s most ethnically diverse nations. This cultural melting pot, influenced by a rich history that encompasses African, East Indian, Spanish, French, Chinese, and Syrian heritages, boasts a vibrant array of music, food, festivals, and unique traditions.
Experience the world-famous Trinidad Carnival, often referred to as “the greatest show on earth.” This festival is one of the most vibrant and energetic celebrations globally. While you’re here, discover stunning beaches, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Indulge in a culinary adventure featuring a fusion of flavors from around the world.
Beyond its cultural richness and natural beauty, Trinidad is also a premier destination for birdwatching and ecotourism. The Caroni Bird Sanctuary, a sprawling mangrove wetland covering approximately twenty square miles, is a must-visit site for your travel itinerary. Each evening, the sanctuary transforms into a spectacle as the stunning Scarlet Ibis, our national bird, returns to roost alongside beautiful flamingos.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, relaxation, or a combination of all three, Trinidad offers something for everyone. The warm and friendly hospitality of Trinidadians ensures a welcoming and memorable experience. Come and discover the magic of this Caribbean paradise!
Scarlet ibis / Photo Credit: Stephen Broadbridge
Drummers of Wasafoli Performing Company performing at the production 'Suumba'
Caroni swamp
BRAND ‘visitTrinidad’ – ALWAYS IN SEASON
Destination Trinidad is a vibrant and dynamic travel destination that captures the essence of culture, nature, and adventure all year-round. From the rhythmic beats of the steelpan, the effervescent sites of Carnival masqueraders, to the serenity of our tropical rainforests, waterfalls, and beaches, Trinidad offers an unforgettable blend of experiences for every traveller.
The #visitTrinidad hashtag connects visitors with a thriving online community, encouraging travellers to share their personal journeys and experiences. Whether it’s the cultural richness of our diverse island, the stunning biodiversity of our lush landscapes, or the electrifying energy of our festivals and street parties, #visitTrinidad invites visitors to make their mark on Trinidad’s living story. Every post becomes part of a global conversation that highlights the island’s unique charm and the warmth of its people.
In Trinidad, there is always something happening and a wide range of things for visitors to do. Our “Always in Season” slogan reflects the island’s endless offerings, where adventure and cultural immersion await every day of the year. Whether you’re diving into the pulsating excitement of Carnival, spotting the iconic Scarlet Ibis in the Caroni Swamp, or witnessing sea turtles nesting on moonlit beaches, Trinidad promises a wealth of unforgettable experiences. With 365 days of wonder, every visit to Trinidad brings something new, something thrilling, and something timeless.
NEW DEVELOPMENTS
The United Nations General Assembly officially declared August 11th as “World Steelpan Day”. This significant development was announced in 2023.
The steelpan, which originated in Trinidad and Tobago in the early 1930s, is the only new instrument invented in the 20th century. The declaration of World Steelpan Day by the UN is a recognition of the instrument’s unique contribution to the world’s musical landscape.
World Steelpan Day is important to the global community for several reasons. It promotes inclusive societies, sustainable communities, a creative economy and gender equality and youth empowerment.
The declaration of World Steelpan Day is a testament to the global recognition of the steelpan’s cultural significance and its power to unite people through music. It’s a day for the world to celebrate the steelpan, its history, and its contributions to global culture.
In 2024, Trinidad also celebrated its first ever World Steelpan Festival which was an amalgamation of events and activities that aimed to showcase our country’s national instrument on a local, regional and global platform.
AIRLIFT AND ROUTE DEVELOPMENT
Trinidad continues to expand its global reach with major advancements in airlift and route development, crucial to enhancing tourism and stimulating economic growth. These developments are set to make the island even more accessible, bringing travellers closer to experiencing all that Trinidad has to offer.
In 2024, Caribbean Airlines has strengthened its regional connections by adding new routes to Tortola, Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Puerto Rico, providing greater access to these islands for regional travellers. The airline has also increased its flights to Toronto, now offering 11 services per week, reflecting the demand from North America.
International airlines have also bolstered their services to Trinidad. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines now connects Trinidad with Amsterdam three times a week, with flights on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. British Airways has launched a direct service from London, operating three times weekly and increasing to five times during peak seasons (Carnival and Christmas). Copa Airlines has enhanced its service to Panama, offering 10 weekly flights with seamless onward connections to Latin America.
Additionally, Frontier Airlines has introduced flights to Puerto Rico three times a week, and American Airlines now flies twice daily to Miami, expanding connection options for travellers. JetBlue has increased its service from New York, offering 11 flights per week, and United Airlines has added a new route to Newark, supplementing its daily flights to Houston. American Airlines continues their twice daily direct services to Miami with onward connections.
These strategic alliances with leading airlines like KLM, British Airways, Copa, United Airlines, American Airlines and Caribbean Airlines are positioning Trinidad as a key destination in the Caribbean. With a projected 300,000 visitors expected in 2025, these developments further enhance Trinidad’s appeal as a year-round destination, reinforcing its brand as ‘Always in Season.’
KLM’s inaugural flight to Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
ECOTOURISM
Trinidad’s rich biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes, and unparalleled wildlife experiences have solidified its reputation as a global eco-tourism destination. In 2023, National Geographic recognized Trinidad and Tobago as one of the top 35 “Best of the World” destinations, highlighting the island’s natural wonders.
One of Trinidad’s most significant eco-tourism attractions is the Grande Riviere Beach, renowned as the densest nesting ground for endangered leatherback turtles in the world! During the nesting season (March to August), thousands of these ancient sea creatures return to the shores where they were born to lay eggs, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to witness this natural phenomenon. Guided night tours offer a safe and respectful way to experience this magical event.
Trinidad is also a paradise for birdwatchers. The island boasts an impressive 494 bird species, including the vibrant Scarlet Ibis at the Caroni Bird Sanctuary and the vast diversity at the Asa Wright Nature Centre. Additionally, with the island being only 5,131 square kilometres in size, this makes Trinidad an excellent choice for birders as our destination has the second highest density of birds in the world.
Butterfly enthusiasts will also be delighted by Trinidad’s over 600 species of butterflies. The island’s rich flora, featuring 2,300 species of flowering plants and shrubs, adds to the visual spectacle that is Trinidad.
Our county’s eco-tourism policies prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility. Eco-lodges, nature centres, and community-driven conservation programs ensure that visitors can enjoy the island’s natural wonders while minimizing their impact on the delicate ecosystems.
#visitTrinidad for an unforgettable nature experience where the wonders of the wild are always in season.
Leatherback turtle / Photo Credit: Adrian Bernard
White Necked Jacobin Hummingbird / Photo Credit: Nadia Sanowar
Gasparee Caves / Photo Credit: Tevin Mills
SPORT TOURISM DEVELOPMENT
Trinidad has made significant strides in recent years to position itself as a premier destination for sports tourism. The country’s commitment to fostering community and entrepreneurial development through sports has been evident in various initiatives.
One of the key developments in sports tourism has been the strategic utilisation of the Hasely Crawford Stadium and the Brian Lara Cricket Academy. These iconic venues continue to host an array of events, both sporting and cultural, which has enhanced the overall tourism product.
This year, destination Trinidad hosted the Pan Am Aquatics, Cricket World Cup, England, and South African cricket tours, the Caribbean Premier League, and the Davis Tennis Cup, showcasing our ability to deliver international-standard sporting events.
To support the growth of sports tourism, Trinidad has invested heavily in developing world-class sports facilities such as the National Cycling Centre, National Aquatic Centre, and National Racquet Centre just to name a few. These venues not only provide excellent training grounds for local athletes but also attract international teams and events, further boosting the country’s sports tourism appeal.
Brian Lara Cricket Academy
National Aquatic Centre
Ato Boldon Stadium
CARNIVAL AND ITS BEGINNINGS – OUR STORY
Many are unaware that Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival has inspired numerous Carnivals worldwide, including the renowned Notting Hill Carnival.
Our Carnival, however, is more than just a celebration; it’s a narrative deeply rooted in our ancestral heritage. This rich history has given birth to unique art forms such as calypso, soca music, and steelpan music. While Carnival symbolizes our past struggles and our creativity, it’s this creative expression that has sparked Carnivals globally, including those in the Caribbean, Toronto Caribbean Carnival, Labour Day in New York, Rotterdam Carnival and of course, the Notting Hill Carnival.
The influence of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival on global celebrations is a testament to the power of cultural exchange. As our unique art forms spread across the world, they carry with them a piece of our history and identity, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of our culture.
Moreover, these global Carnivals also serve as platforms for cultural dialogue and unity. They bring together diverse communities to celebrate shared histories and experiences, promoting inclusivity and mutual respect. In this way, Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival continues to make a significant impact, not only as a vibrant celebration of our culture but also as a catalyst for global unity and understanding.
TRIBE family of bands, band launch for Trinidad and Tobago Carnival 2023
Moko Jumbie
Steelpan, Trinidad and Tobago's National instrument
MANY REASONS TO VISIT TRINIDAD
Trinidad is a popular destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), with several best-in-class facilities and services available. The island is also home to a variety of unique venues for events, such as the HADCO Experiences at Asa Wright Nature Centre and the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) among many others.
In the Caribbean region, Trinidad is also well known as a major hub for sport as several regional and international sporting events are hosted here throughout the year. The island is home to world-class sporting facilities, such as the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, National Aquatic Centre, National Cycling Centre and the National Racquet Sports Centre.
For the history buffs and the adventure seekers, Trinidad boasts one of the region’s most dynamic array of heritage sites. Our unique landmarks and sites invoke a familiar sense of nostalgia given our colonial past. In fact, Trinidad benefits largely from diasporic tourism industry, an indication of an intrinsic interest by diaspora in reconnecting with the culture and heritage here. From the uniquely constructed Temple in the Sea to the Magnificent Seven buildings, there is something for everyone to see here while in Trinidad.
Our warm culture and people make visiting Trinidad a must for any traveller. While here, be sure to experience any of our colourful and exciting festivals which are hosted throughout the course of the year. Enjoy the unmatched euphoria of being part of the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’, the world-famous Trinidad Carnival. Take every opportunity to immerse yourself in the lights and sights of Divali, or dance to the rhythmic drums our Emancipation celebrations. These festivals offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the island’s rich culture and heritage.
FESTIVAL DEVELOPMENT
Trinidad is a melting pot of cultures, where diverse traditions come together to create a calendar rich with celebrations that reflect the island’s history, spirit, and unity. These festivals provide a glimpse into the heart of Trinidad’s cultural diversity.
At its core is the world-famous Carnival, a spectacular celebration of music, creativity, and freedom that transforms the streets into a sea of energy, colour, and sound. Equally important are the Emancipation Day celebrations, commemorating the liberation of enslaved Africans, and Independence Day, where the nation proudly celebrates its journey to self-governance.
Beyond these national holidays, Trinidad hosts the World Steelpan Festival, honouring the only acoustic instrument invented in the 20th century and a symbol of Trinidadian innovation and cultural pride.
As the year draws to a close, Trinidad’s Festive Season brings together two of the island’s most significant celebrations: Divali and Christmas. Divali, the Hindu Festival of Lights, and Christmas mark a time of family gatherings, illumination, and joy, where the entire island comes alive with lights, food, and a sense of community. This festive season beautifully blends the island’s religious and cultural traditions into a time of warmth and reflection.
In addition to these hallmark events, Trinidad showcases its diversity with festivals dedicated to culinary arts, music, fashion, and more, celebrating the rich creativity of the island. Each festival is an invitation to explore and embrace the unique traditions and innovations that make Trinidad truly one of a kind.
THE CULINARY CAPITAL OF THE WORLD
Trinidad is often hailed as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, with a food scene as vibrant as its diverse culture, where African, Indian, Chinese, and European influences merge into a melting pot of flavours.
Culinary tourism in Trinidad offers more than just a chance to taste; it provides an immersive experience into the heart of local communities. One such community is Paramin, renowned for its fresh herbs and spices that flavour the very essence of Trinidadian cuisine. Spend a day in Paramin, where you can meet local farmers, experience the warmth of community life, and sample traditional dishes crafted from ingredients grown in the village. It’s an unforgettable experience of authenticity and flavour.
Across the island, you’ll find an endless array of local delicacies from roti, doubles, bake and shark, and callaloo. According to international culinary vlogger Mark Wiens, “…the best way to experience Trinidad is to eat your way through it.” This sentiment rings true, as every meal is a journey through the island’s rich cultural heritage.
At the heart of culinary tourism in Trinidad is a strong emphasis on street food culture and community engagement, offering travellers the chance to connect with local food vendors, explore traditional cooking techniques, and savour dishes that tell the story of the island’s history and people. Whether you’re exploring bustling street markets or venturing into the serene countryside, food in Trinidad is more than a meal—it’s an experience.
Mark Wiens experiences Trinidad's unique culinary offering