Live wild and free in Tobago

In association with: Tobago Tourism Agency

Natural wonders come with a side of adventure and relaxation on this untouched Caribbean island

On the Caribbean island of Tobago, hiking to waterfalls, swimming with turtles and enjoying sunset cocktails are part of everyday life. If you have clients looking for a holiday that combines unspoiled beaches and nature with adventures and a vibrant culture, look no further.

Whether they’re into relaxing on the sand or exploring on foot, they are sure to uncover something beautiful in Tobago. And it’s easy to reach with British Airways, thanks to a direct weekly service in the summer and twice‑weekly flights for the rest of the year.

Into the wild

Wildlife abounds in Tobago, both on land and in the sea. Lush emerald rainforest blankets most of the island and gives shelter to many of Tobago’s 260 bird species, such as the white-tailed sabrewing hummingbird and the cocrico, Tobago’s national bird.

December to April is the best time to explore prime birdwatching sites such as Little Tobago Island and the Miss Mills Trail or to visit Tobago’s Adventure Farm and Nature Reserve to marvel at the native hummingbirds. On Grafton Bay and Stone Haven Bay, visitors can also enjoy the rare sight of nesting turtles when giant leatherbacks come ashore from March to September.

And beneath the waves, snorkelling and diving open up Tobago’s underwater world, where clients can swim alongside rays, sharks and tropical fish in the colourful reefs.

Beautiful beaches

There’s no shortage of unspoiled beaches in Tobago, from secluded bays perfect for snorkelling to sustainable stretches of sand. There are a few not to miss, including King’s Bay and Mt Irvine Bay, which have Blue Flag pilot status, Pigeon Point and Parlatuvier Bay.

Delicious food and local shops can be found at Store Bay, which has all the amenities needed for a family day out. More-adventurous clients can head for No Man’s Land, a remote, deserted beach accessible only by boat, making it popular for snorkelling.

And when the sun goes down, clients can go on a guided bioluminescence tour, where they try out kayaking or paddleboarding to witness sparkling plankton making the waves glow blue.

Tour the outdoors

There’s more flora and fauna inland. The Main Ridge Forest Reserve is waiting to be discovered on hiking trails that wind through the trees to scenic viewpoints. Follow these to Argyle Falls (main picture), where you can swim in the pool at its base.

Visitors should bring binoculars when hiking popular birdwatching route the Gilpin Trace, while Pigeon Peak is the island’s highest point, offering spectacular views over the coast.

Alternatively, they can hit the trails on two wheels with mountain bikes, following paths through protected forests and hilltops. Northeast Tobago has even been awarded Unesco Man and the Biosphere status, making it the largest Unesco site in the English-speaking Caribbean.

Island life

Beyond Tobago’s natural wonders, visitors won’t find it hard to immerse themselves in local culture. For true Tobagonian flavours, sample popular dishes such as curried crab and dumplings in beachside restaurants.

And afterwards, try ‘liming’, the local term for relaxing and chatting with friends, while sharing food and drink. Over Easter, Tobago’s social calendar welcomes the renowned Buccoo Goat and Crab Races, which attracts locals and visitors from all over, and July brings the Tobago Heritage Festival, a celebration of the island, complete with music, dancing, food and festivities.

For more inspiration and information to help book your clients on a trip to Tobago, visit:

travelweekly.co.uk/tobagohub

5 top stays in Tobago

Starfifish Tobago

In Tobago’s west, Starfish has a beachside bar, three restaurants and a pool. Its beautiful rooms all have ocean views, and the location is perfect for activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, which are included in the price.

Castara Retreats

This eco-retreat offers treetop and beachfront suites, with kitchens, living areas and balconies, overlooking the bay. There’s also an alfresco restaurant, yoga classes and sustainability initiatives.

Adventure EcoVillas

Here, guests can stay among hummingbirds and fruit trees in wooden cabins overlooking the reserve. Excursions on offer include birdwatching, scuba diving and sailing.

Shepherds Inn

Set in tropical gardens with spacious family rooms by the pool, Shepherd’s Inn also has a Tobagonian restaurant and is certified by Green Key.

Manta Lodge

For guests who want to explore below the waves, Manta Lodge and Dive Resort is close to the beach in the northeast of the island, and just a short drive from the Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve.

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PICTURES: Natalie Kriwy