Caroni Bird Sanctuary

Overview

The Caroni Bird Sanctuary, renowned among ornithologists, is a mangrove swamp covering an area of 40 square miles (103 square kilometers). This 3.5-hour tour features a guided small-group boat excursion through the swamp, which reveals a multitude of birds including its most famous resident, the scarlet ibis, which is the national bird of Trinidad. This flock of dramatic flame-colored birds arrive each day around 5pm to feed at dusk and roost in the mangrove trees. This tour is timed to witness their arrival. Excellent value for money, Family friendly. All entrance fees included Hotel pickup included. Led by a local guide.

OVERVIEW

The Caroni Bird sanctuary is a 200-acre (81-hectare) protected area within a large mangrove swamp ecosystem on the northwest coast of Trinidad. In 1962, when Trinidad and Tobago became an independent nation, the scarlet ibis was selected as its national bird, and hunting it was prohibited. Over the years, the Caroni Swamp has become one of the country’s premier tourist attractions. The well-experienced guide will navigate through the many channels of the vast swamp, stopping at periodic intervals to point out interesting plants, animal life, and bird species. You are likely to see various herons, egrets, terns, cormorants, silky anteaters, and possibly caiman. The sanctuary’s main attraction is the scarlet ibis, Trinidad’s national bird, which comes in just before dusk to feed and roost on the mangrove plants.