Eastern Tobago: Reefs at Kelleston Drain

Kelleston Drain lies off the southern tip of Little Tobago. There, sloping reefs lead to brain corals described as the largest of their kind in the Caribbean; some even consider them the largest in the world. This exceptional size ranking is qualified: they are described as the largest in the Caribbean, while some consider them possible contenders for the world’s largest.

Trinidad and Tobago as an island nation

Trinidad and Tobago is an archipelagic nation in the southern Caribbean, northeast of Venezuela and south of Grenada. The country covers 5,128 square kilometres and consists of the two main islands, Trinidad and Tobago, as well as 21 smaller islands. Trinidad is the larger and more populous of the two main islands. This context helps place the following natural and cultural experiences geographically: they are specifically associated with Tobago or Trinidad and form part of a wider island setting than Eastern Tobago alone.

On Tobago: rainforest, hummingbird and reef

The Main Ridge Forest Reserve on Tobago covers 3,958 hectares of tropical rainforest. It includes lower montane rainforests, lowland rainforests and xerophytic rainforests. The Main Ridge extends lengthwise across about two-thirds of Tobago. The British established the reserve in 1776. The rare White-tailed Sabrewing (Campylopterus ensipennis), endemic to Tobago, finds a habitat in the reserve’s rainforest. For nature enthusiasts, the topics range from the extent of the forest area and its different forest types to the habitat of a rare species.

Another way to experience Tobago’s nature is at Buccoo Reef. Tropical fish live there, and the reef is known for its colourful corals. You can explore it by glass-bottom boat or on a dive; check the current availability of operators before your trip. The contrast between these natural environments is clear: Main Ridge is about rainforest and bird habitat, while Buccoo Reef is about corals and marine life.

On Trinidad: Carnival, waterfall and the Great Race

The run-up to Carnival in Trinidad includes steelpan limes and Panorama competitions. At pan-yard limes, visitors can chat with locals and listen to live steelpan music; these events are seasonal and organised locally. The main street parade of Trinidad Carnival takes place on Carnival Monday and Carnival Tuesday. Carnival dates change every year, so it is worth checking the dates for your planned trip.

One natural attraction on Trinidad is the Rio Seco Waterfall. It is about 30 feet high and forms a large, deep pool at its base where swimming is possible. As water conditions can vary, it is advisable to take care on site. Another reason to travel is the annual Great Race: the speedboat race starts in Trinidad and ends in Tobago. A natural attraction with a swimming pool and a recurring race between the two main islands offer different kinds of travel experiences.

Choose the right focus for your trip

When looking for a holiday rental in Eastern Tobago, nature may be an important focus for planning your trip; Kelleston Drain lies off the southern tip of Little Tobago. For other interests, it is worth distinguishing between the islands’ attractions: the rainforest and Buccoo Reef are on Tobago, while Rio Seco and Carnival are on Trinidad.

Discover other subregions

Speyside, Charlotteville, Belle Garden

Discover more destinations

Tunapuna-Piarco, Couva-Tabaquite-Talparo, Tobago, Trinidad, Diego Martin

Back to the main travel overview: Trinidad and Tobago.