Port of Spain

Trinidad's capital and the Carnival capital of the Caribbean, with the 'Magnificent Seven' mansions beside the Queen's Park Savannah; head north to the beach at Maracas Bay, or watch scarlet ibis return to roost in the Caroni Swamp.

Port of Spain is the capital of Trinidad and Tobago, located in the northwest corner of Trinidad on the Gulf of Paria, backed by the lush Northern Range and facing Venezuela across the sea. The city is known for its blend of African, Indian, European, Chinese and other cultures, and is the Carnival capital of the Caribbean. It is hot year-round; Jan–May is the dry season and the best time to travel, while Jun–Dec is the rainy season, with frequent afternoon showers, though the island lies south of the hurricane belt and is rarely hit by hurricanes. Carnival, held every Feb–Mar on the two days before Ash Wednesday, is the highlight of the year; book accommodation six months ahead.

Sightseeing falls into four parts. First, downtown, centered on the Queen's Park Savannah: the 'Magnificent Seven' on the west side, the Botanic Gardens and zoo to the north, the National Museum to the south, and farther south the Red House, Woodford Square and Independence Square. Second, the north coast: cross the mountains to Maracas Bay for bake and shark, continuing on to Las Cuevas and Blanchisseuse. Third, the Chaguaramas peninsula in the west, with its seaside boardwalk, bays and the Gasparee Caves. Fourth, day trips east and to central and south Trinidad: watch scarlet ibis return to roost at dusk in the Caroni Swamp, go birdwatching at the Asa Wright Nature Centre in the Northern Range, and visit the Temple in the Sea, the Hanuman statue and the Pitch Lake at La Brea.

Getting there: Piarco International Airport is about 30 km east of the city, about 40 minutes by taxi. Public transport in town is mainly 'maxi taxi' minibuses; visitors are advised to use licensed taxis, hotel-arranged cars or a private driver. Plan on 3–4 days; if heading to Tobago, take the fast ferry from the downtown port or connect by air at the airport. For safety, avoid walking at night downtown and in areas such as Laventille, and keep valuables out of sight.

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