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Chacachacare Island
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Island
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Chacachacare Island is the westernmost of the Bocas Islands, positioned in the Bocas del Dragón strait between Trinidad and Venezuela. This horseshoe-shaped island has a multifaceted history, transitioning from 18th-century cotton plantations to a significant whaling station in the 1800s. Its most poignant chapter was as a leper colony from 1922 to 1984, managed by the Dominican Sisters. Today, the haunting ruins of the hospital, chapel, and doctors' quarters serve as a testament to this period. At its highest peak, 251 meters above sea level, stands a functional lighthouse established in 1897 to guide vessels through the treacherous currents. The island's ecology is unique, featuring rare dry tropical forests and a landlocked salt pond. Though currently uninhabited, it attracts visitors interested in its somber history and pristine coastal environment. The surrounding waters are known for their depth and diversity of marine life, though the currents remain a challenge for navigation.
- Location: Trinidad and Tobago
- Nearby: Gasparee (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 100 | 61 | 52 | 56 | 117 | 222 | 202 | 202 | 141 | 176 | 213 | 178 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Chacachacare Island is accessible only by boat from Chaguaramas; charter boats are the most common method. Private water taxis can be hired from local marinas for transfer to the island.
Best season
The dry season is well-suited for a visit as the sea is calmer, making landing on the island safer. During the rainy season, strong winds and rough seas can make the crossing more difficult.
Terrain & paths
The uninhabited island's terrain is hilly with forested slopes and abandoned colonial-era ruins. There are paths leading to the lighthouse, but they are steep and can be overgrown with vegetation.
What to bring
Bring all necessities yourself, including water and food, as there are no facilities on the island. Sturdy hiking shoes and sun protection are important for exploring the ruins and paths.
Parking
Park your vehicle at a secure parking lot in one of the marinas in Chaguaramas before boarding the boat. Inquire with your boat operator about recommended and guarded parking spaces.
Safety
Be careful around dilapidated structures in the ruins and do not enter unstable buildings. Since the island is uninhabited, ensure your return transport is firmly scheduled with the boatman.
Time needed
Plan for 4 to 8 hours to explore the island, its history, and the beaches comprehensively. The duration depends heavily on the scheduled times for your boat transfer.
Geography
Facts
- The island covers an area of approximately 900 acres (3.6 km²).
- The highest point, Morne Cabrite, rises 251 meters above sea level.
- The leper colony operated for 62 years before closing in 1984.
- It is located approximately 7 miles from the Venezuelan mainland.
- The island contains a natural inland salt pond near the Sanders Bay.
- Historical ruins include a 1920s-era cinema for the hospital staff.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Chacachacare Island (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What makes Chacachacare Island special?
It is known for its historical past and abandoned ruins.
Can you swim there?
Yes, there are some very beautiful, secluded bays for swimming.
How do you get there?
The island is only accessible by boat from the main island.
Are there accommodations there?
No, it is an uninhabited island with no tourist infrastructure.
Is there anything to keep in mind?
Bring enough drinking water and sun protection.
Chacachacare Island: where is it located?
Chacachacare Island is located in Trinidad and Tobago.
Chacachacare Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Chacachacare Island: why is it worth visiting?
Chacachacare Island is the westernmost of the Bocas Islands, positioned in the Bocas del Dragón strait between Trinidad and Venezuela.
Nearby cities
Diego Martin
An affluent suburban area west of Port of Spain, known for its residential communities.
Carenage
A historic fishing village along the coast west of Port of Spain.
Maraval
A large valley and residential area on the outskirts of Port of Spain.
Westmoorings
One of the most affluent residential areas in Trinidad and Tobago.
Gasparee
Fascinating limestone caves on Gaspar Grande island, featuring a shimmering underground lake.
St. James
A vibrant district of Port of Spain, known as 'the city that never sleeps'.
La Brea
A town famous for the Pitch Lake, the world's largest natural deposit of asphalt.
Point Fortin
A borough and a major center for Trinidad's oil and gas industry.
Point D'Or
An area near La Brea, historically important for asphalt mining.
Cedros
A fishing village on the southwestern tip of Trinidad, close to Venezuela.
Barataria
A residential and commercial district in the San Juan-Laventille region.
Erin
A fishing village on the south coast, known for its beaches and tranquil atmosphere.
San Juan
A major transport hub and commercial center in the San Juan–Laventille region.
Point Lisas
One of the largest industrial estates in the Caribbean, focusing on petrochemicals.
Fyzabad
Historically significant as the birthplace of the labor movement in Trinidad and Tobago.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
La Vache Bay
A secluded bay on Chacachacare island, known for its calm anchorage.
Gasparee Caves
A limestone cave system on Gaspar Grande island, featuring an underground pool.
Chaguaramas Port
A versatile port focused on boat building, repairs, and maritime industry.
Chaguaramas Industrial Estate
An area dedicated to maritime and light industrial activities.
Cronstadt Island
One of the Bocas Islands near Chaguaramas, also known as Begorrat Island.
Tembladora Port
An important transshipment port for industrial goods in Chaguaramas.
Saut d'Eau Island
A small wooded island that protects seabirds.
Saut d'Eau Island
A small, forested island off the north coast of Trinidad, a wildlife sanctuary.