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Trinity Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
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The Trinity Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is located in southeastern Trinidad and encompasses a rugged terrain named after the three prominent peaks sighted by Christopher Columbus in 1498. Established in 1934, it is one of the oldest protected areas in the nation, dedicated to conserving a critical expanse of seasonal evergreen tropical forest. The hills reach elevations of approximately 300 meters and are geologically composed of Tertiary sandstones and shales. This sanctuary is a vital stronghold for endangered species, most notably the Trinidad Piping-guan (Pawi), the island's only endemic bird, and the ocelot. It functions as a key biological corridor in the southern region of Trinidad. The area is also historically significant for its petroleum reserves, necessitating a careful balance between industrial activity and environmental stewardship. The forest canopy includes valuable timber species like mahogany and West Indian cedar. Despite surrounding land use, the sanctuary’s core remains an indispensable refuge for the island's indigenous terrestrial fauna.
- Location: Trinidad and Tobago
- Nearby: Rio Claro (12 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 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 97 | 56 | 48 | 55 | 125 | 237 | 220 | 220 | 154 | 186 | 209 | 174 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The Trinity Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is located in southeastern Trinidad and is accessible via remote roads from Guayaguayare. Access is often through forest tracks that are difficult to navigate, especially during the rainy season, requiring a rugged vehicle.
Best season
The dry season from January to May is the preferred time for visits, as the tracks are more navigable and wildlife observation in the forest is easier. During the rainy season, heavy rainfall can make paths impassable and cause humidity levels to rise extremely high.
Terrain & paths
The terrain is characterized by steep, forested hills that are part of the Trinity Hills Range. The dense primary and secondary forest features a challenging topography with slippery slopes and thorny undergrowth, making movement off the established tracks difficult.
What to bring
Full hiking gear including robust boots, long clothing for protection against insects and plants, and a reliable navigation system are essential. As this is a wildlife sanctuary, you should also bring binoculars for animal observation in their natural habitat.
Parking
There are no official parking lots within the sanctuary; vehicles are usually left at access points or in consultation with local forestry authorities. It is important to park the car so that it does not block the passage for forestry vehicles in the narrow terrain.
Safety
Due to the remoteness and the dense forest, you should only enter the area with an experienced guide. Watch out for wildlife and poisonous plants; additionally, communication by mobile phone is often impossible in many parts of the wildlife sanctuary.
Time needed
A visit usually takes an entire day, as the travel to and from the site alone consumes a lot of time. Hikes through the dense forest are time-consuming, so you should plan for at least six to eight hours to experience the nature undisturbed and safely.
Geography
Facts
- The sanctuary was formally established in 1934.
- The highest of the three peaks rises to 291 meters above sea level.
- It is the primary habitat for the critically endangered Trinidad Piping-guan.
- The hills were the first landmark Columbus saw on his third voyage.
- The total area of the sanctuary exceeds 16,000 acres.
- Geological surveys show rich deposits of sandstone from the Miocene epoch.
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
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a guide for the sanctuary?
Yes, a guide is highly recommended to avoid getting lost in the dense forest.
What equipment should I bring?
Sturdy footwear, long clothing for insect protection, and plenty of water are essential.
What is the difficulty level of the trails?
Trails are often slippery and steep; good physical fitness is a prerequisite.
Are there many mosquitoes in this forest area?
Yes, high-strength insect repellent is strictly required.
Can you camp in the sanctuary?
Wild camping is not permitted; please visit the area only during the day.
Trinity Hills Wildlife Sanctuary: where is it located?
Trinity Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Trinidad and Tobago.
Trinity Hills Wildlife Sanctuary: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Trinity Hills Wildlife Sanctuary: why is it worth visiting?
The Trinity Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is located in southeastern Trinidad and encompasses a rugged terrain named after the three prominent peaks sighted by Christopher Columbus in 1498.
Nearby cities
Princes Town
A historic town in southern Trinidad, named after the British princes Albert and George.
Hardbargain
A village near Princes Town.
Tableland
A rural community in the Princes Town region, known for agriculture.
Moruga
A historic village on the south coast, purported to be a landing site of Christopher Columbus.
Brothers Road
A village in southern Trinidad known for its rural landscape.
New Grant
A settlement in the Princes Town region with a mix of residential and agricultural lands.
Piparo
A village famous for the eruption of its mud volcano in 1997.
Rio Claro
A town in southeastern Trinidad that serves as an important agricultural center.
Ecclesville
A rural village in the Mayaro-Rio Claro region.
Biche
A rural village in central Trinidad, surrounded by forests.
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Guayaguayare
A fishing village on the southeastern tip of Trinidad where the island's first oil was found.
Mayaro
A long, uninterrupted beach on the east coast, popular for holidays and fishing.
Tabaquite
A rural town in central Trinidad, historically known for its railway line.
Mamoral
A rural village in the central plains of Trinidad.
Manzanilla
A long stretch of coastline on the east coast, lined with thousands of coconut trees.
Nature
More places
Trinity Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
A hilly forest sanctuary in southeastern Trinidad.
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Southeastern Hills
Hilly area in southeastern Trinidad.
Mayaro Coast Lowlands
Lowland along the Mayaro coast.
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Guayaguayare Lowlands
Lowland in the far southeast.
Nariva Swamp
Large wetland on the east coast.
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Tabaquite Hills
Hilly landscape in central Trinidad.
Bush Bush Sanctuary
A protected swamp and forest area near Nariva.
Aripo Savannas
A unique savanna and wetland system.