Plizio Visual Lab

Cleaver Woods

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Cleaver Woods Recreation Park is a protected forested area located along the Churchill-Roosevelt Highway near Arima. Spanning approximately 15 hectares, it is renowned for its lush pine and teak plantations which provide a cool sanctuary for local wildlife. The site holds significant cultural value as it houses the Amerindian Research Centre and Museum, which preserves the heritage of Trinidad and Tobago's First Peoples. Established to celebrate the indigenous roots of the Arima community, the museum displays authentic artifacts, tools, and historical narratives of the Carib and Arawak tribes. Visitors can explore various nature trails that weave through the secondary growth forest while learning about the regional ecology. The park serves as a vital educational hub for schools and researchers focusing on the pre-colonial history of the Caribbean islands. Its preservation efforts ensure that the biological diversity of the lowland forest remains intact amidst the surrounding urban development.

Location: Trinidad and Tobago
Top sights: Aranguez · San Juan, Trinidad and Tobago · Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago
Nearby: Laventille (5 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

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Visiting

Cleaver Woods forest park is open to the public during daylight hours. You can use walking trails and picnic areas. Families with kids find playgrounds. Entry is usually free. Enjoy the natural surroundings.

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Typical hours

Parks typically open at sunrise and close at sunset. Exact times may vary seasonally. There are no fixed operating hours.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the park. Use natural light for great shots of flora and fauna. Be mindful of other visitors and the environment.

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Time needed

Plan about 1-2 hours for a walk through the park. With a picnic and playtime, the visit can last up to half a day.

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Combine with

Combine the trip with nearby beaches or nature reserves like the Aripo Savanna. A detour to the nearby coast is worthwhile.

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Getting there

Cleaver Woods is located in eastern Trinidad. By car, access the park via the Eastern Main Road. Parking is available on site. A taxi from Port of Spain is possible.

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Insider tip

Bring insect repellent and plenty of water. Trails can be muddy after rain; sturdy footwear is recommended.

Geography

Coordinates

10.63000, -61.45000

Facts

The park is situated approximately 3 kilometers west of the town of Arima.
It contains a dedicated museum showcasing the history of the First Peoples.
The forest consists of a mix of indigenous species and commercial teak plantations.
It serves as a key site for the Santa Rosa First Peoples Community celebrations.
The area is managed by the Forestry Division of Trinidad and Tobago.
Nature trails in the park provide sightings of numerous tropical bird species.