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Hollis Reservoir

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Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)

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Hollis Reservoir is the oldest man-made dam in Trinidad, constructed between 1934 and 1936 in the foothills of the Northern Range near Valencia. Named after Sir Claud Hollis, the Governor of Trinidad and Tobago at the time, it remains a vital component of the island's water infrastructure, supplying Port of Spain and eastern districts. The reservoir was created by damming the Quare River, resulting in a deep lake enveloped by primary rainforest that functions as a protected catchment area. This pristine environment supports a wealth of biodiversity, including ocelots, spectacled caimans, and over 150 recorded species of birds. Geologically, the site sits on complex sedimentary and metamorphic formations typical of the Northern Range periphery. Public access is strictly managed to prevent contamination and preserve the natural habitat, making it a serene destination for authorized researchers and birdwatchers. The project serves as an enduring example of early 20th-century British colonial engineering integrated with forest conservation.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262627282827272727272726
Rain mm100615256117222202202141176213178

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The reservoir is reached via the Valencia Old Road; a permit from the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) is usually required to enter the protected watershed area.
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Best season
The drier months from January to May offer the most stable weather for exploring the surrounding forested trails without heavy mud and slippery paths.
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Terrain & paths
Expect undulating forest paths that can become very slippery after rainfall; the terrain directly around the dam itself is largely level and easier to navigate.
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What to bring
Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential, along with insect repellent and enough drinking water for a trek in the humid tropical heat.
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Parking
Visitors typically leave their vehicles at the designated entrance gate or in the nearby village of Valencia before starting the trek towards the reservoir.
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Safety
Stay on the marked trails to avoid getting lost in the dense Northern Range forest and observe the strict prohibition of swimming in the reservoir itself.
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Time needed
A standard visit including a trek to the lookout points and back generally takes between three to five hours of moderate physical activity.

Geography

Coordinates
10.67000, -61.26000

Facts

  • The dam was completed and became operational in 1936.
  • It was the first large-scale water storage project in Trinidad.
  • The reservoir covers approximately 40 hectares of surface area.
  • The surrounding forest is a designated Environmentally Sensitive Area.
  • It provides approximately 8 million gallons of water daily.
  • The site is a major nesting area for the tropical kingbird.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

ArimaArima3 km · SWExplore →
Asa Wright Nature CentreAsa Wright Nature Centre4 km · SEExplore →
Northern RangeNorthern Range4 km · EExplore →
El Cerro del AripoEl Cerro del Aripo5 km · NEExplore →
Cocoa Estate OfficeCocoa Estate Office5 km · SExplore →
Cocoa Drying FloorCocoa Drying Floor6 km · SExplore →
CumacaCumaca6 km · NEExplore →
Indigo Dye VatIndigo Dye Vat7 km · WExplore →

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 nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is fishing or swimming allowed in Hollis Reservoir?
No, swimming and fishing are strictly prohibited to protect the water supply.
Is the reservoir a good destination for birdwatchers?
Yes, the area is rich in biodiversity and a popular spot for birdwatchers.
Is the area stroller friendly?
No, the trails are uneven and rustic; a stroller is generally not suitable.
Is a permit required for visiting?
Some protected areas require advance notice or permission from the water authority.
What is the best time of day to visit?
Early morning is best to avoid the heat and swarms of mosquitoes.
Hollis Reservoir: where is it located?
Hollis Reservoir is located in Trinidad and Tobago.
Hollis Reservoir: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Hollis Reservoir: why is it worth visiting?
Hollis Reservoir is the oldest man-made dam in Trinidad, constructed between 1934 and 1936 in the foothills of the Northern Range near Valencia.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Nearby cities

Tunapuna — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Tunapuna
A bustling town in the East-West Corridor, known for its shopping and markets.
Saint Augustine — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Saint Augustine
Home to the main campus of the University of the West Indies.
D'Abadie — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
D'Abadie
A growing residential area located between Arouca and Arima.
Arouca — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Arouca
A historic town in the East-West Corridor, originally founded as a Spanish mission.
Tacarigua — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Tacarigua
A town in the East-West Corridor, home to Trinidad's National Hockey Centre.
Piarco — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Piarco
The location of Trinidad and Tobago's main international airport.
Trincity — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Trincity
A planned community featuring one of the largest shopping malls in the Caribbean.
Curepe — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Curepe
A busy town known as a major junction for public transportation.
Arima — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Arima
A major commercial hub in eastern Trinidad.
Cumaca — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Cumaca
A remote village in the Northern Range, known for its caves and natural surroundings.
Blanchisseuse — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Blanchisseuse
A remote village on the north coast of Trinidad, known for its beaches and hiking trails.
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Talparo
A village in the Couva-Tabaquite-Talparo region with a focus on agriculture.
Mamoral — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Mamoral
A rural village in the central plains of Trinidad.
Sangre Grande — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Sangre Grande
The largest town in northeastern Trinidad and a gateway to the eastern beaches.
Biche — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Biche
A rural village in central Trinidad, surrounded by forests.

More places

Arima Cocoa Estate — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Arima Cocoa Estate
Small cocoa growing areas around Arima.
Asa Wright Nature Centre — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Asa Wright Nature Centre
A world-famous birdwatching center in the hills.
Arima Industrial Estate — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Arima Industrial Estate
An industrial estate hosting various small and medium manufacturing enterprises.
Piarco Logistics Center — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Piarco Logistics Center
A major hub for cargo logistics near the airport.
Yerette Hummingbird Sanctuary — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Yerette Hummingbird Sanctuary
A private hummingbird sanctuary in Maracas Valley.
Cleaver Woods — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Cleaver Woods
A forest and recreation park in eastern Trinidad.
Northern Range — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
Northern Range
The highest mountain range in Trinidad.
El Cerro del Aripo — Hollis Reservoir (Trinidad and Tobago)
El Cerro del Aripo
The highest point in Trinidad.