Caroni Swamp and Bird Sanctuary

Caroni Swamp and Bird Sanctuary

Old folks preach that the early bird catches the worm! Boy did i prove that theory wrong 😔. And what was worst is that i'm from Trinidad. When i called my friends to plan the trip to the Caroni Bird Sanctuary, NO ONE told me the place only does tours from 4pm, so i reached down there promptly at 8am and was astounded that there was no one here. My first thoughts; we gonna have ah ball because some of my friends are introverted and shy around people, so no people would of been awesome! So whilst i started to call them, they ridiculously laughed at me for being sooooo early.

Anyway, let me caution you up front! the best way to visit Caroni Swamp and Bird Sanctuary is on a boat tour. A couple of companies operate such trips. We opted to go with Nanan’s, the longest-established operator with the best reputation,see the image for details. Guys! remember the trips leave every day at 4pm.

This departure time is so that visitors get to see the Scarlet Ibis coming in to roost for the night, but the twilight attracts all kinds of biting insects, so a good insect repellent is a must! Seriously BUY BUG SPRAY YOU GUYS! Seriously, don’t go on any tours without it…and get a heavy duty one! I recommend the Off Active one below which can be purchased at any Starlite or Superpharm Pharmacy

We bought our tickets from Nannan's tours for $60TT each which is just under $10 USD. The boat we boarded at first was crowded and we ended up at the back of the boat. I then asked to move because it was too close to the engine. They were super nice and got us off that boat. We then took the next boat and had an amazing experience. The guide was super knowledgeable and helpful and most importantly patient as he waited for each camera toting person a chance to get photos of the wildlife before moving on.

At the start of the tour, our guide gave us plenty of background information on the history of the area and told us all about the wildlife we were likely to see.

The Boats at the Start of Our Tour

Caroni Swamp and Bird Sanctuary covers forty square kilometers of tidal lagoons, marshland and mangrove forest bordering the Gulf of Paria between the mouths of the Caroni and Madame Espagnole rivers. It is home to 157 bird species, as well as caimans, snakes, opossums, raccoons and countless fish and insects. The area was designated a protected wildlife area in 1953, but poaching and industrial waste pollution are still problems here. Nevertheless, the swamp is a beguiling and peaceful place and well worth a visit.

Heading in to the Swamp

This picture shows the mangroves of Caroni Swamp reflected back in the still waters, giving an 'other-worldly' feel to the whole place

An ‘other-worldly’ Feeling

This picture shows a pale brown and cream boa sleeping on a branch above our heads

A Boa Sleeping Above our Heads

Termite Nest

As we chugged along through the swamp, the roots of the mangroves gave the place an ‘other-worldly’ feel. We paused to take photos when someone spotted a boa asleep on a branch above our heads, and again when we saw tiny crabs racing up and down the mangroves. We were fascinated to see large black termite nests attached to the trees. Everywhere was lush and verdant. We were tantalized by occasional glimpses of brilliant bright red Scarlet Ibis through the leaves. They were too elusive to photograph, but beautiful, nonetheless.

As we approached Paria Bay and the open sea, the swamp became deeper and wider and we saw lots of large fish jumping up out of the water.

Roosting Site

This photo shows the trees where the white egret and the Scarlet Ibis roost, gradually turning from green to red and white.

Trees Turning Red and White with Birds

Our guide then found a place to tie the boat up. He cut the engine and we sat in silent awe watching the white egret and the vivid red ibis flying in to roost for the night. What a spectacle! Wave after wave of birds flew in, gradually turning their preferred clump of trees vibrant red and sparkling white. I’ve never seen anything quite like it. We were too far away to get good photos, but it was amazing just to sit and watch one of nature’s miracles. We remained there until the sun set and then returned to our departure point.

More Pics from the Tour!