Caroni Swamp Marsh

Address: Caroni Swamp, west coast of Trinidad, accessible from Carapichaima/Caroni and the Gulf of Paria

Hours: Tours typically operate at dawn and dusk (when birdlife is most active)

Admission: Boat/safari fees and park conservation fees typically apply; check local operators for current pricing

Caroni Swamp is a mangrove wetland on the west-central coast of Trinidad, south of Port of Spain. It is a coastal estuarine area known for its mangrove forest, tidal channels and birdlife.

The swamp is notable for supporting large populations of waterbirds, most famously the scarlet ibis, which form evening roosts numbering in the thousands and can be viewed by guided boat tour. Visitors also encounter diverse mangrove vegetation and estuarine fauna.

The wetland lies on Trinidad’s Gulf of Paria coast in the country’s west-central lowlands and is accessed from nearby villages and boat-launch points along the shoreline.

• Best time to visit: Dusk boat tours are the most reliable way to observe the large roosts of scarlet ibis, which congregate in the mangroves at sunset.

By boat: Organized tours depart from Port of Spain and Carapichaima; most visitors take a guided boat tour to navigate the channels safely. By car: Access points are limited - use local operators for the best and safest experience.

• Bring binoculars for birding - Caroni Swamp is prime habitat for scarlet ibis and many waterbirds at dawn and dusk.
• Book an organized boat tour from Port of Spain or Carapichaima for knowledgeable guides and safe navigation through mangrove channels.
• Protect camera gear and electronics from salt spray; mornings and evenings are best for photography and wildlife viewing.