Down D' Islands Tour- Gasparee Caves

Gasparee Caves, situated at Point Baleine on the north-eastern side of Gaspar Grande Island is a favourite destination for foreign visitors and locals alike. This hike is rated a “3” as it is moderate in complexity and can be completed by almost anyone.

The Island’s geological features consist of limestone rocks composed mostly of coral, oolites and sea shells. Formation of the main cave occurred when water containing carbon dioxide dissolved the limestone to form crystals of calcium bicarbonate. Over time, the crystals accumulated creating stalagmites; they extend upward from the cave floor, and stalactites that extend downward from the roof. The crystals grow and evolve into pillars that stem from the roof to the floor. The crystals in the cave have transformed themselves into fascinating shapes, and some have the appearance of a dinosaur head, a chandelier, two lovers hugging and even flowers.

What makes the cave most attractive is that the sea water enters the cave through and underground source to create a translucent blue pond with a depth of 10-20 feet.

Cumaca Cave

Located in the eastern area of the Northern Range, the Cumaca Cave hike is filled with exciting activities which are quite recreational and educational as well. The hike is moderately challenging with a rating of “5” due to the constant gentle uphill and the distance to complete which should take the average hiker about 2.5 hours one way. The cave itself is made by a river that flows throughout its length from which hypogean fishes also known as the semi-blind catfish are residents. The Cumaca Cave is also home to the Guacharos-Oil Birds which are the only nocturnal fruit eating birds in the world. On entrance to the cave you will be greeted by the unique cries of the Oil Birds which will intensify as you get engulfed by the cave and inevitably by the Oil Birds themselves. The cave has many chambers that can be explored all of which will leave you thrilled.

Tamana Caves

The Tamana Caves hike is a hike that you will never forget. The hike starts off in the late afternoon in the Tamana Village which is located south of Sangre Grande, Trinidad. The hike is rated a “3” or moderate in complexity and is estimated to take 1.45 hours one way and a total distance of 4 miles. A steady climb uphill is necessary to arrive at the apex of Mount Tamana. The pictographic views of the Northern Range and the Central Plain will be seen as you stand at an altitude of 750 feet at Mount Tamana. At sunset you descend downhill to the caves for an amazing experience. As darkness creeps up, the main reason for the expedition comes alive, with the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of bats from the caves. The caves interior is composed of calcium carbonate which makes perfect conditions for the bats. An estimated population of 1.5 million bats of 12 different species inhabits the Tamana Caves. This makes Trinidad the largest colony in the Caribbean and the second largest in the world next to Mexico.