Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve

The Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve is the oldest legally protected forest in the Western Hemisphere, established by an act of the Tobago House of Assembly in 1776. The reserve covers the mountainous spine of the island — a 29-km chain of peaks and ridges running from northeast to southwest, with elevations reaching 640 m at the highest point. In 2020, it was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognising its exceptional biodiversity.

The forest is tropical moist broadleaf, with towering hardwoods, tree ferns, bromeliads, and a dense understorey of palms and vines. It is home to over 200 bird species, including the white-tailed sabrewing hummingbird (found only in Tobago and Venezuela), the rufous-tailed jacamar, the collared trogon, and the blue-crowned motmot. Mammals include agouti, ocelot (rare), and several bat species. The forest also shelters reptiles, amphibians, and a rich insect fauna.

The reserve is not a single park with an entrance — it is accessed via multiple trailheads along the north-coast road between Moriah and Roxborough. There is no visitor centre, entrance fee, or formal infrastructure. Most visitors explore with local guides, who know the trails, birding spots, and seasonal conditions.

By Plane

A.N.R. Robinson International Airport (TAB) at Crown Point is 30–50 km from the various trailheads. Allow 45–75 minutes by car depending on which trailhead you are accessing.

By Car / Road

Trailheads are accessible from the north-coast road (between Moriah, Castara, and Charlotteville) and from the east-coast road near Roxborough. The Gilpin Trace trailhead is one of the most popular, accessed from the road between Moriah and Castara. From Scarborough, trailheads are 30–50 minutes by car. Roads are paved but narrow and winding.

There are no roads within the reserve — movement is on foot along marked and unmarked trails. The main trails (Gilpin Trace, Boo-boo Trace, Niplig Trace) range from 1–5 km in length and take 1–3 hours. A local guide is strongly recommended, as trail markings are minimal and the forest canopy can be disorienting.

• Gilpin Trace — The most popular and well-maintained trail, a 1.5 km path through primary forest. Excellent for birdwatching, with opportunities to see hummingbirds, trogons, and manakins. Allow 1–2 hours.

• Boo-boo Trace — A longer, more challenging trail through dense forest, suitable for experienced hikers. Rich in birdlife and tropical flora.

• Main Ridge viewpoints — Several clearings along the ridge offer panoramic views of both coasts.

• Guided birdwatching walks — The reserve's primary attraction. Local guides know the best spots and times for sighting rare species. Half-day guided walks cost TT$200–400 per person. The dry season (January–May) is best for birdwatching.

• Nature photography — The forest's dramatic lighting, epiphytes, and wildlife offer excellent photographic opportunities.

• Hiking — The trails range from easy (Gilpin Trace) to moderate (Boo-boo Trace). Wear sturdy shoes, long trousers, and carry water and insect repellent.

• Flora identification — The forest has over 200 tree species, numerous orchids, bromeliads, and ferns. Guides can identify medicinal plants used in traditional Tobagonian medicine.

There are no food facilities within the reserve. Pack a lunch or eat before/after your visit at restaurants in Castara (10–15 minutes from the Gilpin Trace trailhead) or Scarborough (30–45 minutes).

Bring your own water — at least 1 litre per person for a half-day walk. The forest is humid and the trails can be strenuous. No water sources within the reserve are safe to drink without treatment.

• Budget: There is no accommodation within the reserve itself. The nearest guesthouses are in Moriah (10 minutes from trailheads), Castara (15 minutes), and Roxborough (20 minutes from east-coast trailheads).
• Mid-range: Eco-lodges and guesthouses in Moriah and Castara (US$70–140/night) offer proximity to trailheads and can arrange guided walks.
• Upscale: No properties near the reserve; the nearest upscale options are in Charlotteville or at Crown Point.

There are no shops or facilities within the reserve. Bring all supplies (water, snacks, insect repellent, rain gear) from Scarborough or the nearest village.

• Castara — 15 minutes from the Gilpin Trace trailhead; beach, snorkelling, and community tourism.
• Moriah — 10 minutes from trailheads; hillside village with panoramic views.
• Roxborough — 20 minutes from east-coast trailheads; the main settlement on the east coast.
• Speyside — 30 minutes from east-coast trailheads; world-class diving and Little Tobago island.