Chasing Tobago’s Waterfalls: A Sample of the Island’s Falls
Posted Jun 12, 2023
A trip to Tobago isn't complete without visiting some of the most majestic sights on the island. With approximately 26 rivers converging from the Main Ridge Rainforest, this gave birth to more than 14 known waterfalls across the island, and far more to be discovered. Chasing waterfalls was never easier with so many to choose from. Few of these are officially named, but most are referred to colloquially by their "village names." You can even give these waterfalls a name of your own! Although a plethora of them are easily accessible, all waterfalls expeditions are best done with a guide to prevent any incidents.
Looking for somewhere to start? You can add these waterfalls to your bucket list:
Craig Hall Waterfall, Moriah
First on the list is Craig Hall Waterfall, just off the Northside Road after the village of Mason Hall, and approaching Moriah. It is the most accessible waterfall with a short stair leading to the start of the trek upstream. An absolutely picturesque location; however, persons are not permitted to bathe in its pool by the Water & Sewage Authority. A tour guide is not required but necessary precautions should be exercised nonetheless.
Highland Waterfall, Moriah
Downstream of Craig Hall leads you to Highland Waterfall, the tallest single drop waterfall on the island of Tobago. Highland Waterfall is lesser visited due to its difficulty to locate. However, a tour guide will gladly take you there. The trek is recommended for beginner to intermediate hikers. The absolutely scenic waterfall is nestled under a canopy of trees, and its water descends into a deep pool that is ideal for a rejuvenating swim.
Castara Waterfall, Castara
The Castara Waterfall is ideal for beginning hikers, and family fun as it is one of the most accessible waterfalls on the island. Just opposite the Castara Government Primary School in the picturesque fishing village of Castara, the trailhead starts at the field and heads upstream for less than half a kilometer. A tour guide is not necessary but exercise necessary precautions. The natural, deep pool makes a refreshing alternative to the sea and is typically secluded for peaceful, private bathing.
Green Hill Waterfall, Mount St. George
Best visited in the rainy season, Green Hill Waterfall resides at Easterfield Road, Mount St. George. There is a scenic park that surrounds all its levels, but due to its location bathing can be a bit difficult. A tour guide is not required but exercise necessary precautions to prevent injury or accidents.
Rainbow Waterfall, Goodwood
One of the most picturesque waterfalls in Tobago that preludes another. Rainbow Waterfall can be found in Goodwood, and is situated just outside of the Rainbow Nature Resort, where a user fee may apply for use of the property. Approximately 20 minutes’ walk under the trees, in and out of shallow pools of the Goldsborough River, one can follow the natural pathways upstream to lead to the falls. According to 2013 issue of In's & Outs of Trinidad & Tobago, its name comes from Mr. Hughford McKenna, in 1974, as an actual rainbow appears on the 100-metre-high falls between the months of November and March.
Twin Rivers Waterfall, Goodwood
Further upstream from Rainbow Waterfall is the Twin Rivers Waterfall, a definite must see once visiting Rainbow. Its name comes from the joining of two rivers you see along the scenic walk. If you are parked near the Goldsborough River, an easy hike upstream with minimal elevation for about 30 minutes will lead you to the falls. Its pool is roughly 12 feet deep, and serves as a serene, secluded site to unplug and rejuvenate. A tour guide is recommended nevertheless, and Rainbow Nature Resort offers guided tours to the falls on a daily basis.
House River Waterfall, Parlatuvier
Like many of the waterfalls, the Main Ridge feeds this lesser-known small waterfall that is situated just upstream from the famous Englishman’s Bay. Following the stream by roughly 15 minutes will lead you to the smaller falls, and just beyond the climbable rocks leads you to the grandeur sight of the House River Waterfall. Although there's no space to have a dip, this waterfall acts as the perfect outdoor shower as you can just stand underneath! A tour guide is definitely required to exercise necessary precautions, prevent injury or accidents.
Parlatuvier Waterfall, Parlatuvier
Just opposite Jetty Road lies the clearly defined path to one of the more popular waterfalls on the island, Parlatuvier Waterfall. A mere 3-minute walk on the flat path leads you to the first of the three pools on this waterfall. You can typically find locals bubbling a pot and having a river lime. On the leftmost side of the falls is a make-shift pathway to climb to the higher levels, with the highest level being a fairly shallow pool-less than 8 feet deep-filled with crayfish and other aquatic critters.
Argyle Falls, Roxborough
The Argyle Falls is the most publicized waterfall in Tobago. Encircled by lush greenery, its three pools are accessible after a 15-20 minute trek from the office. An entrance fee of TT$60 is required, and a guide is an optional, additional fee. Adventure seekers can ignore the initial cascade as its height hinders the view of the real splendor of the second and third levels. The natural rock tubs are Mother Nature’s spa for your enjoyment, and relaxation. This waterfall is clearly marked in the village of Roxborough.
Gilpin Trace Trail Waterfalls, Main Ridge
The most popular trail in the Main Ridge is the Gilpin Trace trail, the former Roxborough to Bloody Bay track locals used historically prior to development. This trail follows the Bloody Bay River, that flows to Bloody Bay itself, where there are counts of several waterfalls on this trail, some with natural clay deposits giving the rocks a copper hue. The Gilpin Trace Trail is best accessed with a tour guide, especially for its birding and wildlife sightseeing opportunities. Alternatively, the large multidrop falls can be sought by starting at the river mouth in Bloody Bay, and hiking upstream for approximately 2 hours.
King’s Bay Waterfall, Delaford
The King’s Bay Waterfalls’ large rock formation can be found by just slightly veering off the Windward Road in Delaford. It is fairly easy to get to by leaving the car parked at the bottom of the footpath near the roadside, and walking through the concrete track for 15 minutes to the falls. A tour guided is not necessary but extra caution is necessary for those climbing to the top to view the magnificent King’s Bay River.
Dead Man Bay & Waterfall Bay Waterfalls, Man O’ War Bay
As the name suggests, Waterfall Bay features a waterfall on the beach, feeding into the coastline. Waterfall Bay is a small bay that is part of the greater Man O’ War Bay area. It is only accessible by boat, and is a great pair with viewing its neighbors Hermitage Bay, Pink Sand/Lover’s Bay, and Dead Man Bay. Dead Man Bay features a larger waterfall than Waterfall Bay, and is also only accessible by boat. Once upon shore, a short walk, approximately 2 minutes upstream will lead to the waterfall and small pool.
Fountain of Youth Waterfall, Castara
Just off the coast between Castara and Mount Dillon, this waterfall is a magnificent sight that feeds straight into the sea. Although mainly inaccessible, it's best viewed during the rainy season while along a Coastal Tour to see its true prowess.