Tobago Trinidad And Tobago Travel Guide
Tobago experiences a tropical climate, offering warmth year-round, with two main seasons: a dry season and a wet season. The dry season (January to May) brings lower humidity and consistent sunshine, with average temperatures from 28°C to 30°C. This period offers ideal climate for open-air activities and beach relaxation.
The wet season (June to December) brings higher humidity and increased rainfall. Average temperatures here range from 30°C to 32°C. Rain often comes briefly, heavy bursts, clearing quickly to reveal sunshine.
Hurricane Season officially runs from June 1st to November 30th. While Tobago is geographically south of the main hurricane belt, tropical storms can still affect it. The highest risk occurs from August to October. Direct hits on Tobago are rare, but indirect effects like heavy rainfall and strong winds are possible.
Travel insurance that covers weather-related disruptions is recommended if traveling during this period.
June 1st - Nov 30th
Tobago sits outside the main hurricane belt, reducing direct hit probabilities.
Heavy rainfall, strong winds, rough seas from passing storms.
Dry Season (Jan-May)
Excellent visibility for scuba diving and snorkeling conditions.
Higher demand for tours and accommodations at this time.
September - April
More diverse sightings during these months.
Paths can be muddier, but the landscape is lush.
While the main celebrations happen in Trinidad, Tobago hosts its own smaller, yet lively, events and fetes. Planning well in advance is recommended if you wish to experience Carnival festivities.
Usually held in April, this international music festival attracts music lovers and has a lively atmosphere, showing various genres and creators.
Held annually on Easter Tuesday, this unique cultural event offers entertainment and local flavor.
Showcases local traditions and the past through performances and occasions in July.
Celebrates marine life and culinary delights with fishing competitions and food stalls.
Sailing event combining competitive racing with festive celebration.
Village-specific celebrations of agricultural bounty and community spirit.
Trinidad and Tobago maintains specific regulations for visitors based on the nationality. Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for short tourist stays.
Many nationalities do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days. A valid passport is necessary.
Have these documents ready for immigration upon arrival.
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended. Your policy should cover medical emergencies, trip disruptions, plus lost bags.
Tobago offers travel experiences for various budgets. The local currency is the Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD), symbolized as TT$.
Exchange rates fluctuate. Approximately A SINGLE dollar equals 6.78 TTD (as of late 2023/early 2024). You can exchange currency at banks and some hotels, with banks generally offering better rates. Cash machines are common in major towns like Scarborough and Crown Point, dispensing TTD.
Credit cards, mainly Visa and MasterCard, are accepted at most hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. For smaller purchases, street food, and local transport, carrying some TTD cash is advisable.
Focus on local experiences and self-sufficiency, using public transport and local eateries. This allows for basic comfort and local immersion.
Daily cost: TT$250-TT$610 (approx. $37-$90 USD)
Less spending flexibility for tours or private transport.
Enjoy a balance of comfort and value, with a mix of local and casual dining, and some guided tours. This offers a comfortable experience with more flexibility.
Daily cost: TT$800-TT$1750 (approx. $118-$258 USD)
Some higher-end services may stretch this budget.
Indulge in premium experiences and services, including luxury resorts, fine dining, and private transfers. This provides a high-end, pampered experience.
Daily cost: TT$2000+ (approx. $295+ USD)
Budget can expand rapidly with bespoke experiences.
| Category | Type | Price Range (TTD) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Guesthouse/Budget Apt | 150 - 300 / night |
| Meals | Street Food/Local Roti | 20 - 40 / meal |
| Transportation | Car Rental (per day) | 250 - 400 |
Tobago is generally a safe destination, but staying informed and taking precautions is always wise. Prioritize your well-being with appropriate vaccinations and smart personal safety practices.
If arriving from or transiting through a risk country.
Especially if eating street food or visiting rural areas.
Scarborough General Hospital is the main public facility.
Prevention is important for a healthy trip.
Mosquito-borne diseases (Dengue Fever, Chikungunya, Zika) are present. Traveler's diarrhea can be an issue. Intense sun exposure can bring about sunburn or heatstroke.
Always use Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, wear long sleeves during dawn/dusk, and use High SPF reef-safe sunscreen.
Drink Bottled water or purified sources. Practice good Hand hygiene.
For all police emergencies and crime reports.
For medical emergencies and urgent transport.
For fire-related incidents and rescue operations.
Tobago is generally safer than Trinidad, notably in tourist areas. Petty crime can occur in crowded areas or on isolated beaches.
Tobago is in a seismically active zone, with minor earthquakes occurring. Heavy rainfall during the wet season can cause landslides in hilly areas.
Risk from June to November, peak August-October. Stay informed via local news.
Minor tremors are common but rarely cause significant damage.
Possible after heavy rains, notably on serpentine roads in hilly terrain.
