Arrival and Departure: Trinidad

Airport & Airlines

Flight Options

Several airlines offer service to Trinidad's main airport, Piarco International Airport (POS).

Carriers & Routes

Caribbean Airlines: The national carrier, with extensive Caribbean routes and flights to North American cities like New York, Miami, and Toronto, and to London.
North American Links: American Airlines (Miami), United Airlines (Houston, Newark), JetBlue (New York, Fort Lauderdale) provide service.
UK Connections: British Airways connects Trinidad to London Gatwick. WestJet offers seasonal flights from Toronto. Consider flight deals from Dollar Flight Club.

Direct Flights & Seasons

Direct flights are available from major hubs in North America and the UK. Other global regions often involve a layover.

Price Dynamics

High Season Prices: Flight prices are higher during the dry season (January-May), especially around Carnival (February/March). Expect increased fares during major holidays.
Low Season Savings: The low season (July-November) generally provides more affordable fares. Use tools like Skyscanner for comparisons.
Book Ahead: Book flights well in advance, notably for peak travel periods, to secure better rates.

Shopping & Dining

Piarco International Airport has duty-free shops and various restaurants and cafes for travelers.

Car Rental & Financial

Major car rental agencies have counters inside the terminal. ATMs and currency exchange services are available.

Connectivity & Lounges

Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport. Several airline and independent lounges are available.

Airport Transfers

Taxi & Ride-Sharing

Official airport taxis wait outside the terminal; agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Local ride-sharing apps like TT RideShare and Drop operate in Trinidad and are an option.
Fares to Port of Spain typically range from TT$200-TT$350 ($30-$50 USD), depending on your exact destination.
Confirm your airport transfer before arrival. This avoids any confusion or delays, especially for late-night arrivals.

Pre-booked & Public

Many hotels offer airport shuttle services, providing a convenient transfer option.
You can arrange private transfers through local tour operators for a guaranteed ride.
Limited public bus service operates from the airport. This option is not advised for travelers with luggage.
Pre-booking your transfer streamlines your arrival and lessens stress.

Road Network & Driving

Road Quality

Road quality varies across the island. Main roads are generally paved and in reasonable condition. Smaller roads, specifically in rural areas, can be poorly maintained with potholes and narrow sections.

Driving Challenges

Driving in Trinidad can be challenging due to aggressive local drivers, narrow roads, and inconsistent signage. Drive defensively and with caution.

Traffic Hotspots

Expect significant traffic congestion, especially during peak hours in and around Port of Spain and along the East-West Corridor. Plan your travel times accordingly.

Sea Connections

Inter-Island Ferry

The Trinidad and Tobago Inter-Island Ferry Service connects Port of Spain (Trinidad) with Scarborough (Tobago).

Ferry Details

Fast ferries take about 3-3.5 hours travel time. Conventional ferries take approximately 5-6 hours.
Booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons and holidays.
Port of Spain is a popular destination for cruise ships, which typically dock at the Port of Port of Spain.

Port Procedures

Immigration procedures for sea arrivals mirror air arrivals. Passengers arriving by ferry from Tobago or by cruise ship must go through immigration.

Arrival Flow

Present your passport and any required declaration forms upon arrival.
From the Port of Port of Spain, taxis and public transportation (maxi-taxis and buses) are readily available.
You can easily connect to your accommodation or other parts of the city.

Departure Checklist

There are no specific exit fees for air travel from Trinidad. These charges are typically included in your airfare.

Departure Guidance

Arrive at Piarco International Airport at least 3 hours before your international flight.
This allows ample time for check-in, security screening, navigating the airport, and any unforeseen delays.
For ferry departures to Tobago, arrive at the terminal at least an hour before your scheduled departure, especially if you have a vehicle.

Departure Facilities

Piarco International Airport provides a range of facilities for travelers.

Amenities Available

Piarco International Airport offers various facilities beyond security, including shops, restaurants, and lounges.
For ferry departures from the Port of Port of Spain, facilities are more basic, often limited to waiting areas and basic amenities.
The modern terminal building of Piarco International Airport serves as Trinidad's main air gateway.

Travel Insurance Reminder

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly encouraged for any trip to Trinidad.
Your policy should cover medical emergencies and hospitalization.
Coverage for emergency medical evacuation is an important consideration.

Trip cancellation or interruption coverage protects your investment.
Baggage loss or delay coverage offers peace of mind for your belongings.
Research different policies from providers like Insubuy to find adequate coverage.

Smooth Departures

Departure Timing

Arrive at Piarco International Airport at least 3 hours before your international flight.

Time Management

This provides ample time for check-in procedures.
Allow time for security screening, which can involve queues.
Navigating the airport efficiently is part of the process.
Be prepared for any unforeseen delays that may arise.

Airport Facilities

Piarco International Airport offers various amenities for departing travelers.

Post-Security Amenities

Beyond security, you will find a selection of shops for last-minute purchases.
Various restaurants and cafes are available for dining before your flight.
Several airline and independent lounges offer comfortable waiting areas.

Air Departure

Ensure a smooth exit by arriving early at Piarco International Airport.

Ferry Departure

For Tobago ferries, arrive at the terminal an hour before departure, especially with a vehicle.

Final Preparations

Confirm flight or ferry schedules and any last-minute travel advisories.

On the Road

Driving Conditions

Road quality varies across the island. Main roads are generally paved and in reasonable condition.

Road Quality & Challenges

Smaller roads, specifically in rural areas, can be poorly maintained with potholes and narrow sections.
Driving in Trinidad can be challenging due to aggressive drivers.
Signage can be inconsistent, making navigation difficult in some areas.

Traffic & Safety

Expect significant traffic congestion, especially during peak hours in and around Port of Spain and along the East-West Corridor.

Traffic & Road Safety

Drive defensively and with caution at all times.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants of a vehicle.
Speed limits vary: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on main roads, and 100 km/h on highways.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry to Tobago

The Trinidad and Tobago Inter-Island Ferry Service connects Port of Spain (Trinidad) with Scarborough (Tobago). You can choose between fast ferries (approx. 3-3.5 hours) and conventional ferries (approx. 5-6 hours).

Cruise Ports

Port of Spain is a popular destination for cruise ships. Ships typically dock at the Port of Port of Spain, providing easy access to the city.

Immigration & Connections

Immigration procedures for sea arrivals are similar to air arrivals. Taxis and public transportation are readily available from the Port of Port of Spain.

Final Advice

The modern terminal building of Piarco International Airport serves as Trinidad's main air gateway, embodying the island's commitment to welcoming travelers.

Arrival and Departure