Client quotes: “ A superb trip in every way, thank you Sarah-Jane”

 

Introduction

Less than half a day’s flight from here, lie two sun-kissed islands in the Caribbean Sea, yet only a few miles from mainland South America. English speaking, compact, beautiful and bird-filled Trinidad and Tobago await, a true natural history paradise. Over 430 species of bird have been recorded, over 100 species of mammal, 55 species of reptile, 23 amphibians, over 630 species of butterfly not forgetting at least 2300 types of flowering plants. WildWings continue to exclusively represent Pax Guest House, where you are assured of not only the warmest welcome in the Caribbean, but possibly the world, courtesy of your hosts Gerard Ramsawak and Oda van der Heijden. We offer simply the best value tropical birding holidays available, from only £999 inclusive for a week’s stay in Trinidad based at Pax. Alternatively we can tailor-make your dream combination of properties on both islands.  Frequent flights operate direct from London Gatwick to both Trinidad and Tobago with British Airways and there are seasonal charters to Tobago too.

 

The islands offer an easy introduction to many of the bird families of South America, with generally easy to see species of each. The winter half of the year these birds are increased by overwintering migrants from North America. Much exotica is included, birds like motmots, jacamars, honeycreepers, trogons, tanagers and of course those ultimate of gems, the hummingbirds. These can be watched from literally feet away feeding on flowers in front of your face. Sit quietly on a forest path and, with patience, you may encounter a mixed flock moving through the undergrowth, often pursuing ants. The evening cruise into the Caroni Swamp will leave you with lasting memories of the Scarlet Ibis flying in to roost. Whilst at the Nariva Swamp, witness the chattery roosting Red-bellied Macaws, in the Royal Palms, as the tropical sun sets behind them. Marvel at the strange Oilbird as they sit out the day in their cave homes. Tropical flora abounds, including orchids and other beautiful flowers. Butterflies are headed by the spectacular electric blue morphos as they float through the forests. Photographic opportunities are excellent.

 

The historical Pax Guest House is centrally situated for some of the best birding Hot Spots on the island. Perched on the Northern Range, offering far-reaching views of secondary and primary rainforest to the north and the Caroni Plains to the south. There is a network of trails, giving guests a chance to discover the rich diversity of bird life on the estate. From the Guest House’s Hummingbird Terrace you can see 12+ species that frequent the garden flowers and feeders, honeycreepers and tanagers also coming into the garden from the forest for food. The Avian Terrace, just off the main dining room, is an excellent viewpoint for the many species of raptor that cruise overhead.  The gardens and estate grounds warrant at least two full days birding and easily more. The property is a past favourite with both Sir David Attenborough and Bill Oddie and has won a number of awards in the last few years including first place in the Ministry of Tourism ‘Customer Satisfaction Award’ .

 

The world-famous Asa Wright Nature Centre, also in Trinidad, is set in full primary rainforest and offers many additional species including an Oilbird colony at the Dunston Cave. We offer air-inclusive package to this property too, at a fraction of the price of some of other birding tours on the market, from only £1479 per person.

 

The paradise neighbour island of Tobago offers birdwatchers some superb bonus species not found on Trinidad including the White-tailed Sabrewing and Blue-backed Manakins high in the central forests whilst on uninhabited Little Tobago, you can sit on the cliffs and watch tropical seabirds swirl around you. We offer air-inclusive packages from only £989 per person.

 

The ideal birding holiday would be a week at Pax including the Birding Package, 3 nights at Asa Wright exploring the forest trails, and 4 nights relaxing, with more birding of course, on Tobago, prices from £2199 per person (full board at Pax & Asa Wright, bed and breakfast at Blue Waters, all in rooms with private facilities). The choice is yours and we are happy to advise you to suit your requirements.  Needless to say, the islands are also a wonderful honeymoon destination.

 

Trinidad and Tobago are also ideal for groups and clubs, free, or reduced-cost places may be available for group organisers (minimum 10 paying persons).

 

WildWings offer the most flexibility and best value to these enchanted islands.

 

We guarantee you a wonderful time whatever your level of interest in birds and natural history or if you want to just lie in the sun in tropical surroundings. Our hoteliers and guides greatly look forward to welcoming you. Contact Sarah-Jane Thompson at WildWings for your quote and booking.