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WildWings, 577 Fishponds Road, Fishponds, Bristol. BS16 3AF.UK
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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 and Oda Ramsawak. We offer simply the best value tropical birding holidays available, from only £999 inclusive for a week-escorted birding in Trinidad based at Pax. Alternatively we can tailor-make your dream combination of properties on both islands. Flights are thrice weekly direct from London Gatwick to Trinidad with British Airways. There is also a limited services to Tobago with BA, Virgin and various charter flights.
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 unforgettable memories of the Scarlet Ibis flying in to roost, whilst at the Nariva you will wait by palm trees at sunset for the Red-bellied Macaws to arrive noisily. 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.
Pax Guest House is situated overlooking a valley of secondary forest with walking trails, part of an estate with agricultural areas. It’s ever growing list of birds is swelled by over 10 species of hummingbird at the garden feeders, honeycreepers and tanagers also coming into the garden from the forest for food. The terraces form an excellent viewpoint for the many species of raptor that cruise overhead. The gardens and estate warrant at least two full days birding and easily more. The Ministry of Tourism have recently awarded Pax the best ‘Customer Satisfaction Award 2004’, beating all the other properties in the islands (including the luxury hotels!) . The property is a favourite with both Sir David Attenborough and Bill Oddie. The Asa Wright Nature Centre, also in Trinidad, is set in primary rainforest and offers additional species. Our superb value Birding Packages based at Pax Guest House now include a visit to the Oilbird colony at Dunston Cave.
The paradise neighbour of Tobago offers birdwatchers some superb bonus species 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
The ideal birding holiday would be a week at Pax (the famous birding package), 3 nights at Asa Wright exploring the forest trails, and 4 nights relaxing, with more birding of course, on Tobago, prices from £1499 per person (full board at Pax & Asa Wright, room only at Blue Waters, all in rooms with private facilities). You can save up to £1000 per person travelling with WildWings to the islands compared with the many expensive inclusive tours available from the UK. 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.
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.
The best of the Islands
Having sent hundreds of people to the islands over the last ten years we are pleased to suggest our ‘best of’ combinations to maximise your birding.
The Best of Trinidad
7 nights Pax Guest House Birding Package plus 3 nights at the Asa Wright Nature Centre from £1469 per person sharing a twin room with private facilities, full board.
The Best of Trinidad and Tobago
7 nights Pax Guest House Birding Package plus 3 nights at the Asa Wright Nature Centre and 4 nights at Blue Waters Inn (room only) from £1599 per person sharing a twin room with private facilities, full board.
