Trinidad and Tobago are a stunning federal Caribbean island nation just off the coast of Venezuela. They are generally considered part of the West Indies and are one of the most rewarding destinations in the dreamy Caribbean. The islands are some of the most stunning tropical destinations that most have never heard of.

The country is a federal state with the union of the much larger island of Trinidad and the smaller island of Tobago. The country is an electric mix of African, Indian, and other cultures and there are plenty of culturally enriching activities one can do on the islands. There is plenty to see on both islands.

What To Know About Trinidad & Tobago

Throughout its history, the island of Tobago has been ruled by more European countries than others in the Caribbean. It was ruled by the Spanish, French, British, Dutch, and Courlanders (today's Latvia) and most of its population are today of Indian and African descent. Eventually, the islands ended up in British possession and the islands of Trinidad & Tobago were united in 1889 and achieved independence in 1962.

  • Developed: Trinidad & Tobago Is Comparatively Developed

Today it is one of the most developed countries in the Americas and is considered a high-income economy. While most Caribbean countries rely heavily on tourism, Trinidad and Tobago enjoys a more diverse economy. That gives rise on the main island of Trinidad to a striking contradiction at times of pristine mangrove swamps and rainforest hills next to industrial oil refineries.

  • Tourism: Trinidad and Tobago Is Less Touristic Than Many Caribbean Countries
  • Heritage: Predominately Indian and African

Trinidad and Tobago is famous for its blend of African and Indian cultures and some of its famous festivals include Carnival, Diwali, and Hosay. Being a rich melting pot of cultures, Trinidad and Tobago is something of a foodie's dream with mouthwatering cuisine.

  • Travel Advisory: Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution

With the proper safety precautions, Trinidad and Tobago is a safe destination and as of May 2022 is listed with a Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution rating by the US Department of State.

No visas are required for those with American, Canadian, or European passports and most people can visit visa-free for up to 90 days.

Use the island's official tourism website to plan one's trip to Trinidad - its leatherback turtles, beaches, rainforests, and festivals.

Related: 20 Caribbean Paradises You Can Visit For Less Than $50 a Night

Trinidad - The Main Island With Biodiversity And Rainforests

In Trinidad (and Tobago) one will find a maritime tropical climate with a dry season and a rainy season. Unlike many Caribbean islands, Trinidad is outside the main hurricane alleys. In the past, Trinidad was connected to South America and so has a biological diversity, unlike that is found on most other islands in the Caribbean.

  • BioDiversity: Akin To That Of Neighboring South America
  • Key Attraction: See The Nesting Leatherback Sea Turtles

One of Trinidad’s natural history wonders is the viewing of the nesting of leatherback sea turtles on Matura and Grande Rivière beaches. Some have termed this magnificent creature "the last living dinosaur."

  • Size: 4,768 km2 (1,841 sq miles)
  • Population: 1,267,000
  • Capital: Port of Spain

The population of Trinidad is very mixed with the two largest groups being of African and Indian descent.

Related: 20 Caribbean Destinations Where It's Better (And Cheaper) Not To Stay At An All-Inclusive Resort

Tobago - The Forgotten Caribbean Paradise

"Indulge in a truly authentic Caribbean escape where the wild and untamed beauty of nature is rivaled only by the genuine warmth and hospitality of its people."

Visit Tobago

Tobago is by far the smallest of the two islands and is located around 22 miles northeast of Trinidad. Tobago has everything one could expect from a Caribbean island experience. It is a land of palm trees and white sand beaches while still being largely unspoiled by tourism.

  • Population: 61,000
  • Size: 300 km2 (120 sq mi)
  • Official Language: English

Tobago is also famous for birdwatching as well as diving and its luxuriant rainforests that offer a nice break from the constant beaches. In the rainforests, one can find hiking trails and waterfalls.

The evenings come alive with an electric nightlife and must-see Carnivals. The population of Tobago is mainly of African heritage.

Tobago has a full range of accommodation options for anyone coming to visit and has everything one is looking for a little more off-the-beaten-track destination without the crowds of the U.S. Virgin Islands.