Tobago

Caribbean

If old Caribbean style and excellent diving are what you are looking for, then Tobago is the place for you.

Tobago is located at the very bottom of the Caribbean chain of islands about 50 miles north of South America. One of the most alluring characteristics of Tobago is that it has remained largely undiscovered. This provides limitless opportunities for the enthusiast to explore tropical nature in all its forms. The two highlights on Tobago's resume of natural attractions are the Lower Mountain Rain Forest, the western hemisphere's oldest rainforest preserve and the extensive coral reefs that fringe the shorelines. Combine these earthly wonders with a content, peaceable and happy local population, and the simple charm of Tobago is revealed.

Tobago is a year round diving destination as it is located about 11 degrees north of the equator which is outside of the normal paths of hurricanes. There may be the odd windy day as tropical storms pass by, but it rarely ever disrupts the diving schedule. The key area for diving in Tobago is in the North East (Speyside). There are some 40 divesites here, all within a 5-20 minute boat ride from Speyside jetty. The reefs here are in lush condition and there are two islands providing plenty of shelter.

Speyside is a small fishing village with very little commercial facilties, and because of the lack of construction here, the inshore reefs as some of the best diving in all of the Caribbean. Nutrient rich waters from the Atlantic and South America mingle offshore of Tobago, then flow to shore where they feed the opulent coral reefs encircling the island. Tropical sea life is abundant, and snorkelling, scuba diving and glass bottom boats are popular pastimes, and permit visitors to enjoy such sights as the worlds' biggest brain coral (WBBC), manta rays, moray eels, seahorses, colourful fishes and astonishing coral reefs.

The terrain in Tobago is mountainous along the central spine of the island, sloping gently southwest into grasslands and savannas. The lowlands shelter mangrove swamps to explore, and serene beaches lined with palm trees circle the island, perfect for sun-tanning or quiet relaxation. Higher up the rainforest rules! With the variety and easy opportunity existing to view nature at her finest, it's no wonder that Tobago is fast becoming an eco-travellers paradise.

So come visit Tobago, and see what everyone else is missing! You'll be glad you did.