Special Interests / Caribbean Birding

From oceanic rainforest to grassland savannah and coastal lagoons...

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Caribbean Birdwatching

There are few regions in the world with as wide a variety of birdlife as that embraced by the Caribbean archipelago. Contrasting landscapes and habitats, from oceanic rainforest to grassland savannah and coastal lagoons, occur in close proximity where accessibility is rarely a problem, and sightings of rare endemics are virtually guaranteed in some protected forest reserves.

Each island has its own group of avid birders and most tour companies their own specialist guides. Much of the joy of birdwatching in the Antilles is down to the up-close and personal stuff, often over breakfast, with the subjects generally less fearful than their city counterparts. For the real aficionado, Jamaica has more endemics for its size than any island worldwide and Trinidad is blessed with a staggering array of avifauna, supremely well projected at the internationally renowned Asa Wright Nature Centre and Pax Estate in the Northern Range.

Local knowledge is paramount and it is always advisable to engage a guide; wet weather gear and sturdy footwear, never flip flops, are basic requirements plus a readiness for the early morning rise. Parrot watchers take note—the best sightings are after dawn, or at a late evening roost.

For further information on Birding, why not read our articles Birds of Trinidad and Tobago or Birds of St Lucia.

Top accommodation for Birdwatching

Blue Waters Inn,Tobago Boutique/Small Hotels & Inns

A delightful 38-room hotel in beach club style set in its own pretty, remote cove in north-eastern Tobago. Read more
Canboulay,Tobago Villas & Villa Living

This elegant plantation house brings a modern touch to traditional Caribbean style, with landscaped gardens and sweeping views across the nearby golf course. Sleeps 8. Read more
Sugar Mill,Tobago Villas & Villa Living

A melt in the mouth hideaway oozing character and charm thanks to its setting in a replica Caribbean sugar mill built from local stone and decorated with murals. Sleeps 8. Read more
Mot Mot Villa,Tobago Villas & Villa Living

Wooden floors and antique furniture lend a rustic feel to this modern, but gracious plantation-style hillside retreat which enjoys a wonderfully private and peaceful location. Sleeps 6. Read more
Top O' Tobago,Tobago Villas & Villa Living

Located in a tranquil spot, this versatile villa blends modernity with traditional touches. Sleeps 10. Read more
Mt Plaisir Estate Hotel,Trinidad Boutique/Small Hotels & Inns

A classic, cool beach hideaway in the far north east of Trinidad. Just 13 stylish suites on a natural beach at Grande Riviere. Read more
Hôtel Le Toiny,St Barthélemy Hotels & Resorts

A secluded and refined small hotel with cottages ranged across a hillside in the east of St Barths. There are just 15 private suites, each with a pool and decorated in gracious style, Read more
Castara Retreats,Tobago Cottages & Apartments

Wooden, Haiku-style cottages set above Castara Bay and a beautiful 200-metre stretch of beach. Read more
Asa Wright Nature Centre,Trinidad Boutique/Small Hotels & Inns

One of the world’s finest birding lodges, set in a classic 24-room Caribbean plantation house. Read more