Amerindian Tribes

Tobago was home to several Amerindian tribes before the arrival of Europeans. These tribes included the Arawaks, Caribs, and Waraos.

The Arawaks were the first known inhabitants of Tobago, and they arrived on the island around 500 AD. They were a peaceful people who lived off the land through fishing, hunting, and farming. They constructed homes made of wood and thatch, and their society was organized into clans and governed by a chief.

The Caribs, who were known for their aggressive nature, arrived on Tobago sometime in the 14th century, and they quickly established dominance over the Arawaks. They were skilled warriors and seafarers, and they used Tobago as a base for raiding nearby islands.

The Waraos, who were a seafaring people from the Orinoco Delta region of present-day Venezuela, also visited Tobago regularly for fishing and trading.

The arrival of European explorers and colonizers in the 16th century brought significant changes to Tobago’s indigenous population. The Spanish, French, Dutch, and British all established settlements on the island at various times, and they often used force to subjugate and exploit the native population. Many Amerindians were enslaved or forced to work on plantations, and their culture and way of life were eroded over time.

Today, there are few remaining traces of Tobago’s indigenous population, although some place names and archaeological sites serve as reminders of the island’s rich pre-colonial history. The Tobago Museum in Scarborough also has exhibits and information on the island’s indigenous peoples

Related Guides

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    Pigeon Point

    Pigeon Point is a popular beach and tourist destination located on the southwestern tip of Tobago, which is an island in the southern Caribbean Sea and part of the nation of Trinidad and Tobago.

    The beach is known for its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and scenic views of the nearby Buccoo Reef. The area has been developed into a beach resort with facilities such as restaurants, bars, changing rooms, and water sports equipment rentals, including kayaks, paddle boards, and jet skis.

    Pigeon Point is also a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving due to its proximity to the Buccoo Reef, which is home to a diverse array of marine life. The beach is accessible by car or taxi from the nearby Crown Point area.

    Pigeon Point is one of the island’s most known beach.
    The entire peninsula is also known as Pigeon Point Heritage Park.

    • Life guards
    • Security
    • Cabanas
    • Water sports
    • Shops
    • Restaurant & Bar
    • Entrance fee – $20.00 TTD for Adults, Kids $10.00 TTD
      under 6 yrs – free

  • Tobago

    Tobago is a beautiful Caribbean island located in the southern part of the Lesser Antilles. It is one of the two main islands that make up the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, a country in the Caribbean Sea. Tobago is located about 30 kilometers northeast of Trinidad and covers an area of approximately 300 square kilometers.

    The island is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and unique culture. The capital of Tobago is Scarborough, which is also the largest town on the island. The island is home to a population of approximately 60,000 people, and the official language is English.

    Tobago has a rich history and is known for its colonial heritage. It was once a Dutch, French, and British colony before gaining independence in 1962. Today, Tobago is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse wildlife.

    Some of the popular attractions on the island include Pigeon Point Beach, Store Bay, Buccoo Reef, and Nylon Pool. Tobago is also home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Tobago Heritage Festival, Carnival, Buccoo Goat Race, and the Great Fete Weekend.

    Tourism is the main industry on the island, and there are plenty of accommodation options ranging from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. Some of the popular activities for visitors include hiking in the rainforest, bird watching, beach hopping, and visiting historical sites like Fort King George.

    The local culture is vibrant and colorful, with music, dance, and festivals playing an important role in daily life. Some of the most popular festivals include the Tobago Jazz Experience, the Tobago Heritage Festival, and the Great Fete Weekend.

    Overall, Tobago is a beautiful and welcoming island that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. It is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the Caribbean in a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path way.

    • Capital – Scarborough
    • People – ~70,000
    • Islands – 6
    • Villages – 36+
    • Districts – 15
    • Towns – 2

    • Length – 25.5 miles
    • Size – 116 mi²
    • Width – 7.5 miles
    • Latitude – 11.2337° N 
    • Longitude – 60.6989° W
    • 21 miles North-East of Trinidad.

    Climate and Geography

    In terms of climate, Tobago has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C throughout the year. The rainy (wet) season runs from June to December, but even during this time, the island still experiences plenty of sunshine.

    Tobago’s climate is pleasant all year round. It is cooler and less humid than Trinidad because of the more frequent northeast winds.

    Government and Population

    Since 1889, Tobago and Trinidad have shared the same government. In 1980 the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) was instituted and was made responsible for administrative governance within the island, with local governance remaining with the city and county councils. In 1987, full internal self-governance was granted to Tobago. The population is approximately 70,000, of which 80 % are of African decent. 

    History

    Tobago has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 5,000 years. The Amerindian Arawaks and the Carib tribes also inhabited the island, before it was colonized by Europeans in the 16th century and became a center of sugar production.

    Tobago changed hands several times between the British and the French, and it was also briefly occupied by the Dutch and Spanish. Today, Tobago is part of an independent nation, but it still retains strong ties to the United Kingdom.

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    Argyle Waterfall

    Argyle Waterfall is a beautiful natural attraction located in the eastern part of Tobago, which is part of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike who want to experience the island’s natural beauty.

    The waterfall is situated in a lush rainforest setting, and visitors can take a short hike through the forest to reach the waterfall. The hike is not particularly challenging, but it does involve some steep inclines and rocky terrain, so it is important to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.

    The waterfall itself is approximately 175 feet tall and cascades into a deep pool below, where visitors can swim and cool off in the refreshing waters. The surrounding forest is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds and butterflies, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

    Overall, the Argyle Waterfall is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Tobago, offering a unique opportunity to experience the island’s natural beauty and explore its lush rainforest environment.

    • The waterfall is located in the area of Roxborough – on the eastern side of Tobago – ‘country side’.
    • Argyle is high multidrop waterfall on the edge of the rain-forest rising over 160ft high.
    • It takes about 15-20 minutes walking along the trail from the entrance to the base of the waterfall.
    • There is a paid entry fee of $60 TTD for visitors.
    • A small bar with snacks and a toilet facility (no shower) is available.
    • Guides are available for hire.

    The waterfall pools can be deep – take caution if swimming!

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    Scarborough

    Scarborough is the capital city of Tobago, a small island nation in the Caribbean. Located on the southwestern coast of Tobago, Scarborough is home to approximately 17,000 people and serves as the administrative and economic center of the island.

    One of the main attractions in Scarborough is Fort King George, a historic fortification that was built by the British in the 18th century. Today, the fort houses several museums and galleries that showcase the island’s history and culture.

    Scarborough is also home to the Market where visitors can purchase fresh produce, local crafts, and other goods. The city is also known for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants, and nightclubs offering a range of entertainment options.

    Other notable attractions in Scarborough include the Botanical Gardens.
    With its mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, Scarborough is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Tobago.

    Scarborough became the capital of Tobago in 1769. Scarborough’s deepwater harbour was built in 1991; before that ships would anchor offshore. The estimated population of Scarborough is approximately ~18K.

    Local Amenities

    • Coast Guard. Police. Fire Services
    • Public Washrooms
    • Public Library 
    • Health Center
    •  Ferry Service
    •  Schools
    • Guesthouses
    • Security
    • Local Market
    • Restuarants & Bars
    • Food Vendors/Craft shops
    • Public Transport
    • Off Road Parking
    • Banks and Credit Unions
    • Supermarkets, stores, hardwares

    Battle of Scarborough 1677 – Before being called Scarborough, the area was called Lampinsburg by the dutch with the bay of Scarborough being called Lampins bay also known as Roquely Bay (Rockly Bay). The Dutch built a fort on top of a nearby hill which is known today as Dutch fort hill in down town Scarborough. In February and December of 1677, the Dutch and French both wanted control of Tobago which lead to a bloody battle in Scarborough bay and on dutch fort hill which resulted in the death of thousands, including French and Dutch women and children and African slaves. Three hundreds years later and the remains of up to 20 warships and their undiscovered artifacts are still in the muddy bottom of what is now Scarborough harbor.

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    Bon Accord Lagoon

    Bon Accord Lagoon is a shallow lagoon located on the southwestern coast of Tobago, which is an island in the southern Caribbean Sea and part of the nation of Trinidad and Tobago.

    The lagoon is separated from the ocean by a narrow strip of land, and is connected to the sea by a narrow channel. The area surrounding the lagoon is known for its mangrove forests and wetlands, which provide important habitat for a variety of bird species, including herons, egrets, and kingfishers.

    The lagoon is also home to a variety of fish, crabs, and other marine life. The area is popular for nature walks, birdwatching, and kayaking tours. Visitors can explore the lagoon and its surrounding mangrove forests on guided tours or by renting kayaks.

    The lagoon is located near the village of Bon Accord, which is accessible by car or taxi from the nearby Crown Point area.

    The Bon Accord Lagoon is surrounded by the mangrove wetlands and the Buccoo Reef making it an important habitat for many species of animals and marine life.

    The lagoon is easier to access by water with boats, kayaks, paddle-board etc.

    What’s near:

    • Buccoo Reef
    • No Man’s Land
    • Mangrove Wetlands
    • Pigeon Point
    • Buccoo Bay
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    Glass Bottom Boats

    Glass bottom boats are a popular way to explore the beautiful waters surrounding Tobago. These boats have a clear glass panel in the bottom that allows passengers to view the underwater world without getting wet.

    There are several tour operators in Tobago that offer glass bottom boat tours. Some of the popular glass bottom boat tours include:

    1. Buccoo Reef and Nylon Pool Tour: This tour takes you to the Buccoo Reef, which is home to a variety of marine life, including colorful corals, fish, and sea turtles. After exploring the reef, the tour stops at Nylon Pool, a shallow sandbar in the middle of the ocean, where you can swim and snorkel.
    2. Store Bay Reef Tour: This tour takes you to the Store Bay Reef, which is located close to the shore and is known for its vibrant marine life. The tour also includes a stop at the No Man’s Land beach, where you can relax and swim in the calm waters.
    3. Glass Bottom Boat Adventure Tour: This tour takes you on a scenic journey along Tobago’s coastline, where you can admire the beautiful scenery and view the marine life through the glass bottom boat.

    The glass bottom boat tours in Tobago are a fun and exciting way to explore the underwater world without getting wet.