Tobago

ProvinceTrinidad and Tobago, North America

Tobago is a STATE in Trinidad and Tobago, North America.

Tobago, the smaller sister island of Trinidad, is a Caribbean paradise renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty and laid-back charm. Often called 'Robinson Crusoe Island' after the literary character, Tobago boasts the world's oldest protected rainforest, the Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve, established in 1776. Its crown jewel is the stunning Buccoo Reef, a protected marine park perfect for snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours. Pristine beaches like Pigeon Point, Englishman's Bay, and Castara offer powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Beyond its shores, Tobago is a haven for birdwatchers, with the famous Bird of Paradise among its 260 species. The island's rich culture is a blend of African, European, and indigenous influences, celebrated in vibrant festivals like the Tobago Heritage Festival and the lively Carnival. From the historic Fort King George overlooking Scarborough to the magical Nylon Pool, a natural offshore sandbar, Tobago offers an authentic and tranquil escape far from mass tourism.

Best time to visit Tobago

The best time to visit is during the dry season from January to May, when rainfall is lowest and the weather is sunny and pleasant. This period avoids the hurricane season (June to November), though Tobago is less affected than other Caribbean islands. The peak tourist season is December to April. The Tobago Heritage Festival (July/August) and Carnival (typically February/March) offer fantastic cultural experiences but come with higher prices and crowds.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Warm 26-32°C, rainy

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Low

End of rainy season

Know before you go

Getting there

TAB

A.N.R. Robinson International Airport

International

1 km away

POS

Piarco International Airport

International

80 km away

Getting around

"Public transportation consists of privately owned maxi-taxis (shared vans) and route taxis, which are inexpensive but follow set routes. Private taxis (not metered) are available; agree on a fare before departure. Car rental is highly recommended for exploring the island independently; an international or national driver's license is required, and driving is on the left. Scooter and bicycle rentals are also available in tourist areas. There is no ride-hailing app like Uber. Ferries and domestic flights connect Tobago to Trinidad."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in hotels and cafes in Scarborough and tourist areas

Local SIM

Local SIM at airport from $5 (Digicel or TSTT)

Calling code

+1 868

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Scam risk is low but be wary of unofficial tour guides and overpriced taxis.

Night safety

7/10

Scam risk is low but be wary of unofficial tour guides and overpriced taxis.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Tobago is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions apply. Violent crime against tourists is rare, but petty theft (bag-snatching, theft from unattended vehicles) can occur, especially in crowded areas like markets. Avoid isolated beaches and walking alone at night. Use hotel safes for valuables. Be cautious when hiking in remote areas; use a guide. Scams are uncommon but be wary of overly friendly strangers offering deals. The Crown Point and Scarborough areas are typically safe. Driving can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads."

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities are available but limited. The main public hospital is the Scarborough General Hospital. Private clinics exist in Scarborough and Crown Point. Travelers should have comprehensive travel health insurance. No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccinations are recommended. Dengue fever is present; use mosquito repellent. Tap water is generally safe in urban areas, but bottled water is advised in rural regions. Pharmacies are well-stocked. For serious emergencies, medical evacuation to Trinidad or abroad may be necessary."

Culture

Local customs

"Tobagonians are known for their friendly, relaxed 'limin'' culture (hanging out). Dress is generally casual but modest when not at the beach; cover up when visiting towns or shops. A friendly greeting is appreciated. Tipping is not mandatory but customary in restaurants (10-15% if service charge not included) and for taxi drivers and tour guides. Respect the environment; do not touch or stand on coral reefs. Sunday is a quiet day, with many businesses closed."
English

Costs and practicals

Currency

Trinidad and Tobago Dollar (TTD) · $

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$8-15 | a local meal at a casual restaurant costs around $8-15

Hotels

$60-120 | mid-range hotels range $60-120/night

Local transport

$1-2 | maxi taxi ride ~$1-2

Cost notes

Prices are in USD. Luxury resorts can exceed $300/night.

Timezone

America/Port_of_Spain -04:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

60,874

Area

300 km²

Government

Tobago House of Assembly (Autonomous Island Government within the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago)

ISO code

TT-11

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: TT-TOB, Тобаго, Tobāgo, Tobago, Port Louis, Scarborough, Skarboras, Skarboro, askarbwrw, sakarabaro, sikariboro, skarabaro, skaraboro, skarbrw, skarbwrw, skarbwrwgh, sukaboro, Скарборо, اسکاربورو, سكاربوروغ, سکاربرو, سکاربورو, स्कारबोरो, স্কারবারো, ਸਕਾਰਬਰੋ, ስካርቦሮ, スカーボロー

Capital CityMajor HubBeachNatureDivingHikingFamily-FriendlyRomantic