Asa Wright Nature Centre

Planning a vacation and would like to go bird watching for a day or two to see a Golden-headed Manakin or Bearded Bellbird? How about bird watching in Trinidad and seeing an oilbird or dazzling hummingbirds? If birding is not your forte, then how about basking in the unspoiled beauty of this country?

The Asa Wright Nature Centre, a former cocoa estate nestled deep in the hills of Trinidad's Northern Range and overlooking the Arima Valley, is a notable example of Trinidad's ecological diversity, unmatched elsewhere in the Caribbean. The centre covers hundreds of acres of lush vegetation from deep green forests to cascading waterfalls.

With more than 400 bird species, plus 55 different reptile species, 25 amphibians, 600 butterflies, and over 2,000 types of flowering plants, it is no wonder that the Asa Wright Nature Centre has become a perennial nature lover and birding paradise with birds ranging from Ornate Hawk-eagles to purple honeycreepers, most of which you can see without ever leaving the Jade Vine Terrace or Veranda. The centre offers guided tours to Dunston Cave, the on-site breeding colony of oilbirds - the only night-flying, fruit eating, echo-locating birds in the world.

Oilbird Perched

Ornate Hawk-eagle

Believe it or not, but my experience was truly an amazing one. It did not take more than a few minutes to witness the wonders of this place. The view from the second-story veranda is absolutely amazing. In the nearby distance, one can see honeycreepers, hummingbirds, male white-lined and Silver-beaked Tanagers by the dozens hanging from the bird feeders making sweet melodies as well as some graceful, colorful butterflies alighting in the forest. 

Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you can easily take a stroll down on Discovery Trail, a trail that has become an abode to many more of must-see birds and tropical beauties, or a night hike to see other dwellers, such as scorpions, tarantulas, stream frogs, tree rats and bats (not for the faint hearted). 

Not only is Asa Wright Nature Centre a truly remarkable place and one worth visiting, but it is the gracious, enthusiastic staff that sets it apart and makes you want to come back for another visit. 

If you do decide on visiting, you cannot afford to miss an opportunity to visit or even stay at the Asa Wright Nature and Lodge. Be sure to wear insect repellent and long-sleeved clothes to protect you from any mosquitos on the property.

Asa Wright Nature Centre is open daily from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. The property's $6 to $10 USD admission fee includes a guided tour at 10:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. On-site facilities include restrooms, parking, and a small gift shop. Lunch is also offered on the property but costs an additional fee and requires reservations prior to arrival. 


The Asa Wright Nature Centre Official website: http://asawright.org/