Trinidad: Avocat Waterfall Hike & Maracas Beach Lunch Tour

Summary

Hike to Avocat Waterfall then unwind at Maracas Beach

You’ll hike through Trinidad’s lush rainforest to reach Avocat Waterfall with a local guide, swim or relax beneath its powerful cascade, then head to Maracas Beach for sun and Trinidad’s famous Bake n Shark sandwich (included). Expect muddy shoes, laughter with your group, and moments that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the air — thick, green somehow, like you could almost taste the leaves. Our guide, Marcus, grinned when he saw me staring up at the canopy. “Chlorophyll high,” he joked, waving us along the riverbank. The trail wasn’t hard but it did twist and dip, roots everywhere. My shoes got soaked early on (should’ve worn sandals), but honestly, I stopped caring after a while. There was this moment where the sound of the waterfall started to drown out our chatter — just this steady roar that made everything else feel far away.

When we reached Avocat Waterfall, it was bigger than I’d pictured — not just tall but loud and wild, throwing mist everywhere. Marcus told us to stand close for a “natural massage.” I laughed but tried it anyway; cold water pounding my shoulders, spray in my face. It felt good. Some of us swam in the pool below — shallow on one side, deep enough to float on the other. The rocks were slippery and I nearly lost my footing once (Marcus caught me with a quick hand). He pointed out some plant whose name I can’t remember now — something about healing minerals in the water. Maybe that’s why people come here for yoga or whatever spiritual stuff.

After drying off (sort of) we piled back into the van for Maracas Bay. The road wound like crazy — if you get carsick easily, maybe bring something for that. At the beach, sunlight bounced off everything and there was this salty-fried smell from all the food stalls. We lined up for Bake n Shark sandwiches (included in the tour), stuffing them with pineapple and pepper sauce like Marcus showed us. He laughed when I overdid it on the hot sauce — rookie mistake. Sitting there eating with sand stuck to my legs and salt in my hair felt weirdly perfect.

I still think about that waterfall sometimes — how loud it was, how small I felt standing under it. If you’re looking for a day trip from Port of Spain that’s more than just sightseeing, this one sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rainforest hike and beach relaxation

• Hike to Avocat Waterfall
• Relax at Maracas Beach

Top questions

How difficult is the hike to Avocat Waterfall?

The hike is considered easy and accessible even for non-hikers, though there are some roots and wet areas along the riverbank.

Is swimming allowed at Avocat Waterfall?

Yes, you can swim in the pool at the base of Avocat Waterfall; both shallow and deep sides are available.

What food is included on this tour?

The tour includes Trinidad’s famous Bake n Shark sandwich at Maracas Beach; non-fish eaters can make their own private purchase.

Are guides local on this waterfall tour?

Yes, tours are led by local guides who share knowledge about Trinidad’s rainforest plants and history.

Does this day trip include pickup?

The tour includes bottled water but does not specify hotel pickup; check directly with your provider before booking.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with health issues?

This tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnant travelers due to hiking requirements.

How long does it take to get from Port of Spain to Avocat Waterfall?

The drive involves winding roads; exact timing depends on traffic but expect significant curves which may cause car sickness.

What’s included

Your day includes guided hiking through Trinidad’s rainforest to Avocat Waterfall with bottled water provided along the way; after swimming or relaxing at the falls you’ll continue on to Maracas Beach where Trinidad’s world-famous Bake n Shark sandwich is included before heading back home sandy and satisfied.