Things To Do
in Arima
Arima is a historic town in northeast Trinidad tucked at the foothills of the Northern Range. It is famous for its lively market, friendly residents, and access to lush green landscapes just beyond the urban core. The town serves as a convenient gateway to nearby caves, waterfalls, and nature trails.
Visitors enjoy a relaxed Caribbean vibe with easy connections to Port of Spain and the island’s diverse cultural offerings.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Arima Valley, where you'll enjoy the lush scenery and fresh air. After a leisurely breakfast at a local café, head to the Arima Dial, a prominent landmark that showcases the town's historical significance. Explore the surrounding area and engage with friendly locals who may share stories of the town's rich heritage.
Wander through the streets of Arima, stopping at the vibrant craft market to find unique handmade souvenirs. Enjoy a traditional Trinidadian lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes like doubles or roti. Afterwards, visit the nearby Santa Rosa First Peoples Community, where you can learn about the indigenous culture and history of Trinidad.
As the sun sets, take a stroll through the charming streets of Arima, soaking in the warm Caribbean atmosphere. Head to a local bar to experience the lively sounds of calypso music and maybe even join in a dance or two. For dinner, treat yourself to a feast at a renowned local eatery, savoring the flavors of Trinidad.
Begin your adventure with a hearty breakfast before heading to the stunning Maracas Falls, just a short drive from Arima. Enjoy a guided hike through the lush rainforest, surrounded by exotic flora and fauna, as you make your way to the cascading waterfalls. Once you arrive, take a refreshing dip in the cool waters while soaking in the breathtaking views.
After your hike, have a picnic lunch by the falls, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Spend some time exploring the trails nearby, discovering hidden gems and enjoying the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Capture the moment with photographs of the vibrant wildlife and stunning scenery.
Return to Arima and unwind with a relaxing evening at a local café, sipping on refreshing tropical drinks. As night falls, consider attending a local festival or cultural event if available, immersing yourself in the community spirit. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner, trying out local specialties like callaloo or crab and dumplings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | TT$40-70 |
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | TT$60-120 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | TT$6-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | TT$250-450 |
| 🚎Local transport (bus/taxi) per ride | TT$3-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant, approachable local culture and friendly residents
- Excellent market scenes and diverse local cuisine
- Easy access to nature in the Northern Range and nearby caves
- Compact town feel with quick trips to Port of Spain
- Nightlife is modest compared to larger cities
- Some roads and sidewalks can be uneven or crowded during peak times
- Public transport options may require planning for longer trips
- Hot and humid conditions can be tiring in peak day heat
- "Wah gwan" - What's going on? / How are you?
- "Good morning" - Buenos días (English usage) / Good morning in English contexts
- "Where is the market?" - Where is the market? (in English commonly understood storefronts)
- "How much is this?" - How much is this? (TTD)
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "I don’t understand" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Arima
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful stalls, vendors assembling wares, and the early-morning bustle provide dynamic street photography opportunities.
Limestone formations and natural shadows create dramatic shots, with bat colonies visible on guided tours.
Ridge viewpoints overlook the town and surrounding greenery, perfect for sunset panoramas and nature shots.
Food in Arima
Arima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A one-pot dish of rice, pigeon peas, meat, and caramelized sugar, often found at local stalls and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
A beloved street snack of spiced chickpeas tucked into a pillowy fried bread; perfect for a quick, flavorful bite.
A creamy green leaf soup typically served with dumplings or akbari sides, reflecting local greens and spices.
A staple quickly found in many eateries: roti filled with aloo (potato) or channa (chickpea) curry, often with a chutney kick.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can taste fresh fruit, provisions, doubles, aloo pies, and other street-food staples.
Along Main Road and adjacent lanes, you’ll find small vendors offering roti wraps, bake and shark ingredients, and sweet snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly 'Good morning/afternoon' goes a long way. A warm smile and a handshake are common in informal settings.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred sites; ask before photography in sensitive spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Arima
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In sit-down restaurants, 5-10% is common if service is not included. Small tips for taxi drivers and guides are typical but discretionary.
Cash is widely used; many small eateries accept TT$ and some cards. Larger establishments may take cards or mobile payments; carry some local currency for markets and street stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with cooler evenings; ideal for outdoor activities and markets. Humidity remains high, but rainfall is minimal.
Frequent showers and tropical downpours; lush greenery and vibrant landscapes abound. Pack a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear; some forest trails can be slippery.
Tropical storms can occur. Monitor local advisories, secure outdoor items, and plan indoor activities during rough weather.
Arima at Night
Hiking in Arima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in Trinidad in the Northern Range; a rewarding and challenging hike with panoramic views.
A moderate cave hike leading to limestone chambers and interesting geological features.
Gentle to moderate trails around the Arima valley offering rainforest scenery and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Arima by plane.
The main international airport serving Trinidad; about a 25–40 minute drive to Arima depending on traffic. From POS you can hire a car or take a taxi to Arima.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the largest communities on the island, contributing to the cultural and musical landscape.
Another major community shaping cuisine, festivals, and language variations.
A diverse segment reflecting Trinidad’s multicultural mix.
Includes smaller communities and expatriates contributing to the local economy and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A major sport across Trinidad; local streets and parks often host informal cricket games in the evenings.
Widely played and watched; local leagues and pickup games occur in community fields.
Regional schools and clubs participate in sprinting and field events; community events sometimes feature short races.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for roti with aloo or channa, callaloo, fried plantains, dal curries, and fresh fruits. When ordering, specify no meat stock or fish sauce and ask for dhal puri or roti with dal to keep meals plant-based.