Things To Do
in Arima
Arima is a vibrant town located in Trinidad and Tobago, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It is home to the annual Santa Rosa Festival, a celebration of the indigenous people's patron saint. Arima is surrounded by lush greenery and offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching in the nearby forests.
The town also boasts a bustling market where visitors can purchase local crafts and fresh produce.
- "Wah dat?" - What is that?
- "Mek we go" - Let's go
- "How yuh going?" - How are you doing?
- "I good" - I am good
- "No problem" - No problem
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Arima Velodrome to witness local cyclists in action. Stroll through the town's streets, appreciating the vibrant murals and architecture.
Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, sampling traditional Trinidadian dishes. Afterwards, visit the Arima Heritage Park to learn more about the town's history.
Dine at a restaurant featuring live music and local performances. Relax with a peaceful walk to enjoy the town's lit-up streets.
Take an early hike to the lush hills surrounding Arima, embracing the natural beauty. Look out for local wildlife and unique plant species along the trails.
Stop for a picnic lunch in a shaded area, taking in the serene environment. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or exploring more hiking trails.
Return to the town and enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant. End your day by stargazing from a quiet spot outside of town.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with vibrant local festivals and traditions.
- Pleasant climate with tropical weather year-round.
- Proximity to natural attractions such as waterfalls and hiking trails.
- Strong community spirit and friendly local residents.
- Growing culinary scene with diverse cuisine, especially local Trinidadian dishes.
- Higher crime rates in certain areas can be a concern for safety.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours can be frustrating.
- Public transportation options may be limited and not always reliable.
- Some areas may face issues with infrastructure and maintenance.
- Economic challenges and job opportunities may be limited in comparison to larger cities.
Best Activities in Arima
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush forests, waterfalls, and wildlife in the Arima Valley by going on a hiking adventure. There are various trails catering to different fitness levels and interests.
Visit the renowned Asa Wright Nature Centre to indulge in bird watching and observe the diverse avian species in their natural habitat. The center also offers guided tours and educational programs.
Enjoy the thrill of mountain biking in the picturesque Northern Range, with trails offering scenic views and varying levels of difficulty for cyclists.
Tours
Uncover the best of Arima with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Arima
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the lush Arima Valley with great photo opportunities.
Provides picturesque natural scenery and wildlife for beautiful photo opportunities.
Food in Arima
Arima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved street food made of two baras (flat fried bread) filled with curried chickpeas, known as channa, and typically topped with various chutneys and pepper sauce. Head to vendors like
Must-Try!
Prepare your taste buds for this iconic beachside delight - fried shark stuffed in a fried bake (bread) and dressed with an assortment of condiments and sauces. Richard's Bake and Shark is a renowned spot for indulging in this dish.
A traditional Trinidadian soup made from dasheen leaves (taro leaves), okra, and often enhanced with coconut milk and various seasonings. Look for this dish in local eateries and at food stalls during festivals.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Arima better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Arima Public Market is a bustling hub offering an array of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Indulge in street food delights like pholourie (spiced fried dough) and mango chow for a truly authentic experience.
Visit this popular spot to savor local street food such as corn soup, a comforting and flavorful corn-based soup infused with local seasonings and sometimes with meat or dumplings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Arima, Trinidad and Tobago, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and showing deference in conversation and interaction.
Maintaining an appropriate distance when interacting with others is considered respectful in Arima. It is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others.
Using greetings such as 'good morning', 'good afternoon', and 'good night' is customary in Arima, signaling politeness and respect. It is also common to acknowledge others with a nod or a smile when passing by.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Arima with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Arima
Ensure a smooth experience
In Arima, Trinidad and Tobago, tipping is generally appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill, so it's advisable to check before leaving an additional tip. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also common practice, with 10-15% of the total bill being standard for good service.
Payment in Arima, Trinidad and Tobago is predominantly done in Trinidad and Tobago dollars (TTD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and stores, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and local establishments. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Arima.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Arima is during the dry season when you can enjoy warm, sunny weather and partake in outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching. The months of March and April are especially popular due to the Arima Bird Sanctuary's heightened bird activity during this time.
Although the rainy season brings lush greenery and flourishing vegetation to Arima, it is advisable to be prepared for heavy rainfall, particularly from August to November. This season is ideal for those interested in experiencing the vibrant local culture during events like Santa Rosa Festival in August and Diwali in October.
Arima at Night
Hiking in Arima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot with scenic views, lush vegetation, and a variety of trails perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers.
The second highest peak in Trinidad, offering a challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding area.
A beautiful location with trails through gardens and along a river, ideal for those looking for a more relaxed hiking experience.
A coastal village that offers trails leading to breathtaking sea views and the opportunity to explore the lush Caribbean forests.
A diverse reserve with various hiking trails, showcasing the rich wildlife and flora of Trinidad.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Arima through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Arima by plane.
The largest international airport in Trinidad and Tobago, located approximately 15 km east of Arima.
Located on Tobago, Crown Point is the second-largest international airport in Trinidad and Tobago, approximately 100 km from Arima.
A small airport located in Chaguaramas, Trinidad; primarily serves domestic and regional flights, around 30 km from Arima.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant demographic group in Arima, with a blend of cultural influences and historical ties to the African diaspora.
Another major group, particularly descendants of indentured laborers who arrived in the 19th century, contributing to the town's cultural diversity.
Individuals of mixed heritage, reflecting the country’s multicultural society, forming a notable portion of the population in Arima.
Though smaller in number, this group comprises the descendants of the island's indigenous peoples, contributing to the area's historical richness.
Includes various smaller communities such as Syrians, Chinese, and others, adding to the town's ethnic mosaic.
The Soul of Arima
Discover the essence of Arima through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is immensely popular in Arima, with many local teams and clubs participating in various leagues.
Football is widely played and followed in Arima, with community teams and youth programs fostering local talent.
Netball is a popular sport among women and girls in Arima, with clubs and schools actively participating in competitions.
Basketball has a growing following, with several courts available and local leagues that engage youth and adults alike.
Track and Field events are popular in Arima, with schools participating in local and national competitions, showcasing athletic talent.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Trinidadian cuisine prominently features meat, vegetarians and vegans can find options like aloo pie (potato-stuffed fried pastry) and saheena (spinach fritters), and explore eateries specializing in vegetarian cuisine like D'Vegetarian Ville.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can sample dishes like stewed chicken, provision (boiled root vegetables), and grilled fish, commonly offered in local establishments. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Arima with these cultural adventures.
