An eco-lovers paradise, Nariva Swamp is designated as a wetland of international importance under the RAMSAR Convention. This international treaty takes the position that wetlands are of vital ecological significance, thus advocating for their sustainable use and worldwide conservation.

Nariva itself is Trinidad and Tobago’s largest freshwater wetland. Located adjacent to Manzanilla Bay, it is over 60 square kilometres in size and is home to a variety of native species, including a wide range of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Found in this diverse landscape are howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, macaws and savannah birds. The area is also home to the West Indian manatee, but the manatee remains relatively elusive and its habits are poorly understood in the region.

Visitors to the Nariva area will find themselves exploring four vegetation types: mangrove swamp forest, palm forest, swamp wood, and freshwater marsh. This variety lends itself to the diversity of flora and fauna not seen elsewhere in the Republic.

Kayak tours and walks through Bush Bush Forest Reserve (within the wetland itself) are available from a number of guides. Recommendations: Kayman Sagar and Stephen Broadbridge.