Chacachacare Island, located just off the northwest coast of Trinidad, is one of the Bocas Islands and is steeped in history and mystery. Originally inhabited by indigenous peoples, the island later became a leper colony in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. During this period, a small community, including a convent of Dominican nuns, was established to care for those afflicted. The island was later abandoned in the 1980s and has remained largely uninhabited since then, adding to its eerie yet captivating allure. Chacachacare is a place where history and nature intertwine, offering visitors a glimpse into a hauntingly beautiful past.
Accommodation on Chacachacare is extremely limited, as there are no active hotels or guesthouses on the island. The island remains undeveloped and rustic, making it a destination primarily for day trips or camping. Some visitors with private yachts or boats choose to anchor in one of the island’s coves and spend the night aboard. Camping is also an option for those seeking an adventurous overnight experience, though provisions must be brought from the mainland, as there are no facilities or services on the island.
Since Chacachacare has no established lodgings, visitors typically bring their own food. The best local food experiences are found on the nearby mainland in Trinidad, where vibrant Creole flavors dominate. A picnic with traditional dishes such as roti, pelau, or bake and shark, paired with fresh coconut water, is a perfect way to enjoy a day on the island. As the island is uninhabited, there are no restaurants or vendors, so visitors must be fully prepared.
Its history as a leper colony has drawn the attention of many visitors and historians. The island is well-known locally for its haunting stories, and it has been featured in various explorations of Trinidad’s lesser-known historical sites. Over the years, Chacachacare has been a remote getaway for private individuals seeking solitude in an untouched part of Trinidads natural landscape.
Attractions on Chacachacare include the remnants of the old leper colony. Visitors can explore the abandoned buildings, including the former hospital, the Dominican convent, and the old quarters where patients once lived. The island is often described as an open-air museum, where the weathered ruins stand frozen in time, surrounded by lush vegetation. For those interested in history and the eerie beauty of abandoned places, Chacachacare offers a truly unique experience.
Local music is not commonly heard on Chacachacare itself, given its isolation and lack of residents. However, visitors often bring the vibrant sounds of Trinidad with them, playing soca, calypso, and steelpan music during their visits. Whether youre hiking the islands trails or relaxing by the sea, the upbeat rhythms of Trinidad’s music create a joyful contrast to the quiet, secluded nature of Chacachacare.
The natural beauty of Chacachacare is one of its main draws. The island is rich in wildlife, including iguanas, tropical birds, and various marine species. The dense forests provide excellent hiking opportunities, with trails that offer stunning views of the Gulf of Paria and the Venezuelan coastline. Nature lovers will enjoy the island’s tranquility and the opportunity to observe wildlife in an unspoiled environment.
Chacachacare has several small, secluded beaches that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. La Tinta Bay is one of the most popular beaches, with its calm, clear waters and serene surroundings. The island’s beaches are untouched by development, providing a peaceful escape for those looking to connect with nature. The quiet, uncrowded shores make it an ideal spot for a picnic or a refreshing dip in the ocean.
Important places to visit on Chacachacare include the old leprosarium and the Dominican convent, both of which are hauntingly beautiful relics of the island’s past. Hiking up to the old lighthouse offers panoramic views of the surrounding seas and the mainland. The island’s historical significance and natural beauty make it a destination that invites exploration and reflection.
One of the most unusual things to see on Chacachacare is the abandoned convent, where the last remaining nuns once cared for the leprosy patients. The building, still standing but overtaken by vines and time, is a haunting reminder of the island’s past. There are also several hidden coves and caves along the island’s rugged coastline, which are perfect for those looking to explore off the beaten path. Chacachacare is a place of mystery, history, and untamed natural beauty, offering an experience unlike any other in Trinidad and Tobago.