Chaguanas

Overview

Chaguanas, in central Trinidad, is the country's largest borough and a fast-growing shopping town. Its sugar-cane hinterland was the heart of Indo-Trinidadian life, and it was home to the young V. S. Naipaul.

The town centre is busy rather than beautiful, but nearby are temples, an enormous Hanuman statue and the mangroves of Caroni Swamp, where scarlet ibis fly in to roost at dusk.

Things to see

• 

  Temple in the Sea

  A small Hindu temple built on a causeway into the Gulf of Paria, born of one labourer's devotion.

• Hanuman Murti

  A towering statue of the monkey god at a temple in Carapichaima, south of the town.

• The Lion House

  The family home that inspired Naipaul's A House for Mr Biswas, on the main road in town.

Things to do

• 

  Caroni Swamp boat trip

  Glide through the mangroves at dusk as flocks of scarlet ibis, the national bird, settle to roost.

  Find tours

• 

  Visit Divali Nagar

  A cultural site that comes alive with music, food and lights in the days before Divali.

• 

  Eat at the market

  Try doubles, pholourie and fresh fruit at the stalls around the main market.

Where to stay

• Chaguanas

  A few hotels near the highway, practical for central Trinidad.

  Hotels in Chaguanas

• Port of Spain

  Far more choice, around 30 to 45 minutes north.

  Hotels in Port of Spain

Getting around

Route taxis and maxi taxis link Chaguanas with Port of Spain and San Fernando; a hire car makes the temples and swamp much easier.

Piarco airport is roughly 30 to 45 minutes away by road, depending on traffic.

When to go

The dry season from January to May is best. Divali, usually in October or November, is the town's most colourful time.

Plan your trip to Chaguanas

• HotelsBooking.com
• Tours and ticketsGetYourGuide

Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.

More city guides for Trinidad & Tobago

• Port of Spain
• San Fernando

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