The Asa Wright Nature Centre: Trinidad’s top eco-tourism destination.

Exploring the Asa Wright Nature Centre: A birdwatcher’s paradise

Nestled in a lush valley of Trinidad’s Northern Range, the Asa Wright Nature Centre stands as one of the Caribbean’s premier eco-tourism destinations. Revered globally for its birdwatching opportunities, this former cocoa-coffee plantation has transformed into a sanctuary for wildlife, flora, and travellers seeking a close connection with nature.

For those researching the term Asa Wright Nature Centre, whether out of curiosity, academic interest, or planning a visit, this guide offers an authoritative overview of the centre’s rich biodiversity, visitor amenities, and historical significance.

US$50 Cheap Flights to Trinidad and Tobago- Expedia

Looking for cheap flights to Trinidad? Many airlines offer no change fee on selected flights and book now to earn your airline miles on top of our rewards! Find great 2025 Trinidad flight deals now!

A brief history of the Asa Wright Nature Centre

The Asa Wright Nature Centre began as part of the Spring Hill Estate, acquired in 1946 by New Yorker Asa Wright and her husband, Dr Newcome Wright. Passionate about nature, Asa transformed the estate into a haven for scientists and naturalists.

Following her husband’s passing, she continued hosting guests, including renowned ornithologists and ecologists. In 1967, the estate was established as a nature centre under a non-profit trust, preserving it for ecological research and sustainable tourism.

Over the decades, the Asa Wright Nature Centre has grown into an iconic conservation hub, attracting thousands of visitors annually. It is managed by the Asa Wright Nature Centre Trust, with a mission to protect the Valley’s ecosystem while promoting environmental education and community involvement.

Birdwatching at the Asa Wright Nature Centre

What makes the Asa Wright Nature Centre a birdwatcher’s paradise is its incredible range of avian species. Over 160 species of birds have been recorded within the centre’s boundaries. One of the main highlights is the Oilbird (Steatornis caripensis) colony found in the Dunston Cave—this nocturnal, fruit-eating bird is rarely seen elsewhere in the Western Hemisphere.

Commonly observed bird species include:

Tufted Coquette (Lophornis ornatus) – a tiny hummingbird endemic to Trinidad
Bearded Bellbird (Procnias averano) – known for its loud, bell-like call
White-necked Jacobin (Florisuga mellivora)
Purple Honeycreeper (Cyanerpes caeruleus)
Green Hermit (Phaethornis guy)
Violaceous Euphonia (Euphonia violacea)
Collared Trogon (Trogon collaris)

The centre’s wide veranda, surrounded by flowering plants and fruiting trees, offers a front-row seat to a spectacle of hummingbirds, tanagers, and manakins. Guided birding tours are led by knowledgeable naturalists, making it easy for both beginners and seasoned birders to spot rare and endemic species.

Flora and other fauna

Beyond birds, the Asa Wright Nature Centre boasts a thriving ecosystem with diverse flora and fauna. The forested trails meander through primary and secondary rainforest, allowing visitors to explore a variety of plant species such as:

Heliconias
Bromeliads
Giant ferns
Wild nutmeg
Immortelle trees (Erythrina poeppigiana)

Animal life includes red-rumped agoutis, golden tegu lizards, and nine-banded armadillos. Reptiles like the fer-de-lance and green iguana may also be encountered. The centre’s insect population includes vivid blue morpho butterflies, leafcutter ants, and countless species of moths and dragonflies.

Amphibians such as the Trinidad stream frog (Mannophryne trinitatis) are commonly heard near streams and waterfalls, particularly during the rainy season.

Amenities at the Asa Wright Nature Centre

Though deeply rooted in conservation, the Asa Wright Nature Centre provides comfortable amenities for visitors. It caters to eco-tourists, researchers, students, and families seeking both educational and leisure experiences.

Accommodation: The centre offers rustic yet comfortable lodges and cottages with en-suite bathrooms and balconies overlooking the forested valley. Birdwatching from your room is often just as rewarding as the guided walks.

Dining: Meals are served in a communal dining room with open-air seating and panoramic views. Breakfast typically includes local tropical fruits, fresh juices, and hearty Caribbean fare.

Guided tours: Trained guides lead daily nature walks, birdwatching excursions, and night hikes. The famous Oilbird Cave Tour is by appointment and offers a rare opportunity to witness these elusive birds.

Gift shop: Visitors can browse eco-friendly souvenirs, books on Trinidad’s biodiversity, and locally made crafts.

Event facilities: The centre occasionally hosts workshops, school field trips, and conferences related to conservation and sustainable tourism.

Transport access: The Asa Wright Nature Centre is located approximately an hour’s drive from Port of Spain, making it a popular day trip for both locals and tourists.

Hadco Experiences at Asa Wright Nature Centre (Ecolodge)

HADCO Experiences at Asa Wright Nature Centre is a sanctuary. Nestled in an ancient rainforest, in the Northern Range of the island of Trinidad, the Asa Wright Nature Centre was established in 1967 with a mission to protect part of the Arima and Aripo valleys for wildlife conservation, education, and scientific research. Home to an easily accessible breeding colony of the rare, nocturnal Oilbird, the Centre covers 1,500 acres of protected rainforest, which houses a rich biota with an outstanding species list that includes native mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and butterflies, and a variety of flowering plant species.

How to visit and what to expect

Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars, comfortable walking shoes, rain gear, and insect repellent. The best time to visit is between December and May, during the dry season, when bird activity is at its peak and the trails are most accessible.

The centre is open for day visits and overnight stays, with prior bookings recommended, especially during high season. Educational groups and researchers can arrange special access through the centre’s administration.

Conservation and community impact

The Asa Wright Nature Centre plays a vital role in biodiversity conservation in Trinidad and Tobago. By protecting nearly 1,500 acres of forest, it safeguards watersheds, prevents soil erosion, and sustains indigenous wildlife populations. The centre also employs local guides and staff, supports eco-friendly agriculture, and funds environmental education programmes in nearby communities.

Find Cheap Flights to Trinidad & Tobago from US$85.

Save Time and Money
Top Travel Sites to Compare
Best Price Guarantee*
Last-Minute Airfare Deals
No Booking Fees

Learn More

Final thoughts

For anyone passionate about nature, ecology, or simply in search of tranquillity, the Asa Wright Nature Centre offers an unmatched experience. Its harmonious blend of biodiversity, hospitality, and conservation make it one of the most important ecological sites in the Caribbean.

Whether you’re seeking the thrill of spotting a rare hummingbird, exploring jungle trails, or learning about tropical ecology, a visit to the Asa Wright Nature Centre is sure to inspire awe and respect for the natural world.

______________________