Listen to the thunder. The thunderous sound announces Argyle Waterfalls long before you see it. Right here before us lies Tobago’s highest waterfall. Argyle Waterfalls & Nature Park is a must-see on your visit to Tobago.
Argyle Waterfalls stands 175 feet tall. That is 54 meters. The water cascades down three dramatic levels. Cool crisp water flows constantly. The falls are located on Tobago’s northeast side. They sit just outside Roxborough.
The falls are near the Scarborough road. The road to Bloody Bay is also close by. The Roxborough Visitor Service Co-op office marks the entrance to Argyle Waterfalls & Nature Park.
The hike to Argyle Waterfalls takes about 15 to 20 minutes. The trail is clearly marked. Butterflies and various birds greet you along the way. But first, you must pay an entrance fee. The fee is TT$60 at the office. You can hire a guide if you wish.
The height of the first cascade hides the real splendor of Argyle’s upper levels. If you are adventurous, hike up the bushy path. It is on the right-hand side. This takes you to the second level. Here, a thick mist greets you. You can lie in several natural rock tubs at this level. Let the water rush over your body.
Finally, venture to the third pool. Though the smallest, it is the deepest. This pool is best for swimming. Dive, jump, or swing into the water. Vines are available for swinging.
The Main Ridge protects this area. It extends about two-thirds the length of Tobago. It runs from the northeast tip of the island. The area is specifically protected for conservation. It is the mountainous volcanic spine of Tobago. Forested mountains rise to about 580 meters.
Argyle Waterfalls was named after a plantation owner’s wife, Betsey. Folklore says she never liked slavery. She felt the pain of the slaves when they were beaten. Betsey always hoped slavery would be abolished. The area was thus named Betsey’s Hope.
Many people visit Tobago for its beaches. Argyle Falls is another amazing natural site to check out. While not the tallest compared to other waterfalls, they are lovely. They are well worth a visit.
When you turn onto the side road to Argyle Falls, young men might try to flag you down. These are unofficial tour guides. Do not stop unless you want an unofficial guide. Official guides are available at the Visitor’s Center.
The trail to Argyle Waterfalls is well-groomed and obvious. You won’t get lost if you stick to it. What is especially nice about Argyle Falls is its beautiful setting. The lush green vegetation is thick. You can hear all sorts of bird calls.
From the bottom, you can’t really appreciate the full height of the waterfall. The lowest tier hides the height of the other two. But that is easily remedied. A trail next to the waterfalls takes you up to the second tier.
At the second level, if there has been enough rain, there are natural rock tubs. Soak your tired feet in them. From this level, you get a better appreciation of how tall these falls are.
Be aware that cruise lines often stop here. You may have to share the waterfalls with many people. The earlier you go, the better chance you will have for a tranquil visit to Argyle Waterfalls & Nature Park.