Boots for rainforest?

[Ann Ball]

Thanks for help with my earlier query. Can those who know the island tell me what footwear we will need if we plan on visiting the rain forest and also possibly taking a 4X4 off road tour. People seem to be saying that decent walking shoes will do, but we used wellies when we went to the Amazon! We have walking shoes, walking boots and wellies, but obviously can't take them all and I can't decide which is the sensible choice, although if I get no further advice will settle with shoes. We are going in April.

Also - we have ponchos (needed them in Amazon) - do we take them?

Thanks a million for any help Ann :

[Steve Wooler]

Hi Ann

Compared to the Amazon, you will find the Tobago rainforest and off-road tours somewhat tame - but well worth doing.

To be frank, walking shoes will be fine. All the routes you will be taking are well-travelled, so its more a case of having some protection against insects, razor grass (normally always cleared from areas near trails) and sharp branches, etc., - plus grip for those times that the trails are wet (common during the wet season because the rain water tends to use the trail as a riverbed). Obviously every keen hiker knows the value of decent boots, but the truth is that Tobago is not a place for activity holidays and why carry more luggage than you need to?

[Ann Ball]

Thanks for that Steve - the Amazon was amazing but also very hard work so 'tamer' will be just fine!!! I'm not that fit and missed several trips there as I was in pain! But I got a taste for tropical bird watching hence the Tobago choice! Getting very excited and trying to learn some of the birds.

I am keenly waiting for your Blue Waters latest review as we are staying there for part of our holiday.

Thanks for a really useful site!!!