Madamas River exploration this weekend

The river sources flow from undisturbed tributaries situated on the northern foothills of El Cerro Del Aripo and El Chiquero Forest. Along the course, a favourite destination is Macajuel Pond where a confluence of the Brasso Seco and El Chiquero River occurs. Further upstream is a picturesque 30-foot cascade known as Madamas Falls.

Exploring the Madamas is filled with striking sceneries, extraordinary adventure, and stunning beauty.

As it reaches the coast, the river loses its turbulence and turns into a scenic lagoon. It is a temptation for every traveller to take a dip in the revitalising crystal clear water. The mouth is also a good place to camp and tranquillise the mind with the serenity of the river and the crashing sound of the waves.

Madamas means madam, and its name is justified by the exquisite and romantic ambiance. The beach, which remains uninhabited, is a favourite nesting ground for the leatherback turtles.The floods at the end of November 2017 caused severe changes to the landscape and the river was filled with fallen debris. The expedition trekking from Brasso Village, down the Madamas with an onward hike to camp at Paria Bay can take eight to 12 hours and is not for the faint-hearted or novice hiker. However, despite its difficulty, it remains one of Trinidad’s secret gems. On Saturday and Sunday Fitness Walkers explore the Madamas River.

The expedition consists of four legs and includes overnighting at Paria Bay.

Assembly: 4.30 am at the Brasso Seco Visitors Centre Leg 1: Depart 5.30 am Brasso Seco Village to Macajuel Pond (two hours) Leg 2: Exploration down the Madamas River to the Bay (six to eight hours) Leg 3: Hiking from Madamas Bay to overnight at Paria Bay (three to four hours) Leg 4: Return on Sunday morning from Paria Bay to Brasso Seco Village (three hours) Pre-registration required.

Suggested items needed for the river expedition are a life jacket, torchlight, waterproof bag and refreshments.

Note: Personal camp essentials will be transported by boat to Paria, which should include: a small tent and a small bag with a change of clothing.

Includes boat and vehicle transportation to Paria and Blanchisseuse, along with dinner and breakfast. Please bring your eating and drinking utensils (not provided).

Rated: 8 Very challenging includes long hours of hiking and swimming. To attempt must be an experienced hiker.

Note: Pre -registration required.

For more info: islandhikers@ gmail.com