Explore the Salybia River basins

Its source flows from one of the most distant regions of the Northern range which is an area referred to as Mars. It exits into the sea at the popular bathing spot known as Salybia or saline Bay. Its name is chosen because of its heavy concentration of saltwater –mainly sodium and chloride.

The mouth, with its calm, relaxing flow, is a favourite place to kayak and enjoy a river lime. Upstream the river meanders through miles of unchartered territory and approximately 1.5 km before it reaches the coast, there is a confluence of the prominent Rio Seco river and the larger Salybia river. This remote area where the two rivers combine is like an eco-rich lagoon with fascinating basins and gorges to refresh.

Its secluded beauty remains preserved since access is restricted by the dense Mora Forest. Further, upstream escarpments along its course formed a series of cascades and basins. there is the belief that the Kalinago Carib Indians settled in the area, and they referred to the forest as “Guaro” and called the sea coast “Oropouche.”

The Amerindians name for Trinidad was “Chaleibe.” The exploration of the pools will take 30 minutes and starts at Pierre trace in Salybia. The route to the reach the conflux is through a wide-open path that descends to the river. the trail has short inclines and is shaded by the towering Mora Woodland. The river has numerous places to bath and a short distance upstream along the Rio Seco there are also additional ponds. On the return, there is the option to paddle downstream to the Salybia Bridge or trek back via another route. Life jackets provided but if you have one bring it along.

On Sunday Island Hikers explores the salybia Basins. assembly: 7 am, corner of O’Meara road and Churchill Roosevelt Highway Arima. (Next to Ft Farfan)

Rating: 3, fair Hiking time to river: 30 minutes return: swimming downstream optional and can take 1 hour the hike is suitable for children seven years and up. For more info: www. islandhikers.com.