By Mario Russell
One of the top tourist attractions in Trinidad and Tobago is Gasparee Cave, located at Point Baleine or Espolon Point on the northwestern tip of Gaspar Grande Island.
This cave stands out as the most popular one in the country, and the Chaguaramas Development Authority (CDA) organizes weekly tours to explore its wonders.
What sets Gasparee Cave apart and makes it exceptionally captivating is its unique feature: a mesmerizing translucent-blue saltwater lagoon. This stunning lagoon is fed by seawater that surges into the cave from an underground source, with its depth varying between 10 to 20 feet depending on the tide’s influence. Remarkably, the cave’s altitude reaches 30 meters or 98 feet below the surface, adding to its mystique and allure.
The geological features of the island primarily consist of sedimentary rocks, specifically the Lower Cretaceous Laventille limestone. These rocks were formed underwater by combining coral, oolites, seashells, and other marine organisms. The creation of the cave can be traced back to water deposits of carbon dioxide, which gradually dissolved the limestone, forming calcium carbonate crystals with the chemical formula CaCO3—comprising calcium, carbon, and oxygen.
As time passed, the accumulation of these crystals gave rise to striking formations within the cave. Stalagmites, rising upward from the cave floor, and stalactites, descending from the cave roof, were created. Among these formations are pillars that stretch from the ceiling to the ground.
Interestingly, some crystals took on unusual shapes, resembling objects such as a dinosaur head, a chandelier, two embracing lovers, and even flowers. These captivating formations contribute to the cave’s unique and awe-inspiring beauty. Gaspar Grande is a very dry limestone island and the
average rainfall per year is under 40 inches.
During the day, the cave is beautifully illuminated by natural light streaming through a series of surface sinkholes, casting magnificent reflections onto its serene pond. To enhance accessibility and safety, the CDA has installed additional lights and constructed a staircase with rails. Now, a concrete
footpath adorned with signs guides visitors to the cave and up the hill, offering breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding seascape.
Within the cave resides a small colony of fish-eating bats (Noctilio leporinus), and occasionally, one can spot blind fish swimming in its waters.
Seven species of snake inhabit the island including the macaque or boa constrictor. In close proximity to the main cave, there is another sinkhole called Precipice Cave. Exploration of this site requires a rope, which can be found on a track located 20 meters opposite the last white house.
There is a lot of history that surrounds Gaspar Grande Island. In 1783, Governor Don Jose Maria Chacon granted the island to Gaspar De Percin Roque to plant cotton. At Point Baleine during the period 1826 to 1864, here was a flourishing whaling station. However, when the whaling industry declined, Mr. Canning’s of the Queens Park Hotel acquired the land and built a luxurious hotel. During World War 11 (1939-1945) the United States of America leased the islands and surrounding territories on the Western Peninsula to set up a defense against enemy attack. There are large historical guns situated above the cave at the highest point (399 feet) overlooking the island.
After the tour, there is the option to spend the day relaxing at Biscayen Beach on Monos Island.
Please note to visit the cave advance booking is required from CDA
