Royal Botanic Gardens, Port of Spain
Gardens laid out in 1818 north of the Savannah, among the oldest in the western hemisphere.
Updated 2 September 2026
The Royal Botanic Gardens were laid out in 1818 on the northern side of the Savannah, which makes them among the oldest botanical gardens in the western hemisphere and older than Kew's palm house. They cover about twenty-five hectares of mature planting, with specimen trees from across the tropics, a small zoo alongside, and the President's House and the Prime Minister's residence within the grounds. Guides wait at the gate.
Highlights
- The specimen trees - mature tropical species planted from the early nineteenth century.
- The 1818 layout - the original design still legible in the paths and plantings.
- The President's House - the official residence standing within the gardens.
- The orchid house - the collection of local and imported orchids.
When to go
January to May is driest. Mornings are coolest and best for birds in the trees. The gardens close in the early evening.
Before you go
Labelling of the collection is patchy and many trees are unmarked. Guides at the gate expect payment and their knowledge varies. Maintenance is uneven in parts of the grounds.
Nearby
Queen's Park Savannah is south, and Fort George is west.
What to pack for Royal Botanic Gardens, Port of Spain
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
- A refillable water bottle - Many cities have public fountains; save money and plastic. Find on Amazon
- A light layer + compact umbrella - For museum air-con and a sudden shower. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
