Argyle Falls is near the village of Roxborough on Tobago's Atlantic side and is the island's highest waterfall. The water drops in three tiers, each with a cool pool, and the trail from the visitor co-operative is a marked walk of a little over a mile through forest and past cocoa and fruit trees. Visitors can stop at the first pool or continue to the upper levels, and local guides are on hand to lead the way and to explain the plants and birds. Swimming in the pools is a highlight on a hot day, and the scenery is some of the greenest in the Caribbean. We link this entry to the Argyle Waterfall and hummingbirds tour at Adventure Farm, which combines the falls with a stop at a garden where hummingbirds visit feeders, making it an easy half-day outing from the south-west resorts. Argyle Falls charges a modest admission, and guides expect a tip.
The walk is straightforward but the surface can be wet and slippery, so wear shoes with grip and carry a towel and swimwear. The lowest tier is easy to reach, while climbing higher requires scrambling on rocks and stairs, so decide how far you want to go with your guide. The pools are cold and clear, and refreshing after the humid walk in.
The visit is shorter than many outings, so it combines well with other stops. A morning at the falls and an afternoon at a garden with hummingbirds, as our linked tour does, makes a good half day. It also pairs with the Main Ridge rainforest, which is nearby, for a full nature day on the Atlantic side. If you are travelling independently, expect the drive from the resorts to take roughly an hour, and check that the falls are open before you set out.
After heavy rain the stream can run high, which makes the pools murkier and the paths slipperier, so listen to local guidance. Visit on a weekday if you want quiet, and bring insect repellent. Because the linked tour has only a few reviews, check the current booking page for what it includes and the pickup arrangements, and compare it with other Argyle outings in Tobago if you want a longer day.
What to expect
The experience
A guided walk on a marked forest trail to a three-tier waterfall with swimming pools, combined on this tour with a hummingbird garden.
Best time
Mornings and dry weather; avoid the days right after heavy rain.
How long
A half day including the drive from the south-west resorts.
Tips
Wear shoes with grip and swimwear under your clothes, bring a towel and insect repellent, and carry a little cash for admission and tips.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a refreshing swim and an easy rainforest walk.
- Families
- Good for children who can manage a short forest walk; the lower pools are easiest.
- Couples
- A shaded, green outing with a swim at the end.
- Pair with
- The Main Ridge rainforest nearby, and a beach afternoon at Pigeon Point.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
How high is Argyle Falls?+
It is Tobago's highest waterfall, dropping in three tiers, each with its own pool. Heights are quoted differently by different sources, so treat figures as approximate.
How long is the walk?+
The marked trail from the visitor co-operative is a little over a mile through forest, and you can stop at any tier.
Can I swim at the falls?+
Yes, the pools are cold and clear and popular for swimming. Follow your guide's advice, especially after rain.
Is there an admission fee?+
Yes, a modest fee applies, and guides appreciate a tip. Check current rates with your operator.
What should I bring?+
Swimwear, a towel, shoes with grip, insect repellent and some cash.
