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Exploring
SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN
ISLANDS & COASTS

Winter escape and diving trip to the Caribbean islands off the northern South American continent as well as Colombia and Venezuela.

The Southern Caribbean is a fascinating corner of the world where cultures, landscapes, languages, and histories blend in remarkable ways.

 

From the colourful Dutch heritage of the ABC Islands and the vibrant multicultural atmosphere of Trinidad & Tobago to the tropical islands and mainland adventures of Colombia, every destination offers its own unique character.

What makes this region so special is its diversity. Within relatively short distances, travellers can experience colonial towns, pristine beaches, coral reefs, rainforests, volcanic landscapes, lively festivals, and some of the warmest and most welcoming people anywhere in the Caribbean.

 

Location: Colombia, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Trinidad and Tobago, during 10 weeks

The journey began in Colombia's Andean heartland with visits to Bogotá and Medellín. While Bogotá impressed with its history, museums, and dramatic high-altitude setting, Medellín showcased Colombia's remarkable transformation into one of South America's most innovative and dynamic cities.

From the mountains, we travelled north to the Caribbean coast and the colonial streets of Cartagena, arguably Colombia's most beautiful city. Just offshore, the Rosario Archipelago offered a completely different side of the country, with coral reefs, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Continuing east along the coast, we arrived in Barranquilla during the city's world-famous Carnival, where music, dance, and colour filled the streets. Further on lay Santa Marta, the historic town of Ciénaga, and the unique Ciénaga Grande lagoons, where fishing communities live among mangrove forests and winding waterways. We also spent time in the mountain villages of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, where cool mountain air and spectacular views provided a striking contrast to the Caribbean lowlands.

From Colombia, we crossed the Caribbean Sea to explore the ABC Islands off the coast of Venezuela. Aruba is best known for its beaches, yet the island's rugged northeastern coastline offers dramatic scenery and excellent hiking opportunities. Bonaire feels entirely different: dry, sparsely populated, and renowned for having some of the healthiest coral reefs anywhere in the Caribbean. Flamingos roam colourful salt flats, while the island's relaxed atmosphere and commitment to conservation make it a paradise for divers and nature lovers alike. Curaçao combines natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage, colourful architecture, lively markets, and a uniquely Creole character that sets it apart from its neighbours.

The next stop was Trinidad, where we spent two weeks based in the forested mountains of the island's northern coast. Geologically, Trinidad is closely connected to South America, and its landscapes reflect that heritage. With a rental car, we explored windswept beaches, mangrove swamps, mud volcanoes, and remote corners of the island, while several rainforest hikes led us to hidden waterfalls deep within the Northern Range.

Finally, we reached Tobago, an island that perfectly captures the Caribbean of popular imagination. A local saying claims that “if there is no room in heaven, send me back to Tobago,” and after spending two weeks exploring the island, it is easy to understand why. Quiet beaches, an unspoilt rainforest, colourful fishing villages, and a relaxed pace of life create an atmosphere that feels increasingly rare in the modern Caribbean. With a four-wheel drive, we explored the island from end to end, discovering secluded coves, mountain roads, and excellent diving sites, particularly around Charlotteville on the island's remote northeastern coast.

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For more Caribbean adventures nearby check our or pages on the upper part of the Volcanic Arc, the lower part of the Volcanic Arc, and the Limestone Arc of islands. Other more farflung adventures in the Caribbena are the Mesoamerican Reef, the Corn Islands and the Bocas del Toro islands and the Turks & Caicos.

 

Selected pics from our winter escape:

© Anders M. Pedersen & Jakob M. Pedersen. All photos have been taken by Anders & Jakob.

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