Whether you’re on the hunt for whale watching in the Turks and Caicos, keen to hop on a dolphin tour, want to know what exciting things to see and do there are in TCI, or are just fascinated by the wildlife of the unique Turks and Caicos territory, you’re in the right place! Today, Big Blue Collective walks you through 5 spectacular animals you can visit during your stay, and the best ways to enjoy them with us.
Whale and dolphin watching in beautiful seas
Where else could you have a front row ticket to the annual humpback whale migration, hassle free? These towering mammals come to the warmer, safe waters near TCI to give birth, mate and cavort with their young, allowing visitors an unparalleled chance to spot them at play. The channel between the Turks islands and the Caicos islands naturally funnels these magnificent beasts through the area, making a sighting close to guaranteed. This is the undoubted highlight of the Turks and Caicos wildlife calendar, and one of the things to see and do on Turks and Caicos that no one can miss. The whaling season opens in November, with most early sightings happening in late December and peeking through the next 3 months. Whale watching in the Turks and Caicos is immensely rewarding- every year we see guests mesmerized by the breathtaking beauty of these unique mammals.
Whale watching in the Turks and Caicos isn’t the only spectacle you can expect, though. We also offer our dolphin tours, allowing you to meet one of the most playful members of the wildlife of the TCI up close and personal. Be entertained by the antics of the friendly local pods, and take home memories you will treasure forever. Our dolphin tours allow you to learn more about these truly unique animals, the local legends and the famous ‘faces’ you’ll find in the pods.
Glow in the dark with glow worms
One of the very-best kept secrets of the islands, the nearby waters are home to glittering swarms of glow worms. This is a truly unique way to experience the wildlife of TCI, and a must on any list of things to see and do on the Turks and Caicos. Properly known as Odontosyllis Enopla, these tiny worms typically put on their most spectacular display 3-6 days after a full moon. The best spots to enjoy the show do vary, so be sure to check with us for where they are showing off at the time of your trip. Why not opt for a private charter- or add the trip to a personally-crafted dive charter itinerary- to make something truly special of the occasion and see these little critters up close? It’s a mesmerising and fascinating sight, and the perfect touch for any romantic trip to the islands.
Head to the Middle Caicos Crab Festival
Why not add a little spice to your life? The iconic Middle Caicos Crab festival is one of the most exciting things to see and do on Turks and Caicos, and it typically hits the sands at the end of June every year. Celebrate the community and culture of Middle Caicos [and its twinned North Caicos] with delectable cooking, while you learn more about the cultural heritage of crab catching, the local dishes and the people who shape them. The land crabs which call this area home emerge from deep burrows when the limited spring rains hit, typically from the end of May. The empty beaches of Middle Caicos call to them, so the area is usually their island of choice. The Great Blue land crab is the most common crab species in the Turks and Caicos, hatching in something of an ‘invasion’ their numbers are so high. Inhabitants face a few weeks of damaged gardens and upended pot plants when the crab season peaks!
Of course, delectable eating isn’t all the festival offers. Have fun in the water, sip drinks on the beach, and enjoy the local entertainment while soaking in the vibe around you. Come say hi to the Big Blue Collective team while you’re there- we’re always around to help celebrate, entertain and keep the crowd safe.
Be entranced by Iguana Island
The Turks and Caicos rock iguana is a native of the area, and you’ll find a huge population on the tiny island of Little Water Cay, also known as Iguana Island. Lying only a short distance from Provo, a visit can easily be incorporated into a quick day trip or even a kayaking water tour of the area. You’ll also have a chance to explore the saline wetlands of the island, and get up close and personal with the unique wildlife of TCI.
Swim with stingrays
The pristine, uninhabited shores of Gibbs Cay hide a snorkeler’s paradise, complete with a friendly and gentle local population of stingrays. While the spectacular colours of the coral reef fish swirl around you, you’ll have a chance to see these beautiful animals up close in the shallow water of the area. These fascinating creatures can sometimes be seen in the sand along the many beautiful Turks and Caicos beaches, or visible in the crystal-clear waters of the TCI, but will typically flee if you try to come too close. While the population surrounding Gibbs Cay may be the most people-friendly in the islands, these fascinating creatures can be found throughout the island waters, and make a spectacular addition to your dive charter adventure, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled so you get your bragging rights!
No matter what you want from your trip, we highly recommended availing yourself of one of our spectacular dive charters. Whether you opt to take one of our dolphin tours, head out specifically for whale watching in the Turks and Caicos territory, or want to combine everything into a longer dive package that takes in the many spectacular walls, holes and reefs in the area, our guaranteed small diving groups offer you an unparalleled chance to get to know the marine wildlife of the TCI, under the careful eye of our experienced instructors and with the full knowledge of our dedicated dive team helping you create the best dive experience moment by moment.
The list of things to see and do on Turks and Caicos grows and grows, and the spectacular diversity of marine and land wildlife the island chain boasts is a huge part of that. Let Big Blue Collective help you craft the perfect wildlife adventure today!