A cultural history of the turks and caicos

While the Caribbean is probably best known for beaches and seas, some of the most beautiful parts of the Turks and Caicos islands are found off the beaten path. The Big Blue Collective has called the islands home for over 2 decades now, and we’ve had the privilege of exploring this breathtaking beauty until we know it well. If you’re looking for a low-impact adventure that will take you to the very heart of the TCI, consider one of our family day trips- and meet the majesty for yourself. 

What are eco-tours? Will they interest me?

A staple of the family day trips on the TCI which we offer, our eco-tours allow you to sight-see the very best of the pristine natural environs of North, Middle East and South Caicos. Interactive eco-tourism is one of the best ways to net a low-impact adventure, learn more about the place you are visiting, and see some of the most staggering natural sights in the world. The Turks and Caicos is an exquisite natural destination. Limestone caves and secret drops butt up against the unspoilt beach at Mudjin Harbour. Romantic ruins from the salt and plantation industries beckon you to explore. Many of the best beaches the TCI offers are hardly ever visited, just because they lie off the ‘tourist trail’ near the resorts. Don’t you think it’s time you let the cultural heritage of the TCI astound you? 

Modern treats and ancient ruins

Where the islands off-the-beaten-trial are inhabited, you’ll find sleepy, friendly populations of folks who are always happy to get to know you and help out. You’ll also find delectable fresh seafood at a bunch of bars, cafes and restaurants, fresh-caught this morning. It doesn’t matter where you go, there’s an adventure waiting at every turn with our land- and water-based tours

  1. Heart of the Islands

This is our flagship award-winning eco-tour, taking you through the beauties of North and Middle Caicos. It’s also ideal as a family day-trip through the TCI when the weather’s too ropey for the water. You’ll visit the key sights of the island, learning more about the amazing history, friendly people, traditional culture and much more. Make it a private adventure, or head out in a small group of up to 9. 

  1. Customisable schedules

Keen to see even more? Our Heart of the Islands itinerary can be amended to suit your needs. Explore the wild eastern end of Middle Caicos. Head down ‘Wild Cow Run’ beach to the mouth of the Windward Going Trough channel. Beach comb and swim. Explore cays and beaches. If you’re interested in a low-impact adventure with a difference, this is where you need to be.

  1. Explore the wildlife

The Turks and Caicos has a rich wealth of birds you can enjoy. From coastal scrub to tropical dry-forest, the habitats switch enough to give you a fascinating glimpse into many wild species. From flamingos, heron and egret to Bananaquits, gnatcatchers and birds of prey like the Osprey and American Kestrels, there’s tons to delight the heart of any twitcher. Fishing Brown Pelicans will keep you amused, and delight your heart.

Although you will see birds on every tour we offer, we also offer special tours with our experienced guides for those who’d rather focus on the birds entirely. 

  1. East Caicos and beyond

There’s so much more beauty to be found. Take a boat from Bambara beach on a scenic journey hugging the deserted coastline. Snorkel and dive, enjoy pristine beaches, paddle the creeks, and picnic under casuarina trees. This is one of the most unique experiences of your life- the plantations are calling. This is a full-day tour, and best experienced in the summer when the days are longest. 

  1. Kayak and paddleboard safaris

Mangroves and seawater swamp make up a staggering ⅓ of the TCI landmass, as well as heavily influencing its biome and wildlife. Yet much of it is an uninhabited, protected wilderness. Only accessible by shallow-draft boats, this special area is like no other you’ll find in the islands.

  1. The Big South Adventure

50 miles Southeast of Provo lies South Caicos. You’ll hop on local air travel to explore this now-forgotten hub of the salt industry. Cockburn Harbour offers a host of Bermudian style architecture and quaint, sleep vibes to delight any heart. Pink flamingos frolic, salt flats beckon… it’s time to rejuvenate your spirit. Hope on a local fishing boat to explore the water, head to the beaches of Long Cay National Park, and (conditions willing) snorkel the reefs around Dove Cay. These reefs are some of the most vibrant in the country! A fresh seafood lunch will await, and you can watch the fishermen haul in their catch as you sip your drinks. For chill vibes, a family-friendly trip and low impact adventure that soothes the soul, this is the perfect destination. 

Explore the heart of the TCI

No matter which you choose, each of our family day-trips to the TCI explore a hidden side of the island you’ll fall in love with. Fall in love with the rich cultural heritage of the Turks and Caicos- you’ll want to go back again and again! This is the true magic of the islands we call home, and the Big Blue Collective can’t wait to share them with you. See you soon!