Moncada Barracks | Santiago de Cuba

Information

Landmark: Moncada Barracks
City: Santiago de Cuba
Country: Cuba
Continent: North America

Moncada Barracks, Santiago de Cuba, Cuba, North America

The Covigne River Gorge is a geological formation located within the Northern Range of Trinidad, near Port of Spain.

Visual Characteristics

The gorge features steep, vertical rock walls composed of sedimentary rock, primarily sandstone and shale. Water flow creates a narrow channel at the gorge floor, with vegetation such as ferns, mosses, and tropical trees growing on the upper slopes and ledges. The rock surfaces exhibit erosion patterns from water and weathering.

Location & Access Logistics

The gorge is situated approximately 15 kilometers north of Port of Spain. Access is via the Lady Young Road, turning onto the Saddle Road, and then following signs for the Maraval Reservoir. A short hike of approximately 1 kilometer is required from the reservoir parking area to reach the gorge entrance. Parking is available at the Maraval Reservoir. Public transport does not directly service the gorge; taxis or private vehicles are necessary.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Covigne River Gorge is a result of fluvial erosion, where the Covigne River has carved through the sedimentary rock layers of the Northern Range over millennia. This process is characteristic of river systems in tropical mountainous regions. The area is part of the biodiverse Northern Range ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking along the gorge rim is possible, offering views into the chasm. Observing the rock strata and erosion features is a primary activity. Limited exploration of the gorge floor is feasible during dry periods, but requires caution due to slippery surfaces and potential flash floods. Birdwatching is also a possibility due to the surrounding forest.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the Maraval Reservoir parking area. Shade is provided by the dense forest canopy within the gorge. Cell phone signal is intermittent to non-existent within the gorge itself, though it may be present at the reservoir. No food vendors are located directly at the gorge; provisions should be made prior to arrival.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is mid-morning to early afternoon when sunlight penetrates the gorge. The dry season, from January to May, offers the most stable conditions for access and exploration, with reduced risk of flash floods. Avoid visiting during periods of heavy rainfall.

Facts & Legends

Local folklore suggests the gorge was a place of spiritual significance for indigenous communities. A specific geological feature within the gorge is a large, naturally formed archway, often referred to as the "Devil's Arch," though its origin is purely erosional.