Balandra Basins
Balandra is a sheltered bay on the East Coast situated between the villages of Matura,Langusta and Rampanalgas, it is a favorite weekend spot for sea bathers and the area capitalises on fishing ,agriculture and beach resorts. Balandra is a Spanish word when translated means yacht and during Spanish rule the calm waters may have been a welcoming anchor site for boats.
The landscape is abundant with natural resources and a short walk into the forest one can discover two delightful basins.The first pool is shallow making it ideal for non- swimmers while lower down the river the second pool is a deep basin and more suited for the adventurous.The river bank is a welcoming spot to sit on the rocks and revel in the beautiful,calming surroundings.The crystal clear waters populated with numerous cray fish appear bright green in the tree-filtered sunlight . .
The Balandra Forest has a net-work of intricate trails that nature lovers will find fascinating and getting to the basins there is the option to trek from Rio Seco (3 hrs),Tabateau Trace (1 1/2 hrs) and Alcindor Trace.(1 hr)
The hike to the river begins at Alcindor Trace where the vehicles are securely parked and takes about an hour to reach the destination.The trail can be muddy and consist of a few short inclines,the presence of the boisterous bell bird can be heard echoing through the forest .For more details contact www.Islandhikers.com
Sunday 23rd October'11.......Balandra Basins
Assembly :7.ooam Corner of O'Meara Road and Churchill Roosevelt Highway Arima.
Depart Arima :7.30am
Rating : 3 fair
hiking time one-way:one hour
Registration on morning of the hike $30.00
Maxi taxi Transportation please call to book.cost include hike $100.00
Bring along an extra change of clothing and shoe
Balandra Pics courtesy Dale Orosco
