Port of Spain in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Port of Spain

31°C (88°F) High Temp

22°C (71°F) Low Temp

48 mm (1.9 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect Carnival season - February culminates with Trinidad Carnival (February 24-25, 2025), the Caribbean's most spectacular cultural celebration with steel pan competitions and masquerade bands
Ideal weather balance - dry season with minimal rainfall (only 48mm/1.9 inches) and comfortable evening temperatures around 22°C (71°F) for outdoor events
Peak cultural calendar - February hosts Panorama steel band competition, calypso monarch finals, and traditional Carnival fetes that locals plan their entire year around
Tourist season shoulder period - post-Christmas crowds have departed but Carnival energy creates authentic local atmosphere without typical high-season hotel premiums

Considerations

Carnival accommodation surge - hotel rates increase 200-300% during Carnival week (February 22-26) and many properties require 3-5 night minimum stays
Street closures and transport disruptions - major roads close for Carnival parades, making navigation challenging and taxi fares increase by 50-75%
Intense afternoon heat - temperatures reach 31°C (88°F) with 70% humidity, making midday outdoor activities uncomfortable without shade

Best Activities in February

Carnival Parade Participation

February is the only time to experience authentic Trinidad Carnival, with elaborate costume bands parading through Port of Spain's streets. Join a mas band or watch from designated viewing stands along the Savannah. The energy peaks on Carnival Monday and Tuesday (February 24-25, 2025) when the entire city transforms into a moving celebration.

Booking Tip: Book mas band costumes 2-3 months ahead through registered bands. Costume packages typically cost TT$800-2,500 (US$120-370). Viewing stand tickets range TT$200-500 (US$30-75). See current tour packages in the booking section below.

Steel Pan Yard Tours

February is rehearsal season for Panorama, the world's largest steel band competition. Visit authentic pan yards in Laventille, Woodbrook, and St. James during evening practice sessions (6-9pm). The acoustics are incredible and players welcome respectful visitors during this culturally significant month.

Booking Tip: Cultural tours including steel pan yard visits cost TT$300-600 (US$45-90) for 3-4 hours. Book through certified cultural guides who have relationships with the pan yards. Evening tours are best for experiencing active rehearsals.

Queen's Park Savannah Circuit

February's lower humidity makes early morning walks around the 2.2 km (1.4 mile) Savannah circuit comfortable before 8am. This is when locals exercise and food vendors set up. The magnificent colonial architecture of the 'Magnificent Seven' houses is best photographed in February's clear morning light.

Booking Tip: Walking tours of the Savannah and surrounding historic areas typically cost TT$150-300 (US$22-45) for 2 hours. Self-guided walks are free - start at 6:30am to avoid afternoon heat. Guided architecture tours available through local heritage groups.

Northern Range Hiking

February's dry conditions make trails to Maracas Falls and Mount Saint Benedict accessible without muddy paths. The 45-minute hike to Maracas Falls offers refreshing swimming pools, while Mount Saint Benedict provides panoramic city views. Morning hikes (7-10am) avoid the intense midday sun.

Booking Tip: Guided hiking tours cost TT$400-700 (US$60-105) including transportation and equipment. Book 5-7 days ahead during Carnival season. Independent hikers should start before 7am and carry 2-3 liters of water in February heat.

Downtown Cultural District Exploration

February brings special exhibitions to the Gaborone coinciding with Carnival. Frederick Street becomes a cultural corridor with pop-up art installations and traditional craft vendors. The Red House (Parliament) often has special Carnival history displays in February.

Booking Tip: Cultural walking tours of downtown cost TT$200-400 (US$30-60) for 2-3 hours. Many museums offer free entry during Carnival week. Book heritage tours through the National Trust for authentic historical context.

Traditional Fete Experiences

February features exclusive Carnival fetes (parties) like J'Ouvert morning celebrations and all-inclusive soca events. These authentic cultural experiences showcase local music, food, and dance traditions that define Trinidadian identity. Fetes happen throughout February, building to Carnival climax.

Booking Tip: Fete tickets range TT$300-1,200 (US$45-180) depending on inclusiveness and reputation. Popular fetes sell out weeks ahead. Purchase only through official promoters or established ticket outlets. All-inclusive fetes offer better value for tourists.

February Events & Festivals

February 24-25, 2025

Trinidad Carnival

The ultimate Caribbean cultural celebration featuring elaborate masquerade bands, steel pan music, calypso competitions, and street parades. Carnival Monday and Tuesday (February 24-25, 2025) are the main parade days when thousands of costumed participants dance through Port of Spain streets.

Mid to Late February

Panorama Steel Band Competition

The world's largest steel band competition featuring over 100 bands competing in multiple categories. Semi-finals happen mid-February with finals typically the Saturday before Carnival. The Queen's Park Savannah transforms into a massive outdoor concert venue.

February 23, 2025

Dimanche Gras

The official opening of Carnival featuring calypso monarch and king/queen of carnival competitions. This televised event at the Queen's Park Savannah showcases Trinidad's finest performers and most elaborate costumes in a theatrical celebration.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket - February showers are brief but intense, lasting 15-20 minutes with heavy downpours

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity as it traps heat and becomes uncomfortable quickly

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even on partly cloudy days, reapply every 2 hours outdoors

Comfortable walking sandals with good grip - streets become slippery during brief showers and you'll do significant walking

Wide-brimmed hat or cap - essential for Savannah walks and outdoor Carnival events during 31°C (88°F) afternoon temperatures

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes are active in evening hours especially around the Savannah and residential areas

Light cotton scarf or bandana - useful for dust during street parades and as sweat protection during outdoor activities

Portable water bottle (1 liter minimum) - dehydration happens quickly in February heat during active sightseeing

Cash in small bills (TT$20, 50, 100) - many Carnival vendors and local transport only accept cash, ATMs get crowded during events

Waterproof phone case or bag - protect electronics during sudden downpours and crowded Carnival celebrations

Insider Knowledge

Locals avoid outdoor activities between 11am-3pm during February heat - schedule indoor attractions like museums and shopping during these hours, save outdoor exploring for early morning or late afternoon

February grocery shopping peaks before Carnival week - stock up on snacks and water by February 20th as many shops close or have limited hours during Carnival celebrations

Taxi drivers switch to 'Carnival rates' starting February 22nd - expect 50-75% higher fares and longer wait times, consider walking or using route taxis (shared minivans) for shorter distances

Many restaurants close Sunday-Tuesday during Carnival week - make dinner reservations early or plan to eat street food and festival vendors who thrive during this period

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking accommodation only for Carnival weekend - rates spike 200-300% and require minimum stays, book early February dates for better value and easier logistics

Wearing elaborate outfits to regular events - save formal wear for specific fetes, dress comfortably in breathable fabrics for daytime activities and street events

Expecting normal business hours during Carnival week - banks, government offices, and many shops operate reduced hours or close entirely February 24-25, plan accordingly