Mermaid Basins

EExploring the Matura Landscape

Matura is a district rich with rivers and natural resources, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The name "Matura" comes from a blend of Amerindian and Spanish dialects, referring to an area of dense, unbroken forest. Its seven-mile coastline is particularly famous for being a prime spot to observe the nesting of leatherback turtles. During nesting season, this vast beach is closed to the public, and visitors need a permit from the forestry department to access it.

Between February and July, during the six-month nesting period, hundreds of leatherback turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. After two months of incubation, the young hatchlings emerge from the sand. Nature Seekers, a local conservation group, patrol the beach, tagging turtles and protecting them from poachers. They also lead nightly tours, educating visitors and offering the opportunity to witness the turtles in their nesting state. During the 45-minute egg-laying process, the turtles enter a trance-like state, making it a safe time to observe them before they cover the eggs with their flippers. Nearly half of all turtle species are rare, threatened, or endangered. Interestingly, the sex of sea turtles is determined by the temperature of the sand: warmer sand (88°F or higher) produces more females, while cooler sand (below 82°F) results in more males.

On Matura’s western side flows a timeless, pristine river, untouched by human interference as it winds through the vast, uninhabited woodland. To fully appreciate the river’s beauty, one must explore its entire length, with numerous pools perfect for swimming and enjoying nature. One popular spot is the Mermaid Basins, known for its stunning pools where visitors can swim and relax in the serene wilderness. Farther upstream lies the magnificent Manulot Falls, which can be reached by a day hike. The falls originate from a tributary that flows into the main river channel.

The banks of the river are lined with tall, majestic mora trees, adding to the picturesque beauty of the landscape. When the sun hits the crystal-clear water, it reflects vibrant shades of emerald green. The origin of the name "Mermaid" remains a mystery—perhaps it’s the tranquil setting that tempts visitors to sit on the rocks and dangle their feet in the soothing water.

The journey to the Mermaid Pool begins at Thomas Trace, located just before the Matura Outreach Centre. The downhill trek to the river takes about 35 minutes, and there are two shallow crossings to reach the basins.

During the dry season, Matura's landscape is prone to bush fires. To combat this, the Forestry Division has replanted sections of the forest with pine trees (Pinus caribaea), which not only beautify the landscape but also help prevent soil erosion by protecting the watershed. A fire observation tower has been built at a strategic location to monitor the area.

As the popularity of the Mermaid Pool has grown, so has the issue of irresponsible visitors leaving trash and lighting cooking fires. Due to the region's delicate environment, a single spark in dry conditions can quickly lead to devastating fires. Signs are needed to educate visitors about fire safety and provide maps highlighting hiking areas.

Matura holds great potential as an international tourist destination. With the unique nesting of leatherback turtles and its clean, refreshing rivers, it is a natural wonder that any traveler would be eager to explore.