Discover the best things to do in Dominica with our comprehensive guide. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this Caribbean gem while exploring natural wonders, vibrant culture, and exciting activities. Embark on a journey to the heart of the Caribbean as we unveil the myriad of captivating experiences that Dominica has to offer.
Things to Do in Dominica
From lush rainforests to pristine beaches, this enchanting island boasts a treasure trove of activities that cater to every traveler's taste. Dive into the untouched beauty of Dominica's natural landscapes. Explore the awe-inspiring Boiling Lake, hike through the lush Morne Trois Pitons National Park, and discover the hidden Trafalgar Falls. Immerse yourself in the island's unparalleled biodiversity.
1. Hike in Morne Trois Piton National Park
Address: 48 Cork St, Roseau, Dominica
Morne Trois Pitons National Park, whose name means mountain of three peaks, is a must-see for any nature lover on the Caribbean island of Dominica. This 17,000-acre park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with lush rainforests, waterfalls and rivers.
The hike to the top of Morne Trois Pitons is strenuous but worth it for the fantastic views. You should bring a guide with you due to the multi-hour hike and possible dangers. The park covers about one-fifth of the island and is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna.
Among the park's many highlights are Boiling Lake, a natural hot spring said to be the second largest in the world, and the Valley of Desolation, an otherworldly landscape of volcanic craters and fumaroles. Hiking is the best way to explore the park; There are trails to suit all fitness levels.
2. Visit Indian River
Address: Indian River, Portsmouth, Dominica
One of the best things to do in Dominica is take a boat ride on the Indian River. This river is one of the most pristine and unspoiled rivers in the Caribbean Islands. Plus, it's one of the island's 365 rivers - well, 365! The tour takes you through mangrove forests, where you can spot turtles, crabs and iguanas.
Located in the north of the island, the river flows through lush rainforest and mangroves, providing an ideal habitat for plant and animal life. Some of the animals you are bound to see on a river cruise are turtles, crabs and iguanas. Indian River is one of the best places on the island to see the rare red-throated parrot.
3. Go scuba diving
With its clear waters and abundant marine life, Dominica is a paradise for scuba diving. There are dive sites suitable for all experience levels, from beginners to experienced divers. The best dive sites include Champagne Reef, Scotts Head and Soufriere Bay.
Champagne Reef is home to colorful fish and coral, while Scotts Head offers swimming through caves and tunnels. Soufriere Bay is one of Dominica's most popular dive sites, known for its dramatic underwater cliffs and drop-offs.
4. Visit the Emerald Pool
Address: Emerald Pool Trail, Dominica
The Emerald Pool is located in Morne Trois Pitons National Park and gets its name from the color of the water. The water is crystal clear and surrounded by green vegetation. These waters are temperate at 70 or more degrees year round, not too hot or cold.
There are several ways to get to the pool, although the preferred way is to hike through the rainforest. The hike takes about 45 minutes and is of moderate difficulty. When you reach the pool, you can dive on the rocks or relax and enjoy the scenery.
If you are lucky you can even see turtles swimming in the water. Just be sure to be careful, as the rocks can be slippery.
5. See Boiling Lake
Like the Emerald Pool, the boiling lake is also in Morne Trois Pitons National Park. Boiling Lake gets its name because of the geothermal activity beneath it that constantly bubbles and evaporates.
The lake is about two miles long, and it takes about two hours to get to the lake from the nearest parking lot. While this may sound like an oh-so-attractive hot spring to some, swimming in temperatures of up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit is not recommended. It's not outright forbidden, but you really shouldn't be swimming here.
6. Hike through the rainforest
One of the best things to do in Dominica is to hike through the rainforest. With its lush vegetation and abundant wildlife, the rainforest is truly magical. There are several hiking trails ranging from short treks to long hikes.
Some of the best trails include the Syndicate Nature Trail, which leads to Boiling Lake, and the Morne Anglais Trail, with stunning rainforest and coastal views. Hiking is a great way to explore Dominica's natural beauty and a great workout at the same time.
7. Go whale watching
Fun fact: Dominica is the only country in the world where sperm whales live year-round. That means the island offers primo whale watching. The island is located in the Atlantic Ocean, and is home to several other types of whales, including humpback and pilot whales.
Whale watching tours depart from many locations around the island, usually lasting two to three hours. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to see these majestic animals up close and personal. You might even get a chance to see a whale breach or tail slap.
8. Relax on the beach
No trip to Dominica would be complete without relaxing on the beach. The good thing is Dominica is a beach lover's paradise with its sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. The island's most popular beaches include Champagne Beach, known for its sparkling waters, and Sandy Point Beach, a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
You should also visit Rosalie Bay Beach, one of the few black sand beaches in the Caribbean. If you're looking for a more adventurous beach experience, you can try your hand at windsurfing or kitesurfing. Dominica's trade winds make it ideal for learning how to windsurf or kitesurf.
9. Take a scenic drive
The best way to explore Dominica is to take a scenic drive. The entire island is only 29 miles long and 15 miles wide, so it takes about two hours to drive around it.
The island has a variety of landscapes, ranging from lush rainforests to rugged mountains. And with its winding roads and dramatic cliffs, Dominica is definitely a driver's paradise.
One of the most popular routes is the Atlantic Coast Drive. This drive takes you along the north coast of the island, offering stunning views of the coast and rainforest.
Another favorite scenic drive is the Cross Island Drive, which takes you through the middle of the island. This drive is a bit more challenging but worth your time for the incredible views.
10. Visit the capital city of Roseau
One of the most important things to do in Dominica is to check out the capital city of Roseau, especially if you're visiting for the first time. This historic town is lined with incredible 18th-century Creole architecture and dreamy cobblestone streets. Here you will also find the tropical Dominica Botanic Gardens and their resident Ciceru parrot – the oldest species of Amazon parrot.
Some of the more popular things to do in Roseau include visiting the Dominica Museum, which provides an insightful look at the island's history, and staying at the Fort Young Hotel, a historic waterfront hotel. The city has several bars and clubs to enjoy live music and dancing.
11. Go bird watching
The island is home to a variety of bird species, including the endangered Imperial Parrot (also known as the Cicerou, which we mentioned earlier). One of the best ways to enjoy bird watching on the island of incredible nature is on a hiking tour. A good guide will be able to point out the different flora and fauna you see, including some Dominica-specific birds.
There are several places for bird watching on the island, but one of the best is the Morne Diablotin National Park or the Syndicate Nature Trail. Morne Diablotin is home to other species of birds, such as the Jaco Red-necked Parrot, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
12. See Trafalgar Falls
Address: Paillotte Road, Dominica
One of the most iconic spots on the island is definitely the dual Trafalgar Falls. Amazingly, there are both hot and cold pools for swimming if you're up for the hike.
The best (and safest) way to see Trafalgar Falls is to take a guided tour. These tours usually last about an hour and include a short hike to the falls as well as a swim in the pools at the base of the falls. If you're looking for a more challenging hike, you can hike to the top of the falls for some incredible views.
13. Explore Cabrit National Park
Address: HGPG+G8F, Portsmouth, Dominica
Cabrits National Park, on the northern peninsula of Dominica, is a 1300+ acre national park with forests, coral reefs and wetlands. The park's name, meaning "goat", was given to it by sailors who introduced the mammal to the island.
The park is home to several attractions including the Fort Shirley Historic Site, Cabrit's Dive Center and Caroni Bird Sanctuary. There are also other hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
14. Visit the Fort Young Hotel and Museum
Address: Victoria Street, Roseau, Dominica
The Fort Young Hotel and Museum allows travelers to learn about the history and culture of the island while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Fort Young is located on the site of a former British fort and the museum houses a collection of artifacts from the island's colonial past.
Visitors can also take guided tours of the fort and its grounds. The hotel also offers rooms with sea views and self-catering apartments. Plus, from this hotel, you're in a prime location to enjoy all that the city of Roseau has to offer.
15. Kayak down the Roseau River
The Roseau River is one of the most popular kayaking destinations on the island of Dominica. The river flows through the forest and the kayak trip takes about two hours. Travelers can also spot iconic Caribbean flora and fauna, including monkeys, sloths and turtles.
The trip ends at a waterfall, where kayakers can swim. Despite its popularity, the Roseau River is relatively unknown outside the island of Dominica. Because it is located in a remote corner of the Caribbean and is not easy to find.
An experienced guide is not required but is recommended for first-time kayakers. With its beautiful scenery and diversity of wildlife, the Roseau River is a must-see for any traveler to the island of Dominica. Check prices on Viator for a private kayaking tour and book in advance to secure your trip.
16. See Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a small town on the north coast of the island of Dominica. The town has several shops and restaurants as well as a few historical monuments. One of Portsmouth's most popular attractions is the Fort Shirley Historic Site.
Here too you'll find the aforementioned Cabrits National Park, where the Waitukubuli National Trail ends. It's about an hour outside of Roseau if you're doing a day trip outside to visit.
17. Zipline through the rainforest canopy
For adventurous visitors, look no further than Canopy Zipline Tours in Dominica. The tour takes tourists on a zipline through the rainforest canopy, giving them fascinating views of the jungle below. Honestly, a rainforest zipline tour can be one of the most exhilarating and breathtaking things you'll ever do - especially if you're usually a risk-taker like me.
The tour includes ten zip lines, a hanging bridge and a rappelling platform. The Canopy Zipline Tour is located in Morne Trois Pitons National Park.
18. Relax at Secret Bay
Address: GGWG+6X5, Ross Blvd, Portsmouth, Dominica
Secret Bay is an incredible, secluded beach resort on the north coast of the island of Dominica. This hotel celebrates all that the island represents, while allowing access to a stunning bay.
The villas at Secret Bay allow for even more privacy for people who really want to disconnect from the world. This hotel is often ranked among the best in the Caribbean for good reason.
When you're not ready to say goodbye to nearby Tabe Beach just yet, the views from the resort's Jing Jing restaurant are just what you need. The restaurant serves a simple Island Harvest menu for lunch and a four-course menu for dinner.
19. Dominica Botanic Gardens
Address: 8J29+F6W, Bath Rd, Roseau, Dominica
The Dominica Botanic Garden is one of the oldest and most biodiverse gardens in the Caribbean. It was founded in 1825 by British physician and botanist John Crowder, who was interested in the flora of the region. Today, the garden covers more than 30 acres and contains more than 5,000 species of plants.
Visitors can walk along winding paths and enjoy the sights and smells of tropical flowers, fruits and trees. The botanical gardens are home to several endangered species, including the red-throated parrot and the blue-tailed skink.
20. Titau Gorge
Address: 8MHG+M8J, Laudat, Dominica
Titau Gorge is another waterfall hike in Dominica. To be fair, the hike is more of a swim than a proper hike. From here, you can see the canyon's various "rooms" that are actually naturally carved rock walls.
The ghat has multiple waterfalls and natural pools perfect for swimming and relaxing. There are also hot springs to enjoy while you are here.
Visitors can climb to the top of the falls for an outstanding view of the surrounding jungle. Titou Gorge is accessible by car, and several tour companies offer guided tours of the area.
Dominica is a small island in the Caribbean Sea known for its dramatic landscapes and unspoiled natural beauty. Although visiting Dominica can be challenging, it is worth the effort. There are two main ways to get to the island: by plane or by boat.
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The nearest major airport is Martinique, about a 45-minute flight from Dominica. Alternatively, there are several ferry services that operate between Dominica and nearby islands, such as between Guadeloupe and Antigua.
Travelers should note that some ferries only operate on certain days of the week, so it's important to check the schedule in advance. No matter how you travel, Dominica is an unforgettable destination that should not be missed.
Things to Do in Dominica: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the must-visit natural attractions in Dominica?
Explore Dominica's natural wonders, including the Boiling Lake, Trafalgar Falls, and Morne Trois Pitons National Park.
Are there wellness retreats in Dominica?
Yes, Dominica offers wellness retreats, providing a serene environment surrounded by nature's therapeutic elements.
When is the best time to witness whale watching in Dominica?
The best time for whale watching in Dominica is from November to March, with a higher chance of spotting sperm whales.
What is the national dish of Dominica?
Callaloo soup is the national dish of Dominica, a flavorful blend of leafy greens and spices.
Are there any hidden hot springs in Dominica?
Wotten Waven is home to hidden hot springs, offering a secluded and therapeutic experience amidst lush landscapes.
Which festivals should I attend in Dominica?
Plan your visit during Independence Day celebrations and the World Creole Music Festival for a vibrant cultural experience.
Conclusion:
Embark on a journey of discovery in Dominica, where every corner of the island unveils a new adventure. Whether immersing yourself in nature, indulging in local cuisine, or participating in cultural celebrations, Dominica offers a diverse and enriching experience for every traveler.
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