🇩🇲 Dominica

Nature Island of the Caribbean - Caribbean's Leading Nature Destination

Capital

Roseau

Population

72,000

Language

English, French Creole

Currency

East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)

Best Time

Dec - May

Flight Time (US)

4-5 hours (via connecting flights)

Flight Time (Toronto)

5-6 hours (via connecting)

Flight Time (London)

8-9 hours

Flight Time (Paris)

8-9 hours

Discover Dominica

Dominica is the Caribbean's untouched paradise, known as the "Nature Island" for its pristine rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and commitment to eco-tourism. This mountainous island features 365 rivers, dramatic waterfalls, bubbling hot springs, and the world's second-largest boiling lake. Unlike other Caribbean destinations, Dominica offers adventure over beaches, with world-class hiking, diving, and nature experiences.

Home to the last remaining Kalinago (Carib) indigenous community in the Caribbean, Dominica preserves both natural and cultural heritage. The island's lush interior remains largely undeveloped, with over 60% covered by pristine rainforest. From the UNESCO World Heritage Morne Trois Pitons National Park to rare Sisserou parrots, Dominica is a haven for eco-adventurers and nature lovers.

Award-Winning Excellence

2025 World Travel Awards

Dominica has been crowned Caribbean's Leading Nature Destination 2025, winning 5 World Travel Awards and cementing its reputation as the premier eco-tourism destination in the Caribbean.

5
Total Awards Won
365
Rivers & Waterfalls
#1
Nature Destination

Notable Award-Winning Properties & Services

  • Dominica - Caribbean's Leading Nature Destination 2025
  • Jungle Bay Dominica - Caribbean's Leading Retreat 2025
  • InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa - Dominica's Leading Hotel 2025
  • Just Go Dominica - Dominica's Leading Tour Operator 2025
  • Leisure Car Rental - Dominica's Leading Car Rental Company 2025

Top Attractions & Things to Do

  • Boiling Lake - World's second-largest boiling lake requiring challenging 6-hour hike through Valley of Desolation
  • Morne Trois Pitons National Park - UNESCO World Heritage Site with volcanic features, hot springs, and pristine rainforest
  • Trafalgar Falls - Twin waterfalls (Mother and Father Falls) accessible via short rainforest trail
  • Titou Gorge - Narrow canyon with crystal-clear water perfect for swimming, featured in Pirates of the Caribbean
  • Champagne Reef - Unique snorkel/dive site with volcanic vents creating champagne-like bubbles underwater
  • Waitukubuli National Trail - Caribbean's longest hiking trail (115 miles) traversing the entire island
  • Emerald Pool - Scenic waterfall and swimming hole surrounded by lush rainforest, accessible via easy trail
  • Kalinago Territory - Indigenous Kalinago community preserving traditional culture, crafts, and way of life
  • Whale Watching - Year-round opportunities to see sperm whales, pilot whales, and dolphins
  • Middleham Falls - Tallest waterfall in Dominica (200 feet) reached via moderate rainforest hike
  • Screw's Sulphur Spa - Natural hot spring pools in volcanic rock formations
  • Indian River - Peaceful rowboat tour through mangroves and rainforest, featured in Pirates of the Caribbean

Adventure Activities

Hiking & Trekking

Over 180 miles of hiking trails from easy nature walks to challenging mountain treks. Explore rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and hidden waterfalls with experienced guides.

Diving & Snorkeling

Pristine underwater sites including Champagne Reef, Soufriere Pinnacles, and dramatic wall dives. Excellent visibility and diverse marine life including seahorses and frogfish.

Canyoning & River Tubing

Navigate Dominica's 365 rivers through canyoning adventures, river tubing, cliff jumping, and natural waterslide experiences in pristine mountain streams.

Whale & Wildlife Watching

Year-round whale watching (November-March peak season), birdwatching for endemic species including Sisserou and Jaco parrots, and rainforest wildlife encounters.

Natural Wonders

Dominica's volcanic origins create unique natural features found nowhere else in the Caribbean. The island sits on the Ring of Fire with active geothermal activity producing hot springs, fumaroles, and the famous Boiling Lake. Morne Trois Pitons National Park protects five volcanoes, 50 fumaroles, and countless hot springs.

The pristine rainforest ecosystem supports incredible biodiversity with over 1,000 plant species, 172 bird species (including two endemic parrots), and rare wildlife. Rivers and waterfalls cascade from mountains to sea, creating endless opportunities for swimming, hiking, and exploration in untouched natural settings.

Dominican Culture & Cuisine

Dominican culture blends African, French, British, and indigenous Kalinago influences. Creole (French-based patois) is widely spoken alongside English. The island maintains strong traditions in dance (quadrille), music (bouyon and cadence-lypso), and community celebrations.

Local cuisine features fresh provisions from mountain gardens, river crayfish, mountain chicken (frog legs), and seafood. Must-try dishes include callaloo soup, plantain porridge, dasheen puffs, and fresh fruit juices. Don't miss the Roseau Market for local produce and authentic Dominican meals.

Travel Tips

  • Entry Requirements: US citizens need valid passport. No visa required for stays under 21 days
  • Getting There: Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM) and Canefield Airport (DCF) with connections through Antigua, Barbados, or Guadeloupe
  • Getting Around: Rental cars essential for exploring (drive on left). Steep, winding mountain roads. Local buses available
  • Currency: East Caribbean Dollar (XCD) pegged at 2.70 to USD. US dollars widely accepted. Credit cards limited outside Roseau
  • Best Time to Visit: December to May for drier weather. Hurricane season June-November. Hiking possible year-round
  • What to Pack: Hiking boots, rain gear, quick-dry clothing, insect repellent, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes
  • Guides: Hire certified guides for challenging hikes (Boiling Lake, Waitukubuli Trail). Required for some national park trails
  • Accommodation: Limited large resorts. Focus on eco-lodges, guesthouses, and nature retreats like award-winning Jungle Bay
  • Fitness Level: Many activities require good fitness. Trails can be steep, muddy, and challenging
  • Safety: Very safe island. Watch for flash floods in rivers. Stay on marked trails. Respect marine protected areas

Dominica Travel Deals

Exclusive eco-adventure packages and retreat offers for Dominica

Save 44%

Jungle Bay Eco-Retreat

7 nights wellness • Yoga classes • Hiking tours • Spa treatments included

$2,299 $4,099
Book on Expedia →
Save 42%

Nature Adventure Package

5 nights • Boiling Lake hike • Waterfalls tour • River tubing • Whale watching

$1,499 $2,599
Book on Expedia →
Save 40%

Diving & Hiking Explorer

6 nights • 6 dives including Champagne Reef • Rainforest hikes • Hot springs

$1,799 $2,999
Book on Expedia →

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