What to see and do on Dominica

There is much to do on this island which is only 29 miles long and 16 miles wide yet feels ten times the size, as the heavily forested volcanoes, winding roads, spectacular landscapes and deserted beaches belong to a much bigger place.

Hiking trails snake all over the island, most located within its three national parks. There are countless waterfalls, hidden valleys and soaring peaks. Bird watching, scuba diving, snorkelling and kayaking give way to a Creole culture and a thriving music and arts scene reflected in annual festivals. You will never be bored in Dominica. Here we highlight a selection of things to do and see on this enchanting island.

Syndicate Nature Trail and Falls

The Syndicate nature trail and falls (60 minute easy walk each way) nestle in the foothills of Morne Diablotins, at 1,447m, Dominica’s highest mountain. The trail runs close to the edge of the Picard River Gorge. This is the home of the rare Sisserou and Jaco Parrots and is excellent for walkers and birdwatchers alike.

Cold Soufriere

The short walk into the crater of the volcano where 17 or so cold sulphurous springs bubble is interesting but more so is the spectacular drive through the volcanic forested landscape that connects the hamlets of Delaford on the windward side and Guillet on the leeward side of the island. There are spectacular views of Prince Rupert Bay (Portsmouth) to the south and the Iles des Saintes to the northwest.

Waterfalls

How could so many spectacular waterfalls exist on such a small island? However, as there are 360 rivers on the island it’s not so surprising. Choose from the main ones being Trafalgar Falls, Emerald Pool, Middleham Falls, Sari Sari Falls, Victoria Falls, Jaco Falls, Boli Falls, Dernier Falls, Morgan River Falls, Sisserou Falls, Spanny Falls, Titou Gorge Falls, Brandy Falls, Bwa Nef Falls and Dubuc Falls. Some are harder to reach than others but all are guaranteed to lift the spirit.

Calibishie and the Northwest beaches

Calibishe is an overwhelmingly friendly village in the northeast of the island which runs along the seafront above a narrow sandy beach. Pick up a local dish takeaway from the village and head for one of the three wild and beautiful beaches; Batibou, Hampstead or Woodford Hill for a relaxing, quiet day - no sun umbrellas, no sun loungers, no cheek to jowl sunbathing, just virtually deserted, fabulous, dream beaches.

A day at Soufriere

Whether you are experienced or a beginner when it comes to sea sports then this is the place to be. Here, against a spectacular background of towering forested peaks are some of the most professional Kayaking, scuba diving and snorkelling companies on the island if not the Caribbean. Here, only a few metres from the shore, sea-cliffs plunge hundreds of feet to the ocean floor, vibrant coral lines the sea- cliff sides, dolphins play in the waters and sperm whales are resident and breed in the deep nutrient ocean. Snorkelling at champagne beach, with bubbles rising from fissures in the earth’s crust is a novel experience. Then sooth your tired body in the rather primitive local sulphur spa, featuring medicinal spring waters of varying temperatures.

Rosalie Bay

Rosalie Bay and the hotel there are in an isolated region and you would need a car to make the most of this area. However, this is where to stay for a chance of viewing turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs. The black sand beach at Rosalie Bay is magnificent but wild and you would not swim here, only paddle. However, between March and August, giant leatherback turtles come ashore to lay their eggs and this beach is one of the most popular with these iconic creatures.

Hawksbill and Green turtles generally nest between May and October. If you are staying at Rosalie Bay, then you can ask the hotel reception to let you know if turtles are coming ashore during the night so you can rush out to view. To experience such a sight is unforgettable, especially for children.

The Indian River and Fort Shirley Garrison

Overhung by tropical forest and palm trees, the Indian River, located just south of Portsmouth, is Dominica’s only navigable waterway. The very informative trip using 8-seater rowing boats with a guide is a must and covers approximately 2 kilometres of the river. Your guide will explain the history of the river and point out the flora and fauna while you wonder at the lush vegetation, the waterbirds and sometimes the odd Iguana. For those interested in the Pirates of The Caribbean films, the Indian River was the hideaway of Tia Dalma who featured in the Dead Man’s Chest film.

Fort Shirley, which overlooks Portsmouth and is set in the Cabrits National Park, is a short drive away. The garrison, which covers an area of 50 hectares and originally consisted of 50 buildings, was constructed in the seventeen hundreds but never saw action and was abandoned in 1854. Restoration began in 1983 under the guidance of local historian Dr Lennox Honychurch. The fort is an excellent vantage point and a window into the island’s history.

Roseau

The capital of the island is a bustling, crowded and ramshackle town but overwhelmingly friendly. It has to be navigated with care, both with a car and on foot, as pavements tend to disappear and open drainage gutters are to be skilfully avoided. However, one cannot just skip the island’s capital without joining a guided tour. Ketty Labadie guides a history walking tour of Roseau. Engaging murals, medicinal plants in the heart of the city, vibrant markets, historical anecdotes and Creole traditions throw a light on the island’s history.

Hiking Trails

If you are a hiker or just a casual walker, then Dominica is the place to be. Hikes begin from all parts of the island and range from easy to challenging and very difficult. Some definitely require a guide. The small map that is enclosed with all our holiday tickets lists a total of 32 and these hikes are just the better-known ones. Of course, no hiker could possibly leave Dominica without hiking to the Boiling Lake and Valley of Desolation, a 7 hour round trip which is classed as challenging and best done with a guide.

No matter the difficulty of any of the hikes, what is guaranteed are spectacular views, lush forests, warm weather and the feeling of being at one with nature.

The Kalinago

Originally known as “Caribs,” the Kalinago were well established on Dominica when Columbus arrived on the island in 1492. Around 3,000 Kalinagos live on a semi-autonomous territory of three thousand acres on the dramatic, craggy northeast coast. A drive through the picturesque Kalinago territory is a chance to experience Kalinago culture and traditions. The Kalinago Barana Aute in the village of Crayfish River is a picturesque demonstration village helping visitors to understand the history of these peoples. Currently, the President of Dominica is a Kalinago woman.

Festivals

To say that Dominican’s love to party is an understatement. You will always find people dancing at beach side rum shops. Dominica always celebrates its Creole Heritage and October is considered to be “Creole Month” where the island celebrates its indigenous and Afro-Caribbean roots. The World Creole Music Festival is held on the last weekend in October. The February/March carnival (Mas Domnik) in Dominica is regarded as the most original in the Caribbean with traditional costumes, calypso music and street parades. This is best seen in Roseau.

Fort Shirley in the Cabrits National Park hosts the spring “Jazz ‘n Creole” festival blending jazz with Creole.

Independence Celebrations take place between October and November, featuring cultural, music and food events

In fact, every activity for which the island is known is celebrated - the Dive Fest (early July), Hike Fest in May, Domfest Arts Festival between April and June and the Nature Island Literary Festival in August.