A large hot spring in Morne Trois Pitons National Park and submerged fumaroles at Champagne Reef show how varied Dominica’s natural landscape can be. Forests, lakes and waterfalls are joined by cultural sites in the Kalinago Territory and Roseau.
Forests, Lakes and Wildlife
Morne Trois Pitons National Park protects 6,857 hectares in Dominica’s central and southern highlands. The park is home to Freshwater Lake, one of Dominica’s largest lakes. Boiling Lake is also in the park: it is a large hot spring with a water temperature of about 95°C.
The park is home to endemic reptiles, amphibians and bird species, including parrots endemic to Dominica. The Sisserou and Jaco parrots are found nowhere else in the world. Morne Diablotin National Park features a different forest landscape, with elfin woodland, montane forest and secondary rainforest.
Hiking and Water Experiences
The Waitukubuli National Trail is 184 km long, comprises 14 segments and runs from the village of Scott’s Head to Cabrits National Park. All visitors and non-residents must purchase a trail pass to enter or hike the trail. As pass requirements may change, check the latest information in advance. Another named summit route runs from the Syndicate area along the Morne Diablotin Trail to the summit of Morne Diablotin.
A guide must be hired in advance for the hike to Boiling Lake, which is one of the most challenging hikes in Dominica. At Trafalgar Falls, a well-maintained path leads in 10 to 15 minutes to a viewing platform overlooking the two waterfalls. Swimming is possible at the smaller waterfall; there are hot springs at the higher one.
Emerald Pool is a 40-foot waterfall on the northern edge of Morne Trois Pitons National Park. It lies on Segment 5, the Maroon Trail, of the Waitukubuli National Trail; on hot days, swimmers and bathers can cool off there. In southwest Dominica, Champagne Reef offers a different way to experience the water: the snorkeling reef features submerged, volcanically active fumaroles. Visitors can experience warm water above colorful underwater formations while diving and snorkeling there.
Kalinago Culture and Historic Sites
The Kalinago Territory is home to the Kalinago, descendants of Dominica’s original inhabitants. Visitors can learn about basket weaving, canoe building, pottery and wood carving there. Tours offered by Kalinago guides include hikes along the Asulukati River and to its waterfall, as well as climbs to the summit of Kabet.
Fort Shirley is part of Cabrits National Park and is located on a scenic peninsula north of Portsmouth. Visitors can climb the walls and look out from the cannons. In Roseau, Old Market Square now serves as a craft market for cruise ship passengers and other visitors. The Dominica Museum in Roseau displays artifacts relating to the island’s history; check its current operating status before your visit.
River Trip and Getting There
On the Indian River, experienced boatmen take visitors in hand-rowed boats through a coastal wetland and past riverbanks rich in wildlife and plant life. The Bush Bar on the Indian River offers its own rum drink, smoked fish and local cuisine. As offerings may change, check what is currently available before your visit.
Catamarans operated by FRS Express des ĂŽles connect Dominica with Guadeloupe, Martinique and St. Lucia and carry 300 to 400 passengers. Schedules and operating conditions may change, so check the information before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Patrick, Saint Paul Parish, Saint Joseph Parish, Saint Mark, Saint Luke, Saint Andrew Parish, Saint Peter Parish.
