Dominica
Eco-friendly travel guide to Dominica advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to travel in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Dominica, Caribbean, North America.
- Air quality: 4.1 / 5
- Bus connections: 3.7 / 5
- Train connections:3.2 / 5
- Hitchhiking: 3.8 / 5
- National parks: 4.3 / 5
- Outdoor activities: 4.2 / 5
- Locals' English level: 3.9 / 5
- Safety: 4.3 / 5
- Accommodation: US$140 - $284
- Budget per day: US$157- $304
Contents
Responsible Travel
Dominica was the last Caribbean island to be colonized by Europeans. It is located between the North Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The island has a population of 75000 people living within its boundaries. The population is represented by 86% African descent, a 9.1% mixed race, while 2.9 represent the indigenous people. The primary religion in Dominica is Christianity, with the majority being Roman Catholic. A 61% population represents the roman catholic, 28% protestants, and the rest includes Evangelical, seventh-day Adventists, Rastafarian, and Jehova witnesses. The island is a trendy tourist destination due to its outstanding natural beauty, especially its mountainous topography, which impresses nature lovers. The official language is English, but French is popular among the residents. When it comes to the economy, Dominica is the poorest of the Caribbean countries. The economy of the island depends on agriculture which is intermittently destroyed by hurricanes. Major crops grown by the residents include citrus fruits, bananas, and coconuts. The island receives approximately 80,000 tourists every year. To get to know the island better and in an eco-friendly manner, you can opt to walk, cycle or pick a public bus. The methods will help you interact with Dominican people, helping you understand their culture and beliefs. Another suitable way to leave the Dominican state better than you found is by buying from locally-owned shops. Promoting these local businesses is of great help to the upcoming companies within the city. You can also show responsible travel by disposing of waste material in segregated areas. Primary waste materials in Dominica include plastic bottles and papers.
Air Quality and Pollution
Air quality in Dominica is moderately unsafe due to the high levels of nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter, and biological materials. According to (World Health Organization) WHO, these pollution paradoxes affect the residents' health in this city. According to (World Health Organization), the air quality in Dominica is considered unsafe, especially for sensitive groups. The air quality index is 60, which is moderate. Air pollution is causing chronic diseases, breathing problems, and premature mortality to some residents. The government has placed strict measures to curb this danger by laying a plan to reduce the total amount of carbon emission.
Respect the Culture
The culture of the people of Dominica is influenced by the French, Africans, Caribs, and British people who the French brought over for slavery. All this colorful culture is evident in the island's foods, language, art, and music. the island has almost every music genre. Still, the most evident ones are reggae, local folk, and calypso. Every village in Dominica has its festivals. The most vibrant ones are the Carnival, which is celebrated a week before Ash Wednesday, and the world Creole Music Festival celebrated in October every year. The people of Dominica are earnest about taking Sunday off. Almost everything is closed on Sundays except the hotels. If you need services, please do it on Saturday. The people here are also hot, welcoming, and artful.
Top 10 Places to Visit
Dominica is also known as the nature island of the Caribbean. It remains an unspoiled place for hikers, divers, and naturalists. It features dramatic waterfalls, rivers, lakes, steamy hot springs, mountains, and landscapes with lush rainforests.
- Morne Trois Pitons National Park: This is among the most visited areas in this part of the region. The national park encompasses the island's mountainous interior. It is an over 16,000 acre UNESCO World Heritage site featuring beautiful lakes like the mist-shrouded Boeri lake and the boiling lake. The park also has some fantastic waterfalls within its borders, namely Emerald pool, Victoria Waterfall, Trafalgar Falls, and Middleham Falls. There is also another major destination in the the the steaming Valley of Desolation. It's a great place to hang out, especially for nature lovers, and an excellent place to make memories.
- Boiling Lake: It's among the most popular attractions in this part of the region. It receives a large number of both local and foreign visitors all year long. The eerie-looking pool lies at the end of a three-hour hike through the thick forest. It is the world's second-largest boiling lake .its temperature at the edges ranges between 82 and 92 degrees Celcius. While visiting this place, it always carries some hiking boots because it sometimes gets muddy. Also, come with a guide to help you through the thick bushes using the shortest routes. It's a great place to hang out with friends, especially during weekends or holidays.
- Victoria Falls: This is among the most impressive destinations in Dominica. It attracts a large number of both local and foreign visitors all year long. The waterfall is formed by the white river cascading over a cliff into a warm pool below. Minerals are the main reason behind the water's milky color. While going to this place, always carry some hiking boots due to the messy situations. The guide is also highly recommended as there are places you will need to scramble over slick rocks through the river. It's an excellent place for people who love hiking and nature.
- Trafalgar falls: Hiking Trafalgar falls among the most overrated and cerebrated things to do in Dominica. The waterfalls are located in about 20 minutes walk through the thick ginger plants and vanilla orchids. The water streams are joined by hot mineral springs towards the bottom. It's a great place to enjoy nature at its best. While here, take some photos for remembrance. Hiking here is a great way to spend a weekend.
- Dominica beaches: Dominica has some high-rated beaches receiving lots of visitors all year long. Beaches here are primarily volcanic black sand beauties, although sometimes the sand can look grey depending on the light. One of the famous beaches is Mero Beach, located less than 30 minutes drive from the capital Roseau. The beach features some fantastic hotels and restaurants where you can grab some food and drinks. Another famous beach in the region is Purple Turtle Beach which neighbors one of the best restaurants. Other notable beaches include Batibou beach, located in the islands far north coast, and champagne beach.
- Cabrits national park: This is another famous national part in this part of the region. It is located in the northwest of the island. The park features some fantastic black sand beaches, lush rainforest, thriving coral reefs, and swampland. Major activities you can engage in while here include diving, swimming, hiking, and snorkeling. The park is also home to some of the most interesting historical sites in the region. They have Fort Shirley's remains and a little museum that is rich in Dominica's colonial history. While going here, always carry some water and hiking attire to enjoy the hiking. It's a great place to visit with friends and snap some photos.
- Roseau: This is the capital city of Dominica. it's a busy city with a colorful jumble of west Indian cottages and very vibrant people. The place receives a large number of visitors all year long. The town features government offices, central banks, and social services. There are many market stalls and the old market that sells locally produced farm products. Most of the farm products include coconut shells as souvenirs, fresh tropical fruits and vegetables, herbs, and baskets. The city is also home to st Patricks catholic cathedral, which among the cities significant landmarks. Significant activities to engage in while in the town include exploring the island's history in the Dominica Museum and strolling around the Dominica Botanic Gardens. The city is a great place to hang out and experience ordinary Dominican residents' day-to-day life residents' everyday lives.
- Papillote Tropical Gardens: These gardens are popular destinations for botanists, artists, and photographers. The gardens are located in Trafalgar fall road, Roseau. It's a 10-acre garden fed by a small stream to form an attractive eco-lodge. Significant plants include indigenous orchids, bamboo trees, begonias, and bromeliads. Some major animals you will come across have frogs, butterflies, and birds. It's a great place to hang out and watch the beautiful views of the mountains and valleys surrounding the tropical gardens.
- Champagne reef: Dominica is a popular destination among lovers of diving and snorkeling. Champagne Reef is located in the marine reserve of the state's southwest coast. The warm waters are home to many sea animals, including rays, sea horses, batfish, trumpetfish, and squid. It's a great place to experience nature at its best. It's a great place to visit with friends during weekends and holidays.
- Kalinago Territory: Dominica is home to the largest remaining tribe of kalinango, also known as Carib Indians, in this part of the Caribbean. for those interested in learning about their culture and beliefs.
It is essential to visit Kalinga Barana Auto, a modern village located on the island's northeast coast. It is less than 30 kilometers from the capital city Roseau. The tribe is well known for its skills in weaving baskets, carving dugout canoes, making mats, and medicinal plants' knowledge. The tribe makes a living by fishing, making crafts, and agriculture. It's a great place to learn about the history of Dominica from the remnants of the land.
- Dominica's festivals: The festivals are trendy among both locals and tourists. The festivals are majorly done to preserve the nation's heritage and music. significant events include the carnival festival, Dominica festivals of Arts which involve competitions in dance, drama, cuisine, music, fine arts, and literature. Dive festival is another vibrant ceremony that draws water lovers. It deals with canoe tours and whale watching deals. The world Music Creole Festival flocks all music lovers and is celebrated in October every year. The last major festival on the island is independence day which is celebrated from October through November. It honors Dominica's history and traditions, including clothing, food, dancing, and music.
Explore
The island has very many exciting places to visit, learn and have fun there is a wide range of beaches, parks, museums, dining places and many other places you can spend your weekends and holidays. On these sites, there are lots of activities to engage in. Some of the famous, exciting places you can explore in Dominica include:
City Parks
- Peebles park: This is among the most visited parks in this part of the region. It is located in Victoria st, Roseau, Dominica. It offers picnic facilities, a large playground, walking paths, and a great place to relax. It is also clean and well maintained, providing an excellent environment for kids to play.
- Dominica Botanic Gardens: This is another popular, beautiful gem to relax whenever in the city of Roseau. This is a great park featuring exotic trees. There are also many plants majorly used for scientific research, display, conservation, and education. It's an excellent place for people interested in various plant species.
National Parks
- Morne Trois Pitons National parks: This is among the most popular national parks in this part of the region. UNESCO recognized it as a World Heritage Site in the year 1997.it features green rainforests, waterfalls, and a large number of wild animals. Major vital attractions include the boiling late, the valley of dissolution, freshwater late, emerald pool, Boeri Lake, and more watt. The boiling lake feeds water into the white river and Victoria Falls.
- Cabrits national park: This is a popular park located on the north end of the island and neighbors Portsmouth's town. It was established in the year 1986 and occupied 1,313 acres of land. It features protected tropical forests, wetlands, and coral reefs. Neighboring the park are spectacular beach views, low rising peaks, and extinct volcanoes. It's a great place to go for hikes with friends.
- Morne Diablotins National Park: This is a national park located in the northern ranges of the island. It covered over 8,000 acres of vegetation and was established in early 2000 to protect the endangered Sisserou Parrot habitat, which is the national symbol of the island. The park is home to the tallest mountain on the island and over 4,000 foot Morne Diablotins. It's a great place to hike with friends and connect with nature.
- Fort Shirley: This is a popular destination rich in one of the unique histories in Dominica. The fortress was used as a revolt by the African slave soldiers in the year 1802, which led to the freeing of all British slave soldiers in early 1807. the fort was built within a volcanic crater and was used as a base during the conflicts between France and Britain in the 18th and 19 centuries. The place has now undergone renovation and is being used as home to receptions, weddings, and concerts. The place also offers stunning views of the nearby beaches, Prince Rupert Bay, and major mountains rising. It's a great place to hike and learn about the history of slavery in the 18th century.
Beaches
- Champagne Beach: This is among the most visited beach in this part of the region. It is located in the Caribbean sea south of Roseau city. It's a great place to relax and have fun. The beach is famous primarily due to its tranquil waters ideal for swimming. To make sure you get the most excellent spots. Make sure to get there early enough and spend the day on the stunning view. the place is perfect for enjoying yourself with family and friends. The site also has lovely shops with quality foods and drinks—worth a visit.
- Number One Beach: This is another famous beach located a few minute's drives from Roseau city. It receives a large number of both local and foreign visitors all year long. The beach is very silent during weekdays with a relatively small number of people. It's a great place to walk and jog. The site is easily accessible via public transport. The staff is fantastic and ready to help if the need arises—a great place to visit with family and friends.
- Mero beach: Mero Beach is among the most popular beaches on the island. It Is a great place to relax and interact with nature. The beach is located in Edward Oliver Leblanc, mero, Dominica. It's a great and famous beach in this region and home to several restaurants and shops. Meals beach is located in a convenient location accessible through public transport. It has clean walkways and plenty of bins to drop your waste. It's also a great place to cycle and walk with fantastic sea views. Great place to visit with family and friends during weekends and holidays.
- Bubble Beach Spa: This is a famous beach located a few minute's drives from the capital city Roseau. It features some restaurants and cafes where you can grab some foods and drinks if you feel hungry. The beach is a fantastic sandy beach and a great place to spend your summer. It attracts a relatively massive number of foreign and local tourists. It is also an excellent place for water sports especially swimming and sunbathing.
- Batibou Bay: Batibou bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The beach is a fantastic sandy beach and a great place to spend your summer. It attracts a relatively massive number of foreign and local tourists. It is also an excellent place for water sports especially swimming and sunbathing. The people here are super friendly and pleasant to interact with—a great place to visit with family and friends.
Landmarks
- Bois Cotlette Plantation: This is among the famous historical landmarks in this part of the region. It is located on Gallion road, Dominica. The site is beautiful to watch the sunrise and other perfect views nearby. It is also an ideal place for taking photos while enjoying the morning sun. The location can be easily accessed through public transport and too close to shops and significant public offices.
- Fort Shirley: This is a great historical place on the island of Dominica. It is located in the cabrits national park in the province of Pennsylvania. It is a British colonial fort used during the British french war in the 18th and 19th centuries. It preserves the history of the island's remnants. The site contains much historical stuff that is well kept. The historical building is also clean and well maintained. It's an excellent place for people interested in the history of Dominica.
- Kalinango territory: This is an excellent point of interest for everybody who visits Dominica. These were the first inhabitants of Dominica and lived in eight villages. They are the descendants of Caribs and have a strong culture worth learning. It's a great place to learn about the remnants of the region and their way of living.
Museums
- The Dominica Museum: This is the most popular national museum in Dominica. It is located in the capital city Roseau in front of the famous Old Market, which was the center of slave trading back during the colonial period. The place attracts a large number o both local and foreign visitors. The location is easily accessible via public transport, which is a significant reason behind its high number of visitors. The place is clean and well maintained, with all necessary amenities provided. The attendants are very knowledgeable and ready to share their knowledge with interested parties. The entrance is free, but there is an option for donation, which helps maintain the museum.
- The Old Mill Cultural Centre: This is a historical museum located on 3rd street, Canefield, Dominica. It's a great place preserving the culture of the remnants of Dominica. The art gallery is entertaining and ideal for a family visit. It is usually opened from Tuesdays to Fridays and some holidays. The attendants are very welcoming and knowledgeable about their craft. The halls are also clean and well maintained to ensure a conducive environment for learning. It's a great place full of history and culture.
- Public Library and Museum: This is among the most visited museums in this part of the region. It is located in Victoria St, Roseau, Dominica. This is a museum rich in the history of the Dominica people dating from the 18th century. There are lots of artifacts and books that explain how the island was run before the colonial periods. The staff is welcoming and very knowledgeable about their craft. It's a great place to earn about the history of the island and its people.
Eat
Dominica has a wide range of hotels and restaurants offering a wide range of foods and drinks. The eateries range from traditional, vegetarian, and vegan restaurants to gluten-free options. Most of the restaurants serve breakfast, light lunch, and delicious dinner at favorable prices. While here, try traditional dishes. Primary foods on the island include mountain chicken, Manicou, Agouti, and callaloo. popular restaurants in the area include:
- The Palisades: The palisade restaurant is located at Fort Young Hotel and offers among the best experience in Dominica. It receives a large number of visitors, especially from local communities. They provide excellent food, which is traditional primarily but innovative. The food is authentic and very delicious. The place is super clean, well-organized, and arranged. Staff is courteous, kind, and ready to help if the need arises. It's an excellent place for a visit with friends and family.
- Zing zing: Zing zing restaurant is among the most popular local restaurant in this part of the region. Most of their meals are prepared from local ingredients and produce. They offer both takeaway and delivery services to their customers. They provide excellent traditional food but innovative. The food is authentic and very delicious. The place is super clean, well organized, and arranged. Staff is courteous, kind, and ready to help if the need arises. It's an excellent place for a visit with friends and family.
- Cabrits market: This is a newly opened restaurant that offers a wide variety of delicious dishes at very affordable prices. They offer various vegan foods and vegetarian dishes. The food is tasty, colorful and well presented with flavors, and very innovative with only vegetarian ingredients. The place is super clean and with all necessary amenities in the area, and well maintained. Staff is courteous, kind, and ready to help if the need arises. It's an excellent place for a visit with friends and family.
- Pagua Bay and Grill: This is among the most visited restaurants in this region. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere than most of the neighboring restaurants. There are also options to enjoy your meals on the inside or out in the open. The restaurant offers both dine-in and takeaway services to its customers. The staff is welcoming, super friendly, and ready to help in case the need arises. The cost of food may not be the most affordable choice for many people, but it's well worth the money. This hotel's foods and services are a top-notch—great place to visit with family and friends during special events.
Drink
There are excellent drinking places in Dominica. The most popular drinks on the island include tap water, beers, and cocktails. Most of these products are imported; hence you will find them at a higher cost. The island has many drinking place s and fantastic nightlife.
Tap-water
Tap water in Dominica is perfectly safe to drink, although some locals still encourage drinking bottled water. Though drinkable, sometimes the water may be contaminated with chlorine substances. Since there is no general information on WHO's water safety, it's advisable to check from locals and check the locals' water rating in every region you travel to. As a precaution, always drink boiled water or bottled water while on the island.
Activities
There are many fun activities you can engage with while in Dominica, especially water sports. These outdoor activities help improve physique, the feel-good factor, and improved bonding. The primary activities to engage in while on the island include scuba diving, canoeing, scuba diving, jet-skiing and hiking.
Accommodation
Dominica offers accommodation facilities that are clean, neat, and affordable. The types of accommodation facilities available include apartments, luxury lodges, hostels, and guest houses. The accommodation facilities are readily available and at fair prices.
Green Hotels
- Coffeeriver cottages: This is a popular destination for nature lovers featuring a serene river and a pair of private villas. It's a 2-star hotel offering a wide variety of foods and drinks at low prices. The
staff are very welcoming, helpful and will make you feel comfortable. The rooms are spacious and well furnished, with all amenities included. It's a great place to visit with family.
- Fort young hotel: This is one of the most popular hotels in this part of the region. It features a relaxed restaurant, a pool, bar, and ample parking area. The restaurant offers a variety of meals served with great love by their kind and welcoming staff. The place is clean and well maintained, offering a conducive atmosphere for relaxing. It's a great place to share some dinner with friends and family.
- Hibiscus valley inn: This is a popular hotel that receives a large number of local and foreign visitors all year long. They offer a wide variety of meal s and pleasant living rooms. The rooms are modest and with essential amenities. The rooms feature a restaurant, outdoor pool, dining area, bars, and a spa. The location is easily accessible via public transport. Its premises are clean, neat, and well maintained. The staff is very professional, super friendly, and courteous. They also offer complimentary breakfast to their customers. It's a great place to spend your weekend and holidays.
- Rosalie Forest Ecolodge: This is a 2-star hotel that receives a large number of visitors all year long. The location is a few minute's drives from the capital of Dominica. Its premises are clean, neat, and well maintained. The staff is very professional, super friendly, and courteous. It's a great place to spend your weekend and holidays.
Hostels and Guest Houses
- Calibishie sandbar: This is among the popular guesthouses in this part of the region. It receives a large number of visitors all year long. The rooms feature a kitchen, shared bathroom, and a TV lounge. The place was sparklingly clean and well organized. The staff is kind, friendly, and ready to help in case the need arises.
- Soufriere Guesthouse: The famous guest house is located a few minute's drives from the capital. The location is easily accessible through public transport. The rooms are clean and well maintained, with most foods and drinks available on site. The pricing is also very generous, with the staff being super friendly.
- Veranda view guest house: The guest house is located in Calibishie, Dominica. It receives a large number of visitors, especially from local communities. The facilities in this place are clean and well maintained. There is an outdoor pool, clean kitchen, and spacious rooms. The staff is super friendly and ready to help in case the need arises.
Apartments
- Campeche villa: This is among the most popular apartments among backpackers. It is situated in Mero, Dominica. The rooms are large, clean, and well organized, with all amenities kept in place. The location is very convenient for those using public transport. The staff is kind and welcoming.
- Trois Piton Apartments: This is a centrally located apartment situated in Pont Casse, Saint Paul Parish, Dominica. It is located less than 8 kilometers from Belvidere. The rooms feature one bedroom, a kitchen, a flat-screen TV, a sitting area, and one bathroom. The staff is fantastic and ready to help in case the need arises. The place is also famous for its comfortable beds and clean beddings.
- The answer Apartments: This is a popular apartment located in Roseau City. It's among the most visited apartments in this part of the region. They offer free access to parking facilities and WIFI. The rooms feature one bedroom, a flat-screen Tv, a kitchen with a microwave, a sitting area, and a bathroom. The room is clean, well-arranged, and with all necessary amenities included. The staff is also welcoming and ready to help in case the need arises.
Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing in Dominica helps discover unique places that you would never have got to know. The island's residents are welcoming and willing to share their culture with interested visitors. To get businesses to go or people willing to hold you, visit Couchsurfing sites or even connect with people during events, live meetings, or even social media platforms.
Camping
Many picnic and camping sites are clean and well maintained in Dominica. The camps provide beautiful scenery and other facilities like the playgrounds, parking spaces, toilets, water services. Most picnic sites are free, while camping sites require a small fee.
Regions
Cities
- Roseau — Capital
- Portsmouth — The second largest city in Dominica. Ross University, a large American medical school is situated nearby.
- Scott's Head — Beautiful village at the end of the road on the southwest corner.
- Calibishie — Stretching from the rugged mountains of Pennville, through the picturesque fishing village of Calibishie to the crashing surf of the Marigot beaches, the Calibishie Coast is one of the few areas in the world where you can travel from the seashore to the littoral forest to the rain forest in little more than a mile.
- St. Joseph — Situated halfway up Dominica's West Coast, St. Joseph is one of the more urbanised villages on the island.
Getting There and Moving Around
You can get to Dominica by either plane or sea ferry. Two major airports in the region connect the country to its neighbors. Both international and domestic travel connections are excellent.
Air
Air is the most convenient means to get to Vanuatu island. There are two major airports in Dominica. They include Melville Hall Airport on the northern side and the Canefield Airport on its southern flank. The two airports are not international airports; hence to travel internationally, you will have to get to neighboring countries like Guadeloupe, Puerto Rico, and Martinique.
Bus
Buses are a very convenient means of transport in Dominica. They mainly consist of minibusses operators. Bus stops are found all around within the city, depending on your destination. Their pricing is very fair and affordable to anybody requiring the services. Road connection to major cities is also excellent in this region.
Train
There is only one central railway in Dominica, which runs from the port of Portsmouth to Roseau. Most times, residents depend on travel by foot, buses, personal cars, or by motorcycles. The training facility is mainly used to transport heavy luggage from the port.
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking in Dominica is one of the traditional means of transport. Though fun, hitchhiking can be tiresome, especially in the hot summer months. Hitchhikers in this part of the region are advised to wear sunglasses and sunhats in summer as a way of protection while waiting for a free ride.
Others
Other modes of transport that get you to Dominica include:
- Ferry
- Personal cars
Sustainable Shopping
Sustainable shopping mode ensures that everything we buy has health, social, and environmental benefit. Sustainable shopping gives visitors a chance to support the local fabrics, shops, markets, and eco-friendly factories.
Recycling
Recycling is a beautiful and vital way to keep the island clean since it prevents air and water bodies' pollution. Major recyclable items on the island include plastic bags, plastic bottles, deodorant bottles, old clothing, and batteries. Most of these products end up unrecycled due to a lack of workforce in the region.
Waste
The amount of waste collected on the island is still low. Private and public waste collection systems provide limited coverage in rural and urban areas of the island. Most of the waste is burned without proper disposal, which poses considerable risk to the island's residents. The government is working on a project to ensure that all waste is collected and brought together for sorting and later recycling.
Work and Study Abroad
Dominica is home to major companies in this region. These companies are a great source of jobs for the locals. Major companies include hotels, financial companies, and tech businesses. Notable names include the National bank of Dominica and the Swiss mutual fund.
Exchange Student
Dominica is home to some of the major universities in the region. The universities majors in medicine, finance, and tech courses due to the rising demand for medical, tech, and financial professionals. Major universities include all saints university school of medicine, New World University, Dominica state college, and Ballsbridge University.
Au Pair
Dominica residents choose to pick Au pairs from their localities or even from families and friends due to trust issues. Most people who need au pairs are the working class. The residents opt for au pairs who have good skills in English other local languages.
Volunteering
There are numerous volunteer activities you can engage in while in Dominicans, giving back to society. Volunteering helps deepen your relationship with the community and also learn about their culture. Volunteer groups you can join include:
- NGO management and Administration
- Marine conservation