Dominica – Look Beyond the Beach
If it’s a Caribbean adventure you’re looking for – something beyond beach activities or trendy nightlife – discover the fascinating beauty of this Caribbean “Nature Island.” Not to be confused with the Dominican Republic, the island of Dominica is located in the southeastern Caribbean between Guadeloupe and Martinique.
True to its nickname, the natural beauty here is stunning. The interior is volcanic and mountainous, featuring rainforest, waterfalls, rivers and hot springs. Adventure seekers will love canyoning through dramatic gorges, whitewater rafting, and hiking along rough terrain to hidden waterfalls and hot springs pools.
Since a large portion of the island is undeveloped and isolated, it is home to many endemic species of birds and reptiles that flourish without fear of predators. Several species of parrots, hummingbirds and many types of songbirds along with rare reptiles like the giant ditch frog and Dominican clouded boa can be found nowhere else in the world. Visit the Morne Trois Pitons National Park in Roseau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for insight into this unique habitat for wildlife.
Accomplished hikers relish the challenge of the Valley of Desolation – an eight hour round trip trek through an active volcanic region, across steep mountain terrain and dense rainforest ultimately reaching the valley’s otherworldly landscape of boiling mud pots and steaming fumaroles.
The dramatic underwater landscape around Dominica makes for excellent, uncrowded conditions for divers and snorkelers, with features like steep dropoffs, geothermal vents, coral reefs, and underwater pinnacles. Champagne Reef is a popular dive spot, where you’ll dive among geothermal vents which release tiny bubbles – like swimming in a glass of champagne! Seahorses, turtles, and frogfish thrive in the protection of the reef, one of the healthiest reef systems in the world. The sheltered west coast of the island is a prime spot for whale watching, as there is a year-round resident population of sperm whales along the deep underwater canyons of this coast.
Rainforest villas built into the mountainside overlooking the sea focus on “eco-luxury” with sustainability a top priority. Luxury seaside sanctuaries provide exclusive spa treatments and wellness and fitness classes conducted in remote, natural settings.
Not to worry – there are beautiful beaches here too! The volcanic nature of the island accounts for its many black sand beaches, one being Mero Beach on the island’s west side. The calm, clear water and casual beachside restaurants and bars make it perfect for a day of relaxation. Batibou Beach on the north coast is tucked away in a stand of coconut palms, and features more traditional golden-white sand and peaceful turquoise waters.
Put Dominica at the top of your list for a warm weather vacation destination. Your Travel Leaders expert can handle all the details and leave the adventuring up to you!
