Rightfully nicknamed “The Nature Island”, Dominica, indeed, spellbinds visitors with its incredible landscapes, where imposing waterfalls, hundreds of rivers, beautiful lakes, stunning mountains, and fascinating wildlife and marine life star. A dreamy destination for adventure-seekers, this under-the-radar island is ready to defend its title as one of the most alluring Caribbean islands that can create an everlasting infatuation toward it! Here is just a small list of the amazing things you can do in Dominica to augment your vacations and increase the thrill factor of your ventures.
Explore the Rich Aquatic Cosmos in Dominica
Dominica is home to some of the best dive sites in the Caribbean with rare marine life, the majority of which are sitting on the Leeward side of the island (along the western coast). However, all dive enthusiasts will also find a plethora of fabulous sites in the south of Dominica, in and around Soufriere Bay.
The seawater is warm year-round at around 29oC (85oF), while the visibility reaches over 15 metres (50 feet). Kindly note that if you are interested in wall diving and pinnacle diving, having an open-water certification to 30 metres (100 feet) will come in handy. For the rest of the dive sites, you don’t need to fulfil any special requirements!
Once underwater, expect a universe full of seahorses, rays, octopuses, corals, trumpet fish, eels, hawksbill turtles, and special volcanic formations, as well as tens of different whale species swimming in the waters around Dominica!
Hike the Waitukubuli National Trail
It is a breathtaking 184-kilometre (114 miles) hiking trail that crosses the entire island from end to end and passes through absolutely jaw-dropping landscapes. If you decide to hike it all from Capuchin in the north to Scotts Head in the south, you would pass through scenic indigenous villages (aka Kalinago villages), cross multiple rivers, wander around impressive waterfalls, see volcanoes, and many more.
Learn about the Kalinago People
The indigenous Kalinago people inhabited many of the Caribbean islands, Dominica included, before they (the cays) were colonised. A few of their direct descendants still live on the island, and the 3,700-acre Kalonago territory is actually home to a cultural heritage centre (aka Kalinago Barana Autê) that gives travellers the opportunity to learn more about these people, including their past and current lives on the island.
Opting for a guided tour is probably the best way to go about it as it will enable you to see unique things from up close, such as the traditional basket weaving process. And, did you know that the Kalinago people have voting rights and are active members of the local communities? At the same time, though, they have their own Chief, who holds the leading position for five years before the next election comes!
Join a Caribbean Cooking Class
The available cooking classes in Dominica usually take place at a local’s house, where you can share the homeowner’s passion for Creole and Dominican cuisine in a super fun way. Expect a huge feast of palate-pleasing local flavours created from either the family-owned farm right next to the house or locally-sourced ingredients. Most of the time, the menu includes staples like coconut rice and beans, plantains, and Creole tuna, among others, complemented by interludes filled with rum shots! And, if you are lucky enough, you might combine all these culinary experiences with captivating terrace views, while listening to exciting stories about the local lifestyle.
Go Dolphin and Whale Watching
If seeing whales, rare species included, in their natural habitat excites you, then expect more than 20 different whale species waiting for you in the open sea enveloping Dominica. While looking into the azure of the sea, you may bump into humpbacks, pygmy sperm whales, melon head whales, false killer whales, and short-fin pilot whales, among others. Using pioneering hydrophone technology, the available whale-watching tours track the location of the whales and take you there for a once-in-a-lifetime endeavour.
Cruise Along the Indian River
Dominica is home to an impressive number of rivers, totalling 365, which is huge, especially considering the island’s size. One of the most stunning rivers on the island is the Indian River that’s situated near Portsmouth. The picturesque natural wonder was named after the Kalinago people that used to live along its banks.
Back in the day, it also served as the main spot to transport things and people across the island. While cruising along this majestic river, chances are you will be blown away by the nature that surrounds you as the trees form a natural awning over the water! And, depending on the tour you choose, you might even be surprised with a stop at a Bush Bar where you can enjoy local rum punches to refuel your energy!
Soak Up the Best Views on the Island
What a great way to end a fantastic day! Looking for spots to take in the last rays of the sun and pamper yourself with idyllic views of the island can be one of the most rewarding things you have done while staying in Dominica. Some of the most heart-melting vistas you can get include the Botanical Gardens and Roseau (multiple places around the colourful capital). Or you may head to Islet View, a popular bar-restaurant, which will spoil you with panoramas of the eastern coast and the bay, as far as Castle Bruce. Alternatively, you may go after volcano views from the centre of the island overlooking Morne Trois Pitons National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the cliffs of Sunset Bay and Scotts Head to rooftop cafes, you will surely be spoilt for choice!
Other Things to Do in Dominica
- Learn about the island’s nature and the different microclimates that provide a happy home to a plethora of interesting creatures, such as speedy ground lizards and rare bird species.
- Take a relaxing swim in the healing sulphur-rich waters of the Wotten Waven Hot Springs or the mud pools around it.
- Go canyoning, especially if you love extreme activities and things that can spike your adrenaline levels. In Dominica, you can do anything from ziplining and jumping to climbing and rappelling, always with the assistance of experienced guides. And, all that combined with the epic Dominica scenery as your trusted companion!
Rightfully nicknamed “The Nature Island”, Dominica, indeed, spellbinds visitors with its incredible landscapes, where imposing waterfalls, hundreds of rivers, beautiful lakes, stunning mountains, and fascinating wildlife and marine life star. A dreamy destination for adventure-seekers, this under-the-radar island is ready to defend its title as one of the most alluring Caribbean islands that can create an everlasting infatuation toward it! Here is just a small list of the amazing things you can do in Dominica to augment your vacations and increase the thrill factor of your ventures.
Explore the Rich Aquatic Cosmos in Dominica
Dominica is home to some of the best dive sites in the Caribbean with rare marine life, the majority of which are sitting on the Leeward side of the island (along the western coast). However, all dive enthusiasts will also find a plethora of fabulous sites in the south of Dominica, in and around Soufriere Bay.
The seawater is warm year-round at around 29oC (85oF), while the visibility reaches over 15 metres (50 feet). Kindly note that if you are interested in wall diving and pinnacle diving, having an open-water certification to 30 metres (100 feet) will come in handy. For the rest of the dive sites, you don’t need to fulfil any special requirements!
Once underwater, expect a universe full of seahorses, rays, octopuses, corals, trumpet fish, eels, hawksbill turtles, and special volcanic formations, as well as tens of different whale species swimming in the waters around Dominica!
Hike the Waitukubuli National Trail
It is a breathtaking 184-kilometre (114 miles) hiking trail that crosses the entire island from end to end and passes through absolutely jaw-dropping landscapes. If you decide to hike it all from Capuchin in the north to Scotts Head in the south, you would pass through scenic indigenous villages (aka Kalinago villages), cross multiple rivers, wander around impressive waterfalls, see volcanoes, and many more.
Learn about the Kalinago People
The indigenous Kalinago people inhabited many of the Caribbean islands, Dominica included, before they (the cays) were colonised. A few of their direct descendants still live on the island, and the 3,700-acre Kalonago territory is actually home to a cultural heritage centre (aka Kalinago Barana Autê) that gives travellers the opportunity to learn more about these people, including their past and current lives on the island.
Opting for a guided tour is probably the best way to go about it as it will enable you to see unique things from up close, such as the traditional basket weaving process. And, did you know that the Kalinago people have voting rights and are active members of the local communities? At the same time, though, they have their own Chief, who holds the leading position for five years before the next election comes!
Join a Caribbean Cooking Class
The available cooking classes in Dominica usually take place at a local’s house, where you can share the homeowner’s passion for Creole and Dominican cuisine in a super fun way. Expect a huge feast of palate-pleasing local flavours created from either the family-owned farm right next to the house or locally-sourced ingredients. Most of the time, the menu includes staples like coconut rice and beans, plantains, and Creole tuna, among others, complemented by interludes filled with rum shots! And, if you are lucky enough, you might combine all these culinary experiences with captivating terrace views, while listening to exciting stories about the local lifestyle.
Go Dolphin and Whale Watching
If seeing whales, rare species included, in their natural habitat excites you, then expect more than 20 different whale species waiting for you in the open sea enveloping Dominica. While looking into the azure of the sea, you may bump into humpbacks, pygmy sperm whales, melon head whales, false killer whales, and short-fin pilot whales, among others. Using pioneering hydrophone technology, the available whale-watching tours track the location of the whales and take you there for a once-in-a-lifetime endeavour.
Cruise Along the Indian River
Dominica is home to an impressive number of rivers, totalling 365, which is huge, especially considering the island’s size. One of the most stunning rivers on the island is the Indian River that’s situated near Portsmouth. The picturesque natural wonder was named after the Kalinago people that used to live along its banks.
Back in the day, it also served as the main spot to transport things and people across the island. While cruising along this majestic river, chances are you will be blown away by the nature that surrounds you as the trees form a natural awning over the water! And, depending on the tour you choose, you might even be surprised with a stop at a Bush Bar where you can enjoy local rum punches to refuel your energy!
Soak Up the Best Views on the Island
What a great way to end a fantastic day! Looking for spots to take in the last rays of the sun and pamper yourself with idyllic views of the island can be one of the most rewarding things you have done while staying in Dominica. Some of the most heart-melting vistas you can get include the Botanical Gardens and Roseau (multiple places around the colourful capital). Or you may head to Islet View, a popular bar-restaurant, which will spoil you with panoramas of the eastern coast and the bay, as far as Castle Bruce. Alternatively, you may go after volcano views from the centre of the island overlooking Morne Trois Pitons National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the cliffs of Sunset Bay and Scotts Head to rooftop cafes, you will surely be spoilt for choice!
Other Things to Do in Dominica
- Learn about the island’s nature and the different microclimates that provide a happy home to a plethora of interesting creatures, such as speedy ground lizards and rare bird species.
- Take a relaxing swim in the healing sulphur-rich waters of the Wotten Waven Hot Springs or the mud pools around it.
- Go canyoning, especially if you love extreme activities and things that can spike your adrenaline levels. In Dominica, you can do anything from ziplining and jumping to climbing and rappelling, always with the assistance of experienced guides. And, all that combined with the epic Dominica scenery as your trusted companion!