When it came to describing the island of Dominica, Columbus was lost for words. Asked by Queen Isabella of Spain for his account of the new discovery after his second voyage into the new world, he took a piece of paper, crumpled it, and tossed it onto the table. “That is Dominica,” he said. Over 500 years later, the Nature Island’s dramatic peaks, ravines, and adventure-filled terrain are still leaving visitors speechless.
There are many ways you can shed your cares and refuel your passions in Nature's playground – from world-class diving to eco-trekking and lazy afternoons on airy verandas — here are a few can’t-miss adventures:
Cascading waterfalls, deep gorges, pristine rainforests, and even a lake that boils—you can't even imagine where the hikes on Dominica will lead you. With three National Parks and trails from easy to difficult, there's no end to the hiking adventures on the Nature Island. And did you know that Dominica is home to the longest hiking trail in the Caribbean? Extending to the length of the island “The Waitukubuli National Trail” is 115 miles long and is divided into 14 contiguous segments that can take an experienced hiker nearly two weeks to complete. There are levels of hiking for everyone starting with easy, beginner trails to the more expert excursions!
Canyoning uses the natural environment as an adventure water park. In Dominica that means venturing into the heart of the rainforest. Climb waterfalls, swim through blue pools, hike across riverbeds, rappel down rock faces, and jump over cascades into crystal clear waters. Canyoning in Dominica offers a great way to explore the island, while at the same time, enjoying the fun and adventure of this great watersport.
Dominica is home to three national parks: Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Cabrits National Park, nestled between a pair of low-rising peaks with spectacular views of the beaches below; and Morne Diablotin National Park, home to the endangered Sisserou Parrot – the national symbol of Dominica.
Also known as the Imperial Amazon, the colorful Sisserou Parrot is found only in Dominica, specifically on the slopes of Morne Diablotin National Park and the Morne Trois Pitons National Park. The Jaco Parrot, known for its red feathers on its lower throat, is only found in Dominica as well. Birding can be enjoyed throughout the year, however the peak in breeding for most species is between March and August. Visiting at different times of the year will allow the birder to see a range of species because the main migration periods are from September to November (south bound) migration and February to March (north bound).
