A high volcanic island covered with lush, green rain forests, Dominica has hundreds of waterfalls and rivers and two boiling lakes. If you’re looking for a vacation that provides interaction with unspoiled nature both above and below the water, Dominica is the place.
Tucked down into the bottom of the Caribbean, Dominica is a gorgeous island just off the beaten path. Rare creatures abound, which remained uninhabited for millennia. You can see the Sisserou parrot, the country’s national bird, only on the island of Dominica. Rainforests and mountains dominate the landscape, the perfect stopping point for birds on the wing.
For many years, colonial powers struggled over Dominica, using the island to house and transport slaves. The country gained its independence in 1978, though relics of the olden days can still be found. Islanders today rely heavily on tourism, though fishing is an important facet of day to day life.
Curiously, the island was named by Christopher Columbus himself, who discovered the island on a Sunday (Dominica, in Latin).
Other attractions
During your visit to Dominica, head inland to see some of the many waterfalls scattered throughout the jungle. Trafalgar Falls, Victoria Falls and Emerald Pool are the best ones. Stop at one of the geothermal baths, called sulphur springs, around the island. And hike through the Morne Trois Pitons National Park to the Boiling Lake. It is highly recommended to bring a guide, a helpful accomplice as you make the trek to the lake.
Getting there
There are two airports that receive flights from other Caribbean nations – Melville Hall Airport and Canefield Airport. International guests must fly into one of the Caribbean hubs and then hop to Dominica. After flying or boating to the island, getting around is best accomplished via a rental car. The island is fairly large, and there are points of interest scattered all over.
Note - Travel to any destination may be adversely affected by conditions including (but not limited) to security, entry and exit requirements, health conditions, local laws and culture, natural disasters and climate. Regardless of your destination, check your local travel advisory board or department for travel advice about that location when planning your trip and again shortly before you leave.
