Travel Dominica

Located in the stunning Caribbean Dominica is among one of the last natural countries on earth. Still covered with lush green tropical rain forests and some of the first people to live on the island Dominica is a true paradise. The country’s natural resources and culture are well protected and offer adventure galore and we are more than happy to share this fun with visitors to the island.

Dominica is surrounded by rich tropical rain forests which shelter some of the islands resources and contributes to it being called the nature island. The island boasts of forest reserves which are homes to mountains, flower and fauna and other natural features. The forests provide an amazing place to view tropical plants, animals and birds. Dominican forests provide shelter to a number of bird species including the National Bird, The Sisserou Parrot and the Jacquot both indigenous to Dominica. The Northern Forest Reserve commonly known as the Syndicate area is a popular area for bird watching. It is said that on the island there is a total of 175 bird species and most can be seen in the Northern Forest Reserve. The Northern Forest Reserve also has exciting hiking trails which provide a great environment to have fun with nature.

The Morne Trois Piton Natural parks is perhaps one of Dominica’s best kept secret. This national park was established in 1975 and in 1997 was named a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park is home to many natural features of the island; the Trafalgar Falls, Fresh water, Boeri Lake and Boiling Lake, Emerald Pool, Middleham Falls among others. Within the park are great hiking trails for the persons who are fanatics of land base activities. These trials range from easy to hard. A guide is recommended for hiking in the area. The park also provides rivers, lakes and waterfall which are beautiful to look at and great to bathe and relax in. The Morne Trois Piton mountain range is the remains of an old volcano. The boiling is a volcano crater and the water within can be seen bubbling. The Valley of Desolation is also steaming with pools of sulphur water. A rainforest aerial tram located in the park provides a bird’s eye view of the forest. This is an interesting ride and is recommended for the persons who like to have fun with nature.

The persons who enjoy water sports can also have their pick of activities from scuba diving to river or sea kayaking or snorkeling. Dominica is one of the top destinations for scuba diving in the world, having received numerous prestigious awards in that field. There are diving sites located around the island which caters to the beginner of the experienced diver. Dive sites include the popular Champagne, Douglas Point among others. Dominican waters are well protected and the some of the most exciting and popular diving sites are located in Marine Reserves. Marine Reserves include the Cabrits Marine Reserve in the north of the island in the second town of Portsmouth and the Soufriere/ Scotts Head Marine Reserve located in the southern tip of the island. The waters surrounding Dominica is filled with different species of bright colored tropical fish, untouched coral reef, sponges, sea crabs, turtles and the occasional ship wreck. Dominica’s coral reefs are unspoiled and free from pollution. Dominica is home to an internationally renowned dive festival. This is the longest running dive festival in the Caribbean and is held each year in July by the Dominica Water sports Association. The highlights of the festival include treasure hunts, boat and kayak races, seminars and activities and forums for the school children.

Whale and Dolphin watching is increasing in popularity on the island and a great way to have fun with nature a. Dominica is often referred to as the Whale watching capital of the Caribbean and sightings are very frequent. People can get the opportunity to see whales and dolphins interact. The sperm Whale is sighted more frequently, as the conditions of Dominican waters provide them with a great habitat. Other species often sighted are Pilot whales, Pygmy whale, false Killer and Dwarf whale. Species of Dolphin spotted are Risso and Frasier, Spotted and Spinner Dolphins. Whale and Dolphin watching is a year round activity on the island but in the months between November and March more sightings have been reported to occur.

River adventures have become increasingly trendy. River kayaking and tubing are very adventurous and provide fun and excitement and give a great adrenaline rush. The Layou River is a good location to do kayaking and river tubing while taking in some of the most scenic views of the rain forests and mountains which surrounds the river. The Layou River is one of the 365 rivers in Dominica and is the longest river on the island.

Although Dominica was not made famous for white sand beaches there are some very good beaches available. The beaches in Dominica are mostly black sand with a few yellow sand beaches. Popular beaches include The Purple Turtle, Woodfordhill Beach and Castaways among others. These beaches are all set in peaceful, picturesque areas making them perfect for soaking in the Caribbean sun while relaxing and forgetting the problems on of a busy lifestyle. Dominica is famous in the Caribbean and the rest of the world for its 365 rivers or as we say here a river for everyday of the year. These rivers come in different colors and temperatures. There are hot rivers, warm rivers and extremely cold ones. Some rivers are sulfuric and hot owing to the fact that they are flowing from old volcanic craters. Their colors range from yellow to extremely white, almost milky. The rivers provide a great place for bathing and river adventures.

The island of Dominica is for the true nature lovers. The adventures person must visit Dominica to experience a different type of fun only this land can offer. Dominicans are very appreciative of this country preserving both its natural and cultural heritage and are more than happy to share them with visitors. You can be assured that once you have visited Dominica you will come to the conclusion that there is no place like this on earth!