Dominica, the nature island , is beautiful in every aspect. The island is practically untouched when it comes to modern forms of tourism, focusing primarily on the raw natural beauty of the island hence the slogan ‘ The Nature Island’. Dominica is an unspoiled paradise featuring volcanic landscapes with high rising mountains ( some of the highest in the Eastern Caribbean), Waterfalls, lakes, gorges, rivers, rain-forests, hot-springs, black sand beaches, coral reefs and even a boiling lake.
Yes Dominica is Beautiful!!, but with so much Caribbean islands why visit Dominica? Well here’s 10 reasons why you should visit the nature island.
Trafalgar Falls
The twin falls are one of Dominica’s most famous locations. The falls are at the end of an easy 10-minute hike along a well maintained path through the forest. Along the path there is a warm spring that flows across the trail. suitable for a refreshing break.
If you continue your hike, you will be able to enjoy a swim in the refreshing waters of the smaller falls or the hot-springs of the taller falls.
Champagne Reef
Champagne Reef is Dominica’s most famous and signature dive and snorkel sites. The water temperature over the vents found througout the reef can reach up to 90 degrees! making the sea floor warm to the touch. Geothermal activity causes thousand of bubbles to stream through the rocks beneath giving the sea a feel like champagne. Despite the warm temperature and bubbles marine life still thrive in the Champage Reef, from Sea horses to sting rays ti squids, there are a host of species to be found here. Definitely a must go to on the island!!
Titou Gorge
The hike or rather swim through Titou Gorge is short but quite amazing. The swim starts at the base of a waterfall winding through a series of natural rooms and ponds surrounded by high cliff walls the swim only lasts about five minutes but it’s worth it. At the end of the swim there is a warm spring that trickles down the face of a short cliff, Refreshing after a swim in the cool waters of the Gorge.
Emerald Pool
About a 30 minute hike through magnificent over-hanging trees takes you to the shimmering emerald colored pool. The grotto has a small waterfall on its side and looks magical. A popular destination when the cruise ship is docked we recommend visiting when there are no cruise ships docked.
Middleham Falls
Said to be the most beautiful waterfall in Dominica, and the hike leading to it is equally amazing, the forest surrounding it is filled with orchids and ferns. Middleham Falls is a narrow stream of about 200 feet that falls from a notch in the lip of the cliff into a clear pool of water. Perfect for swimming.
The Carib Territories
Dominica is one of the very few Caribbean countries and only Caribbean island that still have Native Carib Indians still living on the island. The Carib, or Kalinago, people live on a 3,600 acre territory on the east coast of the island and a visit here gives ones a fell for the fascinating culture of the Kalinago. Experience their ancestral roots through their crafts, canor building and culinary delicacies.
Boiling Lake
Again one of Dominica’s most famous and popular attractions is the Boiling Lake, located in Morne Trois Pitons National Park. This lake of gray-green water is not for swimming, the temperature at the edges of the lake reach up to 197°F and reaches boiling point at the center. A natural occurrence of hot gas from the pools of lava deep below the surface warming the body of water, the Boiling Lake is the second largest of this occurrence in the world. Definitely a site to see.
Thermal Springs
Due to its volcanic origins, Dominica is home to many hot-springs. These contain mineral deposits which many believe to be therapeutic and healing. Hot-Springs are quite relaxing to just soak in, you literally feel all the stress in your body just evaporate as you soak in the warm mineral rich water.
Papillote Tropical Gardens
Pretty Papillote Tropical Gardens is perfect for the artistic or the photographer tourist, it is fed by a small stream, and encompasses 10-acres of gardens. Paths wind among bamboo trees, ginger blossoms, indigenous orchids, and many other for of flora. Perfect for the nature-lover and fauna is quite abundant with many frogs, birds, and butterflies in the lush gardens. The Tropical Gardens also features amazingly beautiful views of mountains and valleys as well as being able to soak in a nearby hot-spring.
Roseau
Dominica’s Capital of Roseau is Beautiful,framed by lush peaks, and filled with West Indian cottages, modern buildings, and busy market stalls with a cool Rastafarian vibe. The people are kind and helpful and much of the country’s culture really shines through. Near the docks, in the center of town, the Old Market sells fresh tropical fruit, vegetables, herbs, baskets, and coconut-shell souvenirs perfect for any tourist. Roseau is one of the Caribbeans Cities that just draws you in.
Dominica ‘ the nature island’ is beautiful!! I just can’t say that enough. Hopefully one day you too will be able to experience Dominica the nature island. Let us know in the comments if you will be traveling to Dominica, and where should we blog about next.
For more information on activities :
My Carib Spot : www.mycaribspot.com/Dominica
Dominica Tourist Board : www.DiscoverDominica.com