Exploring Dominica: A Hidden Gem in the Caribbean
Many people living in the northern part of North America often seek a winter vacation to get away from the ice and snow. While the Caribbean is the obvious choice for their winter escape, choosing an island can be daunting. I discovered this island on a cruise a few years ago and I wanted to share my thoughts on the island and three popular attractions.
When it comes to Caribbean vacations, many travelers flock to the popular destinations like Cuba, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, and St. Thomas. But if you’re looking for a unique experience, I highly recommend considering Dominica. This lesser-known island is brimming with activities and natural beauty that can rival any of its more famous neighbors.
Why Visit Dominica?
Dominica, often overshadowed by more popular Caribbean destinations, is a hidden gem known as “Nature’s Island.” This Caribbean destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility. Here’s why it’s worth adding to your travel plans:
Unspoiled Natural Beauty: Dominica features pristine landscapes with dramatic mountains, lush rainforests, and stunning waterfalls. Key attractions include the Boiling Lake and the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ecotourism and Adventure: Ideal for nature lovers and thrill-seekers, Dominica offers diverse hiking trails, bird watching, and diving in pristine waters. The Waitukubuli National Trail provides breathtaking views across the island.
Rich Marine Life: The island’s waters are perfect for diving and snorkeling, especially at Champagne Reef. Dominica is also renowned for whale watching, with opportunities to see sperm and humpback whales.
Cultural Experiences: Dominica’s vibrant culture blends African, Caribbean, and European influences. Explore historical buildings in Roseau, enjoy local markets, and participate in festivals like Carnival and traditional Kalinago dances.
Warm and Welcoming People: Dominicans are known for their hospitality. Whether exploring the city or relaxing on the coast, you’ll encounter friendly locals eager to share their island.
Relaxation and Wellness: Dominica’s natural hot springs, such as those in Wotten Waven, offer therapeutic relaxation amidst lush surroundings. The island’s peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for wellness retreats.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience: As a lesser-known destination, Dominica provides a more authentic and intimate experience, away from the crowds.
Sustainable Tourism: Committed to eco-friendly practices, Dominica focuses on preserving its natural beauty while offering memorable experiences, ensuring it remains a pristine destination for future visitors.
With these in mind, Dominica offers a refreshing and unforgettable Caribbean experience with its stunning natural landscapes, rich culture, and welcoming atmosphere.
When your cruise ship docks in Roseau, Dominica’s capital, you’ll immediately notice its charming blend of historical wooden and stone buildings. These structures reflect a mix of English, French, and Spanish architectural influences. A scenic drive through the Roseau Valley reveals both the city’s landmarks and the surrounding natural beauty.
Visiting on a cruise ship allows gives you a taste of this island paradise. Alternatively, if you prefer a more laid-back approach, you could fly directly to Dominica and unwind at your own pace.
Where Is Dominica?
Dominica is an island nation located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, nestled between the French overseas territories of Guadeloupe to the north and Martinique to the south. Situated in the Lesser Antilles, Dominica is part of the Windward Islands group. Known for its rugged terrain and volcanic origin, the island is positioned approximately midway between the larger Caribbean islands of Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago. Its remote location, combined with its dramatic landscapes and abundant natural resources, makes Dominica a hidden gem in the Caribbean archipelago.
Dominica is also one of the newer islands in the Caribbean chain, formed through geothermal activity. As a volcanic island, Dominica exhibits tall, sharp mountains, lush rainforests, rugged coastlines, waterfalls, and deeply wooded valleys giving it the nickname “Nature’s island”.
The economy of the island is heavily focused on tourism; and showcasing the islands’ natural highlights through diving, hiking, wellness, and eco-tours. It truly is a hidden Caribbean paradise.
Related - How to Find Cheap Caribbean Vacations
Activities and Things to Do in Dominica
Cruise ships provide a range of tour packages designed to cater to diverse interests. On my visit, I chose a tour that showcased city highlights, a wellness village, and the Botanical Gardens, but Dominica offers far more than just these options. This hidden Caribbean paradise is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, exploring hot springs, viewing waterfalls, ocean kayaking, and whale watching.
For those staying on the island, Viator offers an extensive selection of activities to suit every preference and level of adventure. Whether you’re interested in relaxing or exploring, there’s something for everyone.
Tip: Be sure to bring proper footwear if you plan on hiking or going on waterfalls excursions.
Before the Tour
Once you leave the ship and step on land in Dominica, you will feel the warmth of the island people as you pass through the Old Market Square where the vendors will showcase their local crafts and artifacts which can be traced to their island’s history. You will then meet with your pre-scheduled tour guides who will guide you through your selected activity.
1. Morne Bruce
One of the most popular things to do in Dominca is take a tour to the hill overlooking the city. After a short drive through the village, the minivan winds its way through a twisty-turny steep road up a mountainside to arrive at the Morne Bruce which is an outcropping on the mountain that permits a stellar views of the entire City below. Named in honour of James Bruce, who planned the islands fortifications in the 18th century, Morne Bruce served as a garrison post for the Defense of Roseau during its early years.
At the top of the hill you will be greeted with an exceptional and unobstructed view of the city of Rosseau and the cruise port. From here you can see the brightly colored buildings of the capitol city as they meet the beautiful blue Caribbean sea. If you come here on an excursion from a cruise ship, the stop will only be about 15-20 minutes. If you are staying in Rosseau, you can take hike up here on a path called “Jack’s walk“. I am told sunsets are beautiful.
During the day, there is also a small market area where you can purchase some local hand-crafted merchandise and light refreshments.
2. Botanical Gardens
Next, we visited the Botanical Gardens, a 40-acre sanctuary that’s often described as one of the Caribbean’s botanical treasures. Home to over 50 indigenous plant species and an aviary for the Sisserou parrots (Dominica’s national bird), the gardens are a lush retreat. Wandering through the fragrant blooms and verdant foliage, I felt as though I had stepped into a living postcard. The gardens also host national parades, cricket matches, and various festivals, adding to their charm.
Dominica’s National Flower (the colourful Bwa Kwaib) can also be found as you walk through the fragrant blooms and lush vegetation. This tropical paradise creates an illusion of an idyllic retreat. If you are staying on the island, bring a picnic and spend some time here. In addition to national parades and cricket matches, the lawns host celebrations and festivals.
The remains of a school bus crushed by a Baobab Tree during Hurricane David in 1979 are close to the southwestern gate. It is a stark reminder of the potentially devastating effects of tropical storms in the Caribbean.
On a cruise excursion, the stop here is led by a knowledgeable guide who will point out the highlighted features and relay some history of the island’s natural assets. This stop is usually about an hour.
Take the time to wander around and absorb the beauty of these gardens!
3. Hot Springs
Following the Botanical Gardens, , we traveled through some mountainous terrain and lush rainforests to Wotten Waven, a wellness Village known within the “Dominican Hot Spot”. The smell of sulfur in the air and steam billowing in the distance are indicative the geothermal activity that gives this wellness centre its’ life. This is a pretty relaxing experience in Dominica.
After a short introduction by your host, you’ll be escorted down natural steps (water shoes recommended) to a series of open-air pools for an island-style hot mineral bath derived from an underground source. These therapeutic waters relax tired muscles and joints while detoxifying and cleansing the body. The heat and sweat of the day evaporates from your body as you inhale the soothing aroma and feel the warmth of the waters. A feeling of paradise in Dominica.
AD - Ultimate Cruise Planning Checklist Bundle available on Etsy
Following your rejuvenation, the host provides some fresh fruits for some needed rehydration for the journey back to the port.
More To Explore
While my time in Dominica was limited, I learned that the island has much more to offer. For instance, you can explore the Boiling Lake, the world’s second-largest hot spring, or take a dip in the Trafalgar Falls. Ocean kayaking and whale watching are also popular activities for those seeking adventure. Each of these experiences allows you to connect with Dominica’s unspoiled natural beauty in unique ways.
Leaving Dominica
Leaving Dominica was interesting on this day as the winds picked up and the sea swells rose to the point where the cruise ship was being tossed in the port. The Captain purposefully tilted the ship away from the dock to avoid further damage while he waited to all passengers to embark so we could return to sea for the next leg of the journey.
Final Thoughts About Visiting Dominica
Despite my brief visit, Dominica left a lasting impression. Its pristine landscapes, warm-hearted people, and diverse activities make it a standout destination in the Caribbean. Whether you’re on a cruise or planning a direct visit, Dominica offers an unforgettable experience. Have you explored Dominica or have plans to? What’s your favorite thing to do on this hidden gem of the Caribbean?
If you are heading to the southeastern Caribbean, perhaps Grenada is on your itinerary. Be sure to explore some of the sights in this Grenada cruise Port Guide.
I chartered in Dominica for a while. I loved it there, such amazing people. It's definitely a hidden gem of the Caribbean. This was a great read.
This was fascinating! I'm not sure I had even heard of Dominica...