Dominica

Why Dominica is special
It is justifiably nicknamed the "Nature Island of the Caribbean". It's not for the typical tourist. It's for adventure travelers.

Dominica tips & insights
Why tourism is low keyed
Several factors keep packaged tour groups away:

• Runway
  It is one of the shortest in the world. Consequently, there are no direct flights from America and Europe.
  
• Pampering resorts
  They don't exist on this small island.
  
• Nightlife and fine dining
  Again, they are lacking.
  
• Beautiful beaches
  Ditto.

What Dominica offers
You're in heaven if you love to involve yourself directly with nature.

• Rainforest hiking trails
  They take you through the rugged interior mountains of the Morne Trois Pitons National Park. They are covered with lush tropical vegetation. You see stunning Trafalgar Falls, the astonishing Boiling Lake (heated by underground volcanic activity), and other natural surprises. It's like exploring the Lost World.
  
• Diving and snorkeling spots
  Dominica has many underwater treats and each is uncrowded.

Cariab Territory
This enclave is home to over 2,000 direct descendants of the once-aggressive Carib Indians. These pre-Columbian people once ruled much of the Caribbean. The word Caribbean derives from their name.

Whale watching
Dominica is one of the best whale watching islands in the Caribbean.

Roseau
The capital city Roseau is the cruise ship port. Outside of shopping, there's little to do and see to warrant more than a short visit.

Language
English is Dominica's official language. French and Creole are also widely spoken.

Island statistics
Dominica is relatively large - it has 465 square kilometers (290 square miles). Its highest peak is 1425 meters (nearly a mile) above sea level. The island's population is 75,000.

Location Map