What To Do On The Island Of Dominica

One recent New York Times article compares a drive through the interior of the island of Dominica as driving through "a fruit salad."

In 2011, the editors of the pestigious National Geographic Traveler named Dominica as one of their 20 hand-picked best trips of 2011, for travellers looking for an out-of the ordinary destination.

The people are real, warm, down-to-earth, have a genuine love for their island and are the most hospitable you'll ever meet.

You will be pleasantly surprised at the amount there is to do while on the island, some of which include:

Adventure Tours

Various local companies (such as 'Wacky Rollers') offer exciting tour packages for the thrill seeker.

These may range from an aerial/tram ride through the rainforests to a tube ride along a river to an opportunity to swing from tree to tree on a harness in the forest.

Discover Dominica's Unspoiled Beaches: Volcanic Black Sand Meets Caribbean Beauty

Looking

Looking for a Caribbean beach escape that feels like Hawaii without the crowds? Dominica’s beaches offer a rare and breathtaking experience unlike any other island in the region.

Most of the island’s coastline features stunning volcanic black sand beaches, known for their rich, velvety texture and dramatic beauty—reminiscent of Hawaii’s famous shores.

While black sand beaches in Dominica are the most common, travelers can also find secluded white sand beaches along the northern coast, adding to the island’s diverse coastal charm.

Whether you're sunbathing, swimming, or simply taking in the natural beauty, the island’s warm Caribbean waters create the perfect setting to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature.

One of Dominica’s best-kept secrets?

Even the most picturesque beaches remain peaceful and uncrowded, offering a nearly private beach experience—a true gem for those seeking serenity and untouched beauty in the Caribbean.

Bird Watching in Dominica: A Paradise for Bird Lovers

With its lush rainforests, mountainous terrain, and tropical climate, Dominica is a bird watcher’s dream.

The island is home to nearly 200 species of birds, making it one of the best birding destinations in the Caribbean.

Among these are two of Dominica’s most iconic and endemic bird species—the majestic Sisserou Parrot (Amazona imperialis), Dominica’s national bird, and the vibrant Jaco Parrot (Amazona arausiaca).

Whether you're exploring Morne Diablotin National Park, trekking through the rainforest, or simply walking near the coastline, you're likely to encounter an incredible variety of tropical birds in their natural habitat.

Carib Territory
& Historical Sites

The Carib Territory the region of the island inhabited by the indigenous Carib Indians who have a rich and unique culture and heritage. A visit to the carib villages is sure to be a memorable experience and the people make their own local hand crafted items which can be purchased.

Other Dominica historical sites include various colonial forts such as Fort Shirley at Cabrits National Park, as well as several colonial buildings.

There are also many must see historical sites of interest near the capital, Roseau, including the Old Market and the Old Mill Cultural Center.

Hiking

Dominica offers many opportunities for short, medium and long hikes, that vary in their degrees of difficulty.

The visitor also has multiple opportunities for exploring the tropical wilderness by foot with or without a guide depending on how strenuous the path.

Many of the trails are well marked and established, although a trip to the boiling lake or a mountainous hike should be done with the assistance of a guide.

Other great attractions include the Emerald Pool, the Freshwater Lake, Titou Gourge, and numerous falls such as the Trafalgar Falls and Sari Sari Falls which are located across the island.

Wild Life

Dominica has very friendly wildlife; no poisonous snakes or spiders, or monkeys to grab your hats!

There are close to 200 varieties of birds including our many unique parrots, the most noteworthy being the Imperial parrot or Sisserou Parrot, our national bird.

There are also numerous “Mountain Chicken”(a large frog and delicacy on the island), over 10 species of bat, about 55 types of butterfly, etc.