Dominica in a Nutshell
Dominica is a verdant, outdoor playground for intrepid travellers. Canyon through the rainforest to secret waterfalls, try river tubing on the Layou River, dive through the colourful aquatic world at Scotts Head Pinnacle or stay on dry land and enjoy horseback riding along the coast. The opportunities are endless.
Hikers will be floored by the island’s dramatic landscapes. Those up for the challenge can tackle the island’s highest mountain at Morne Diablotins National Park and trek the Syndicate Nature Trail to observe fascinating native flora and fauna, including the endangered Sisserou Parrot—Dominica’s national animal—with gorgeous viewpoints en route.
Dominica is the place for an outdoor spa experience, and while they may not feature the luxurious amenities you’d expect in a five-star resort hotel, these al fresco sanctuaries are as blissfully indulgent as you can get.
Wotten Waven is a small village nestled in the Roseau Valley and boasts a profusion of natural hot springs thought to have medicinal benefits, which are especially healing after a long day of hiking and exploring. These open-air pools are surrounded by exotic gardens, and many stay open after the sun goes down for a gorgeous twilight experience. Every spa boasts its own unique charm and is the ultimate spot to relax and recharge your soul.
Dominica is the only place in the world that sperm whales call home all year round due to the calm, warm waters and deep protected bays, which are ideal for breeding and rearing calves. Sightings are most common between November and March and there are plenty of boat tour operators to take you out to see these majestic creatures. Even if you miss the whales, you’ll likely see some animated spinner and spotted dolphins putting on a show!
Dominica is peppered with black- and golden-sand beaches that are largely undeveloped—perfect for unfettered relaxation. If you want a beach with amenities, head for one of the local favourites, Mero Beach. This silver-grey stretch of sand is edged by a few quaint beach bars and features of sun loungers and parasols if you want to settle down for the day.
The island’s fertile volcanic soil, coupled with its warm and humid climate, creates the ideal environment to grow fresh produce including fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, breads, and exotic fish, for authentic farm-to-table cuisine.
Dining in Dominica is to dine among friends. Almost all the island’s restaurants are owned and operated by local families, promising a warm and inviting atmosphere at every spot. Alongside delicious food and drink, expect a helping of lively and friendly conversation with your hosts, free of charge.
For a unique cultural experience, visit the Kalinago Territory, home to the Kalinago people who are descendants of the island’s original inhabitants. Here, you can discover their timeless crafts first-hand including basket weaving, pottery making, wood carving, and canoe building—all using natural materials and ingredients.
Dominica is a verdant, outdoor playground for intrepid travellers. Canyon through the rainforest to secret waterfalls, try river tubing on the Layou River, dive through the colourful aquatic world at Scotts Head Pinnacle or stay on dry land and enjoy horseback riding along the coast. The opportunities are endless.
Hikers will be floored by the island’s dramatic landscapes. Those up for the challenge can tackle the island’s highest mountain at Morne Diablotins National Park and trek the Syndicate Nature Trail to observe fascinating native flora and fauna, including the endangered Sisserou Parrot—Dominica’s national animal—with gorgeous viewpoints en route.
Dominica is the place for an outdoor spa experience, and while they may not feature the luxurious amenities you’d expect in a five-star resort hotel, these al fresco sanctuaries are as blissfully indulgent as you can get.
Wotten Waven is a small village nestled in the Roseau Valley and boasts a profusion of natural hot springs thought to have medicinal benefits, which are especially healing after a long day of hiking and exploring. These open-air pools are surrounded by exotic gardens, and many stay open after the sun goes down for a gorgeous twilight experience. Every spa boasts its own unique charm and is the ultimate spot to relax and recharge your soul.
Dominica is the only place in the world that sperm whales call home all year round due to the calm, warm waters and deep protected bays, which are ideal for breeding and rearing calves. Sightings are most common between November and March and there are plenty of boat tour operators to take you out to see these majestic creatures. Even if you miss the whales, you’ll likely see some animated spinner and spotted dolphins putting on a show!
Dominica is peppered with black- and golden-sand beaches that are largely undeveloped—perfect for unfettered relaxation. If you want a beach with amenities, head for one of the local favourites, Mero Beach. This silver-grey stretch of sand is edged by a few quaint beach bars and features of sun loungers and parasols if you want to settle down for the day.
The island’s fertile volcanic soil, coupled with its warm and humid climate, creates the ideal environment to grow fresh produce including fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, breads, and exotic fish, for authentic farm-to-table cuisine.
Dining in Dominica is to dine among friends. Almost all the island’s restaurants are owned and operated by local families, promising a warm and inviting atmosphere at every spot. Alongside delicious food and drink, expect a helping of lively and friendly conversation with your hosts, free of charge.
For a unique cultural experience, visit the Kalinago Territory, home to the Kalinago people who are descendants of the island’s original inhabitants. Here, you can discover their timeless crafts first-hand including basket weaving, pottery making, wood carving, and canoe building—all using natural materials and ingredients.
Dominica is a verdant, outdoor playground for intrepid travellers. Canyon through the rainforest to secret waterfalls, try river tubing on the Layou River, dive through the colourful aquatic world at Scotts Head Pinnacle or stay on dry land and enjoy horseback riding along the coast. The opportunities are endless.
Hikers will be floored by the island’s dramatic landscapes. Those up for the challenge can tackle the island’s highest mountain at Morne Diablotins National Park and trek the Syndicate Nature Trail to observe fascinating native flora and fauna, including the endangered Sisserou Parrot—Dominica’s national animal—with gorgeous viewpoints en route.
Dominica is the place for an outdoor spa experience, and while they may not feature the luxurious amenities you’d expect in a five-star resort hotel, these al fresco sanctuaries are as blissfully indulgent as you can get.
Wotten Waven is a small village nestled in the Roseau Valley and boasts a profusion of natural hot springs thought to have medicinal benefits, which are especially healing after a long day of hiking and exploring. These open-air pools are surrounded by exotic gardens, and many stay open after the sun goes down for a gorgeous twilight experience. Every spa boasts its own unique charm and is the ultimate spot to relax and recharge your soul.
Dominica is the only place in the world that sperm whales call home all year round due to the calm, warm waters and deep protected bays, which are ideal for breeding and rearing calves. Sightings are most common between November and March and there are plenty of boat tour operators to take you out to see these majestic creatures. Even if you miss the whales, you’ll likely see some animated spinner and spotted dolphins putting on a show!
Dominica is peppered with black- and golden-sand beaches that are largely undeveloped—perfect for unfettered relaxation. If you want a beach with amenities, head for one of the local favourites, Mero Beach. This silver-grey stretch of sand is edged by a few quaint beach bars and features of sun loungers and parasols if you want to settle down for the day.
The island’s fertile volcanic soil, coupled with its warm and humid climate, creates the ideal environment to grow fresh produce including fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, breads, and exotic fish, for authentic farm-to-table cuisine.
Dining in Dominica is to dine among friends. Almost all the island’s restaurants are owned and operated by local families, promising a warm and inviting atmosphere at every spot. Alongside delicious food and drink, expect a helping of lively and friendly conversation with your hosts, free of charge.
For a unique cultural experience, visit the Kalinago Territory, home to the Kalinago people who are descendants of the island’s original inhabitants. Here, you can discover their timeless crafts first-hand including basket weaving, pottery making, wood carving, and canoe building—all using natural materials and ingredients.
frequently asked questions
Dominica’s wonderful climate allows for exploration all year round, both in the water and on land. There are two primary seasons: dry/sunny and wet/rainy. The dry season runs between December and May, and the wet season is from June to November. This is also hurricane season so prepare for intermittent showers and possibly some stormy weather, but don’t let it dampen your desire to get out and explore!
If cultural happenings are what you seek, the island has a full events calendar to get you in the party spirit. Mas Domnik (The Real Mas) is the island’s vibrant carnival that brings together French and African traditions in an explosion of colour, sound, and fun in February and early March.
The annual World Creole Music Festival at the end of October is a world-class forum for indigenous Dominican music and promises a weekend of pure joy.
There are no direct flights from the UK to Dominica, so you’re best off getting a flight to another Caribbean Island such as Barbados or Antigua and flying internally. Alternatively, you can stop off in Miami and hop on a connecting flight to the island from there.
English is Dominica’s official language. However, much of the population speaks Kwéyòl, which has French and Carib roots, as well as influences from several West African indigenous languages.
UK passport holders do not need a visa to get into Dominica.