There are so many beautiful places to visit in the nature island, Dominica. In my previous article, I shared some of my favorite tourist locations. Here are a few more popular sites to add to your bucket list!
- VISIT THE LAKES
Due to its volcanic origin, Dominica is home to three major lakes, all of which are driven by different mechanisms.
The Boeri Lake is part of the World Heritage site and sits 2800 ft above sea level. The lake was formed in the crater of an old volcano and was separated from the Freshwater Lake which is approximately 1-1/4 miles from its base.
Freshwater Lake is the largest lake on the island and is very easily accessed. The shimmering shades of blues and greens make the views of the valley awe-inspiring. Don’t forget to hold a light jacket since the 2500ft elevation can get a bit chilly.
Dominica is also home to the second-largest hot lake in the world. The Boiling Lake sits in the Morne Trois Piton National Park, 6.5 miles away from the capital, Roseau. The hike to the lake can be dangerous at certain points and is not an easy feat for inexperienced hikers and should be always be accessed with a guide.
- RELAX IN A NATURAL JACUZZI
A short drive from the city of Roseau and completely enveloped in the rainforest is a small village with an abundance of natural jacuzzis. Whether to relax after a long workday, for wellness purposes or to have a private date with someone special, the hot water sulfur pools in Wotten Waven should be on your bucket list when visiting the island of Dominica. A soak in the sulfur springs and mud pools will soothe muscle aches and the sulfur is also known to have medicinal properties. There is no better way to relax at the end of an island tour or a hike on the Waitikubuli National Trail. A few locals have been innovative in creating pools of water and mud surrounded by well-kept gardens to attract nature enthusiasts. The pools are usually kept open into the late hours of the night and local snacks and drinks are available for sale. There are also options for single pools for more privacy or open ones that allow multiple visitors to enjoy at a time.
- TAKE A SELFIE AT THE EMERALD POOL
Arguably the most visited attraction on the island, the Emerald Pool is a beautiful pond sourced from a 40 ft waterfall found in the Morne Trois Piton National Park. This World Heritage Site is a 15-minute stroll through dense, lush rainforest on a very well-maintained track. Along the path, there are breathtaking views of the mountains and one can catch a glimpse of the ocean at specific points. The pond is open for swimming and is usually a favorite destination for cruise ship passengers. Be sure to bring along your tripods and cameras when visiting the pool, the scenery and low lights are perfect for amazing social media-worthy shots.
- DIP INTO TITOU GORGE
A cave formed by volcanic lava that was cooled and split open, Titou Gorge is a beautiful natural grotto with a gushing waterfall. A 5-minute swim takes you through a tight space with an interlaced canopy of trees above, through a narrow gorge, and brings you past a few small “rooms” formed by the high cliffs. There is also a hot spring wall at the entrance of the gorge which feels amazing after the swim through the gorge. Visitors are also able to rent life vests and snacks, drinks and are available for sale. All visitors are advised to have a tour guide present.
- WALK TO SCOTTS HEAD’S PEAK
Found in the south-west of the island, the village of Scotts Head is about an hour drive from the city. This village is known for its peninsula referred to by its Kalinago name ‘Cachacrou’ which means “a hat being eaten”. At this site, visitors can view the Atlantic Ocean to the south and the Caribbean Sea to the North. A short walk or a drive up the peak, which is also the start of the Waitikubuli National Trail, gives you an unobstructed view of the magnificence of the mountainous terrain and the coast and ocean views of the neighboring French island, Martinique. One of the most popular diving spots in the world, the village has hosted numerous diving contests in its waters. It is no secret that the pristine water of the bay attract diving enthusiasts to revisit and to enjoy the experience again. “Most dives begin on Swiss Cheese, a large rock formation home to Soldierfish Cave. It is not an actual cave, but a passage packed with soldierfish and grunts that form a curtain in front of you, briefly parting to swallow you into the school of fish as you pass through. At a depth of only 35 feet, it is a picturesque swim-through bisecting the pinnacle bringing you to the “other side” — a steep wall on the inside of the volcanic crater that plunges downward more than 120 feet. Aside from the black bar soldierfish, grunts, and lobster, the wall is laden with deep water sea fans and colorful gorgonians.” The village is the perfect combination of beauty and views.
- GET LOST IN HISTORY AT BARANA AUTÊ
An authentic recreated village, the Barana Autê was built to honor the diversity and heritage of the customs and way of life of the Kalinago people. In the village, visitors can learn about how the first inhabitants of the island lived. The experience teaches and allows you to experience their unique culture. The Kalinago Territory is approximately 1.5 hours away from the city of Roseau. The village offers the most panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean from the viewpoint on the Binalecaall Mapou Weve (Old Mapou Tree Trail). Throughout the village, there are demonstrations of the traditional dances and basket weaving. The trail takes you through medicinal gardens, amazing viewpoints, traditional buildings, and the crayfish river which drops into the ocean. There is a gift shop with authentic Kalinago products and refreshments for sale. Be sure to try some of the bush rum which is a popular alcoholic drink infused with herbs and or fruits – a local favorite. While driving through the Kalinago Territory be on the lookout for locals selling ground provisions, fresh fruits, and the traditional cassava bread.
The Nature Isle, Dominica is a paradise filled with untouched beauty. The locals are warm and friendly people who enjoy good food, good rum, and a good time. The year-round tropical weather makes an excellent getaway, especially during the winter season. If you wish to add some party time during your stay, the island offers an authentic carnival known as The Real Mas in February, and the World Creole Music Festival during the Independence celebrations between October and November. Dear Nature lovers, the island awaits you!
Come #DISCOVERDOMINICA.
About the Author
Agatha Joseph, affectionately known as Nakala, was born and raised in the Commonwealth of Dominica. She is a social media brand ambassador for Discover Dominica Authority and her portfolio includes promotions for major events including Carnival and the World Creole Music Festival. Nakala is focused on introducing the island’s unmatched natural resources, authentic culture, and pristine heritage to the world, and writing about the island’s attractions has become her hobby. Her ultimate goal is for Dominica to become a premier tourist destination in the Caribbean.
Photo credits: Discover Dominica and Ambo Visuals
