Dominica

With more than 365 rivers flowing through lush jungles, rushing waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, it’s no wonder Dominica is called the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean.” This shy island opens up to visitors who are kind enough to spend even a moment with it, and has much to offer once you get to know it.

Often confused with the Dominican Republic because of similar names, Dominica is one of the youngest islands in the Caribbean. Its youthful spirit captivates tourists, enticing them to explore everything from its shimmering shores to the depths of its jungles, with their vibrant flora and fauna. Formed from volcanic activity, Dominica is a natural beauty millions of years in the making. The first known inhabitants, the Ortoroids, appeared here as early as 3100 BC. Other tribes included the Arawaks by the 5th Century and the Caribs, whose warlike spirit halted European settlement on the island for many centuries to come. These people named the island Wai’tu Kubili, now used as the name of Dominica’s national beer.

Dominica was settled as a French colony in 1690. Settlers used the island’s lush jungles for timber supplied to French colonies in neighboring Caribbean islands. It wasn’t until the Treaty of Paris, which ended the Seven Year War, that the island was handed over to the British until 1978, when it gained its independence. During this period, It was part of the Leeward Islands, but it was grouped as part of the Winward Islands in 1940.

The dry season in Dominica lasts from February to May. It’s the best time to visit this tropical island to enjoy the beautiful outdoors and natural attractions. There’s plenty of reason to spend time outside, whether soaking up the sun on its idyllic beaches or trekking through the shady jungles to see what wonders you encounter—or find you. Some of the island’s most iconic natural landmarks are the Trafalgar Falls, with the largest dropping approximately 125 feet. Also, a cool dip in the Emerald Pool surrounded by the whispering jungle is on the bucket list of many travelers. Tourists can also experience volcanic activity when dining at Champagne Reef, or hike to see the smoky clouds of Boiling Lake, one of the hottest in the world.

When you want to relax, take a leisure boat ride down the Indian River, where you’ll see sites used when filming the Pirates of the Caribbean film, and dock at a local bush bar to enjoy island-made rum. Finally, explore Scotts Head Bay, where the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea meet.

Dominica

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