Dominica travel guide
Dominica Tourism | Dominica Guide
You're Going to Love Dominica
Still authentic and without too many tourists, Dominica is the perfect Caribbean island for outdoor activities and eco-friendly travelers.
What to do in Dominica
1. Take a Guided Hike to the Boiling Lake
Only possible to reach on foot, taking a guided hike to this volcanic crater filled with boiling water is one of the top things to do in Dominica.
2. Hike the Waitukubuli National Trail
For those who are up for it and want to see more natural beauties than the Boling Lake, hiking this cross-island trail is one of the best ways to explore Dominica. Each one of the 14 segments take about one day to complete.
3. Dive at Champagne Reef
A paradise for divers and snorkelers, the Champagne Reef is the perfect spot in Dominica to observe diverse wildlife underwater.
4. Visit Kalinago Barana Autê
This heritage village recreates the daily routines and customs of the indigenous Kalinago people. The guided tour includes cultural performances at the Karbet, the men's house.
5. Swim at the Emerald Pool
Emerald Pool is one of the top natural sites in Dominica. While some people prefer only to admire its beauty, the more adventurous can't resist dipping into this natural pool's cold waters.
When to visit Dominica
High season is from February to June and it's the time of year with the best weather and when all tourist businesses are open.
From November to January, shoulder season, temperatures drop as so do prices. It's the best time for budget travelers and to experience local heritage as Dominica celebrates Independence Day on November 3.
How to Get to Dominica
Entry requirements
Citizens from all countries can enter Dominica without a visa and only carrying a valid passport, as long as they're not staying for more than 21 days.
Plane
Dominica is served by one main airport, the Douglas-Charles Airport, where most international flights arrive.
If flying from the United States and Europe, account for at least one layover in one of the neighboring Caribbean islands like Antigua, Martinique, or Barbados.
Boat
Most travelers reaching Dominica by boat do so on one of the many cruises that include this Caribbean island-country on their routes.
Alternatively, take a ferry from the neighboring islands of Martinique, Guadeloupe, and St. Lucia. The ferries usually only operate during the summer.
Popular airports in Dominica
Popular airlines serving Dominica
Where to stay in Dominica
Accommodations in Dominica are located around the island, on the coast. They range from boutique inns and guesthouses to high-end hotels and resorts.
Where to stay in popular areas of Dominica
How to Get Around Dominica
Public Transportation
Dominica relies on an efficient network of minibuses and taxis as local public transportation. Taxis mostly travel to and from the airport on a fixed rate basis that is approximately EC$40-100 ($15-40) depending on the destination.
Bus
Buses are regular during the day, but for night travel, it's best to rely on taxis or rent a car to get around. All vehicles have designated stops.
Bus fares are fixed and a ride can cost approximately EC$1.50-10.25 ($0.60-3.80), depending on the route and final destination.
Car
To rent a car in Dominica, drivers must be over 25 and under 65 years old with at least two years of driving experience. All drivers must purchase a local driver's license that costs around EC$30 ($12) and is valid for one month.
Roads in Dominica are fairly well-maintained but narrow and winding, so be extra careful on curves. Driving takes place on the left side of the road.
The Cost of Living in Dominica
Although the local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar, most of the larger businesses accept payments in other currencies, including the US dollar, Euro, and British Pounds. Credit card payments are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, car rental companies, and tour operators. ATMs aren't easy to find outside the main cities of Portsmouth and Roseau. A day of groceries at a supermarket can cost around EC$100 ($40). An average meal costs about EC$11 ($4).