Welcome to the Dominica Travel Guide 2024, your go-to resource for exploring one of the most beautiful and unspoiled islands in the Caribbean.
Dominica is an island in the Caribbean Sea, part of the Windward Islands and the Lesser Antilles region. It is located south of Guadeloupe and north of Martinique. Christopher Columbus discovered Dominica during his second voyage in 1493. The island was home to the indigenous Carib people, who were descendants of the Arawak people. In the 16th century, Spanish ships often stopped in Dominica due to favorable ocean currents, but they did not settle there because of resistance from the local people. In this article, we explore the tourist attractions, culture, and travel costs of this beautiful country.
About Dominica
Roseau, the vibrant capital of Dominica, is a charming city known for its rich culture and scenic beauty. As the heart of the island, it blends natural wonders with a lively atmosphere, offering visitors and locals a unique experience.
Dominica official currency is the East Caribbean dollar (XCD), a stable currency widely used across several Caribbean nations. This currency makes it convenient for travellers and business professionals to engage in trade and tourism.
Covering an area of 754 square kilometres, Dominica is a small yet stunning island nation. Its compact size is one of its many charms, allowing residents and visitors to explore the island’s lush rainforests, waterfalls, and beaches with ease.
The population of Dominica, recorded at 71,625 in 2018, enjoys a close-knit community lifestyle. The island’s people are known for their warmth and hospitality, making it a welcoming place for tourists and new residents alike.
English is the official language spoken in Dominica, making communication easy for most visitors. In addition, many locals also speak French patois, reflecting the island’s diverse cultural heritage.
Best time to visit Dominica
Dominica has warm and humid weather all year. The average temperature is about 26°C. From December to February, it gets a bit cooler at 24-25°C. The hottest months can reach 33°C on the coast, but in the mountains, it stays more excellent at 27°C.
The rainy season is from June to October, with a lot of rain each month.
The best time to visit is from December to April, when the weather is cooler, drier, and less humid. This is also when many tourists come to escape the cold winters. From May to November, there’s more rain, and hurricanes might happen between July and October, though they are rare.
The busiest time is from December to April, and prices are higher. May to June and November offer good weather with fewer tourists and better prices. From July to October, it’s hurricane season, but you can find lower prices and enjoy quiet beaches, perfect for surfing.
What to eat in Dominica?
In Dominica, the food is delicious and reflects the island’s Caribbean culture. Here are some popular dishes:
Callaloo Soup: A tasty soup made from callaloo leaves, coconut milk, and sometimes meat or seafood.
Mountain Chicken: This dish is actually fried frog legs, a special treat in Dominica.
Sancocho: A thick stew made with meat, root vegetables like yams, and herbs.
Bakes: Fried dough balls, also called Johnny cakes, are often eaten with fish, cheese, or jam.
Codfish and Green Bananas: A typical breakfast dish made with salted fish and boiled green bananas.
Pelau: A one-pot meal with rice, peas, chicken, and spices.
Fresh Fruits: Dominica offers lots of tropical fruits like mangoes, bananas, and coconuts.
Roasted Breadfruit: Breadfruit is a starchy fruit that’s roasted or boiled.
Seafood: Fresh fish like mahi-mahi and snapper are often grilled.
Rum: Dominica makes its rum, which is perfect for a refreshing drink.
These dishes highlight Dominica rich food culture.
Where to stay in Dominica?
When visiting Dominica, there are many great places to stay for every budget. If you want luxury, Secret Bay is a beautiful resort with private villas and stunning views. Another excellent option is the Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski, where you can enjoy a relaxing beach experience. For eco-friendly stays, Jungle Bay offers a natural setting with wellness programs and activities like hiking. Rosalie Bay Eco Resort is also a good choice for those who love nature and want to unwind. If you’re looking for mid-range hotels, the Fort Young Hotel in the capital, Roseau, has oceanfront rooms and easy access to local attractions. The Champs Hotel in Dominica Portsmouth is another comfortable option with excellent service. No matter where you stay, Dominica offers a warm welcome and beautiful surroundings in which to enjoy your vacation.
Dominica tourist attractions
Dominica is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, offering a variety of attractions for visitors. Here are some must-see tourist attractions in Dominica:
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls is located in the famous Morne Trois Pitons Park. It is formed by the White River falling from a cliff into the warm lake below. The minerals in the water give it a milky white colour. To reach this waterfall, you need to walk for about 40 minutes inside the park. Besides the beautiful natural views, one of the main attractions of this waterfall is the diverse plant and animal life in this ecosystem.
Cabrits National Park
This national park features a mix of history and nature, with old fort ruins and beautiful hiking trails. The park offers great views of the surrounding landscape and coastline.
Roseau
The capital city, Roseau, offers colorful markets, historic buildings, and local culture. Visitors can explore the vibrant streets, shops, and restaurants.
Trafalgar falls
The famous Twin Waterfalls, known as the “Father and Mother,” is a beautiful natural place. To reach this waterfall, you need to walk through dense forests filled with climbing plants and vanilla orchids. The main source of the Trafalgar Waterfalls is the mountains around it, and at the bottom, it leads to a hot spring.
Boiling Lake
A geothermal wonder, Boiling Lake is the world’s second-largest hot lake. It’s surrounded by lush vegetation and can be reached by a scenic hike through the Morne Trois Pitons National Park.
Emerald Pool
Located in the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, the Emerald Pool is a beautiful waterfall with a clear, blue-green pool. It’s an easy hike to reach this tranquil spot, perfect for a refreshing swim.
These attractions highlight Dominica natural wonders, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to experience the island unique beauty.
Cost of travel to Dominica
Travelling to Dominica can vary in cost depending on your starting point, travel season, accommodation choices, and activities planned. Flights, places to stay, and meals can all contribute to the total expense. Budget-friendly options are available, along with mid-range and luxury accommodations. Transportation costs can differ based on whether you rent a car or use public transport. Activities such as nature tours also add to the overall cost. To manage expenses, it’s helpful to consider travelling during the off-season, booking early, and opting for local dining and transport options.
For more information about the cost of travelling to Dominica and get Dominica passport, you can contact our experts at Caribbean Paradise, and they will guide you completely.
