Treetops
DOMINICA
Dominica - The Nature Isle
Lush rainforest, vibrant seas, rich culture and an embarrassment of wildlife: Dominica is the pre-tourist-frenzy Caribbean.
While other spots in the Caribbean are besieged by tourists and blighted with mega-hotels, Dominica does it differently, offering a wild and authentic experience hard to find anywhere else.
So pack your hiking boots and snorkel, your binoculars and sun hat, and prepare for an active adventure on the Nature Island.
HIKING
365 rivers, dozens of waterfalls, miles of coastline, mountains to climb and trails to explore - Dominica is a hiking paradise. There are signposted easy walks like Emerald Pool, Syndicate Trail and Trafalgar Falls. Some more adventurous trails such as La Chaudière Pool or Middleham Falls that can be tackled with a guidebook. And then there are those strenuous hikes that are better attempted with a guide to Boiling Lake or the peak of Mont Diablotin.
WHALE WATCHING
Sometimes called the whale watching capital of the Caribbean, Dominica is home to several families of Sperm whales who can be seen all year round. In addition, there are dolphins, pilot whales and migrating humpback whales that are attracted to the deep waters close in to the island's west coast. You can take one of several arranged boat trips crewed by very competent guides.
SNORKELLING AND SCUBA DIVING
The whole coastline is dotted with magnificent dive sites and all a diver's needs can be accommodated by several local dive centres. As well as the beautiful flora and fauna, you can experience swimming through rock and coral tunnels or through volcanic bubbles. Alternatively, there is plenty to see just off the beach with a mask and snorkel.
CANYONING
A fabulous way to explore the rugged interior and feel like a true adventurer. An organized trip with fully qualified guides will take you down waterfalls and through pools in the very heart of the rainforest - unforgettable.
SULPHUR SPAS
In some locations, locals have tamed the hot volcanic springs into relaxing spa pools. Mixing the sulphurous spring water with clear cold spring water, pools of different temperatures are created where you can lie back under the rainforest canopy and forget about the outside world.
RIVER TUBING
One way to see miles of tropical rainforest and get close to one of Dominica's 365 rivers is to drift along in an inflated tube. Several operators on both coasts of the island offer trips including transport and in some cases a picnic and drinks.