Short Description

Dominica is designed for the nature lover. It consists of lush tropical jungle with rivers and waterfalls and majestic, black, volcanic beaches.

Destination Highlights

A nature lover's paradise
Great for hiking and exploring
Relatively undeveloped

Local Weather

Average yearly temperature is 80 F. Average rainfall is 80 inches per year, mainly between June and October.

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Description

Dominica's appeal is in its raw, untamed landscape. Found between Martinique and Guadeloupe, Dominica consists of virgin rain forests filled with rivers, waterfalls, lakes and natural hot springs. The island retains the language and flair of her English roots, although today she is an independent nation who's made a name for herself worldwide among tourists looking for excitement off the beaten path.

Dominica is perhaps most famous for its tropical rainforest, and the many rivers and waterfalls which result from the high rainfall in the interior. In addition, its volcanic origins manifest themselves most noticeably in the Boiling Lake (one of the largest of its kind in the world) and many other smaller fumaroles around the island (including at least one underwater). Moreover, it is widely acknowledged to be both one of the best dive sites and a prime whale watching location in the region (if not world).

There are no casinos, fast food chains or golf courses. Its tourist traps are the natural kind: 365 rivers, a boiling lake, countryside worthy of dramatic names like the Valley of Desolation, the world's last ocean rain forest, and endangered species of parrots that won't be found anywhere else in the world. Shoppers will not find expensive boutiques, but instead will be lured by street merchants peddling handmade pottery, wood carvings and jewelry.

For the beach lover, Dominica has little to offer. Her volcanic, mountainous terrain offers minute stretches of black sands and locals will tell you that the best swimming is in the rivers and springs. You can still enjoy certain ocean sports, however - like snorkeling, scuba diving, and whale watching.

Dominica's land sports are her specialty, including some of the best hiking and bird watching in the world. Kayaking and rafting are also popular among the adventuresome souls who find Dominica appealing. If modest accommodations and a terrain that resembles Eden is your vacation dream, then Dominica is for you. Big, booming tourism is not on the agenda for this island, however - so remember, mum's the word.

Local Information

The official currency of Dominica is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. The official language is English. The electric current on the island is 220 volts, so an adapter is a smart travel accessory. Taxis are inexpensive and abundant. Car rentals are available starting at US$45/day. Driving is on the left, and an international driver's license required to obtain a Dominica permit.

Airport Information

Air service is into Melville Hall Airport (DOM), which is served either directly or indirectly by Air Canada, Air France, Air Guadeloupe, American Airlines, American Eagle, BWIA, British Airways, Continental, Liat, and Lufthansa. Please be advised that many destinations charge a departure fee. Generally, most airlines include this fee in the cost of your airline ticket. We recommend you contact the airline directly to review the details with the carrier.

Entry Requirements

Effective December 31, 2006, the U.S. Department of State and Homeland Security requires all travelers to and from the Americas, the Caribbean, and Bermuda to have a passport or other accepted document that establishes the bearer's identity and nationality. This information should be used only as a guideline and non-U.S. citizens should contact the airline they are traveling on, or their local consulate regarding the specific entry requirements that apply to their nationality.