Dominica takes the spotlight

Waterfall: credit: Scott Sporleder

ONE OF THE CARIBBEAN’S HIDDEN GEMS TAKES THE SPOTLIGHT

The Nature Island of Dominica in the eastern Caribbean is known for its lush rainforest, waterfalls and sparkling lakes rather than big hotels, lively nightlife noisy bars and rum and reggae.

But it could be the Caribbean destination of choice for eco conscious travellers in 2026 as plans for a new international airport, one of the world’s longest cable cars, beautiful luxury eco-lodges and impressive moves to make it carbo neutral are all in place. 

 NATURAL WONDERS

There are 365 rivers, numerous waterfalls and 300 miles of hiking trails through lush rainforest on the island plus black volcanic and white sand beaches. \There are also nine volcanoes, of which just one is currently active.  All this adds up to a nature lover’s paradise, an adventure lover’s playground and the perfect unspoilt retreat for those looking for

The world’s second-largest hot spring lake, Boiling Lake, is a freshwater-filled volcanic crater which can be reached on foot via a 3-4-hour challenging hike. The new cable car which is under construction will transport visitors to the lake in about 20 minutes making the site accessible to all.

HIKING

Keen hikers should get their boots on and explore some of the islands most challenging walks.  The UNESCO-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park dazzles with waterfalls at every twist. Trafalgar Falls’ legendary ‘Mother and Father’ twin falls stand tall and proud, just a quick jaunt away. Slip into the secretive jungle embrace of Spanny Falls, or loop around Jacko Falls’ scenic vantage point. Other notable waterfalls include Middleham Falls, Victoria Falls and Sari Sari Falls. And don’t miss Emerald Pool - where a 40-foot cascade spills into a hypnotic green plunge pool.

The Waitukubuli National Trail is the longest hiking route in the Caribbean

On your walks look out for the scarlet Bwa kwab, Dominica’s national flower as well as parrots, Bana quits and beautiful hummingbirds.

Emerald Pool Credit: DiscoverDominica

Take the waters

Don’t miss the chance to swim in the island’s magical pools, said to have health enhancing properties. Titou Gorge is part jungle cathedral, part lava-sculpted tunnel. Formed by lava and rushing water, it’s a short swim through echoing rock chambers and towering cliffs. Light slips down the cliff walls in shafts, Drift in on an inflatable ring.

Watersports

Water sports including kayaking, diving, and fishing are on offer in Soufriere Bay where you can also visit lovely Champagne beach.

Don’t miss

A ride down Indian River

Glide down the Indian river -the widest river in Dominica - in a brightly coloured rowing boat as a local guide points out iguanas, herons, crabs and agoutis in the dense jungle.  Stop at the Indian River Bush Bar to sample bush teas, Dominican famous rum punches, local bush rums marinated with herbs and spices along with fresh, seasonal fruit juices and the Bush Bar’s signature drink, “Dynamite,”

WHERE TO STAY

There is a wide variety of accommodation choices on Dominica, from  luxurious eco lodges to simple guest houses, small hotels and homestays.  There are no large all inclusive hotels but the island is setting new standards in sustainable luxury with top resorts such as Coulibri Ridge in the south of the island, Secret Bay, Jungle Bay and Rosalie Bay Resort & Spa.  A new  beachfront hotel, Ocean Oasis, opened late 2025 near Roseau.

WHATS NEW

Dominica is building a new international airport in Wesley to replace the smaller Douglas-Charles airport which will connect directly to the USA and Europe by 2027.

Dominica is building a 10-megawatt geothermal power plant which will provide clean cheaper electricity reducing the reliance on diesel electricity and positioning the island to be a leader in Caribbean renewable energy.  

The nature island looks set to be one of the world’s most significant eco-tourism destinations and with fabulous new eco lodges now might be the time to go!

Discoverdominica.com