Dominica Travelers Recommend

Nicknamed the “nature island,” Dominica entices adventurous travelers with rain forests, sulfurous hot springs, and verdant volcanoes—not to mention some of the best dive sites in the Caribbean. A day gives you just enough time for a taste. Here’s how to make the most of 24 hours on the island.

Morning: Island safari

What Dominica lacks in white-sand beaches, it makes up for in immense natural beauty. Use the cooler morning hours to explore the island on land. Head out on a guided Jeep safari to feel the heat at the Wotten Waven sulfur springs, savor the views of Ti Tou Gorge, listen to jungle sounds on a walk to a hidden waterfall, and meet the island’s national parrot at the botanical gardens. Alternatively, spend your morning on a walking tour of Roseau to learn more about the capital city’s history, architecture, and culture. You’ll take a step back in time at the Dominica Museum, sample tropical fruit at the Fresh Market, marvel at city views from Morne Bruce lookout, and snap photos of Dominica’s popular twin Trafalgar Falls.

Afternoon: On the water

Cool off in the clear Caribbean waters. Go snorkeling at Scotts Head Pinnacle, Soufriere Bay, or Champagne Reef—tours typically include all necessary equipment, so all you have to do is take a towel and have fun. For a different kind of adventure, head into the rain forests of Dominica’s lush interior for a tube ride down one of the island’s many freshwater rivers. Keep an eye out for wildlife, and be sure to stop for a refreshing swim along the way. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, opt for a hike to Middleham Falls—the tallest waterfall in the Eastern Caribbean—or through the UNESCO-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park.

Night: Jing ping

Nightlife is decidedly more subdued on Dominica than on other Caribbean islands. While party boats and rum-infused pool parties aren’t so common, you’ll find live entertainment at the island’s major hotels, especially on weekends. After an active day, kick back with a tropical cocktail as you soak up the sounds of traditional jing ping, a type of folk music that originated on the island’s slave plantations.

With two days to spend on the island of Dominica, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the natural wonders that make Dominica the “Nature Isle,” learn about island history in the capital of Roseau, and experience island-style adventure on land and in the water. Here are some tips for how to spend two days in Dominica.

Day 1: City and Sea

Morning: Start your trip to the island with an orientation of Roseau, Dominica’s vibrant capital city. Learn about the city’s history, architecture, and culture from a local guide as you visit popular points of interest, such as the botanical gardens, Morne Bruce lookout, and the Old Market. The compact city is easily explored on foot, perfect for those who prefer a self-guided tour.

Afternoon: The turquoise waters of Dominica are famous in the Caribbean for their spectacular snorkeling and diving. Take this afternoon to experience Dominica below the water’s surface during a snorkeling excursion. Some of the most popular stops include Scotts Head Pinnacle, Soufrière Bay, and the Champagne Volcano.

Night: After a day of sightseeing, refuel with a traditional Dominican meal. The local food is a fusion of Caribbean, French, Asian, and African flavors. Head to a local restaurant for a typical meal of mountain chicken (actually a species of giant frog), callaloo soup (similar to spinach soup), sancocho (beef or chicken stew), or a codfish sandwich.

Day 2: Island Adventure

Morning: Dominica is known as the “Nature Isle” for good reason, and today is all about discovering why. Hiking enthusiasts might want to spend the day on a guided trek through Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its volcanic features and Boiling Lake.

Afternoon: Most hiking tours take the better part of the day, but if you have time and energy to spare this afternoon, cool off with one of Dominica’s inland adventures. Go tubing down a freshwater river, rappel down the cliffs of Titou Gorge, or swim at the base of 50-foot (15-meter) Emerald Falls.

Night: Wrap up your time on Dominica with an evening of live music at one of the island’s many hotel bars. Depending on the night, you might treat your ears to jazz, combo, or jing ping (a traditional local music featuring accordion and several rhythm instruments).