“There is only one way to understand Dominica. You have to walk across it and along it.” Alec Waugh, “Typical Dominica” 1948
Hiking & Walking in Dominica
Just as Dominica is famous for its outstanding scuba diving, we are also well known as having one of the most pristine tropical rainforests in the Caribbean islands. Though mountainous, much of this rainforest is easily accessible by way of some exciting tracks and trails.
- Dominica’s land attractions are as varied & spectacular as below the water. From the stroll to Trafalgar Falls or a wander in the historic Fort Shirley at the Cabrits National Park, to the world-famous Boiling Lake hike, Dominica has something for everyone.
- Our Waitukubuli National Trail is the longest hiking trail in the Caribbean region. Running from one end of the island to the other, the trail covers 114 miles of terrain revealing every type of habitat that Dominica has to offer.
There’s so much to see and do in Dominica, we’re sure you’ll need some help trying to decide where to go and what to do while you’re here?
This page categorises many (but not all) of Dominica’s excellent hikes and trails by the difficulty of the walk. If in any doubt, please use the services of a guide, and err on the side of caution in the level of difficulty and the time allowed to do the hike.
For a detailed look at Dominica’s trails, hikes and attractions, see the listings below: Strolls, Easy Hikes, Intermediate Hikes, and Hard Hikes.
Note that a Site Pass is required to visit many of Dominica’s attractions. More info on Site Passes here.
Hiking Tips | Eco-Tourism Site Passes | All Hikes in Dominica
Strolls
Casual walks through areas of interest, these are good for all age groups and physiques.
Easy Hikes
A short distance along fairly easy terrain. These hikes can easily be done anytime of the day and are generally kid-friendly.
Intermediate Hike
Varying times with terrain that undulates allowing you to work up a good sweat. These are usually half day hikes that are best done in the morning.
Hard Hikes
A long distance and very strenuous, these hikes take most of the day and are best done with a Certified Guide
Tips for walking in Dominica’s Rainforest
Watch out for:
- High rainfall can cause flash-flooding of even small streams
- The dense rainforest can get dark quickly in the late afternoon
- Hikes often cross rivers – watch out for slippy rocks!
What to take:
- Waterproof rain gear (a poncho will also protect camera & phone)
- Phone / Camera (with extra battery pack and somewhere dry to carry them)
- Headlamp (in case it gets dark) – here’s a reasonably priced Energizer Water resistant headlamp
- Insect repellent (but don’t worry, we’ve no poisonous creatures!)
- Sunglasses
- Bathing suit – the opportunity to swim may appear
- Always have an extra pair of clothes and socks (either with you or in your vehicle)
- Waterproof backpack – see my favourite one here!
Wear comfortable clothing
It will be humid, but depending on the hike and season it can also get chilly.
- A hat
- Shorts or light pants
- Sneakers with good treads or (waterproof) hiking boots
- Some people wear hiking sandals – I’d recommend one’s with covered toes like this woman’s Teva or this men’s Keen hiking sandal.
Lightweight Caribbean Hiking Shoes
Hiking Sandals
After-Hike Sandals
This page contains affiliate links.
Eco-Tourism Site Passes
Many tourism sites around the island require a Site User Fee (Fees below effective May 2013).
Eco-Tourism Site Passes
- Site Pass US $5
- Weekly Pass:Â US $12
Waitukubuli National Trail Passes
- 1-Day Pass US $12
- 15-Day Pass US $40
- Special Pass for Organised Tour Packages (1 Day) US $10
Passes are available from Cruise Agents, Tour Operators, Car Hire Agencies and at various other locations around the island. Passes can also be bought from officials at some of the sites or from Forestry, Wildlife & Parks Division on Valley Road or in the Botanical Gardens, Roseau (266-3817).
The Perfect Backpack
For hiking in Dominica, my favourite backpack is a waterproof one. It's not only great for hiking in the rainforest, you can take it along on a kayaking trip, whale-watching, or to the beach to keep things sand-free & dry. Check out this MarsBro Waterproof Backpack.
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All Hikes
Sort through the list below to see which best suits you
View from the trail to Glassy, in Boetica on the east coast of Dominica
Papillote Tropical Gardens
![Papillote Tropical Gardens Papillote Tropical Gardens](jpg/papilliote4.jpg)
45 mins - 1 hr (one way)
Boli Falls
5 Hours
1
Brandy Falls
4 hours
5 minutes
2 hrs
30 mins
Cobra Tours and Yatch Services
20 - 30 mins
Dreamland Healing Sanctuary
- No
Du Mas Lake
4 hours
Elvis Adventure Tours
45 Mins
1 - 3 hours
15 minutes
1 hour
Jack’s Walk
20 minutes
0.2 miles
Jaco Flats
4
Jungle Trekking & Adventure Safaris (JTAS)
Kalinago Barana Aute
2
Kalinago Territory (formerly Carib Territory)
2
L’Or River
1
Layou River Valley
3
3 - 4 hours
Milton (Syndicate) Falls
20 minutes
Morne Bruce
1
![Crapaud](jpg/crapaud_female_js.jpg)
![Birds & Bird Watching](jpg/humming_bird2.jpg)
![Sea Turtle Watching](jpg/sea_turtle11.jpg)
![Wildlife](jpg/iguana1.jpg)
Recommended Reading
Birds of the West Indies
By James Bond A Petersen Field Guide Buy on Amazon
![](jpg/reeffishidbook1.jpg)
Reef Fish Identification
By Paul Humann and Ned Deloach Florida Caribbean Bahamas - 4th Edition (Reef Set) Buy on Amazon