Gizane Campos
The Eastern Caribbean island of Dominica is a hidden gem. Once overshadowed by other Caribbean islands like Barbados and Jamaica, Dominica tourism has surged in recent years.
With Dominica’s rising popularity, fueled by its infrastructure development and improved connectivity to major hubs, as well as the growing movement toward eco-conscious traveling, planning ahead and knowing what to expect will ensure a positive experience when visiting the country.
Why visit Dominica?
Dubbed the “Nature Island,” Dominica is praised for its unspoiled natural beauty and thriving ecosystems.
While large, all-inclusive resorts helped popularize Caribbean tourism, Dominica has embraced a different path through sustainable activities and lodging options rooted in natural surroundings.
Few places on Earth, let alone the Caribbean, boast natural wonders like the Boiling Lake, allowing travelers to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Dominica’s new international airport is due for completion by the end of 2025, which will open global links and streamline travel logistics for visitors.
Planning Your Dominica Trip: A Step-by-Step Guide
Visiting Dominica any time of year will offer a rich and fulfilling adventure, but preparing your travels thoroughly will help you cover all the essentials and avoid unexpected hiccups.
When to visit Dominica?
Weather
As a tropical Caribbean country, Dominica’s climate rarely drops below 70 degrees, making the island comfortable to visit in summer or winter.
The rainy season starts in June and ends in November; during this time, the island experiences heavier rainfall and potential hurricane activity.
Summer in Dominica is hot. Temperatures sit at around 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, with plenty of sunshine, warm breezes, and occasional afternoon showers.
Crowds and events
Dominica’s peak tourist season runs from December to May, coinciding with the island’s dry season. Most travelers from the United States, Canada, and Europe visit Dominica during this period to escape harsh winters, so you can anticipate encountering more visitors and crowds.
Jazz ‘N Creole Festival: The Dominica Jazz ‘N Creole Festival kicks off in April or May and celebrates the island’s Creole roots. Each year, locals and foreign visitors fill Fort Shirley in Cabrits National Park to see performances by renowned international artists and local acts like Marie Pascale and the Swingin’ Stars.
Mas Domnik: Mas Domnik, known as “The Real Mas, merges the island’s African and French traditions. The festival begins on the Monday before Ash Wednesday and features an explosion of Dominica’s music, art, and dance culture.
Kalinago Week: Dominica values its indigenous heritage, which is honored during Kalinago Week in mid-September. Trade between the Kilanagos and the surrounding French territories of Guadeloupe and Martinique was established during that time, with roots going back to 1930. The Kalinago people showcase their heritage through traditional dance and drumming, prepare authentic local dishes, and perform sacred blessings to strengthen community bonds.
Getting there
Although Dominica has yet to offer the connectivity of more popular Caribbean islands, travelers can take direct flights there with American Airlines and United Airlines from Miami International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport.
The island is well connected to other Caribbean countries, with InterCaribbean Airways, Caribbean Airlines, and Winair offering nonstop regional flights.
Where to Stay in Dominica
Secret Bay: Secret Bay in Portsmouth is an award-winning villa-style resort established through the Dominica citizenship by investment program. As a six-star resort, guests enjoy private plunge pools, an on-call concierge, and private beaches within a rainforest escape.
Jungle Bay Resort: Jungle Bay is an eco-friendly luxury resort located in the popular town of Soufriere. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a destination wedding, or a yoga and wellness retreat, this place has it all.
Fort Young Hotel and Dive Resort: The Fort Young Hotel and Dive Resort allows guests to embrace the city, reef, and rainforest in one place.
Located in Dominica’s capital, Roseau, the all-inclusive resort is characterized by boutique-style accommodations on the doorstep of waterfalls, snorkeling spots, hot springs, and rainforest hiking trails.
Getting around Dominica
The best way to move around Dominica is by rental car or private taxi. Renting a car is the most suitable choice if you plan to visit several places or spend two weeks or more on the island. Avis offers rental car services in Roseau. EZ Deal Car Rental, Fargo’s Car Rentals, and Yadah Car Rental offer car rentals outside Douglas Charles Airport.
Yadah Car Rental offers daily rentals from $65 per day and weekly rentals from $48 per day, excluding taxes and insurance. Daily taxi rates vary depending on the agency. A transfer from Douglas Charles Airport to Roseau with a local tour company like Younis Tours and Airport Services costs $80 one way.
Explore Dominica: Top Attractions and Must-See Places
Hike to the Boiling Lake
The Boiling Lake in Dominica is the world’s second-largest thermal lake and ranks at the top of most visitors’ list of things to do in Dominica. Once a fumarole in the Valley of Desolation, the lake is heated by volcanic activity.
Scuba dive in Scotts Head Marine Reserve
Scotts Head Marine Reserve in Soufriere is a well-preserved coral reef, and its deep, protected waters make it a world-class location for scuba diving.
Explore Roseau Old Market
Dominica’s capital city is dynamic and has a lot to offer. One of its best features is Roseau Old Market. Tourists are presented with colorful market stalls selling fresh fruits, spices, and handcrafted goods. The food market is ideal for trying freshly caught seafood and local dishes like Mountain Chicken and Callaloo Soup.
Walk the Waitukubuli National Trail
As the Caribbean’s only long-distance hiking trail, the 114-mile Waitukubuli National Trail is the ultimate location for adventurers looking to push their limits in nature. Along the trail’s route, you can see indigenous wildlife like the Sisserou parrot—Dominica’s national bird—agile lizards, and small mammals like the agouti.
Dominica Travel Tips: Visas, Safety, and Local Customs
Visa requirements
Dominica visa requirements for Canadians, Americans, British, and EU citizens allow visits without a regular visa. Travelers must present a valid passport and may be asked to provide proof of accommodation and an ongoing ticket. Citizens of Eastern Caribbean countries, including those with Caribbean citizenship by investment, can travel to Dominica with their national ID card. Dominica passport holders do not have visa requirements when re-entering the country.
Safety
Regarding safety in Dominica, the island has one of the lowest crime rates in the Caribbean, with a US Department of State travel advisory, “Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions.” Visitors should be vigilant of petty theft and other opportunistic crimes by remaining aware of their surroundings, leaving valuables in a hotel safe, and avoiding unfamiliar locations.
Culture and customs
Dominican culture is rooted in African, French, British, and Indigenous heritage. Most Dominicans are descendants of enslaved Africans, and the island has a large population of Indigenous descent. This is reflected in the island’s religious practices, music, and cuisine.
The Kalinago Territory in Dominica is one of the last remaining official Indigenous territories in the Caribbean and the only one still present in the Eastern Caribbean.
Unlike crowded tourist hotspots, the Kalinago community values privacy, tradition, and preserving its way of life. When visiting the Kalinago Territory, it is important to show respect for the community’s traditions. Dress modestly and ask permission before taking photos, especially of people or sacred sites.
Callaloo, a hearty soup with dasheen leaves, coconut milk, and spices, is Dominica’s national dish and a must-try for visitors. Many tourists and foreign residents who have retired in Dominica report that while not compulsory, restaurants often add a ten percent service tax to bills.
Money saving tips
- Travel outside the busy peak season: Hotel and short-term rentals charge lower rates in the low season, while flight prices tend to be cheaper.
- Rent a car: For those who plan to travel frequently across Dominica or stay on the island long-term, a rental car is a more budget-friendly option.
- Eat local: Local eateries in Dominica are known as snackettes. They are small, family-run restaurants with authentic cuisine that offer cheap alternatives to expensive hotel restaurants.
- Buy a local SIM card: Telecom companies like Verizon, Telus, and T-Mobile offer reasonable internal data packages. However, roaming charges in the Caribbean are often high. Local providers like Flow and Digicel offer prepaid SIM cards with seven-day data bundles for $15.
Take a look at our Dominica Citizenship by Investment Ultimate Guide
Frequently Asked Questions about Tourism in Dominica
Is Dominica good for tourists?
If you’re a traveler drawn to immersive natural experiences and sustainable tourism, Dominica is one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean. The Dominica government prioritizes environmental preservation. The island offers the prime opportunity to connect with Indigenous Caribbean culture through its protected Kalinago Territory and community.
Can US citizens travel to Dominica?
US citizens can travel to Dominica visa free, provided they have a valid passport.
Is Dominica cheap to visit?
Dominica is one of the cheapest places to visit in the Caribbean. Tourists can reserve premium boutique accommodations and short-term rentals for as little as $60 per day.
What language is spoken in Dominica?
As a former British colony, the official language of Dominicans is English. However, many locals speak French and French Creole.
Can you go island-hopping from Dominica?
FRS Express des iles offers a ferry service to Martinique and Guadeloupe several times a week. The Dominica to Martinique ferry takes approximately two hours, and the one to Guadeloupe takes approximately two and a half hours.
What is the best month to go to Dominica?
The best months to visit Dominica are between December and May when the island experiences more sun and less rain.
What is the best currency to use in Dominica?
Dominica’s official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC or XCD). Some tourist sites may accept US dollars but expect a poor conversion rate.
What part of Dominica is best to stay in?
The best areas to stay in Dominica are:
- Roseau: The capital city, close to shops, restaurants, and cultural sites.
- Portsmouth: The country’s second-largest town, popular among Americans moving to Dominica, has a mix of history and attractions like Cabrits National Park.
- Salisbury: A fishing village on the west coast with black sand beaches and excellent spots for snorkeling.
- Scott’s Head: A peninsula with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
