Dominica Travel
Volcanoes, Hiking &
Creole Cuisine
Guided hiking, volcanic hot springs, reef adventures and Creole food experiences on the Caribbean’s Nature Island.
From US $5495/person + tax
Location:
Dominica
Duration:
7 nights/8 days
Accommodation:
4-star locally-owned, boutique eco-lodge
When:
November – April
Activity Level:
2-3 out of 5
Moderate to Active
Make it Private
Beyond The Resorts
Far from the crowds and typical Caribbean all-inclusive resorts, Dominica offers a rare blend of untamed volcanic landscapes, vibrant Creole culture, rich culinary traditions, and the Caribbean’s last remaining Indigenous territory. We’ve designed this journey around the people, places, and experiences that make the Nature Island unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean.
Who this is for: Couples, friends, solo travellers, and families with older teens or adult children seeking an active, multi-experience adventure that combines hiking, kayaking, food, culture, and meaningful local connections. Ideal for travellers who prefer authentic experiences and pristine tropical landscapes over the typical all-inclusive Caribbean vacation.
The Caribbean’s Nature Island
Located in the eastern Caribbean between Martinique and Guadalupe, little-known Dominica combines otherworldly beauty with down-to-earth charm. Home to the highest concentration of volcanoes in the world – nine – the island’s rugged Jurassic-like geography has protected it from large scale development and provided sanctuary to the Caribbean’s last remaining Indigenous peoples, the Kalinago, and infused its rich, nature-positive culture. The first in the world to create a marine reserve for its resident sperm whales, Dominica also boasts the world’s second-largest ‘Boiling Lake,’ a popular hiking destination within the UNESCO-designated Morne Trois Pitons National Park.
Add the savoury Creole cuisine and delicious array of homebrewed bush rum, and it’s no wonder at a time when so many destinations are overwhelmed by crowds of tourists, Dominica stands out as a pristine getaway.
We will do it again!
“Karibu booked a custom trip for our family of 5 to Dominica (3 kids ranging in ages from 13-22). The organization of the trip was flawless. Our guide was amazing, the accommodation was fantastic, and the variety of experiences showed us what a great and diverse island Dominica is!”
– John B
If I could give more than 5 stars, I would.
“We had a fabulous and adventurous time in Dominica. Our guide was amazing! Andrea from karibu was fantastic to work with and did a great job organizing our trip to make sure that we did and saw everything that was on our bucket list.”
– Stephanie H
An Unforgettable Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Soufrière
We arrive at our locally owned boutique eco-lodge in Soufrière at the southwestern tip of Dominica. Relax by the cliffside pool with stunning views of the iconic Scott’s Head Peninsula and Martinique Channel. Enjoy a welcome dinner of local Creole cuisine.
DAY 2
Reef Snorkel & Cooking Class
Snorkel or do a discovery dive in the Scott’s Head marine preserve and learn about the tireless efforts to preserve Dominica’s coral from a leading conservationist. We make our dinner, learning to cook Creole-style at the home of a local chef, and enjoy some home-brewed rum punch.
DAY 3
Hiking, Rainforest-Style
We head out to the UNESCO-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park for a one-hour hike to a stunning waterfall and swimming lagoon. We have lunch in a village with one of Dominica’s best home cooks, followed by a second 1.5-hour hike through a mist-shrouded cloud forest.
DAY 4
Canyoning & Kayaking
Start the day rappelling beside waterfalls and jumping into crystalline pools as we go ‘canyoning’ in a jungle gorge (no prior experience required). In the afternoon, we kayak to Scott’s Head Peninsula and hike to the top for a panoramic view of Dominica. We stop at a beachside bush bar to watch the sunset before heading back to the lodge for dinner.
DAY 5
Kalinago Territory + Regenerative Farm Visit
We cross to the north end of Dominica to a regenerative rainforest farm where we sample wild hibiscus and pepper cherries before enjoying an entirely locally sourced lunch. Later, we visit a village and sacred sites in the Kalinago Territory, where a local Indigenous leader shares the history, traditions, and stories of the Caribbean’s last remaining Indigenous people before a traditional Kalinago dinner.
DAY 6
Waterfalls & Hot Springs
We visit one of Dominica’s most iconic waterfalls, Trafalgar Falls, then take a soothing soak in the volcano-heated hot springs the island is famed for before digging into an authentic Creole lunch with a side of rum punch. Relax by the hotel pool or visit the spa in the afternoon. Dinner is at one Dominica’s best restaurants, founded by three Montréal chefs who serve an elevated fusion of Creole and contemporary cuisine.
DAY 7
Get Ready to Boil!
We hike to the famous Boiling Lake, the world’s second-largest volcano-heated hot springs. The 13 km, 7-hour hike travels through rainforest, steaming sulphur springs and rainforest-carpeted craters and pitons. Participation optional. We enjoy our final trip dinner at the eco-lodge.
Accommodations
We stay at a locally owned, 4-star boutique eco-lodge with panoramic ocean views and spacious, cabaña-style rooms. This intimate cliffside getaway overlooking the southern village of Soufrière is the perfect place to relax after a day of activity. The lodge has gorgeous pools overlooking the ocean and a variety of yoga and massage amenities. Room upgrades available.
What's Included
This is an all-inclusive experience that includes:
Getting There
There are direct flights from Newark with United Airlines and from Miami with American Airlines. Dominica can also be reached via Puerto Rico and Barbados with Air Canada and West Jet. Several regional airlines, including Contour and Caribbean Airlines fly from Puerto Rico to Dominica. The island can also be reached by ferry from Guadeloupe and Martinique (approximately 2 hours), and St Lucia (4 hours). Booking in advance is recommended for best prices and availability.
Travel Insurance
Medical travel insurance is required to participate in our tour. Your insurance plan should include full medical coverage, emergency evacuation and emergency repatriation. Travel interruption insurance is highly recommended.
Activity Level
Most activities are considered level 2 out of 5 and accessible for anyone who is moderately fit. The most challenging activity is the Boiling Lake hike, which we consider a 3.5/4 out 5. At 11-km or 7 miles return, the hike takes about 7 hours to complete and has a elevation gain of 727 metres. The trail can be muddy and slippery, with some steep sections. Guests can opt out of this hike and relax by the pool and enjoy the hotel spa services.
From The Wild Life Blog
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Dominica located?
Dominica is located in the eastern Caribbean between Martinique and Guadeloupe, about 635 km southeast of Puerto Rico. Its eastern coast faces the Atlantic Ocean, and the western coast is on the Caribbean Sea.
What’s the best way to travel to Dominica?
There are regular direct flights from the US, with American Airlines flying from Miami and United Airlines flying directly from Newark. New Jersey. Canadian travelers can either fly directly via the US, or fly to San Juan Puerto Rico with Air Canada or West Jet and then take one of several regional carriers, including Contour Airlines or Caribbean Air. Ferries are also available from Martinique and Guadeloupe, which take just over two hours and arrive in the capital of Roseau We are happy to provide flight guidance and help you choose the best option.
What language is spoken in Dominica?
English and a French Creole. A member of the British Commonwealth, Dominica was both a French and English colony over the course of its history. While cars drive on the left-hand side of the road, locals speak a French-infused patois.
Should I bring cash and how much?
Yes, US dollars are best. You may want to buy something or add an extra tip. While credit cards are accepted in some places, many streetvendors and bush bars work on a cash basis. Plan on $50-$100 a day as a back up.
Do I need trip cancellation and medical travel insurance for this trip?
Medical travel insurance is required to participate in this tour. Trip Cancellation and Interruption insurance is highly recommended. A number of our guests use Trawick Travel Insurance and Manulife.
Can I upgrade from a standard villa to a suite?
Yes. There is the option to upgrade to a suite for an additional $450. A suite is a much larger room, includes a table and living area as well as a large outdoor balcony with a view. It comes with a king bed and the possibility of adding a third bed, accommodating up to 3 people.
What currency is used in Dominica?
The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, or XCD, and goods are priced in ECD. The US dollar is widely accepted, however, as ECD can be hard to come by. When paying with cash with US dollars, you will be given change in ECD.
What’s the weather like, and when is the best time to go?
Dominica has a tropical climate, with daytime temperatures hovering between 30–33C all year, and dropping to the mid to low 20s at night. The rainy season runs from June to October, with the height of hurricane season between August and October. November to April is a little cooler and less humid. It can get very busy around Carnival time in February/March.
What is the hiking like?
Is this trip good for families? Is there a recommended minimum age?
We designed this trip considering all the diverse, challenging and tactile experiences our kids would enjoy. This trip is for kids who are up for trying lots of different things. The most challenging is the Boiling Lake hike, which is 6–8 hours round trip, and we offer alternatives for those who want to opt out. Recommended for kids 13+.
Is it possible to have a room for 3 people?
Yes. You can update to a suite, which comes with a large King bed and an additional twin bed for a third person.
What are the different options for payment?
Guests can opt to pay directly from their bank account. There are no processing fees associated with the debit payment option. Guests can also pay by credit card and the card’s processing fee of 2.7-2.9% is applied.
What should I tip the guide?
We recommend US$20-$30 a day per person.
Secure your spot on this one-of-a-kind travel adventure. Spaces limited!
Italy Like You’ve Never Seen It
Hiking the Alta Valsesia
From CAD $4,950 or US $3,650 | 7 days
Discover Exotic Dominica
Volcanoes, Hiking and Rainforest Foraging
From US $4750 | 8 days
Zambia, Africa’s Hidden Gem
Immersive Walking & River Safaris