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Dominica is carpeted in lush tropical rainforest and hosts 170 bird species and nearly a dozen 5,000 foot-high volcanic spires puncturing the rainforest’s towering canopy of trees. The bare volcanic mountaintops make for clear views of the rolling mountains and steamy volcanic vents; hiking there, you're likely to pass breathtaking vistas, quiet crater lakes, mountain waterfalls, sulfur springs and secluded freshwater rock pools.
More than 300 miles of trails, ranging from easy to very challenging, await both experienced hikers and casual day trippers. It's strongly recommended that you download and observe Dominica tourism authority's hiking and safety tips, including registering before setting out and (especially inexperienced back country hikers) hiring a guide. Note, too, that some hiking destinations require site passes.
Whichever trails you decide on, be sure to spend at least some time at Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park covers 17,000 acres in the south-central region, and offers visitors a variety of adventure-oriented pursuits including rappelling, zip-lining and aerial tram rides. Serious hikers can also take the trails to the geothermal Boiling Lake, an extraordinary way to experience the rainforest (but be advised it's quite challenging: An eight-mile, six-hour trek up steep terrain and switchbacks).
The Glassy trail, in the southeast of the island, is an easier, yet still spectacular, two- to three-hour day trip. The trail winds through farm land and extends into a deep jungle valley, finally approaching the coast while skirting steep cliffs. The trail ends on an old volcanic flow ebbing into the ocean. Small ponds collect some of the water from the nearby crashing waves, creating a habitat for various species of coral and fish.
Dominica has several dive centers that work with both the novice and seasoned diver. One of the most popular diving sites is the Soufriere Scott’s Head Marine Reserve, near the southwest tip of the island and famous for the volcanic activity under its sea bed (at Champagne Reef, a good snorkeling site, you'll swim through warm bubbling waters created by geothermal vents). In the north, the Cabrits Marine Reserve gets far fewer divers, which makes it all the more spectacular. Go there to see a wonderland of unspoiled coral walls and rare fish.
Dominica is considered one of the world's best whale watching destinations. Just south of the capital city Roseau, jagged volcanic cliffs sharply plunge 6,000 feet into the ocean, an ideal shelter for numerous whale species that can be spotted year round. You can arrange excursions through many of the island's lodges and dive centers. While there are never any guarantees, on a given day you may spot any of seven species of whales and 11 species of dolphins.
Roseau is the oldest and most important urban settlement on the island. Built on the site of the ancient Kalinago Indian village of Sairi, Roseau is a combination of modern and colonial architecture in various states of repair. Put on your walking shoes and meander through the historic if somewhat chaotic French Quarter. You can download a free 30-minute audio tour and buy a map of the district for a self-guided walk, or book a guided tour, at SHAPE, a Roseau nonprofit promoting Dominica's architectural heritage.
Dominica is well known for its music, with genres including jazz, reggae-dancehall, calypso, and soca, plus cadence-lypso and bouyon, which are popular Dominican genres. Visit during and be treated to the World Creole Music Festival, which takes place the last weekend in October. If you're planning to come earlier in the year, take in Dominica's Carnival. Held at the traditional pre-lenten season, Carnival is a whirlwind of calypso and "jump-up" dancing in the streets.
Cruise ships will dock at the Roseau Cruise Ship Berth — located right in downtown Roseau and within easy walking distance of shops, restaurants, and transportation.
Documents: U.S. and Canadian citizens will need a valid passport.
Language: English is the official language, though you're also likely to hear some French Creole.
Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC), although U.S. dollars are accepted in some locations.
Getting around: Taxis line up at the cruise pier and are readily available. Taxi drivers should be uniformed, and rates are fixed by the government. License plates of taxi vehicles should contain the letters “HA” or “H.” Special fares can be negotiated with taxi drivers to carry a number of passengers going to the same destination. Vehicles that are noticeably older or have no air conditioning might offer discounted rates.
Privately owned minivans, which may hold up to 15 passengers, provide the public bus transportation in Dominica. Pickup areas in Roseau include the Old Market Square and the area between the East and West Bridge, though travelers can simply flag down a bus in other locations to catch a ride.
Store hours: Stores are typically open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Stores closer to the cruise pier may stay open on Sundays when ships are in port.
Dress: Beach wear, active wear, and revealing clothing are not considered appropriate in any location other than the beach or pool. Travelers should avoid wearing these items when visiting shops, restaurants, streets, and towns.
Safety advice: Dominica is considered a relatively safe island. It is recommended that you stay in tourist areas and if you decide to do any hiking to make sure that you have a local guide with you. Keep valuables on the ship.
When hiking in the rainforest, heavy rain can bring flash-flooding. You might need to cross rivers when hiking in the rainforest, so make sure you pack sturdy hiking shoes if you plan an excursion of this type. Download the Dominica tourism authority's hiking and safety tips to guarantee the safest and most enjoyable time on the trails.
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