Dominica – Part 1

Ask most people what to expect in the Caribbean and they will often say white sands, cocktails and glorious sunshine. However while the Caribbean is justly famed for its postcard attractions, travellers to the region can discover a wild world of adventure by exploring inland, away from its beaches, this is especially true of Dominica. Visitors who delve deeper into the island’s core will discover a wealth of walking trails, watery wonders and geothermal pools.

Dominica has recently teamed up with a number of travel agencies to promote the self-guided walking and cycling holidays that this compact island an offer. It’s the ideal opportunity to experience Dominica’s dense rainforest, bubbling volcanoes and vibrant cultural history.

Walk the Waitukubuli

The island is roughly the size of Scotland’s Isle of Mull, but for its size Dominica packs in a tapestry of lush forest, rivers and waterfalls that are best explored on foot. The islands iconic walk, the Waitukubuli National Trail, was officially declared an eco-tourism site in 2013 and really showcases Dominica’s diverse landscapes and the secrets places.

The 184km long hike spans the length of the island and is broken up into 14 walkable segments, starting among the traditional communities that make up Scotts Head. After the start you will wind past spitting cones, climb woodland hills, venture through verdant jungles and pass countless cooling waterfalls and rivers, spanning three di¬fferent national parks, which are the Morne Trois Pitons, Morne Diablotin and Cabrits. When you walk Dominica’s signature trail you are also walking through the island’s history. You can explore ‘Maroon’ passageways, these are secret trade routes named after the escaped slaves who forged them or visit the Kalinago villages and ruins of 18th century French settlements.

However there is more than cultural experiences lining the Waitukubuli trail. There are also enticing geothermal wonders to take in, such as bubbling craters of sulphuric pools and natural hot springs. While walking, keep your eyes on high alert as you’ll be joined by an abundance of wildlife, there are more than 600 species of flora and fauna, including the country’s national bird, the Sisserou parrot. Wild pigs, geckos, iguanas and tree frogs all roam free in its wild interior, while around 50 species of butterfly float among the orchids.

However one thing trekkers should do is put a day aside to tackle the 13km detour of¬ Waitukubuli’s pathway in order to visit the island’s most-famous icon. It’s covered by a thick blanket of vapour which names it, the Boiling Lake is a steaming natural cauldron. It is the second largest of its kind in the world and is set against mountain flowers that somehow survive in the smouldering conditions.

Continued in part 2