It doesn't matter whether you prefer activities on land or on the water because in Dominica, you have the best of both worlds. All you need is comfortable footwear or hiking boots and your own mode of transportation. The island may be small, but things to do are spread out and entail long drives, so if you want to maximize your trip, it is best to do one or two activities in each location before moving on to the next.
There are no travel restrictions in Dominica, so you have plenty of freedom to enjoy a wide variety of activities on sea or land. If you want extreme adventure, try canyoning or rock climbing. Otherwise, the more traditional hiking and trekking on the volcanic mountainous terrain is equally breathtaking. Water sports are also popular.
The sprawling Morne Trois Pitons National Park is a famous hiking destination on the island. Bumpiing Tours is one of the most reliable operators in Dominica and they can help you arrange trekking adventures in Roseau Valley to discover Titou Gorge, the famous Trafalgar Falls or the beautiful Middleham Falls. Walking can also be enjoyed in the Morne Bruce Botanical Gardens. Guided hikes to Spanny Falls, Emerald Pool and Sari Sari Falls can be arranged.
For canyoning and other blood pumping pursuits, Extreme Dominica Canyoning & Adventure Tours, based in Roseau can help get you set up. Beginners will be provided with basic safety lessons before you leave. RockClimbingHolidays.com can help you get started on a rock climbing trip around the island. You can also go river tubing through Dominica Shore Excursion, a reliable travel agency based in Roseau.
Eco-tourism is one of the major draws of Dominica, and one of the things you shouldn't miss is a mangrove tour. Mangrove Bay Tours lets you explore the protected viewing site of Mangrove Bay to see turtles, tropical greenery and a white sand beach. Self-guided boat tours are also available.
A Jeep safari introduces you to the hidden and tranquil forests outside the bustling capital. You can observe birds through the greenery and admire the colorful tropical flowers growing on moss-covered rock crevices. You may also want to take a heritage tour around Carib Indian Territory, the Caribbean’s only remaining community of native people, or around Cabrits Historical Park to explore the ruins of the 18th century Fort George and Fort Shirley.
Dominica’s beaches are excellent for all kinds of water sports including swimming. Soufriere is a popular spot, with volcanic cliffs that cascade into the sea. Many seaside areas are excellent starting points for secluded snorkeling and kayaking. If you do not like the salty water, head to Layou on the west coast and enjoy swimming in fresh water. Dive Dominica is a premier whale watching and scuba diving service provider on the island. This company boasts PADI-certified instructors, first aid and CPR-trained professionals and reliable boat captains.