Dominica

Dubbed the "hiker's paradise", Dominica does indeed provide the keen hiker with a mighty array of fantastic opportunities. But while it may be the hiker's dream-come-true, many avid divers have found it equally appealing for its gorgeous underwater world. Reputed to be the finest place in the Caribbean to see whales and dolphins, Dominica also offers fine snorkelling around beautiful reefs where marine life is abundant.

Dominica climbs from the sea with towering peaks that seem to be caressing the heavens. Virgin flora covers these dramatic mountains, creating an abundance of lush green landscapes. The residue of the fiery forces that created the island thousands of years ago, as part of the Caribbean Ring of Fire, bellows in several hot springs, valleys of steaming earth, and a boiling lake which is the second largest in the world. Along with geothermal wonders come natural coolants, hundreds of pristine rivers and streams web the island's lush terrain. Pure rainwater sets brooks and cascades into motion by rushing down picturesque cliffs.

Dominica's natural wonders and rich cultural heritage make it an exceptional eco-tourism destination.

Understand The Geography

Dominica is an island nation in the Caribbean Sea. It should not be confused with the Dominican Republic, another Caribbean nation.

The official name is Commonwealth of Dominica. The indigenous Kalinago people of the island, somewhat erroneously called 'Caribs', have a territory, which resembles the Indian reserves of Canada. Because the island went through a period of French occupation, and lies between two overseas departments of France, Guadeloupe to the north and Martinique to the south; the island is sometimes called "French Dominica". It also has the nickname "The Nature Isle of the Caribbean" due to its seemingly unspoiled natural beauty.

The isle of Dominica is one of the youngest islands in the Lesser Antilles, and it is still being formed by geothermal-volcanic activity. It is a lush island of mountainous rainforests, home of many rare plant, animal and bird species.

Dominica is largely covered by rainforest and is home to the world's second-largest boiling lake. Dominica also has many waterfalls, springs and rivers. Some plants and animals thought to be extinct on surrounding islands can still be found in Dominica's forests. The volcanic nature of the island and the lack of sandy beaches have made Dominica a popular scuba diving spot. Dominica is home to several protected areas, including Cabrits National Park.

Climate Conditions

Average daytime temperatures on Dominica range from 75 degrees Fahrenheit into the 80s. At night-time, temperatures are a little cooler and drop about 10 degrees Fahrenheit. During the summer, island highs can reach way up into the 90s, with winter being only slightly cooler, averaging anywhere between 84 degrees Fahrenheit and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The steamy temperatures are moderated by the cooling north-eastern trade winds, which create a lovely island breeze providing relief from the sultry heat and humidity. December through May is the coolest and driest time of the year on the island and generally the best time to visit Dominica.