Dominica (pronounced dom-in-ee-ka) is known as “the Nature Island” for good reason: this small island boasts an unspoiled rainforest, volcanic hot springs, 365 rivers and countless waterfalls. Dominica has three National Parks, one of which (the Morne Trois Piton National Park) was enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998. It is the only natural world heritage site in the Eastern Caribbean. A mountainous island, Dominica rises dramatically to almost 5,000 feet above sea level. The island is mostly rural, uncrowded, and unspoiled. At least 60% of this nature paradise is still covered by lush tropical rainforest and other verdant vegetation. Water is one of the island’s most abundant natural resources. Numerous rivers gush out of the mountains to create spectacular waterfalls (among them Middleham, Victoria, Trafalgar and Sari Sari Falls), emerald pools at the base of the falls, and dramatic gorges, such as Titou Gorge. Dominica is a mecca for the adventure traveler with dozens of water activities including scuba diving, snorkeling, whale & dolphin watching and kayaking. There are also a host of other tours and activities ranging from bird watching and hiking to jeep/ATV safaris and mountain bike treks. For the rugged hiker, a trip to the Boiling Lake, one of the world’s largest actively boiling lake, is a must. The air temperature is approximately 75-85F degrees year-round, with cooler temperatures in the mountains. January to April is the dry season and July to October the green season.
Diving in Dominica
Dominica is an eco-friendly destination, known for its lush forests, stunning waterfalls and soothing hot springs; but it is what lies below the calm waters that attracts divers from all around the world to this Nature Island. The diving in Dominica is some of the best in the Caribbean. Lots of small critters, spectacular walls, turtles, and mounds upon mounds of colorful corals, sponges, and crinoids. And don’t be surprised if you are greeted by playful dolphins or whales during your surface intervals. The waters around Dominica are just teeming with life. The water temperature is normally 78-84F degrees all year, slightly warmer in the summer and cooler in the winter. A 2 mm shorty to 3 mm full suit is recommended.
Dive Primer
- Water Temp: 78-82°
- Visibility: 80′+Wetsuit: 1.5mm to 3mm
- Best Time to Travel
- Year-round, but plan your trip between October – March to catch the sperm whale migration
Favorite Dive Sites
- Soufriere Pinnacles
- Champagne Reef
- Dangleben’s Pinnacles