Nature island of the Caribbean
Dominica, one of the world's most pristine islands, is known for its abundance of natural splendor. Visit the various national parks such as the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, The Northern Forest Reserve, the Cabrits National Park and the Scotts Head-Soufriere Marine Reserve. The island boasts pristine rainforest, mangrove forests, huge volcanic peaks, idyllic waterfalls, as many as 365 rivers and lots of species of plants, trees and flowers.
Divers and snorkelers can visit the shores of this pure island. Venture among rare corals where curious seahorses cling to coral branches, swim among colorful fish and, with any luck, spot playful dolphins. Experienced divers can descend into the deeper waters where more than 20 species of whales visit these seas or take a wall dive along the volcanic rim of Crater's Edge where barracudas stalk their prey and where large schools of snapper and tuna pass by.
Volcanoes and hot springs
As many as nine of the total of 16 active volcanoes in the Caribbean islands are located in Dominica.
On the flanks of the Morne Watt volcano lies the second largest boiling lake in the world, quite appropriately called Boiling Lake. Only Frying Pan Lake in New Zealand is larger. Adventurers can take a beautiful six-hour hike through mountainous terrain where you can bathe in hot rivers or boil an egg in the water of the valley with the evocative name of Valley of Desolation along the way.
Dreadlocks and rum
In addition to nature, the island also has a rich culture where slavery left its mark. Across the jungle, for example, you will find a staircase, hand-carved by slaves. The mentality of the population today is wonderfully laidback,many residents wear the distinctive dreadlocks and music types like reggae plays an important role in daily life. Of course, a visit to Dominica is not complete without sampling the local spicy rum.
