Island Tour Through the Heart of Dominica
On an island tour into the interior of Dominica, you pass through the Morne Trois National Park.
This large national park with its pristine tropical rainforest has so much to offer and is absolutely worth a visit. Here you will find volcanoes, hot springs, lakes, and one of the most biodiverse tropical flora and fauna.
The Morne Trois Pitons Nature Reserve has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988; it is located on Dominica's east coast, about 13 km east of the capital Roseau.
Emerald Pool
You reach the Emerald Pool via a beautifully laid-out trail through the still pristine rainforest. The path leads past a gorgeous waterfall that cascades into a natural pool. The way back takes you past various viewpoints with stunning views of the east coast. Time and again, you spot small trails that were once used by escaped slaves and are still used by locals today.
St. Marie of the Caribs near Salybia
The church St. Marie of the Caribs near Salybia stands close to the coast where Christopher Columbus discovered the island on November 3, 1493. However, he was unable to set foot on Dominica at the time due to shallow waters. He named the island after the day of discovery: a Sunday — "Domingo" in Spanish. The church's architecture is reminiscent of a ship and depicts scenes showing the indigenous people's uncertainty about whether to act hostile or friendly. Before Christianity reached the island, each man could have up to 6 wives, and the chief even up to 12. To this day, there are 5 women for every man, though only one wife is now permitted. Since the great Caribbean earthquake in 2005, the coastal segment where the church stands has been at risk of collapse and has been uninhabited ever since.
Carib Territory — Reserve of the Kalinago People
The reserve of the Kalinago (Carib) people covers an area of approximately 15 km2 and was established by the British in 1903. In this very rugged part of Dominica, nearly 4,000 Kalinago live across 8 villages, some in very impoverished conditions.
Kalinago Barana Autê — Traditional Kalinago Village
In the newly built village of Kalinago Barana Autê, the traditional way of life of the indigenous people is brought to life and explained during a guided tour. A tour costs $7 and is highly recommended! You can also find all kinds of indigenous handicrafts here, such as baskets and small model ships.
More information can be found at: http://www.kalinagoarchive.org/kalinago-barana-aute/
The Central Forest Reserve
An impressive stretch of road leads through the national park. Dense rainforest alternates with fantastic views of the mountains Morne Trois Pitons (1,387 m) and Morne Diablotins (1,447 m). Narrow roads wind through the terrain until you reach civilization again.
