Dominica: Waterfalls, Volcanic Peaks & Kalinago Culture

Catch a glimpse of nearby islands, blue water and green volcanic peaks as the plane swoops in for its final approach. Cross the island en route to Roseau through rainforest on windy mountain roads bordered by dense flora and hidden pools. We welcome you to Dominica, and invite you to embark on an adventure beyond the Caribbean beaches into a land of volcanoes, waterfalls and incredible natural beauty.

Begin the day with a stroll through Roseau’s botanical gardens before heading to the iconic twin Trafalgar Falls, 2 rivers plunging from different rivers to the pools below. Next, head to Champagne Beach to snorkel amongst the volcanic bubbles seeping from the sea floor, keeping an eye out for tropical fish and turtles. Back in Roseau, the remainder of the day is yours.

Set off on foot through dense primary rainforest to reach the island's tallest waterfall and feel the spray of the mist on your face from the viewing platform. Cool off with a swim if conditions permit before returning to the vehicle then head up the mountain to Freshwater Lake, Dominica's largest and a UNESCO heritage site. Take in the views while walking a shoreline trail around the perimeter before returning to Roseau in the early afternoon.

Venture to the northern part of the island, hugging the western coastline and passing through small villages and former sugar estates along the drive. Reach Indian River for a tranquil boat trip inland through mangrove forests along an impossibly milky green waterway, catching the cool shade as you pass underneath the trees. Back on firm ground, step into Dominica's history books and explore Cabrits National Park, with its colonial garrison set on a strategic hilltop with views to the ocean. On the way back to Roseau, stop at a small beach for a delicious local lunch and time to relax and swim in the ocean.

Today is all about flexibility and personal preference. Choose between a swim along the narrow canyon of Titou Gorge to a waterfall and then visit some hot springs, or embark on an excursion to Spanny and Jacko Falls for the opportunity to swim in the freshwater pools in the forest. In the afternoon set off in search of whales on an optional boat trip or spend the rest of the day lazing by the pool. However you choose to spend the day will be a winner.

Venture into Dominica's interior with a visit to another impossibly beautiful waterfall in the forest, aptly named Emerald Pool for the inviting cool water at the base of the 40-foot cascade. Next, immerse yourself in the island's indigenous culture and history with an excursion into the Kalinago Territory. Visit the cultural centre and walk some of the coastal trails while listening to stories from the local guide before returning to Roseau in the afternoon.

Today's plan is to do as much or as little as you please. For those looking to break a sweat, set off on a full-day hike through the rainforest and across the volcanic landscape to Boiling Lake, the world's second-largest of its kind within Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Options closer to the hotel could be a cooking class or just take this last day to laze by the pool before re-grouping in the evening for a farewell dinner with your CEO and fellow travellers.

Today your adventure comes to an end, but the memories made during your time in Dominica are sure to live on.