Dominica is a rare gem: a Caribbean island unmarred by crowds and mega-resorts. It’s aptly called The Nature Island for its waterfalls, rainforests and reefs.

Don’t confuse it with the Dominican Republic, which is much larger and more developed. Located between Martinique and Guadeloupe, Dominica is a tiny island nation with a proud history. Its indigenous people, the Kalinago, successfully rebuffed the colonization efforts of the Spanish for centuries after Christopher Columbus landed in 1493.¹ While French and English colonists later prevailed, Dominica retains its independent spirit and authentic culture.

The black-sand beaches are lovely, but most people come to Dominica for active pursuits: hiking, kayaking, whale watching, scuba diving and snorkeling. Ready to escape? Our Dominica travel guide covers the top attractions, resorts and restaurants. 

3 reasons to buy travel insurance for Dominica

1. Trip cancellation benefits protect your vacation investment. Dominica is fairly affordable, compared to other Caribbean islands, but still not cheap. On average, a couple will spend $2,284 for a week in Dominica, excluding airfare.² If you must cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason, travel insurance with trip cancellation/trip interruption benefits can reimburse you for nonrefundable trip costs.
2. Emergency medical benefits are essential. “Medical facilities in Dominica do not meet U.S. standards,” the U.S. Department of State cautions travelers.³ If you experience a serious medical emergency you may need to be airlifted to a hospital elsewhere—which could cost you tens of thousands of dollars unless you have travel insurance. Emergency transportation benefits can pay for a medical evacuation, and emergency medical benefits can reimburse the cost of your care.
3. 24-hour assistance gives you peace of mind. Dominica is a relatively safe and serene island, but anything can happen when you’re traveling. If something goes wrong during your vacation, from a stolen passport to a family emergency, 24-hour assistance can help make things right. Download the Allyz® TravelSmart app to get one-tap access to 24-hour assistance and more.

What’s the best travel insurance plan for Dominica? Travelers on a budget may choose OneTrip Basic, which includes an array of key benefits for international travel. OneTrip Prime offers higher benefit limits, and it covers kids 17 and under for free when traveling with a parent or grandparent (not available on policies issued to Pennsylvania residents).

3 of the best things to do in Dominica

1. Hike to Boiling Lake. One of Dominica’s most famous features is a fumarole filled with geothermally heated water in Morne Trois Pitons National Park. Hire a guide for this demanding hike, as it can take almost a full day. Your reward is seeing the eerie, steaming water and spectacular views.
2. Visit the Kalinago Territory. Dominica is the only Caribbean nation with land that still belongs to the Kalinago people. You can tour the model village of Baruna Aute, arrange a homestay, shop for locally made crafts or hire a guide to show you around.
3. Snorkel Champagne Reef. Off the southwest coast of Dominica, not far from shore, is a snorkeling spot where volcanic thermal springs release tiny bubbles into the water. Nearby is Bubble Beach Spa: a pool where hot spring water mixes with the cool ocean to create a relaxing spot to soak.⁴

3 of the best resorts in Dominica

Coulibri Ridge, one of the newest resorts in Dominica, marries secluded luxury with sustainable practices. This resort is entirely off-grid, relying primarily on solar energy. Fourteen studios and duplex suites are perched on a ridge with ocean views, nestled in 200 acres of gardens and rainforest.

If you’re looking for a place that’s sustainable and affordable, Rosalie Bay Eco-Resort is one of the best resorts in Dominica for the money. Located on the beach, in the foothills of the Morne Trois Pitons, Rosalie Bay is famous for the sea turtles that nest on its protected beach from March to October. Request a “Turtle Wake-Up Call” to see the turtles lay eggs at night, or assist researchers with conservation efforts.

For a splurge, reserve one of the private villas at Secret Bay. This high-end resort offers private plunge pools, gourmet kitchens, panoramic views, a customized sleep program and a personal concierge. Bask on one of three secluded beaches or hike the nature trails.

3 of the best restaurants in Dominica

When dining in Dominica, you’ll taste typical Caribbean foods such as macaroni and cheese and fried plantains. The national dish is callaloo soup, which is made from coconut milk, young dasheen leaves, and crab. Other local specialties include goat water stew, codfish sancoche (codfish in coconut milk), and pelau, a robust version of rice and peas.⁵

Pearl’s Cuisine, in downtown Roseau, is one of the best places to try these Dominica delights. The menu changes frequently, but often features pelau, curried goat and marlin.

For fine dining, POZ Restaurant and Bar is a favorite. Guests adore the warm hospitality and inventive menu. Highlights include coconut shrimp, lobster, and the rum punch.

Located on the water in the fishing village of Scott’s Head, Chez Wen isn’t fancy, but the view can’t be beat. Chez Wen specializes in seafood: conch, shrimp, mussels and tuna. Service can be slow, but are you really in a rush? Order another cocktail and savor every second of the sunset.

Thinking about a winter getaway to the Caribbean? Make sure you insure your vacation within 14 days of paying your first trip deposit. See travel protection plan options from Allianz Travel Insurance.

What Do I Need to Travel to Dominica?

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