How do I get there?

How to get to Dominica...

By Air: International flights from US and Europe are connected to the island through hubs in Antigua, Barbados, St. Maarten, Guadeloupe and Martinique. The Leeward Island Transport (LIAT) and Caribbean Star usually complete the Dominican leg. LIAT and American Eagle also provide connecting flights to the island out of Puerto Rico.

By Sea: A 300-seat catamaran operated by L'Express des Îles ferries passengers between Dominica, Guadeloupe, Martinique and St. Lucia. The ferry service in Dominica also includes 400 capacity Catamaran operated by Jeans, traverses from Guadeloupe to Dominica into the town of Portsmouth. Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors arrive on the island from Cruise Ships berthed at the Bayfront, Woodbridge Bay, and Cabrits. Captains of Yachts and Sailboats can also anchor their private yacht at any of the island's official ports, but they should check in with customs and immigration on arrival.

What are the Visa requirements?

Immigration officials require most visitors to Dominica to present a valid passport on arrival. All need to show a return ticket and some need to have a visa. Canadian citizens can show documents certifying proof of citizenship that also bears a photograph, and French nationals can stay for up to two weeks by presenting a valid identification card. Visitors coming from a specified list of countries, who intend to stay for 21 days or less, do not require a visa. Please see our Entry Requirements page for full details.

I'm visiting for a day on a cruise ship - what are the 'must see' places?

There are so many places to go in Dominica on a day tour. One of the island's most attractive features is the many attractions within relative close proximity to the city. The Trafalgar Falls, Emerald Pool, and Cabrits National Park are among some of the most popular. Dominica has a very organized tour operations system for cruise visitors. You can pre-book with any of the tour operators, or negotiate a tour from the pier on arrival. Click here for further information.

Where are the best beaches?

Dominica is not a typical Caribbean destination of white sand beaches, however there are many beaches within coves with glistening volcanic sand along the island's west coast. Beaches at Mero, Macoucheri, and Portsmouth are splendid.

Shopping: where and what to buy?

Dominica is not a country that proffers plenty of high-end shopping, but there are shops, some bearing signatory brand names, which offer fine duty-free shopping. They carry a range of luxury goods, including perfumes, jewelry, liquors, smokes, and china that escape import and sales taxes. Domestic shops and amicable vendors sell an assortment of souvenirs, many of which are handcrafted by local craftspeople. Carib baskets are a unique product of Dominica, as are many natural soaps, island spices, and herbal teas.

Are there any poisonous creatures?

Dominica possesses a typical tropical fauna but there are no aggressive wild animals or poisonous snakes.

Weather: when is the best time to visit?

The dry season is usually between January and June, with the wettest months falling between August and October. The peak of hurricane season is late August to early September. Click for Roseau, Dominica Forecast.

How safe is the island?

Dominica may seem like heaven but it is still a normal country. Although the country enjoys one of the lowest crime rates in the Caribbean, visitors must exercise reasonable precautions for their personal safety and property like anywhere else in the world.

Where can I find the dates of major events?

Our Events Calendar has dates of forthcoming festivals and events.

What voltage is your electricity supply?

Our electricity supply is 220 volts, but many hotels have dual 220/110 voltage. Check with them before you arrive.