Dominica (pronounced Dome-ee-NEE-ka) has nothing to do with the Dominican Republic. It is one of the British Windward Islands, sandwiched between the two French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique. Dominica has not been developed as much as many of the other islands. The 70,000 citizens of Dominica are just beginning to embrace tourism. If you love the "natural" look, then you will love Dominica.

The most lush and mountainous island in the eastern Caribbean, Dominica is filled with thick forests, rivers, and waterfalls. This is an island that has long been on my "wish I could go there" list. I love the thought of the many splendid natural beauties of the island, and Ronnie loves volcanic activity. I wish we had more time to hike in the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, since I'm sure we would be fascinated by the Boiling Lake. However, on a cruise, we were only on the island one day, and the Boiling Lake hike is too much to attempt in one short day. Unfortunately we just got a small taste of the natural wonders of Dominica, but I hope to return some day. Here are some examples of possible shore excursions in Dominica.

Snorkeling at Champagne
If you love to snorkel, you should take this tour. Champagne is an area in the Soufriere/Scottshead Marine Reserve where there are small volcanic fissures in the sea bed. These fissures release tiny, crystal-like bubbles into the water. Champagne is also a haven for many tropical fish, so the 1-1/4 hours of snorkeling (3 hour tour) is interesting and good.

River Tubing Ride
Tubing on the Layou River, the longest and largest of the 365 rivers of Dominica, is an exciting and memorable shore excursion. Each person rides in their own tube, and you feel much like a pinball as you drift down the river, hitting rocks and spinning away. It is great fun, and the beautiful Layou River valley, with its tall cliffs and lush vegetation, make the excursion one of the best in the Caribbean.

River to Ocean Kayaking Adventure
Two-person kayaks are used in this fun excursion. A short lesson from the guides helps even beginner kayakers to enjoy this ride down the Layou River. The kayaking adventure ends at the point where the river runs into the sea.

Hike to Middleham Falls
This 4-hour shore excursion is for the physically fit and takes you into the rain forest for a one hour hike to the beautiful Middleham Falls. Participants can swim in the natural pool at the base of the falls before hiking back to the trailhead.

Emerald Pool and Trafalgar Falls
This 4-1/2 hour tour includes two attractions that are "must-sees" on Dominica. It is similar to the next "Best of Dominica" tour, except this one includes a visit to the village of Trafalgar and Trafalgar Falls and the other one includes the Springfield Guest House folklore show. Hike to Emerald Pool is an easy 20-minute walk from the reception center.

Best of Dominica and Folklore Show
This 4-hour tour provides an overview of the island, giving the participants a chance to see historical Morne Bruce, the Canefield Estate, and Springfield Guest House. At Springfield, a live cultural show is presented, along with some refreshments. The tour ends in the rainforest at famous Trois Piton National Park, home of the Emerald Pool.

Rainforest Aerial Tram
A winding, bumpy road takes you across lush valleys and steep hills to an elevation of about 2,000 feet, where the aerial tram starts. The tram glides over the beautiful rain forest of Dominica, and on a clear day you can see the blue sea in the distance as you enjoy the diversity around you.

Two-Tank Dive
Dominica is a favorite dive spot for SCUBA lovers, who will find pinnacles, walls, sloping reefs, and underwater hot springs under the sea. The reefs are extremely diverse on Dominica, and deep drop-off walls (1500 feet) make for some possible excitement.