Dominica Eco Lodges

Discover the lush, untamed beauty of the Nature Island with our handpicked Dominica Eco Lodges! Nestled in rainforests, near waterfalls, or along the coast, these eco-friendly escapes connect you to nature while supporting local communities. Whether you seek adventure or tranquility, Dominica Eco Lodges offer the perfect sustainable retreat. Pick your ideal green getaway here!

Dominica Eco Lodges and Tours

Dominica – The Nature Isle

The Commonwealth of Dominica was the first country in the world to be officially bench marked by Green Globe as an ecotourism destination under their community standards. Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Dominica’s first national park, was established in 1975. When the park was opened, its primary function was to protect the island flora and fauna. The park now covers more than 17,000 acres of land.

Furthermore, Dominica has been declared a World Heritage Site of outstanding universal value. Ecotourism became a major part of the Dominica economy with the collapse of the banana industry in the late 1990’s.
Community and nature tourism is the main form of tourism in Dominica, ensuring that at least some of the new tourist dollars are spread amongst those who really need it.

Flora and Fauna in Dominica

Flora:
Dominica’s rainforests are rich in exotic trees such as mahogany, bamboo and ferns. Orchids and heliconias add beautiful colors to the landscape.

Fauna:
Birds: the endemic Emperor Amazon (Sisserou parrot) is the national symbol of Dominica. You can also spot the Jaco parrot and other tropical bird species.
Mammals: Dominica has few large mammals, but bats and small rodents are plentiful.
Marine life: the island is famous for its whales, especially sperm whales, which can be seen all year round. Dolphins and colorful fish populate the coral reefs.
Reptiles and amphibians: lizards, frogs and tortoises are common in the forests.

Best EcoTourism Destinations in Dominica

• Morne Trois Pitons National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Boiling Lake, Trafalgar Falls and lush rainforests.
• Waitukubuli National Trail – a 185km long hiking trail through the island, ideal for nature lovers.
• Indian River – mangrove boat tours with the chance to spot birds and learn about local herbs.
• Cabrits National Park – a mix of history (Fort Shirley) and nature with swamps and forests.
• Scotts Head Marine Reserve – a top destination for sustainable diving and snorkeling.
• Titou Gorge – swim in a beautiful gorge with crystal clear water.
• Emerald Pool – a fairytale lagoon in the middle of the rainforest.
• Kalinago Territory – home to the indigenous Kalinago people, where you can experience their sustainable lifestyle.
• Champagne Reef – dive or snorkel in bubbling waters. The reef gets its name from the bubbles that rise from volcanic hot springs on the sea floor.
• Papillote Wilderness Retreat – a botanical garden with natural hot springs.

Suggestion for a 2-week Sustainable Itinerary in Dominica

Dominica is small; driving from the northernmost point to the southernmost point in Dominica takes about 2 hours (47 miles). Like in Barbados, most of the Dominica eco lodges are located on the coast or very near the coast.

Week 1: South and Central Dominica

Day 1-2: Roseau and Surroundings
• Arrive in Roseau, stay at one of the Dominica eco lodges.
• Visit Papillote Wilderness Retreat for hot springs and a botanical garden.
• Visit the local market and eat organic food at a local restaurant.

Day 3-4: Morne Trois Pitons National Park
• Hike to Boiling Lake (challenging but spectacular).
• Explore Trafalgar Falls and soak in the hot springs.
• Hike to Middleham Falls or Emerald Pool.

Day 5: Titou Gorge and Freshwater Lake
• Swim in the magical waters of Titou Gorge.
• Kayak or hike around Freshwater Lake.

Day 6: Scotts Head Marine Reserve
• Snorkel or dive at Champagne Reef and Scotts Head.
• Sunset at Scotts Head Peninsula.

Day 7: Kalinago Territory
• Visit the Kalinago Barana Autê for a cultural experience.
• Learn about sustainable farming and traditional crafts.

Week 2: North and West Dominica

Day 8-9: Indian River and Cabrits National Park
• Cruise along the Indian River with a local guide.
• Visit Cabrits National Park and historic Fort Shirley.

Day 10: Syndicate Nature Trail and Parrot Spotting
• Hike the Syndicate Nature Trail and spot the rare Sisserou parrot (critically endangered and only found on Dominica).

Day 11-12: Waitukubuli National Trail
• Hike a few sections of the Caribbean’s longest hiking trail.

Day 13: Portsmouth and Purple Turtle Beach
• Relax on the beach and visit local eco restaurants.

Day 14: Return to Roseau and Departure
• Visit the market one last time and buy local, sustainable souvenirs.

Please visit our Dominica Eco Lodges and Tours here: Dominica Lodging and Tours.

Ecological Threats in Dominica

Climate change and extreme weather
*Dominica is frequently hit by hurricanes (such as Maria in 2017), which severely damaged ecosystems and infrastructure.
*Rising sea levels threaten coastal areas and coral reefs.

Deforestation and land degradation
*Illegal logging and agricultural expansion are causing rainforest loss.
*Erosion and soil depletion are affecting the fertility of the land.

Loss of biodiversity
*Native species, such as the Sisserou parrot (critically endangered), are threatened by habitat loss.
*Coral reefs are suffering from acidification and pollution. Ocean acidification is mainly caused by carbon dioxide gas in the atmosphere dissolving into the ocean.

Pollution and waste management
*Plastic pollution is a growing problem, especially in rivers and on beaches.
*Waste management in remote areas remains a challenge.

Unbalanced tourism pressures
*Although Dominica promotes ecotourism, increased visitor numbers could put pressure on fragile ecosystems.

Dominica Government Policy on Ecotourism and Sustainability

• Climate Resilient Policy: following Hurricane Maria, the government committed to building the world’s first climate-resilient nation. The aim of this policy is to be more resistant and withstand future natural disasters.   
• 100% renewable energy target: investment in geothermal energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
• Protection of national parks and reserves: strict regulations to protect forests, rivers, and coral reefs.
• Sustainable tourism policy: Dominica is committed to small-scale, environmentally friendly tourism rather than mass tourism. Cruise ships are regulated to limit ecological damage.  
• Supporting the indigenous Kalinago community: promoting ecotourism projects in partnership with the Kalinago to preserve their traditional knowledge and conservation.
• Stricter environmental laws: ban on plastic bags and a sustainable waste management program.

Examples of Small-scale Conservation Projects in Dominica

Dominica Sea Turtle Conservation Organization (DOMSETCO)
Protects endangered sea turtles by monitoring nesting areas and involving local communities.

The Forestry, Wildlife and Parks Division
Active in reforestation and conservation of endemic species such as the Sisserou parrot.

Dominica National Conservation Trust Fund (DNCTF)
Provide a sustainable source of funding for projects that support the effective management, conservation and restoration of Dominica’s biodiversity and natural resources.

Kalinago-led sustainability projects
Small-scale ecotourism initiatives to promote traditional agriculture and crafts without damaging nature.

Coral Restoration Dominica
Programs for the restoration of coral reefs and sustainable diving/snorkeling.

How to travel sustainably in Dominica

Choose Dominica eco lodges or eco-resorts that use alternative energy, rainwater harvesting, and eco-friendly building materials.
Eat local and organic – choose local restaurants and food stalls with fresh island ingredients. Avoid imported food that requires a lot of transportation.
Volunteer on wildlife projects – help with sea turtle conservation or reforestation through local NGOs.

Check out 40 or more sustainable travel tips and read how easy it is to reduce your ecological footprint!

Dominica Eco Lodges and Travel Safety

Check in advance about the safety in Dominica and in the places you plan to visit. You can also consult your country’s official government websites. For American citizens, this is the US Dept. of State’s page on the Dominica page: