10 independent reviews for Walking and sightseeing holiday in Dominica
Reviews for Walking and sightseeing holiday in Dominica
Ketti Barney review 5 Aug 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Everything! This was one of the most awe-inspiring trips of my life. To start, we only had a few days in Dominica, and booked this quite last minute (two female travelers). The operator was incredibly helpful in quickly creating a packed, absolutely fantastic itinerary so we could see as much as possible in our limited window of time. Once there, everything flowed so, so smoothly. Michael is so kind, and we got to meet his family too, who treated us like we were family as well. In terms of activities, I cannot believe how much we got to see and do this trip, and am again so grateful to Michael for his thoughtful planning. We hiked through wild jungle, saw (and swam through) some of the most stunning waterfalls and gorges I've ever seen, met other kind locals, ate great home-cooked meals, and more. At every single destination, I thought to myself "there's no way anything else will beat this moment/view" and then we'd get to the next spot haha. I hope to return to Dominica as soon as I can.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
This is the one to book. We felt so safe the whole time, had the best time with Michael and his family, and I couldn't have dreamt up a better itinerary. Other than that, I found it helpful to pack a filtered water bottle (that you can use in creeks, rivers, etc.), bug spray, sunscreen, and electrolyte powder (it's hot/humid out, and we spent most of our time hiking!). There are also (seemingly very friendly) stray animals -- I packed dog and cat treats, and gave them out where I could, which they enjoyed.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, 100%. This was very clear, for several reasons. 1. Michael and his family are Dominican. This is not a large-scale company -- it's family-owned and operated. 2. Michael cares deeply about the future of this country. From what he told us, he helped build part of the WNT (the national trail), has helped repair other trails, is on the country's tourism board (believe I heard that), and more. We spent a lot of time talking about conservation as well. 3. Almost every meal we ate was in someone's home, that that had cooked for us. We got to know these locals, learned about their way of life, and left as friends. 4. It seemed all of the meals we ate were sourced fresh from local gardens, which meant minimal or no packaging waste.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Truly top-notch. I'd go back in heartbeat. I've been lucky enough to visit 45 countries, and I honestly think this might've been my favorite experience to date. Dominica is mind-blowingly beautiful, and they helped us see as much as possible of it. Hope to get back again soon.Holly Pace review 30 Mar 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
We loved the outdoor experiences Michael curated for our vacation! Our adventurous highlight is canyoneering through the Titou Gorge. Our cultural highlight is all the rich interactions we had with the locals and their families.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
There are so many wonderful parts of Dominica. Give yourself time to see and digest them all. In the planning process, be specific about your goals for your vacation, and Michael is sure to balance them all.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely. I know for certain that our money invested in this vacation will stay hyper-local.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
A trip of a lifetime!Jennifer Dorl review 21 Dec 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
It's not really possible to choose just one thing! The Dominican people we met were incredibly friendly and warm, and seemed to enjoy sharing their beautiful country with us. One highlight was releasing Green Sea Turtle hatchlings into the sea at Rosalie Bay. Another was having lunch at Gilles Carbon's home on the northern coast. We really enjoyed all the rustic, volcanic hot pools as well (Bambooze and Bubble Beach in Soufriere, Ti Kwen Glo Cho in Wotten Waven). Learning about the indigenous history in the Kalinago Territory was really interesting and unique. Spending time with Simon on the East Coast was a blast - after the turtles, we swam at Emerald Falls, visited a local school, toured a family-run chocolate farm and learned about bay oil production.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Dominica is rugged, and in December it can be very rainy. Wear hiking boots for any hikes into the mountains, trails will be slippery and challenging. Also, it's helpful to go over the next day's itinerary with the guide or with Michael (company owner) each day so that you know what to bring/wear (hiking shoes, swim suits, etc). Be prepared for your activities to be different than what was planned due to weather, hiking conditions, guide recommendations, etc. Bring your own snorkelling gear if you have it. The water in the hot pools is cloudy/muddy, so wearing a darker coloured bathing suit will prevent getting stains (and changing rooms vary - sometimes the changing space is just the beach chair storage shed :).3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
We are glad that our payments went directly to the locally owned tour company. Michael was incredibly helpful in planning and arranging our trip and revising it on the fly as needed. There were many opportunities to support local efforts directly along the way (coral rehabilitation center, fundraising for a new preschool in Soufriere, turtle conservation, Kalinago heritage preservation).4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Coming from a Northern climate in December, we really enjoyed Dominica's warm climate and lush vegetation. Dominicans are so warm and friendly and all our guides were knowledgeable and fun to be with. It's not a typical beach vacation though. Beaches on the Caribbean side are rocky and mostly just good for snorkelling. Batibou Beach on the North side is idyllic but requires a 25 minute walk down a muddy path or a high clearance vehicle to access. Beaches on the Atlantic side are beautiful but many are not swimmable. Be prepared for rain to change your plans (some sites were not accessible because of heavy rain). The "easy" hikes we did were all pretty challenging, and shoes with good traction helped. The birding was good, going with an experienced birding guide is very helpful. Dr.Birdy and Steven Durand were both excellent for birding. Overall our vacation was fascinating, challenging and fun!Simon Acland review 14 Apr 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
All the hikes we did were pretty special (and that was the main reason for going to Dominica). The wild plants and trees are spectacular, as are the incredibly steep volcanic hillsides and craters. I was expecting to see more wildlife - there are very few mammals - and the birdlife was less than I had expected (39 different species spotted, which for this type of location for a keen birder is quite low).2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be prepared for some Caribbean style punctuality (ie guides/drivers turning up late). Be ready for some extremely volatile weather - it was much wetter than we had expected, given that we were there in the dry season, as a result of changing weather patterns - we were unable to complete our hike to the Boiling Lake because the river that we had to cross was too swollen to be safe as a result of pouring rain. So be prepared for quite demanding and slippery hiking. Be prepared for relatively basic accommodation (unless you go to Secret Bay or the Intercontinental). Don't expect as much wildlife as you get in some other rainforests. Be prepared for poverty and some hopelessness (rum and ganja).3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, in that we spent some money on local guides, meals, tourist places etc. The two hotels we stayed in were in fact owned by foreigners (one German, one Swiss couple) but the Swiss (Tamarind Tree Hotel) are there all year round and have been residents for a long time and the German (Cocoa Cottages) is there half the time. Both seemed to take their environmental responsibilities pretty seriously. All local employees of course. I don't know that we did much to support conservation - the Waitakubuli trail needs lots of work, and Michael Eugene is involved in trying to make that happen, but I don't know that any of our money will go directly to that cause. As far as overall environmental impact is concerned, I am afraid that one cannot get away from the fact that the damage from transatlantic flights far outweigh any local benefits (although we do invest a lot in positive environmental projects which far outweigh the CO2 emissions from the traveling we do.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
We were very pleased to have gone to Dominica. It is not the most special tropical place we have been to (mainly for the lack of wildlife) but it was very interesting to see a real Caribbean Island. As we had hoped, the island was relatively unspoilt, with almost no noticeable large hotel developments. the flip side to that is poor infrastructure, poverty, relatively downmarket accommodation etc. Also, some very large cruise ship groups (which we mostly avoided). It felt genuinely Caribbean, in stark contrast to Martinique, through which we passed, which was much more sophisticated and French. Michael Eugene organised the vacation extremely well - he is a very nice man who knows the island intimately and is very well known locally. He has and communicates interesting views about politics and what needs to happen there. Our guide in the north, Nigel George (organised through Michael, of course) was also extremely nice).Janet Mitchell review 20 Jun 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Multiple very exciting adventures that were meticulously organised by Michael Eugene. Our 12 day itinerary was custom made for us and was very flexible. Hard to choose the most memorable as each day was so different including challenging walking (Boiling Lake hike), local cooking ( Carribean Cooking with Daria) and experiencing leatherback turtles nesting. We experienced 3 local guides who were very engaging and professional.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Need to trust the local guides who will always make things work and often provide delightful surprises. Go with the flow which may include managing challenging weather. Accept accommodation that is good but quirky. Locals are very friendly.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes definitely as the local operator is very inclusive and uses the services of local guides. No need for special infrastructure. We drank from local streams and ate local homegrown food. The turtle conservation program is impressive as managed by passionate local communities.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent.Jeremy Webb review 26 Mar 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
It's difficult to pick one memorable event, there were so many. We were four 60-somethings on a walking vacation, laid on by Michael E. of the tour operator. Along the paths we picked fragrant lemongrass, bay and cinnamon leaves; we saw cashews, coffee beans and cocoa pods growing wild, and even a boa constrictor sunning itself after a heavy meal. We swam up a canyon, showered under a waterfall, led on a beach fed by hot volcanic gases, kayaked and flew down zip wires into and out of Banana Lama (a hidden gem of a hotel). We enjoyed a rum-fuelled cooking lesson with Michael’s wife Daria, spent time with a subsistence farmer and members of the indigenous Kalinago people. On our last day, after a wonderful taxing hike, Michael organised for us to have lunch at the home of a local woman. Rarely have I experienced such warmth and hospitality. On reflection, it is the people we met that will stay longest in my memory, learning of their lives and the country’s economic and political struggles.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Before we arrived, Michael warned us that “there are only two directions in Dominica – up and down”. Walking even parts of the Waitukubuli National Trail, as we did, can be taxing. Our guides sported soft trainers and even sandals, but boy was I glad I wore walking boots. The trails can be steep, narrow, slippery and crumbly. On one day we scheduled two hikes. That was too much; it was a vacation after all. Thankfully the island is not over-commercialised. It’s still largely unspoilt. It’s also friendly – robbery is not a problem. There are still some places that don’t accept cards so don’t forget to take some East Caribbean Dollars.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Our guides throughout the vacation were Dominicans, so hopefully we boosted the local economy by supporting them. Hurricane Maria in 2017 devasted parts of the Waitukubuli Trail, which Michael helped to develop into a popular route, and it could really benefit from some TLC. I hope that more people will take the chance to walk it; it is a rare but neglected resource.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I hope you can tell that we loved the place. The island is laid back, friendly and a bit ramshackle. It certainly has a charm we haven’t come across before. I feel we got to know the island through the people we met. If you want an active vacation in a warm climate, this is a great place to come.kathy krause review 16 Mar 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Hard to choose just one, as there were so many fabulous experiences. We loved the amazing scenery, the hikes which were just right for us, and the wonderful people we got to meet and get to know.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Michael does an amazing job adapting the trip to your interests and abilities, so do tell him what you think interests you, how much physical effort you want to do, etc.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
It definitely supported many local people as well as contributing to conservation.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Just fabulous!Nina Ozaki review 18 Dec 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
We have two. Our guide, Simon, and his wife, Judy, invited us into their home, shared fruit with us from their garden, and treated us like old family friends. They also took us on a tour of their turtle conservation building and trail they built to the beach. If that weren’t already a treat, they proceeded to go out of their way to find us a private mud bath at Wotten Waven, provided towels from their home, prepared and shared homemade juice with us, and then Simon played his ukulele while we relaxed in the spa! It was an amazing experience that will last in our hearts forever. The second memory that jumps out, is our hike to Boiling Lake. Our guide, Michael, was absolutely lovely to hike with, and we felt that safety and seclusion were top priority for him. He ensured we would go at a time that would avoid most people so we could enjoy the place all by ourselves. Michael was humble about his fervent focus on making everything as perfect as possible for our vacation.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Expect the level of difficulty of the hikes to be a notch higher than you’re used to, and be honest with yourself of your level of fitness to ensure the best vacation possible. Also, bring your own TP and a bag to pack it out with. Please leave no trace! Plan to have wet feet, regardless of how waterproof your shoes are.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Michael arranged to share the business with other local guides so that it’s a win/win for all. This is how we ended up with Simon and Judy (turtle conservationists) for a couple days. All our guides were locals who were passionate about the island, nature, and respecting the land.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
It was so amazing that we are considering buying property there since we loved it so much.Dorothea "Lorell" Erwin review 12 Jun 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The beauty of Dominica! All of our activities were incredible. Our favorite was watching baby sea turtles make their way to the ocean!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Get ready for adventure!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, we felt that the environment and locals were taken into account and included in the planning of our vacation.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
The best experience possible.Caroline Brawner review 16 Feb 2023
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
I loved all the hiking and activities but The people are actually the most memorable part of my trip--I learned so much and everyone was super friendly.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
You will be well taken care of; everyone has been very accommodating.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, I got to know several important people involved in small scale forestry, sustainable agriculture and indigenous rights. Lots of driving but that is the only way to get around Dominica.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent!Holiday Reviews
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