The Caribbean might not be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking about the world’s best hiking trails, but the Waitukubuli National Trail is changing that perception. This trail is the first of its kind in the region and has become a must-visit for long-distance hikers. With its breathtaking landscapes, it has attracted tourists from around the globe who are eager to experience the natural beauty of this unique route.
Located on the island of Dominica, the Waitukubuli National Trail showcases the island’s rugged terrain and wild geography. Hikers can enjoy features such as roaring waterfalls, misty mountains, dense gorges, abundant wildlife, and lush rainforests. The trail spans a total of 115 miles, taking hikers through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. It begins at the island’s extreme northern shore and ends at Scott’s Head in the south. Divided into 14 segments, the trail connects Scott’s Head with Cabrits National Park on the northern coast. At the end of each day, hikers are rewarded with incredible views and stunning landscapes that make this trail a must-add to any travel bucket list.
Hiking the Waitukubuli National Trail
This adventurous hike passes many of the island’s best attractions. One of the highlights is the Scott’s Head Peninsula, which is uniquely positioned between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The peninsula offers magical views just above Soufrière Bay, a bustling marine ecosystem and one of the top diving sites on Dominica Island.
Hikers can take a detour off Segment 4 of the Waitukubuli National Trail to discover the Boiling Lake. Located in a volcanic fumarole within Morne Trois Pitons National Park, this body of water is constantly boiling due to subsurface geothermal activity. Surrounded by dramatic, misty mountains, this detour offers some of the most impressive sights on the trail. Avid birdwatchers and nature lovers will also appreciate Morne Diablotin National Park in Segment 11, which showcases a mix of wild rivers, prime forests, farmlands, and plenty of opportunities for spotting wildlife like colorful parrots.
How to Get to the Waitukubuli National Trail
Dominica is a remote island, but travelers will be happy to know that there are direct flights from Miami in the United States and other Caribbean islands. For those who enjoy the beauty of the sea and oceans, a more natural and exciting way to get to Dominica is by sailboat. Accommodation options along the trail itself are plentiful, depending on which segment you’re hiking. For example, there are no accommodation facilities in Segments 8 and 9. At the end of Segment 1, the Soufrière Guesthouse is a viable option for accommodation. At the end of Segment 3, Le Petit Paradis is another guesthouse with home-cooked meals that are the perfect treat after a day of hiking. For visitors looking to take a detour off the trail in search of other accommodation options, you can’t go wrong with the Hibiscus Valley Inn or the Danglez Bed & Breakfast. At the end of Segment 10, Picard is another great place to rest for the night.
Hiking the Waitukubuli National Trail does require some specific gear, including a trail pass from the Forestry Division. A day pass that allows access to one or more segments of the trail costs $12, while special passes for groups cost $10, and a fifteen-day pass costs $40. You’ll also need offline maps or GPS (which can be downloaded to your phone), rain gear, headlamps, long pants, comfortable clothing, and a filter system for your water on day hikes. Overnight hikes will require a much longer list of gear, including a waterproof tent, which you’ll likely need to bring with you.
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