Trip Description

Known as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean”, Dominica boasts a rugged and unspoiled beauty that begs to be explored. The largest and most mountainous of the Windward Islands, its green volcanic peaks tower almost 5,000 feet above sea level. With untamed tropical rainforests, crystal clear streams, cascading waterfalls, tranquil black sand beaches and the absence of any large scale tourist development, Dominica is truly one of the most pristine islands in the world. In addition to its natural splendor, the island enjoys a rich culture which comes from its mix of Kalinago Indian, Colonial European, African and Creole peoples. Join us on a community service adventure to discover the ecological and cultural treasures of Dominica while volunteering alongside its welcoming inhabitants and making a real contribution to their communities in need. Then embark on a weeklong sailing voyage to explore neighboring islands in the French West Indies.

• Itinerary & Country Map

• Day 1–3
  We settle into a small guesthouse in the scenic Roseau Valley, just a short walk to stunning Trafalgar Falls and soothing hot springs. Spend a day investigating Dominica’s colorful capital and festive craft markets. Ready for adventure, we head to Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Together we take on a demanding hike to the world famous Boiling Lake. The challenging climb takes us past an astounding display of biodiversity, through rainforests and the Valley of Desolation, over mountains and rivers to the volcanic crater of bubbling sulfur. Exhilarated at reaching the top, we are engulfed by the cloud of steam that emanates from the percolating grey-blue water. Our first few days on this magnificent island leave us with a feeling of accomplishment, eager to take on the next phase of our journey.

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  Day 4–7
  We travel up the leeward coast of Dominica to Portsmouth to work with the Ministry of Education’s Youth Development Division. Lend a hand creating recreational activities at their youth center and taking on a variety of community enrichment projects with local children. The work is rewarding and fun, and provides us with unmatched opportunities to learn what life is like for young islanders here. In the evenings, we relax at our beachside cottages where the production staff of Pirates of the Caribbean 2 stayed while filming the movie. We leave Portsmouth with new friends, great memories and the satisfaction that we made a difference.

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  Day 8–9
  With our first service projects behind us, we’re ready for some rest, reflection and exploration. Discuss lessons learned and how to apply them to our next projects. Explore the island’s natural beauty by hiking to a waterfall and jumping 15 feet into the clear cool water below. Take a row boat up the famous Indian River and watch giant crabs moving slowly in the shade. Marvel at the Atlantic and Caribbean Seas from a point high on the island. Visit historic Fort Shirley, a fortification that changed hands between the French and the British four times.

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  Day 10–14
  Travel to the spectacular eastern shores of Dominica to meet your home stay families in the welcoming village of Castle Bruce. Here we immerse ourselves in the local culture while working with islanders and Peace Corps volunteers on ongoing community development efforts which range from historical and youth development projects to environmental and eco-tourism endeavors. Finish long and fulfilling days by joining new Dominican friends for a game of soccer or a swim at the beach. Enjoy traditional meals with your family and learn what it is like to grow up in a world very different than your own.

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  Day 15–21
  Set sail on a live-aboard voyage to the nearby French West Indies. Explore the picturesque islands of Marie Galante and Ile des Saintes. Hike up Fort Napoleon for an awesome view of the islands, and then discover the marvels of the underwater world by snorkeling or taking part in an optional Discover Scuba dive. As we head back to Dominica on our final sail, we think back on our three weeks in the islands and the stories we’ll take home about spectacular sights, amazing adventures, festive cultures, new friends and rewarding projects.

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