WHEN TO TRAVEL TO Dominica

Location

Climate

Located between Guadeloupe and Martinique, the island of Dominica is a must-see destination for nature lovers, with its lush tropical forests, volcanic mountains, heavenly beaches and rich culture.

Tourist seasons in Dominica: high, medium and low season

The first thing to consider when planning a trip to Dominica is the tourist season. In general, three periods can be distinguished:

• High season (December to April) : This is the dry season on the island, with a pleasant climate and little rainfall. Temperatures are generally between 25 and 30°C. This is also the period when the influx of tourists is greatest, leading to higher prices for accommodation and tourist activities.
• Mid-season (May and June) : The mid-season is marked by a slight drop in visitor numbers and prices, while still offering a pleasant climate with temperatures fairly similar to the high season. However, the risk of precipitation is slightly higher.
• Low season (July to November) : This period corresponds to the rainy season in Dominica, with frequent showers and wetter weather. This is also the period when the island is least visited by tourists, which translates into lower prices for accommodation and activities. However, some services may be limited or closed during the low season.

Major cultural events and public holidays in Dominica

To make the most of your stay and discover the local culture, it's a good idea to take major cultural events and public holidays into account when planning your trip. Here is a non-exhaustive list of festivities not to be missed in Dominica:

Carnival in Dominica

Dominica's Carnival is undoubtedly the island's most important cultural event of the year. It usually takes place in February or March, according to the Catholic calendar. For several days, locals celebrate the end of winter with parades, colorful costumes, music and traditional dances.

Independence Day

Independence Day is celebrated every year on November 3, to commemorate the country's independence in 1978. Festivities include parades, official speeches and cultural activities for the whole family.

World Creole Music Festival

This international music festival showcases different Creole cultures through concerts and entertainment. Usually held in October, it attracts local artists as well as musicians from all over the world. It's an excellent opportunity to discover Caribbean rhythms and enjoy the island's festive atmosphere.

Emancipation Day

Celebrated on August 1, Liberty Day marks the abolition of slavery in the British colonies in 1834. Several cultural events are organized on this occasion, including dance performances, art exhibitions and lectures on the history of Dominica.

Practical tips for planning your trip to Dominica

To help you organize your stay in Dominica, here are a few useful tips:

• Book your accommodation and activities in advance: In high season, we recommend you book your accommodation and excursions several months in advance, to ensure availability on the dates you require and to benefit from the best rates.
• Plan your budget accordingly: depending on the season you choose for your trip, plan a budget sufficient to cover the cost of accommodation, transport, food and activities. Don't forget that prices can be higher in the high tourist season.
• Find out about entry formalities: Before you leave, make sure you have a valid passport and are aware of the entry requirements for nationals of your country (visa, electronic authorization, etc.).
• Adapt your program : depending on the period of your stay, certain activities or tourist sites may be closed or restricted. Find out in advance and adapt your program accordingly.

Dominica, located in the Lesser Antilles, is a country that attracts many immigrants in search of a better life and an exceptional natural environment.

Key immigration figures for Dominica

In recent decades, the country has seen a growing increase in the number of immigrants, mainly from neighboring Caribbean countries.

• Total population : around 72,000 inhabitants (2020).
• Population growth rate : -0,5 % (2020).
• Percentage of immigrants : about 8 % of the total population.

Immigrant origins

The majority of immigrants come from the region's neighbouring countries, such as :

• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Saint Lucia
• Haiti
• Jamaica
• Guyana

Most popular visas in Dominica

There are several types of visa for entering and staying in Dominica. Here are the most commonly requested categories:

• Visitor visa : This is the most commonly issued visa for temporary stays in Dominica. The maximum stay is usually 90 days.
• Business visa: This type of visa is intended for foreign entrepreneurs and investors wishing to set up or expand a business in Dominica.
• Work visa: To work in Dominica, you need a work permit and a work visa. The latter is issued on the basis of the job held and the duration of the employment contract.
• Student visa: Foreign students wishing to study in Dominica must obtain a student visa. The period of validity of this visa varies according to the duration of the studies.
• Permanent resident visa : This visa allows foreigners to reside in Dominica on a permanent basis. To be eligible, it is generally necessary to demonstrate professional experience, investment in the local economy or a family link with a Dominican citizen.

Citizenship through investment program

Dominica also offers a program of citizenship through investmentThe Dominican Republic's new citizenship law, which allows foreigners to acquire Dominican nationality in exchange for a significant investment in the country's economy. Investments can take the form of a donation to a government fund or a government-approved real estate purchase.

International tourism in Dominica

Dominica is a popular tourist destination for its natural landscapes, beaches and hot springs. Here are some key figures on the international tourism in this country:

• Number of international visitors : around 100,000 a year (before the COVID-19 pandemic).
• Main nationalities of visitors : United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Canada.

Main tourist attractions

Among the most popular sites and attractions for international tourists are :

• Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Desolation Valley and Boiling Lake hot springs.
• Botanical gardens in Roseau, the country's capital.
• Champagne beach, famous for its underwater volcanic gas springs.
• Trafalgar Falls, two impressive waterfalls in the heart of the rainforest.