Every traveler who passes through Dominica carries home a different memory. For some, it’s the way the rainforest closes in around a rushing waterfall. For others, it’s the taste of saltwater after drifting through a secret cove. We asked five recent guests of Fort Young Hotel to share their most unforgettable excursions. These are the moments they’ll never forget.

Morning Hike to Trafalgar Falls 

One guest shared how the short walk through lush forest suddenly opened to a view of twin waterfalls thundering into the pools below. The path is shaded and filled with the sounds of birds, making the approach as rewarding as the destination itself. Some visitors dip into the warm mineral-rich streams at the base, while others simply sit and take in the view. Just 20 minutes from the hotel, Trafalgar Falls is one of Dominica’s most convenient and breathtaking natural landmarks.

Snorkeling at Champagne Reef

Another traveler described snorkeling through clear water where volcanic bubbles rise up like tiny pearls from the ocean floor. The reef is alive with parrotfish, sponges, and corals in every shade, offering plenty to see whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned diver. Guides often point out hidden nooks where schools of fish dart in and out, giving every swim its own discoveries. Located just offshore, Champagne Reef is easy to access yet feels unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean.

Exploring the Indian River by Boat

A guest recalled drifting quietly beneath a canopy of mangroves, listening to the rhythmic splash of oars and the calls of kingfishers in the distance. Guides share stories about the island’s history and point out crabs, iguanas, and orchids hidden along the banks. About halfway through, boats often stop at a small riverside bar where guests can sip a fresh local juice or rum punch before heading back downstream. The Indian River offers both a peaceful escape and a deeper look at Dominica’s culture and ecosystems.

Whale Watching Along Dominica’s Coast

For one visitor, the highlight was heading out on a boat and spotting a whale’s tail break the surface against a backdrop of mountains. Dominica is the only country in the world where sperm whales live year-round, and sightings are common alongside playful dolphins that often race alongside the boats. Excursions typically last a few hours, giving guests time to enjoy the sea breeze and panoramic views of the island. It’s an unforgettable way to experience Dominica’s rich marine life and wild beauty.

Trekking to Boiling Lake

Another guest said their most rewarding moment was completing the hike to Boiling Lake. The six-hour roundtrip leads through rainforest, across mountain ridges, and into the Valley of Desolation, where steaming vents and bubbling streams hint at the island’s volcanic origins. The final reward is standing at the edge of the second-largest boiling lake in the world, its surface constantly shifting with heat and vapor. It’s a challenging adventure, but one that rewards hikers with a rare and remarkable view.
Start planning your own adventure at Fort Young Hotel and discover which excursion will become your story.