Morne Trois Pitons National Park

Introduction

Lush and green

© Utrecht

The Moren Trois Pitons National Park is one of the natural highlights of Dominica, if not of all of the Caribbean Islands. It encompasses about 17,000 acres of Dominica's moutainous volcanic interior. It mostly consists of mountains, volcanos and primordial rainforest. There are also several fresh water lakes, a boiling lake and dozens of fumaroles. The variety of flowers, plants and small wildlife is stunning and therefore deserves a place on the Unesco World Heritage List alone.

It is named after Dominica's second highest peak, the Morne Trois Pitons, at almost 1400 meters above sea level.

Sights and Activities

The Moren Trois Pitons National Park is best explored on foot and there are many trails to choose from, ranging from easy half hour walks to rough day hikes.

• Boiling Lake is probably the hardest walk and takes about 6-9 hours return, depending on your fitness. The hike starts at Titou Gorge near Laudat village and requires a guide. You pass moutainous and tropical areas and the Valley of Desolation, a former rainforest destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1880.
• The Middleham Falls are one of Dominica's highest waterfalls. You are not required to take a guide, but getting lost is easy during this 2,5 hour return hike.
• Freshwater Lake can be reached by a good tarred road or you can walk from Laudat.
• Boeri Lake is a 1.5 hour return hike from Freshwater Lake.
• Titou Gorge is near Laudat and great for a short walk and dipping in a pool warmed by a hot spring.
• Emerald Pool is on the northern point of the park and can be reached by road from the capital Roseau towards the Atlantic Ocean, crossing the interior. It is a short walk and swimming is allowed, although the water is pretty cold.
• Morne Trois Pitons can be climbed, but it is best to hire a guide for this rough and rewarding trip.
• Rainforest Tram Dominica is a ride and hike across the rainforest, starting at Laudat. It is expensive at US$55 a person.

Getting There

By Car

To get to Laudat by car, take King George V St north from Roseau. The first left fork goes to Laudat and there is a sign to the village of Trafalgar as well. Both take about 15 to 20 minutes along some steep but decent roads.

By Bus

Minibuses travel between the capital Roseau and the villages of Laudat and Trafalgar. Buses to Laudat take about 40 minutes and leave every other hour.

Sleep

Mid-Range

Roxy's Moutain Lodge in the village of Laudat offers midrange accommodation

Upscale

The village of Trafalgar is located a short ride from Laudat. Here your will find several good hotels, including the Papillote Wilderness Retreat, a beautifully located lodge with some hot pools to enjoy after a day of walking.