Welcome to Dominica, the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean,” where towering mountains draped in mist, pristine rainforests, and emerald waters make for an unforgettable adventure. As you step off the plane at Douglas-Charles International Airport (DOM), you’ll find yourself surrounded by Dominica’s breathtaking, lush, unspoiled beauty, with car hire options to start your journey on this striking island. Nestled near the northeastern town of Marigot, the airport is the main gateway for those arriving to explore this wild and enchanting destination. As a point of connection from major Caribbean islands and the United States, there are regular flights from cities like the USA’s sassy salsa city of Miami, the Puerto Rican colour-rich capital city San Juan, and the gorgeous island of Barbados make it easily accessible, with airlines including American Airlines, Winair, and LIAT operating routes to Dominica. Car hire services are available directly at the airport, with a range of vehicles suitable for the island’s winding, mountainous terrain. With keys in hand, you’re free to immerse yourself in Dominica’s natural wonders from the moment you set out on the road. For nature lovers, the Cabrits National Park near Portsmouth in the northwest is a must-visit destination. This coastal park is known for its rugged trails, ancient volcanic formations, and the remains of Fort Shirley, a colonial military outpost with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Here, wildlife thrives and is some of the most resplendent and easily accessible in the whole of the beautiful Caribbean region. Watch for iguanas basking in the sun, tropical birds flitting through the canopy, and if you’re lucky, a sea turtle along the shore.

The drive to Cabrits offers stunning views of Dominica’s coastline, with blue waves crashing against rocky shores and palm trees swaying in the breeze. As you depart Douglas-Charles International Airport, you’ll find the lush landscapes captivating right away. Heading south along the coastal road, the route winds between towering cliffs and the Caribbean Sea, with lush, jungle-covered slopes giving way to glimpses of turquoise waters. The air is tinged with the fragrance of wild ginger and tropical flowers, and you’ll pass small villages where life moves to the rhythm of nature. The coastal drive south soon leads to Calibishie, a quaint fishing village known for its beaches, emerald hills, and coral reefs. The coastline here is dotted with rocky outcrops and scenic beaches, where waves lap gently against volcanic black sands. Keep an eye out for local fishermen unloading the day’s catch, as well as small beachside shacks selling coconut water and tropical fruits.