Jannah Theme License is not validated, Go to the theme options page to validate the license, You need a single license for each domain name.

    Popular Searches

  • Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, D.A.H was Sworn into Office ..

    News

  • Dominica Hotel & Tourism Association (DHTA)

    Directory listings

  • J. Astaphans & Co. Ltd.

    Directory listings

  • Dominica Bike Fest 2024

    Events

  • Cashier

    Jobs
Find Out more

Waitukubuli National Trail (WNT)

Waitukubuli National Trail

The Waitukubuli National Trail (WNT) is the Caribbean’s longest hiking trail, spanning approximately 185 kilometres (115 miles) from the southern village of Scotts Head to the northern tip at Cabrits National Park near Portsmouth, Dominica. The word Waitukubuli in the trail’s name is after the Kalinago word for Dominica, meaning “Tall is her body,” the trail embodies the island’s towering mountains, lush rainforests, and rich cultural landscapes. Divided into 14 segments, each offers unique experiences through diverse ecosystems, vibrant communities, and historical sites.

Waitukubuli National Trail (WNT) Segments

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Dominica’s heart, where each trail segment unveils natural wonders, cultural encounters, rich biodiversity and breathtaking vistas awaiting your discovery.

Segment #1 of WNT: Scotts Head to Soufriere

Segment #1 of the Waitukubuli National Trail is a 6.6 km trail located south of Dominica’s volcanic regions. It starts at Scotts Head Village and ends at the Soufriere Estate. This challenging hike, now categorized as “Very Difficult,” takes approximately four hours to complete.

  • Start Point: Scotts Head
  • End Point: Soufrière
  • Distance: Approximately 6.6 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Description:

The trail spans 6.6 km, starting at Scotts Head Village a picturesque village on a narrow peninsula and ending at the Soufriere Estate. It traverses a sulphur deposit crater and passes through historical sites like the Soufriere Sulphur Springs, Toloulou Valley, Morne Kwabier Plateau, and the ruins of a Coffee Estate. Key areas of interest include Crabler Plateau, Bois Cotlette Estate, and Sulphur Springs, highlighting traditional farming and cultural heritage.

Hiking this trail traverses coastal forests, spotting tropical birds like the Brown Pelican and Frigatebird. The path crosses the Soufrière River, providing opportunities to cool off. The segment concludes in Soufrière, known for its geothermal activity and natural hot sulfur springs.

Incorporated Elements:
  • Villages and Communities: Scotts Head, Galion, Soufriere
  • Rivers Crossed: Soufrière River
  • Flora and Fauna: Coastal vegetation, marine life, tropical birds
  • Roads and Highways: Access via coastal road from Roseau
  • Other Linked Trails: Paths to local snorkeling spots

Segment #2 of WNT: Soufriere to Bellevue Chopin

Discover Segment #2 of the Waitukubuli National Trail, a 12.1 km hike full of natural wonders like the natural hot springs, the Old Slave Route, and vibrant farms. Immerse yourself in rainforest beauty and cultural history, ending at Bellevue Chopin.

  • Start Point: Soufrière
  • End Point: Bellevue Chopin
  • Distance: Approximately 12.1 km
  • Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Description:

Segment #2 features a steep ascent from sea level into the mountainous interior, offering breathtaking coastal views. Hikers pass through the Soufrière Sulphur Springs, an area bubbling with geothermal activity. The trail meanders through dense rainforests teeming with orchids, bromeliads, and towering mahogany trees.

Wildlife sightings may include Manicou and hummingbirds. Crossing the Geneva River, the trail leads to Bellevue Chopin, known for organic farms and vibrant community markets showcasing local produce and crafts.

Incorporated Elements:
  • Villages and Communities: Soufriere, Pointe Michel, Bellevue Chopin
  • Rivers Crossed: Geneva River
  • Flora and Fauna: Orchids, bromeliads, Manicous, hummingbirds
  • Roads and Highways: Intersects with local farm roads
  • Other Linked Trails: Access to Morne Plat Pays trails

Segment #3 of WNT: Bellevue Chopin to Wotten Waven

Journey through Dominica’s floral heartland, where agricultural abundance meets natural hot springs in unparalleled beauty.

  • Start Point: Bellevue Chopin
  • End Point: Wotten Waven
  • Distance: Approximately 12.8 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Trail Description:

Segment #3 traverses the fertile highlands of Giraudel and Eggleston, villages famed for flower gardens and annual festivals. The trail offers stunning views of Morne Anglais. Hikers pass through plantations of vegetables and flowers, interacting with local farmers.

Crossing streams like Ravine Canari, the trail leads into a dense rainforest rich with birdlife, including the Lesser Antillean Bullfinch. The segment concludes in Wotten Waven, renowned for therapeutic hot sulfur spas.

Incorporated Elements:
  • Villages and Communities: Bellevue Chopin, Giraudel, Eggleston, Wotten Waven
  • Rivers Crossed: Ravine Canari
  • Flora and Fauna: Flower gardens, vegetable farms, diverse birds
  • Roads and Highways: Crosses Grand Bay Road
  • Other Linked Trails: Trails to Morne Anglais summit

Segment #4 of WNT: Wotten Waven to Pont Casse

Immerse yourself in the mountainous rainforest of Dominica’s UNESCO World Heritage site, where waterfalls and wildlife abound.

  • Start Point: Wotten Waven
  • End Point: Pont Cassé
  • Distance: Approximately 13.3 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Description:

Segment #4 enters the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, hikers pass near Trafalgar with an optional detour to the spectacular Trafalgar Falls. The trail crosses the Roseau River, offering refreshing dips. The rainforest is home to the endangered Sisserou Parrot and vibrant Jaco Parrot.

The path winds through towering Gommier trees adorned with epiphytes and mosses. The segment ends at Pont Cassé Roundabout, Dominica’s central crossroads intersecting the Dr. Nicholas Liverpool Highway and Imperial Road.

Incorporated Elements:
  • Villages and Communities: Wotten Waven, Trafalgar
  • Rivers Crossed: Roseau River, Ravine Lauzes
  • Flora and Fauna: Sisserou Parrot, Gommier trees
  • Roads and Highways: Dr. Nicholas Liverpool Highway
  • Other Linked Trails: Access to Boiling Lake and Middleham Falls trails

Segment #5 of WNT: Pont Cassé to Castle Bruce

Explore the cultural heritage and natural splendour as you journey from the island’s centre to the rugged Atlantic coast.

  • Start Point: Pont Cassé
  • End Point: Castle Bruce
  • Distance: Approximately 17.4 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Description:

Segment #5 meanders between the Central Forest Reserve and Morne Trois Pitons National Park, offering stunning views of mountains like Morne Trois Pitons and Morne Negres Marrons. The trail intersects several rivers, including Warner River and Yellow River, and follows Imperial Road. Highlights include the Emerald Pool, Castle Bruce Road, and coastal views, concluding near Richmond Estate with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding peaks.

Incorporated Elements:
  • Villages and Communities: Pont Casse, Fond Melle, Castle Bruce
  • Rivers Crossed: Warner River, River Deux Branches, Laurent River, Fond Figues River, Belle Fille River
  • Flora and Fauna: Bwa Kwaib, fruit trees
  • Roads and Highways: Crosses Castle Bruce Road
  • Other Linked Trails: Emerald Pool Trail

Segment #6 of WNT: Castle Bruce to Hatton Garden

Experience the raw beauty of Dominica’s east coast, where rugged cliffs meet the roaring Atlantic and hidden bays await. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Kalinago.

  • Start Point: Castle Bruce
  • End Point: Hatton Garden
  • Distance: Approximately 14.4 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Description:

Segment #6 stretches from Castle Bruce to Hatton Garden, passing through Dominica’s Kalinago Territory. Hikers enjoy scenic views of Morne Fraser and Morne La Source, crossing rivers like Richmond and Salybia. This segment offers cultural immersion with visits to Kalinago hamlets, including Gaulette River, Mahaut River, Crayfish River, Salybia, St. Cyr,  and Sineku and sites like Kalinago Barana Auté. The trail concludes at the Pagua River, leading to Segment #7.

Incorporated Elements:
  • Villages and Communities: Castle Bruce, Good Hope, San Sauveur, Hatton Garden
  • Rivers Crossed: Madjini River, Richmond River, Mahaut River, Salybia River
  • Flora and Fauna: Coconut palms, sea grapes
  • Roads and Highways: East Coast Road
  • Other Linked Trails: Paths to beaches and bays

Segment #7 of WNT: Hatton Garden to First Camp

Venture into Dominica’s pristine wilderness, where the rainforest envelops you in its emerald embrace.

  • Start Point: Hatton Garden
  • End Point: First Camp
  • Distance: Approximately 8.9 km
  • Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Description:

Segment #7 enters the Northern Forest Reserve, this segment takes hikers into untouched rainforests. The trail ascends to cooler elevations with misty landscapes. Wildlife is abundant; near the Birding Tower at Williams Orchard, look out for the elusive Agouti and the rare Mountain Chicken frog.

Flora includes giant tree ferns and moss-covered trees. There are no villages, offering a true wilderness experience. Campsites are available at First Camp.

Incorporated Elements:
  • Rivers Crossed: Multiple unnamed streams
  • Flora and Fauna: Tree ferns, Mountain Chicken
  • Other Linked Trails: Paths to Morne Diablotin

Segment #8 of WNT: First Camp to Petite Macoucherie

Challenge yourself through mountainous terrain, rewarded by breathtaking views from Dominica’s highest peaks.

  • Start Point: First Camp
  • End Point: Petite Macoucherie
  • Distance: Approximately 14 km
  • Difficulty: Very Challenging
Trail Description:

Segment #8 traverses the Morne Diablotin National Park, home to Dominica’s highest mountain, this demanding trail offers unparalleled island views. Hikers cross the Melville Hall River and Macoucherie River and may see the Blue-headed Hummingbird.

The dense montane forest transitions to elfin woodland. The segment concludes near Salisbury, where the Macoucherie River flows near the Macoucherie Rum Distillery.

Incorporated Elements:
  • Villages and Communities: Petite Macoucherie, Salisbury
  • Rivers Crossed: Picard River, Macoucherie River
  • Flora and Fauna: Montane forests, hummingbirds
  • Roads and Highways: Access to West Coast Road
  • Other Linked Trails: Trail to Morne Diablotin summit

Segment #9 of WNT: Petite Macoucherie to Colihaut Heights

Descend toward the Caribbean coast, where rural life and agricultural landscapes showcase Dominica’s heritage.

  • Start Point: Petite Macoucherie
  • End Point: Colihaut Heights
  • Distance: Approximately 12.8 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Description:

This segment offers a gentler hike through agricultural areas. Hikers pass through Coulibistrie, visiting local markets. Crossing the Coulibistrie River, the trail provides opportunities to observe freshwater life. The path offers Caribbean Sea views and descends to Colihaut Heights, overlooking Colihaut village.

Incorporated Elements:
  • Villages and Communities: Petite Macoucherie, Coulibistrie, Colihaut
  • Rivers Crossed: Coulibistrie River
  • Flora and Fauna: Agricultural crops, freshwater species
  • Roads and Highways: West Coast Road
  • Other Linked Trails: Coastal paths

Segment #10 of WNT: Colihaut Heights to Syndicate

Step into a birdwatcher’s paradise within the Syndicate Nature Preserve, where parrot calls echo through the canopy.

  • Start Point: Colihaut Heights
  • End Point: Syndicate
  • Distance: Approximately 7 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Description:

Segment #10 enters the Syndicate Nature Preserve, renowned for rich birdlife, hikers may spot the endemic Sisserou Parrot. Crossing the Dublanc River, the trail offers a cool, shaded journey. Educational signs provide ecosystem insights. The segment ends at the Syndicate Visitor Center.

Incorporated Elements:
  • Villages and Communities: Colihaut, Dublanc
  • Rivers Crossed: Dublanc River
  • Flora and Fauna: Sisserou Parrot, rainforest vegetation
  • Roads and Highways: Access roads to Syndicate
  • Other Linked Trails: Paths within the reserve

Segment #11 of WNT: Syndicate to Borne

Experience the harmony of nature and rural life as you traverse forested areas and local communities.

  • Start Point: Syndicate
  • End Point: Borne
  • Distance: Approximately 13.2 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Description:

Segment #11 continues through lush forests into agricultural lands, this segment offers interactions with communities like Bioche. Hikers can observe traditional farming and sample local fruits. Crossing small streams, the trail offers serene rest spots. The segment concludes in Borne.

Incorporated Elements:
  • Villages and Communities: Syndicate, Bioche, Borne
  • Rivers Crossed: Unnamed streams
  • Flora and Fauna: Agricultural crops, fruit trees
  • Roads and Highways: Minor village roads
  • Other Linked Trails: Local footpaths

Segment #12 of WNT: Borne to Penville

Traverse landscapes offering panoramic island views, bridging Caribbean and Atlantic coasts in one glance.

  • Start Point: Borne
  • End Point: Penville
  • Distance: Approximately 13.5 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Trail Description:

Segment #12 navigates hilly terrain, the trail passes near Vieille Case, known for traditional architecture. Crossing the Hampstead River, surrounded by lush vegetation, hikers may see the Red-necked Pigeon. The segment ends in Penville, offering insights into rural life.

Incorporated Elements:
  • Villages and Communities: Borne, Vieille Case, Penville
  • Rivers Crossed: Hampstead River
  • Flora and Fauna: Coastal forests, birds
  • Roads and Highways: Northern Link Road
  • Other Linked Trails: Paths to coastal viewpoints

Segment #13 of WNT: Penville to Capuchin

Discover Dominica’s northern charm, where history and natural beauty converge in villages overlooking the sea.

  • Start Point: Penville
  • End Point: Capuchin
  • Distance: Approximately 6.8 km
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trail Description:

Segment #13 spans 6.8 km from Penville to Capuchin, is a moderate hike that takes about four hours. Characterized by dry forested woodland and volcanic landscape, it offers views of the French islands of Marie Galante, The Saints, and Guadeloupe. The segment is rich in biodiversity, with Tafia Falls, vibrant flowers, whistingling birds, frogs, insects, and towering trees enhancing the experience.

Incorporated Elements:
  • Villages and Communities: Penville, Clifton, Capuchin
  • Rivers Crossed: Unnamed streams
  • Flora and Fauna: Coastal plants
  • Roads and Highways: Northern coastal road
  • Other Linked Trails: Paths to historical sites

Segment #14 of WNT: Capuchin to Cabrits National Park

Conclude your journey at Cabrits National Park, where history, nature, and the sea create a finale like no other.

  • Start Point: Capuchin
  • End Point: Cabrits National Park
  • Distance: Approximately 10 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Description:

Segment #14 is a moderate hike taking about four hours. Starting at Capuchin, it passes coastal villages like Toucari, Cottage, Clifton, and Tanetane, ending at Cabrits National Park,  where you can explore Fort Shirley and enjoy snorkeling in the marine section.

Incorporated Elements:
  • Villages and Communities: Capuchin, Tanetane, Portsmouth
  • Rivers Crossed: Indian River
  • Flora and Fauna: Mangroves, marine life
  • Roads and Highways: Northern Highway
  • Other Linked Trails: Trails within the park

Connecting Trails and Routes

Enhance your adventure by exploring additional trails that connect with the Waitukubuli National Trail, offering deeper insights into Dominica’s landscapes.

The trail intersects with several other routes:

  • Morne Diablotin Trail: Accessible from Segment 8.
  • Boiling Lake Trail: Connected near Segment 4.
  • Middleham Falls Trail: From Segments 3 and 4.
  • Morne Anglais Trail: Near Segment 3.
  • Freshwater Lake Trails: Near Laudat.
  • Kalinago Territory Trails: Near Segment 5.

Reserves and National Parks

Discover protected areas along the trail showcasing Dominica’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

The trail passes through significant reserves:

  • Morne Trois Pitons National Park
  • Northern Forest Reserve
  • Syndicate Nature Reserve
  • Morne Diablotin National Park
  • Cabrits National Park

These areas offer education, conservation, and unique ecosystems.

Conservation and Community Engagement

Join in preserving Dominica’s treasures through responsible tourism and community involvement.

The trail promotes:

  • Community Development: Supporting local economies.
  • Environmental Protection: Preserving habitats.
  • Cultural Exchange: Engaging with communities.
  • Sustainable Practices: Responsible hiking.
  • Education: Raising awareness.

Practical Information

Prepare for an unforgettable journey with essential information for a safe, enjoyable hike.

  • Trail Difficulty: Varies; proper preparation is essential.
  • Guides: Hiring locals enhances safety.
  • Accommodation: Guesthouses, homestays, campsites.
  • Permits and Fees: Required; obtain from authorities.
  • Best Time to Hike: December to May.
  • Safety Tips:
    • Inform someone of your itinerary.
    • Be prepared for weather changes.
    • Carry sufficient supplies.
  • Respect Local Customs:
    • Seek permission before photos.
    • Dress modestly in villages.

With diverse landscapes and rich cultural experiences, the Waitukubuli National Trail invites adventurers to explore Dominica’s untouched beauty. Each segment offers a unique journey, weaving natural wonders and warm hospitality into an unforgettable tapestry of discovery.