Waitukubuli National Trail: Segment #11
Waitukubuli National Trail: Segment #11 runs through the breathtaking Saint John Parish, beginning in Syndicate and ending in Borne. It covers a distance of 10 km (6.2 miles).
Highlights of Segment #11 of the Waitukubuli Trail
Segment #11 of the Waitukubuli National Trail begins after leaving the Syndicate Nature Trail. It skirts the outer edge of the Morne Diablotin National Park, providing hikers with awe-inspiring views of Morne Diablotin and Morne Turner. These towering mountains dominate the background as the trail descends. Along the way, the trail passes through the Dyer Estate and meets with the Cairo River and Lamois River, adding to the scenic beauty of the route.
This trail segment continues overlooking Prince Rupert Bay at Portsmouth, first at Picard, intersecting with Picard River and passing through areas like Balvine at Morne Balvine next to Grand Ravine. The trail then moves above Glanvillia, intersecting with several tributaries that feed the famous Indian River, known for its calm waters and eco-tours. As the trail nears its end, it intersects the Melville Hall – Portsmouth Road between Newood and En Foucauld, before finally reaching its endpoint at Borne, where it connects with Segment #12 of the Trail.
Flora and Fauna Along Segment #11 of the Trail
Dominica’s natural beauty shines through along Waitukubuli National Trail Segment #11, with an incredible variety of plant and animal species. Hikers will encounter iconic trees such as the Bwa Dyab (Richeria grandis) and vibrant flowering plants like Heliconia (Heliconia caribaea) and Ginger Lilies (Hedychium coronarium), which thrive in the island’s tropical environment. Wild Orchids and Ferns are also scattered throughout the trail, offering bursts of color and contributing to the rich biodiversity.
This section of the trail is also known for its birdwatching opportunities. Dominica’s national bird, the Sisserou Parrot (Amazona imperialis), can be spotted flying overhead, along with the Jaco Parrot (Amazona arausiaca). The Golden Orb-Weaver Spider (Nephila clavipes) can be seen along the forest edges, spinning its signature golden webs, while the melodious calls of the Mòwi or Gwiv-a-liné (Forest Thrush) create a tranquil ambiance as hikers make their way through the dense forest.
Trail Features and Challenges
This section of the Waitukubuli National Trail is one of the more challenging, with steep ascents, uneven terrain, and fewer resting points. Hikers should be well-prepared, carrying sufficient water, proper gear, and weather protection, as the rainforest climate can be unpredictable. Despite the challenges, the rewards are plentiful, with panoramic views of the lush green landscapes, river crossings, and abundant wildlife.
Conservation and Eco-Tourism
Running through areas like the Morne Diablotin National Park, this segment reflects Dominica’s strong commitment to conservation and eco-tourism. The protected status of this park, along with the eco-friendly initiatives implemented along the Waitukubuli National Trail, ensure the preservation of critical habitats for the island’s flora and fauna. Conservation efforts also include educating hikers about the importance of preserving the island’s biodiversity and minimizing human impact on the environment. As visitors explore this part of Dominica, they actively support sustainable tourism and the protection of Dominica’s natural heritage.