Things To Do
in Roseau
Nestled among lush hills and bordered by the Caribbean Sea, this vibrant capital city is the cultural and commercial heart of Dominica. Known for its colorful timber houses and bustling market selling produce and crafts, Roseau is a blend of French, British, and Creole influences reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals.
The city also serves as a gateway to the island's natural wonders, including hot springs, waterfalls, and the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- "Hello" - Hello
- "Good morning" - Good morning
- "Good afternoon" - Good afternoon
- "Good evening" - Good evening
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Yes" - Yes
- "No" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Dominica Botanical Gardens, where you can enjoy the tropical flora and a peaceful atmosphere. Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the beauty of local plants.
Explore the vibrant Roseau market where you can sample local fruits and buy handmade crafts. This is a great way to experience the local culture and find unique souvenirs.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, indulging in traditional Caribbean cuisine. The ambiance is lively, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration.
Take a guided hike through the Morne Trois Pitons National Park and soak in the breathtaking views. Keep your camera ready as you might spot some unique wildlife along the way.
Visit the Boiling Lake, one of the park's unique attractions, where you can admire the geothermal activity. It's a challenging hike, but the sight is rewarding.
Return to Roseau and unwind at a beachside bar, enjoying a refreshing drink as the sun sets. Relax and listen to the sounds of the ocean waves.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty, including lush rainforests, mountains, and beaches
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions
- Friendly and welcoming community
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, and diving
- Low crime rate and a generally safe environment
- Moderate climate with warm temperatures year-round
- Limited job opportunities and economic development
- Infrastructure challenges, including road conditions and public services
- Higher cost of living compared to neighboring Caribbean islands
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as hurricanes and volcanic activity
- Limited access to healthcare facilities and specialized services
- Internet connectivity and technological resources may be lacking in some areas
Best Activities in Roseau
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A challenging hike through the rainforest leading to the famous Boiling Lake, which is a unique geothermal feature surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Explore the twin waterfalls of Trafalgar, where you can enjoy the scenic views, take a refreshing dip in the pools, and capture beautiful photographs.
Experience the underwater hot springs and vibrant marine life while snorkeling at Champagne Reef, where bubbles rise from the ocean floor.
Discover the rich biodiversity and unique landscapes of this UNESCO World Heritage site, with options for hiking, bird watching, and exploring volcanic features.
Take a guided kayaking tour along the serene Indian River, where you can observe the local flora, fauna, and possibly spot some wildlife like birds and manatees.
Unwind on the picturesque beaches of Glassy Bay, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of Dominica's coastline.
Join a guided tour or hike along the Syndicate Nature Trail to observe native and migratory birds in their natural habitat, set against lush greenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Roseau with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Roseau
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city of Roseau, the coastline, and surrounding mountains, ideal for photography.
A lush garden featuring a variety of tropical plants and flowers, providing a beautiful backdrop for photos with the historical architecture of Roseau in the background.
Though located a bit outside of Roseau, the views from the Cabrits offer a stunning combination of verdant hills and coastline, perfect for capturing the natural beauty of Dominica.
The museum's surroundings and the historical architecture provide both educational and aesthetic value, making it a great spot for photography.
Vibrant and colorful, the market is filled with local produce, crafts, and bustling activity, providing endless opportunities for capturing the local culture.
Characterized by its historic colonial buildings and narrow streets, this area offers a charming ambience ideal for authentic travel photography.
Located just outside Roseau, the natural hot springs surrounded by lush vegetation provide a unique landscape for spectacular photos.
Known for its pristine sands and clear waters, it's an excellent location for sunset photos and capturing the essence of Caribbean beauty.
Food in Roseau
Roseau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Caribbean dish made with leafy greens, okra, coconut milk, and often served with rice or breadfruit. You can savor authentic Callaloo at Old Stone Grill & Bar.
Must-Try!
A beloved dish comprising green bananas (referred to as figs) and salted cod, often served with a side of fresh avocado. Visit La Robe Creole for an excellent rendition of this local favorite.
A delectable curry dish infused with coconut milk, showcasing the island's abundant seafood and aromatic spices. The Palisades Restaurant serves a delightful version of Coconut Curry.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Roseau better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering an array of fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to relish freshly prepared Accra, a popular fish fritter, from the street food vendors in the market.
A vibrant area lined with food stalls and vendors offering an array of authentic Dominican street food, including Creole fish, grilled corn on the cob, and refreshing coconut water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Roseau, a friendly greeting is very important. A simple 'good morning,' 'good afternoon,' or 'good evening' goes a long way. People often greet each other with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek among friends and family.
Dress modestly and appropriately, especially in religious sites and formal gatherings. Casual clothing is acceptable in most settings, but wearing beach attire away from the beach is considered disrespectful.
When dining with locals, it is polite to wait for the host to start the meal or give a signal before beginning to eat. Additionally, expressing gratitude and compliments about the food is appreciated.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Roseau with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Roseau
Ensure a smooth experience
In Roseau, Dominica, tipping is customary in the service industry, particularly in restaurants and bars. It is generally expected to provide a gratuity of around 10-15% of the total bill if service is not included. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also appreciated, with small amounts being typical. However, it ultimately depends on the quality of service received.
Payments in Roseau can be made using various methods, including cash (Eastern Caribbean Dollar), credit cards, and mobile payment systems. Many businesses accept Visa and MasterCard, although smaller vendors may only accept cash. It's advisable for travelers to carry some cash, especially in local markets or for small purchases where cards may not be accepted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Roseau.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit Roseau, Dominica. Expect pleasant weather with less rainfall, warm temperatures, and plenty of sunshine. It's ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, exploring waterfalls, and enjoying the beaches.
During this period, expect higher humidity and frequent rain showers, particularly from August to October when hurricanes can occur. While the scenery is lush and vibrant, some outdoor activities may be hindered by the weather. However, this is also the time for fewer tourists and lower prices.
This season brings the risk of tropical storms and hurricanes, making it less favorable for travel. It's advisable to monitor weather forecasts and have flexible travel plans. Visitors should be cautious but can still enjoy fewer crowds and lush landscapes.
Roseau at Night
Hiking in Roseau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning views, lush rainforest, and diverse flora and fauna. Offers multiple trails, including the trail to Boiling Lake.
An accessible hike within Morne Trois Pitons National Park, showcasing unique volcanic features, hot springs, and geysers.
One of Dominica's most famous hikes, leading to a hot, bubbling lake. The trail offers breathtaking scenery and challenges for experienced hikers.
A short hike that leads to a stunning gorge with cold freshwater pools, perfect for a refreshing swim and beautiful natural scenery.
A popular hiking destination leading to a picturesque pool with a waterfall. The trail is relatively easy and suitable for families.
A scenic loop through lush forests, offering birdwatching opportunities and views of the northern part of the island.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Roseau through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Roseau by plane.
The main international airport serving Dominica, located near Roseau.
A smaller airport in Dominica, primarily serving regional flights.
Located in Saint Lucia, approximately 70 miles south of Roseau, it serves as a major hub for regional and international flights.
Located in Saint Lucia, approximately 90 miles south of Roseau, it handles both regional and international traffic.
Located in Guam, approximately 300 miles from Roseau, it is one of the biggest international airports nearby, primarily serving inter-island flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A majority demographic group in Roseau, with roots tracing back to enslaved Africans brought to the Caribbean.
Individuals of mixed African and European descent, contributing to the cultural diversity of Roseau.
The indigenous people of Dominica, with a small presence in Roseau.
A minority group with ancestry from Indian laborers who settled in the Caribbean.
A small demographic encompassing descendants of early European settlers and colonizers.
The Soul of Roseau
Discover the essence of Roseau through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is one of the most popular sports in Dominica, with a strong following and local tournaments.
Football is widely played and watched in Roseau, with many local teams and leagues participating in various competitions.
Rugby has a dedicated fan base in Dominica, with local clubs and national competitions contributing to its popularity.
Basketball is enjoyed by many in Roseau, with schools and community leagues fostering local talent.
Track and field events are popular, especially in schools, where students participate in various athletic competitions.
Netball is popular among women and girls in Roseau, with leagues and tournaments being organized regularly.
With the beautiful Caribbean waters, swimming is a favored recreational activity and sport in Roseau.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Roseau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Roseau offer vegetarian options such as plantain-based dishes, hearty salads, and flavorful vegetable curries.
While dedicated vegan eateries are limited, several restaurants like Zamaan Restaurant and Cartwheel Cafe offer delectable vegan dishes and are accommodating to vegan dietary needs.
Visitors adhering to a gluten-free diet will find various eateries providing gluten-free options, including fresh seafood, tropical fruit platters, and rice-based dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Roseau with these cultural adventures.
