en
- Signature
- 8-day trip
- From €7,150 per person
Dominica holiday | Paradise-like Dominica with Secret Bay
On this special trip, let yourself be enchanted by Dominica, the green heart of the Caribbean. From the exclusive Secret Bay, you’ll discover the island through a varied programme brimming with nature, adventure and culture. Explore the lush rainforests whilst visiting the Emerald Pool, meet the Kalinago community and admire the spectacular Trafalgar Falls and Titou Gorge. The itinerary also includes a boat trip along the mysterious Indian River, right through mangroves and tropical rainforest.
In between, there’s plenty of time to enjoy the tranquillity and luxury of Secret Bay. Relax in your private villa, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters around the secluded beaches, or enjoy a picnic at Tibay Beach, a hidden slice of paradise accessible only by land from Secret Bay or by water. As the sun sets, discover the underwater world on a unique night-time snorkelling adventure. This trip offers the perfect combination of spectacular nature, authentic culture, extraordinary adventures and pure relaxation – exactly what makes Dominica so unique.
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 Flight to Dominica
- Day 2 Free morning and Indian River
- Day 3 Visit Trafalgar Falls & Titou Gorge
- Day 4 Free day and night-time snorkelling
- Day 5 Emerald Pool & Kalinago Territory
- Day 6 – 7 Stay at Secret Bay on Dominica
- Day 8 Departure from Dominica
- Day 9 Arrival
Flight to Dominica
You’ll arrive by flight in Dominica, a true hidden gem in the Caribbean. The island, better known as ‘The Nature Island’, is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in the eastern Caribbean. Upon arrival, you’ll be taken to your stunning hotel.
Secret Bay is an exclusive, award-winning Relais & Châteaux resort on Dominica’s unspoilt west coast. Spectacularly situated against a green cliff, overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the resort offers a unique combination of unspoilt nature, privacy and refined luxury. During your stay, you will be accommodated in a Tifey Villa with a private swimming pool, where spacious living areas, a stylish interior and a generous terrace blend seamlessly with the tropical surroundings. The villa offers complete privacy and is the perfect place to enjoy the views and nature in complete tranquillity.
Your stay is on a half-board basis, so you can enjoy breakfast and dinner every day, prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Thanks to the personalised service and its location in the heart of unspoilt nature, the resort is an ideal base from which to explore Dominica. From snorkelling and diving in the crystal-clear waters to hiking through the lush rainforest: Secret Bay allows you to experience Dominica in complete tranquillity, surrounded by nature and luxury.
Included
- Meet & greet on arrival
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Accommodation on a half-board basis
Not included
- International flight
Free morning and Indian River
You’ll have the morning and early afternoon free to spend as you wish at Secret Bay. Why not start the day with an invigorating yoga class by the river, or take a paddleboard or kayak for a relaxing trip across the crystal-clear waters? A moment of pure relaxation is also an option: enjoy your private swimming pool, treat yourself to some pampering at the Gommier Spa, or explore the colourful underwater world around Secret Beach. When the sea is calm, you can even snorkel through the natural rock arch and discover the rich marine life and unique corals in the bay. The water is clear and warm, with an exceptionally blue hue.
In the afternoon, you’ll leave the resort for a special boat trip along the Indian River, one of Dominica’s most beautiful waterways. In a traditional rowing boat, accompanied by a local guide, you’ll glide through the tranquil, mangrove-lined river, where the lush greenery and the sounds of the rainforest create a unique atmosphere. Afterwards, you’ll return to Secret Bay, where you can spend the rest of the afternoon and evening at your own pace. Why not enjoy a cocktail on the Vetiver Sunset Deck whilst the sun slowly sets over the Caribbean Sea?
Tips from a Travel Specialist
During your stay at Secret Bay, you can follow a trail from the lodge to Coconut Bay, and adventure equipment is included (kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, yoga mats, GoPro cameras, dry bags, and snorkelling and swimming gear).
Included
- Afternoon excursion: Indian River boat trip
- Accommodation on a half-board basis
Visit Trafalgar Falls & Titou Gorge
The majestic twin waterfalls of Trafalgar are one of Dominica’s most iconic sights for many reasons. A short walk through the rainforest leads to a viewpoint offering sweeping views of the waterfalls, which are 38 and 23 metres high respectively. Continue your journey with a guide to enjoy mineral-rich hot springs formed by nature and to get as close as possible to the base of the largest waterfall.
You’ll then continue through the Roseau Valley to the village of Laudat and the Titou Gorge. The name means ‘little throat’ and refers to the deep, narrow gorge flanked by towering volcanic rock formations. Swim into the natural cave and discover a bubbling waterfall, glistening in the light filtering through the canopy above.
Included
- Excursion to Trafalgar Falls & Titou Gorge
- Accommodation on a half-board basis
Free day and night snorkelling
Today, you have the whole day to make the most of your stay at Secret Bay. Your Tifey Villa is a wonderful private retreat, with its own plunge pool, spacious outdoor area and stunning views of the surrounding jungle and the Caribbean Sea.
As evening falls, a special experience awaits: you’ll go night-time snorkelling in the warm, clear waters off Secret Bay. Accompanied by a guide, you’ll explore the underwater world, which comes fully to life after sunset. Spot lobsters, octopuses, moray eels and nocturnal fish, but also keep your eyes peeled for unusual sea creatures that hide away during the day. Among others, colourful coral morphs and impressive basket stars will come into view. A unique way to experience Dominica’s rich underwater world from a completely different perspective.
Included
- Night-time snorkelling
- Accommodation on a half-board basis
Emerald Pool & Kalinago Territory
Start the day with a visit to the Emerald Pool, one of Dominica’s best-known natural attractions. From the visitor centre, it’s a 10–15-minute walk through the lush rainforest to the emerald-green pool and waterfall. The walk is relatively easy and offers a wonderful introduction to the island’s tropical interior.
You will then drive on towards the east coast to the Kalinago Territory, the area where the indigenous Kalinago community lives. At Kalinago Barana Aute, you’ll gain a deeper insight into the history, culture and traditions of the Kalinago. You’ll be introduced to traditional crafts, local customs and the way in which the community keeps its cultural heritage alive. They elect their own Chief and will give you a warm welcome during your visit. The Kalinago Territory is not a museum, but a vibrant community where people live and work.
With the stunning natural beauty of Emerald Pool and the rich culture of the Kalinago, this day offers a unique introduction to two sides of Dominica: the unspoilt island landscape and the centuries-old traditions that are still very much alive here.
Included
- Visit to the Kalinago Territory and Emerald Pool
- Accommodation on a half-board basis
Stay Secret Bay in Dominica
Over the next few days, you’ll have free time to spend as you wish at Secret Bay. Relax on the beach, go snorkelling, book a spa treatment, or set off to explore the beautiful natural surroundings of the lodge.
During your stay, we have arranged a special picnic for you at Tibay Beach. This secluded stretch of coastline is only accessible from Secret Bay or by water and is surrounded by lush rainforest and the calm, clear blue Caribbean Sea. Under the shade of the almond trees, you can relax and enjoy a picnic in complete tranquillity. Afterwards, take a refreshing dip or discover the colourful underwater life off the coast whilst snorkelling. Those who prefer a more active pursuit can take to the water in a kayak or on a paddleboard.
Included
- Picnic lunch at Tibay Beach
- Accommodation on a half-board basis
Accommodations
Secret Bay
Secret Bay is located on the northwest coast of the beautiful island of Dominica in the West Indies. The secluded villa complex is a 10-minute drive from the quaint town of Portsmouth and about an hour's drive from the capital Roseau. The beautiful expanse of Prince Rupert Bay, one of the longest, mostly...
Secret Bay is located on the northwest coast of the beautiful island of Dominica in the West Indies. The secluded villa complex is a 10-minute drive from the quaint town of Portsmouth and about an hour's drive from the capital Roseau. The beautiful expanse of Prince Rupert Bay, one of the longest, mostly deserted, white-sand beaches on the island, is less than a ten-minute kayak ride away. Other nearby attractions include the well-preserved Fort Shirley and Cabrits National Park; magical Indian River and the Northern Forest Reserve.
Located on a breathtaking clifftop, Secret Bay offers access to two swimming beaches, Tibay Beach and the soft white sandy beach of Secret Beach, with its natural rock formed arch; hidden sea cliff cave and rich marine life. The accommodation is bordered by the Cario River, which flows into Morne Diablotins.
The eco-luxury villas and bungalows are generously positioned across the site to ensure privacy and seclusion. All accommodations offer stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and rainforest-covered mountains.
Your stay: 7 nights
Experiences
Indian River
The Indian River, situated near Portsmouth in the north of Dominica, is one of the island’s most remarkable natural attractions. Accompanied by a local guide, you’ll explore the tranquil river by traditional boat, as you sail deeper and deeper into the lush rainforest. Along the way, you’ll pass mangroves,…
The Indian River, situated near Portsmouth in the north of Dominica, is one of the island’s most remarkable natural attractions. Accompanied by a local guide, you will explore the tranquil river by traditional boat, as you sail ever deeper into the lush rainforest. Along the way, you will pass mangroves and the impressive Bwa Mang trees, and you may spot various species of birds and other wildlife. The river also played an important role as a transport route for the Kalinago people.
This stunning setting also provided the backdrop for scenes from the Pirates of the Caribbean films. Along the way, you can even visit a former film set featuring the witch’s cottage. A stop at the atmospheric Bush Bar by the river rounds off the experience; here, you can enjoy a refreshing rum punch, amongst other things. The combination of unspoilt nature, local history and a touch of Hollywood makes a trip along the Indian River a unique experience.
Trafalgar Falls & Titou Gorge
Discover two extraordinary natural wonders of Dominica. At Trafalgar Falls, you’ll walk through the lush rainforest to the impressive twin waterfalls. From the viewing platform, you can enjoy the view and, if you wish, continue scrambling over the rocks or relax in the natural…
Discover two extraordinary natural wonders of Dominica. At Trafalgar Falls, you’ll walk through the lush rainforest to the impressive twin waterfalls. From the viewing platform, you can enjoy the view and, if you wish, continue scrambling over the rocks or relax in the natural hot springs.
Next, you’ll visit Titou Gorge, a gorge formed by volcanic activity. Swim through the crystal-clear water to the hidden waterfall, surrounded by steep rock faces and tropical greenery. An adventurous day filled with waterfalls, hot springs and the unspoilt nature of Dominica.
Night-time snorkelling at Secret Bay
During your stay at Secret Bay, go night snorkelling and experience the underwater world in a completely new way. Look out for lobsters, octopuses, moray eels and nocturnal fish, as well as unusual marine creatures such as the orange corallimorph, which emerges from its hiding place and extends its tentacles to…
During your stay at Secret Bay, go night snorkelling and experience the underwater world in a completely new way. Look out for lobsters, octopuses, moray eels and nocturnal fish, as well as unusual marine creatures such as the orange corallimorph, which emerges from its hiding place and extends its tentacles to catch food from the water. You may also spot basket stars, which unfurl after sunset from compact spheres into large fans, using them to filter nutrients from the water
Emerald Pool & the Kalinago community
Start the day with a walk through the lush rainforest of Morne Trois Pitons National Park to the Emerald Pool, a natural pool hidden deep amongst the greenery. You will then drive to the east coast and the Kalinago Territory, where the Kalinago community still preserves much of its traditional culture and…
Start the day with a walk through the lush rainforest of Morne Trois Pitons National Park to the Emerald Pool, a natural pool hidden deep amongst the greenery. You’ll then drive to the east coast and the Kalinago Territory, where the Kalinago community still honours much of its traditional culture and way of life. Visit the Kalinago Barana Auté Cultural Village, learn about their history and traditions, and admire the beautiful handicrafts at the local stalls, including hand-woven baskets. A wonderful combination of Dominica’s unspoilt nature and cultural heritage.
Destinations
Portsmouth
The coastal city of Portsmouth is located on the northwest coast of Dominica, just north of the Cabrits National Park. While the rest of the island is not exactly known for its beaches, Portsmouth has no less than six impressive beaches, many of which are perfectly idyllic and great for swimming, sunbathing and watching the sunset in the evening from seaside cocktail bars. Active travellers will relish the chance to enjoy boat trips, fishing, diving and sailing, and night owls will find a lively scene of French, reggae, Spanish and local music to party the night away. Nature lovers can explore a range of wild landscapes in the nearby park, including tropical forests, wetlands and beautiful coral reefs. Dominica's second-largest city is still relatively undiscovered and offers a more untamed and authentic destination than its neighbour and capital Roseau.
Dominica
The Caribbean island of Dominica, sandwiched between the beautiful islands of Guadeloupe to the north and Martinique to the south, is known for its pristine wilderness with flowing mountain streams, lush emerald forests, serene lakes, steaming hot springs and rolling volcanic peaks. This natural treasure serves as an off-the-beaten-track tourist hub with a thriving nightlife and attracts eco-adventurers from all corners of the globe. Visitors can look forward to hiking through dense tropical rainforests and vast tropical jungles, snorkelling among colourful coral reefs and discovering stunning white sand beaches and black volcanic sand beaches fringed by the sparkling waters of the Caribbean. Don't miss a visit to the spectacularly scenic Northern Forest Reserve and the Central Forest Reserve, home to a variety of amazing fauna and flora.
Dominica holiday | Paradise-like Dominica with Secret Bay
We offer the described trip from €7,150 per person.
The price is indicative and is subject to factors including availability and travel dates.
Included
• Accommodation in excellent and distinctive properties
• All meals as specified in the ‘itinerary’
• All necessary private transfers as specified
• All excursions as mentioned in the ‘itinerary’, including the Indian River tour, Emerald Falls, Kalinago Village and night-time snorkelling
• Meet and greet on arrival
• National Geographic or similar travel guide
• Administration fees (€50 per booking)
Positive impact of your trip:
• A contribution of €50 per person towards positive impact via the Avila Foundation
• Accommodation at Secret Bay, which holds a Green Globe certificate and is built entirely from natural materials
Not included
• Intercontinental flights
• Room category upgrade
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Digital immigration form for Dominica https://edcard.dominica.gov.dm
• Tourist tax (where applicable)
• Seat reservations
• Personal expenses/tips
• Any departure tax when leaving the destination
• Meals not specified and optional excursions
• Contribution to the Calamity Fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)