From vibrant rainforests to volcanic hot springs and pristine beaches, Dominica is an ideal destination for a Caribbean Wellness Retreat. Lesser known compared to some of its neighboring Caribbean islands, Dominica boasts many wellness offerings due to its unique cultural heritage and natural environment. Not only is the island extremely safe, but it’s also the perfect place for a jungle island retreat.
Here are 5 reasons why Dominica is the best for a Caribbean Wellness Retreat :
The Nature island of the Caribbean
Dominica is known as the nature island of the Caribbean, thanks to its incredibly diverse landscape of jungles, waterfalls, mountains, and crystal clear Caribbean waters. Originally formed by volcanic activity, the island is actually only 29 miles long! This makes it ideal to immerse yourself in nature for mental and emotional wellness benefits.
Research from the Mental Health Foundation shows that those who seek time in nature are generally happier with life and have an overall greater sense of purpose and wellbeing. From endless hiking adventures, kayaking along the coastline, beach-combing at sunset, or a simple walk through the colorful tropical paradise, the abundance of outdoor activities on the Nature Island of the Caribbean is another reason to visit Dominica for your next Wellness Retreat.
Hot springs in Dominica
With the volcanic and geothermal activity still present on the island, you can find many hot springs in Dominica. Not only will the warm waters relax your mind and body, but hot springs are also known to reduce stress, relieve pain (perfect for those sore hiking muscles), and boost blood circulation in the body. With hot springs adjacent to waterfalls you can also benefit from the exposure to negative ions, known to help counteract stress and strengthen your immune system.
Our Dominica Caribbean Wellness Retreat includes a trip to the unspoiled natural hot springs outside of Soufriere. It’s the perfect day trip from our jungle eco-lodge!
Unique cuisine and plant-based medicines
From the abundance of tropical fruits, root vegetables, and herbs, Dominica is a true source for wellbeing through its unique and diverse cuisine. Moringa, chayote squash, soursop, dasheen, and passion fruit are just a few of the incredibly nourishing foods that grow on the island.
Dominicans also uses many herbs and plants for medicinal purposes. From teas, elixirs, and green powders, many of these plants have healing properties. Seeing the value and connection between nutrition, natural foods, and wellness, we’ve included several activities in our Caribbean Wellness Retreat that encapsulate it all.
Starting with an agricultural heritage tour of the garden, you can learn and begin to identify the various plants and herbs in Dominica. Then, with the Dominica Medicinal herbs and Tea experience you will have a deeper dive into the healing properties specific to each plant and even get to make your own tea blends. Finishing off the week with a Caribbean cooking class you will come home with new cooking inspiration and happy taste buds! It’s the perfect way to experience Dominica’s culture.
It’s ideal for a Caribbean yoga retreat
What is a Caribbean Wellness Retreat without some time spent on your yoga mat? Finding a deeper connection to your body and breath through the practice of yoga will continue to increase your overall wellbeing and happiness. With the naturally relaxing atmosphere and energy of the island, Dominica creates the ideal setting to relax into a blissful yoga practice. Immersing your senses in the cool ocean breeze, fragrant plants, soft sounds of the jungle birds as well as the endless views, creates a serene experience and wonderful environment for your Caribbean Yoga Retreat.
Local to Dominica is a unique selection of curated wellness practices and treatments only found on the island. For instance at Jungle Bay, you can find the incredible spa offerings from Dafrica, professional massage therapists and healers, who hand make their massage oils. Each oil is made with herbs and plants locally sourced from the garden (another great reason to join the Heritage Garden tour in our itinerary!). Not only do the oils smell amazing, but they will also leave you feeling smooth, refreshed and utterly relaxed after your spa treatment.
Another unique wellness offering special to Dominica is the world famous Boiling Lake. Hike through the Valley of Desolation and give yourself a facial with the healing minerals from the mud.
Join us on a Caribbean wellness retreat!
With the emergence of wellness, alongside the growing desire for more off-the-beaten-path and sustainable travel experiences, visiting the lesser known Nature Isle of Dominica couldn’t be a better place to embark on a jungle island retreat!
Whether indulging in delicious Creole dishes, succulent seafood or hearty stews, the food in Dominica offers a delightful array of dishes for the taste buds, each showcasing the island's unique culinary traditions. Enjoy this culinary journey to Dominica with our top 10 must-try snacks, meals, and sweets that embody the essence of Dominican local dishes, ensuring an unforgettable gastronomic experience.