trail | Purely Dominica - Part 2

31 Mar 2010

Dominica Hike Fest 2010: The Best Island Hikes Around!

Written by Chris in Dominica Events 2 Comments →

View of the Fresh Water Lake - Hike Fest 2009

The Dominica Hotel and Tourism Association, together with Discover Dominica will host its 3rd annual Hike Fest in May. The event celebrates the islandâ€™s best hiking and attracts hiking enthusiasts from around the world.

This years Hike Fest will highlight the upcoming Waitukubuli National Trail, which will be the only long distance walking trail in the Caribbean. Divided into 14 sections, the Trail runs from the north to the south of the island, covering approximately 185km. Hiking enthusiasts, who are up to the challenge can attempt to complete one section each day,and would take two weeks to complete the entire trail.

Hike Festâ€™s first hike will take place on May 1, 2010 and will be from Salybia to Pagua Bay in the north east of Dominica. Other festival hike trails will include Soufriere, Scotts Head, Cabrits National Park and Capuchin. Open to hikers of all ages and abilities, these trails vary in levels of difficulty for the novice to experienced hikers.

Hikes cost EC$40 each or EC$90 for all three hikes. Included in the price for each hike is transportation , t-shirt, tea and experienced guides.

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Tagged with: Cabrits National Park, Caribbean, DHTA, DHTA Hikefest 2010, Dominica, Dominica Hotel & Tourism Association, Hike Fest, Hike Fest 2010, hikers, Hiking, island hiking, lush forests, mountain travel, Recreation, rolling hills, Salybia, trail, waitukubuli trail, walking trail

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23 May 2009

Hike Fest 2009:The Morne Vert Loop from Soufriere

Written by Chris in Dominica Travel Guide 2 Comments →

view of soufriere village in Dominica

Unlike the first hike of Hikefest 2009 – the Chemin Letang trail, where it rained for 3 hours straight, the Morne Vert Loop from Soufriere and ended at Soufriere Sulphur Springs was definitely one of the better hikes I’ve been on for quiet awhile.

The weather conditions on the day was ideal for hiking; not too hot but still clear enough to catch some spectacular views.

Morne Vert is located near the south coast of the island and the Soufriere Sulphur Springs.The area has an abundance of geological, as well as cultural history. A perfect example is the Bois Cotellete plantation is one of the oldest estates on the island, which dates back to 1700’s.The ruins are still there. Also apart of trail is the Palmiste Estate – an ancient track which was used by Kalinago Indians.

From the summit of Morne vert the trail continues down into the village of Tete Morne where there are breathtaking views down to Soufriere village. From the opposite side, you can see much of the south coast of Dominica- for example Grand Bay, etc

Hikers Note: Morne Vert Loop trail has been designated an intermediate level of difficulty hike.The terrain varies at time and can be quite steep in certain areas. Climate can be very hot and dry in this location and the smell of sulphur can be strong at times in some areas on trail.

Will I trek Morne Vert Loop Again?

To be honest, I will do this hike again any day of the week – that’s how much I’ve fallen in love with the trail and the southern part of the island.

So whether you’re an avid hiker or someone who is just starting out, the Morne Vert Loop trial has something interesting for every outdoor lover.

Here are images and short video from the trial, enjoy!