Interesting facts about Dominica reveal a world of secret natural wonders, unique cultural traditions, and surprising historical tidbits that make this island truly special—and might inspire your next adventure. Furthermore, Dominica’s waters are a year-round home to sperm whales, making it a prime whale-watching destination.
Nestled between Martinique and Guadeloupe, Dominica may be small in size, but it packs a punch when it comes to natural beauty, culture, and unique quirks. Beyond its lush rainforests and black-sand beaches, this under-the-radar Caribbean gem is full of surprises.
Here are 30 fascinating facts about Dominica that might just inspire your next adventure:
Columbus named it “Dominica”
The island was spotted by Christopher Columbus on a Sunday in 1493—hence the name “Dominica,” from Domingo in Spanish.
But its original name was Watikubuli
The native Kalinago people called it Watikubuli, meaning “Tall is her Body”—a reference to the island’s towering mountains.
The national motto? “Après le Bon Dieu, c’est la Terre”
Translation: “After God, the Earth.” A perfect reflection of Dominica’s deep connection to nature.
Independence Day is November 3, 1978
That’s when Dominica officially became a republic within the Commonwealth.
“Isle of Beauty, Isle of Splendour” is the national anthem
Written by Wilfred Oscar Morgan and composed by Lemuel McPherson Christian.
It operates as a Parliamentary Republic
The President is nominated by the Prime Minister—currently, Charles Savarin, in office since 2013.
Dominica follows English Common Law
Courts include Magistrate, High Court, and even access to the Privy Council.
Tiny island, small population
With around 73,685 residents, Dominica makes up just 0.0008% of the global population.
One of only two national flags with purple
Thanks to the Sisserou Parrot, featured prominently on the flag.
It’s called “The Nature Isle” for a reason
Think waterfalls, hot springs, lush rainforests, and rare wildlife packed into one stunning island.
The national flower is the ‘Bwa Kwaib’
A red flowering plant that thrives in Dominica’s dry coastal regions.
The Sisserou Parrot is the national bird—and critically endangered
Only about 50 mature birds remain in the wild, and they’re found only in Dominica.
Sperm whales live here year-round
Dominica is the only country in the world where these giants reside all year, close to the coast.
The “mountain chicken” is actually a frog
Officially the Giant Ditch Frog, named for its size—and yes, it tastes like chicken.
Home to the Caribbean’s first long-distance hiking trail
The Waitukubuli National Trail stretches 183 km across the island.
UNESCO-recognized: Morne Trois Pitons National Park
A protected haven with hot springs, waterfalls, and volcanic peaks—covering about 9% of the island.
Herbal medicine is still widely practiced
Dominicans use bush medicine, combining Indigenous and African plant knowledge.
Top industries: Agriculture, Tourism, and Manufacturing
Dominica is famous for bananas, citrus, coffee, and handmade coconut-based products.
Currency: East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
Pegged to the U.S. dollar at a fixed rate of $1 USD = $2.70 XCD.
GDP in 2023? Around $654 million USD
You can buy citizenship
Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program has ranked #1 globally for six years straight.
English is the official language
But you’ll also hear French Creole and Dominican Patois spoken widely.
Over 90% of Dominicans are Christian
Religion is an important part of life—but freedom of religion is constitutionally protected.
Cricket reigns supreme
The island has produced players like Shane Shillingford and Adam Sanford who’ve played internationally.
Capital city: Roseau
Located on the southwest coast, it’s known for colonial French architecture and a vibrant local market scene.
Main airport: Douglas–Charles Airport
Located in the northeast of the island, with connections to major Caribbean hubs.
Aiming to be the world’s first climate-resilient nation
Dominica is building stronger infrastructure, investing in renewables, and banning single-use plastics.
There’s a river for every day of the year
Over 365 rivers wind through Dominica’s mountainous terrain—perfect for kayaking and river tours.
Dominica has nine active volcanoes
The highest concentration in the world. Morne Diablotins is the tallest peak at 1,447 m (4,747 ft).
Many beaches are made of black volcanic sand
Notable ones include Mero Beach, Number One Beach, and Rosalie Bay—dramatic and unforgettable.
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