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There’s no more powerful way to feel the pulse of island life than by visiting the Kalinago Territory, home of Dominica’s Indigenous people. These descendants of the island’s first inhabitants live in harmony with nature, inviting visitors to experience a way of life deeply rooted in the gifts of the land, ocean, and sky.

Known historically as the Caribs, the Kalinago are believed to have migrated from South America thousands of years ago. They are the last surviving community of the pre-Columbian Carib peoples, with ancestral ties reaching back to around 3000 B.C.

Their lives changed forever with the arrival of Christopher Columbus and, later, waves of European colonizers. Fierce and determined, the Kalinago fought to protect their land, culture, and independence. Over time, they retreated to Dominica’s remote eastern coast, preserving their heritage in a region that became their refuge.

In 1763, when the British claimed full control of Dominica, the Kalinago were allocated 232 acres of land—then called the Carib Reserve. This was expanded to 3,700 acres in 1903, forming the area now known as the Kalinago Territory.

Visiting today offers more than just a cultural exchange—it’s a reconnection with an ancient rhythm of life. Through their songs, dances, and traditional crafts—like basket weaving, canoe carving, pottery, and woodwork—you can glimpse the wisdom and resilience of a community that has endured for millennia.

Spend time here and you’ll see how life can be built from earth, water, and hands. Homes are constructed from natural materials, meals are prepared from scratch, and music comes from the beat of drums, the hum of handmade instruments, and the harmony of voices raised together.

Even the Kalinago name for Dominica—Waitukubuli, meaning “tall is her body”—reveals their reverence for the island’s form and spirit.

Guided experiences within the territory offer everything from nature walks along the Asulukati River and its waterfall, to scenic hikes up Kabet’s peak. Whether you’re interested in a short afternoon visit or an immersive overnight stay in a traditional cottage, the opportunity to step into living history is entirely yours to shape.