tripPhoto
2019 will be our inaugural trip!

Dominica

Want to escape the cold of winter but not so much into an all-inclusive beach resort? Ahhhh but imagine being in a warm, sunny climate instead of in the cold, dark dreary winter. Well, have we found the place for an adventurer such as yourself – DOMINICA!

 

No, not the Dominican Republic – DOMINICA. 

 

Nestled between Guadeloupe and Martinique, Dominica proudly proclaims itself as the Nature Island. Mountainous peaks up to 1450m, 12 major waterfalls, a river for every day of the year and over a thousand flowering plants, Dominica is a hiker’s paradise and a diver’s dream. It is the trailhead to adventure and discovery, unlike any other Caribbean destination. No major hotel chains, no fast food outlets, no casinos or boardwalks here. Its volcanic peaks shoot out of the sea, its geothermal activity and underwater champagne springs creating mystique for adventure travellers. It is a rush of sparkling waterfalls, gushing streams and rainforest canopies. It’s a celebration of music, art and flowers and home to two endemic species of parrots found nowhere else in the world.

 

Dominica’s interior is as rugged as it is charming, so strap on those hiking boots. Our program will take us to Middleham Falls & Boeri Lake and through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Morne Trois Pitons National Park for an unforgettable hike to Boiling Lake. We’ve also included segments of the Caribbean’s first long-distance hiking trail, the Waitukubuli National Trail, Dominica’s pride & joy. Join us as we feast on Creole cuisine, go birding for Sisserous and Jacos (wild parrots) and walk amongst the butterflies and heliconias.

 

Our home will be the ocean-front FORT YOUNG HOTEL in the capital of Roseau. Built around the walls of the old 18th century fort, many of the original features have been retained, however, modern facilities have now been added, making it a little oasis of comfort after a day of exploration. It has a swimming pool and outdoor dining, and all rooms face west for breathtaking evening sunsets.

 

This island is tailor-made for exploring; the weather is consistently sunny, the views are magnificent and the people are wonderfully hospitable. If you have an adventurous spirit and are looking for an unspoiled hiking experience, you cannot top Dominica!

 

Note: Comfortable Hiking Holidays is re-introducing Dominica after a 10-year hiatus. This is a completely new and exciting program, so even if you’ve been here before, it’s worth coming again!

 

 

Dates

February 9 to 17, 2019

Grade

Moderate to Challenging

What's Included

- 8 nights' hotel accommodations
- 8 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
- 5 guided hikes
- Site passes and trail permits
- Snorkeling excursion
- All entry fees for attractions per itinerary
- Ground transportation and transfers

Cost

$2450 USD land

For this trip, we believe that pricing in U.S. dollars is the fairest way to offer you the best rates - with no artificial inflation of prices or lack of protection against fluctuations in exchange rates.

Send $300 deposit to reserve - balance is payable December 11, 2018.

My Own Room

If you would like to share accommodations, we offer a roommate pairing service. If there is another solo traveller looking to share accommodations, we will pair the two of you up together; in this case there would be no single supplement to pay.

If you would like to have your own room (or if a roommate is not available), then the single supplement would apply.

The cost of the single supplement for this holiday is $525 USD.

Meeting Times/Places

February 9, 2019
The meeting place and time is the DOMINICA (DOM) airport at 18:00
We have organized our own bus to take us from the Dominica airport to the hotel in Roseau, which is about 1 hour away
If you arrive before that, you are welcome to wait for our complimentary bus to Roseau. Alternatively, you could make your own way to Roseau. A taxi will cost in the neighbourhood of $80 USD.
If you arrive after this time, you will have to make your own way to Avignon. A taxi will cost in the neighbourhood of $80 USD.


February 17, 2019
Our complimentary bus will leave the hotel in Roseau at 08:00 and will arrive at the DOMINICA (DOM) airport at 09:00.
This will get you to the airport early enough to catch flights leaving at 11:00 and onwards
If you are on a later flight and don’t wish to go to the airport early, you could take a taxi to the airport or the train/bus. A taxi will cost in the neighbourhood of $80 USD.

Status

This trip is full but we would be pleased to add your name to the waitlist.

  • Daily Synopsis

  • Map

  • Photo Gallery

  • Accolades

  • Waitlist

  • Terms & Conditions

Daily Synopsis

Day 1

HELLO SUNSHINE!
Upon arrival into Dominica, we shall transfer from the airport to our hotel in the capital of Roseau.

Day 2

MIDDLEHAM FALLS & BOERI LAKE
Hike in Morne Trois Pitons NP, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, through pristine rainforest to Middleham Falls. Middleham Falls are striking, with a narrow stream dropping about 85m from a keyhole notch in the lip of the cliff. (Moderate-challenging, 5 km)
Lunch will be by the shores of Freshwater Lake.
In the afternoon, hike to nearby Boeri Lake, Dominica's highest mountain lake (853m). (Moderate, 3km)

Day 3

WAITUKUBULI NATIONAL TRAIL / SEGMENT 2
A good opportunity to see "real life" in Dominica ... Beginning in the community of Bellevue Chopin, the trail quickly leads through thick rainforest and eventually gives way to farmland, showcasing livestock and small-scale agricultural farming. Wind through the communities of Tete Morne and Grand Bay before descending to the Soufriere Sulphur Springs for an invigorating bath in naturally heated, mineralized water. (Moderate-challenging, 13km)

Day 4

SNORKELING IN MORNING/AFTERNOON AT LEISURE
The snorkeling in Dominica is fabulous. The water is usually crystal clear with tons of marine life. Cruise south toward the Soufriere Scottshead Marine Reserve along the west coast of Dominica. Moor at Champagne Reef, where bubbles emerge from the water, making you feel as though you are swimming through a glass of Champagne!
The rest of the day is at your leisure.

Day 5

WAITUKUBULI NATIONAL TRAIL / SEGMENT 13
This hike follows the northernmost coast of the island of Dominica with sweeping views of the Guadeloupe Channel and the islands of Marie Galante, Les Saints and Guadeloupe in the distance. (Moderate, 7km)
Then transfer to Toucari Bay for a late lunch on the beach along with a swim in the sea. You can't go to the Caribbean without going to the beach!

Day 6

BOILING LAKE
This hike starts at Titou Gorge and winds its way through Morne Trois Pitons NP to the summit of Morne Nicholls. Then descend into the Valley of Desolation, stripped of all vegetation but alive with sulphur streams, bubbling waters and rocks the colour of stained-glass windows. Then it's onwards to Boiling Lake - the second largest of its kind in the world. The way back is just as challenging as the way here, but the reward is a refreshing dip in the pools back at the Titou Gorge starting point. Although this is a demanding hike, those who conquer Boiling Lake wear it as a badge of honour. (Very challenging, 13 km)

Day 7

DAY OF LEISURE
This is a great day to relax, especially at the hotel's swimming pool or on the lanai overlooking the Caribbean. However, there is lots more to see & do in Dominica, which we can help you organize.

Day 8

WAITUKUBULI NATIONAL TRAIL / SEGMENT 6
Dominica's indigenous people are the native Kalinago, who called their island Wait'tukubuli, meaning "Tall is her body". This segment of the trail takes us along the eastern coast of the island, through Kalinago territory, showcasing their culture and lifestyle, and with amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean. (Moderate-challenging, 10km)

Day 9

GOOD-BYE DOMINICA

 

Interactive Trip Map

 

Click on the interactive map to see where we'll be hiking.

 

Select satellite view to get even more detail.

 

Photo Gallery

We have some great photos of previous tours of this location.
Click on the photo gallery link to view the gallery.

 

polaroids

What an experience!

 

2019 will be our inaugural trip!

 

Make a Reservation

We're so glad you've decided to take a trip with us! We will do our very best to ensure you have a great time. Thank you for your business and we look forward to seeing you.

Please fill out the registration form below.

It is important that you read the Terms and Conditions before completing this form.

Note that this trip is currently full but you can complete the registration form to get your name on the waitlist.

Destination

Dominica

Dates

February 9 to 17, 2019

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Dietary Notes:


Insurance

Medical and cancellation/interruption insurance is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED for all our tours and can be arranged through our offices. We work with Allianz Global Assistance.


I understand that by not purchasing Allianz Global Assistance offered by Comfortable Hiking Holidays, I may be exposed to financial losses ranging from the full price of my trip to the unknown costs of trip interruption/cancellation or out of province medical care. I waive any liability against Comfortable Hiking Holidays or Vision Travel DT Ontario-West Inc. for any costs I incur as a result of my choice not to purchase this travel insurance.
I hereby decline any Allianz Global Assistance coverage offered by Comfortable Hiking Holidays.

Travel Waiver and Release

On this date, I requested that Comfortable Hiking Holidays, an independent contractor (the 'IC') with Vision Travel DT Ontario-West Inc., make one or more travel arrangements (booking of flights; lodging; car rental; etc.) on my behalf as well as on behalf of my family/travel companions. Direct Travel Inc., its officers, directors, employees, advisors and contractors, including Independent Contractors, are hereinafter called 'Agency'.

I acknowledge that travel plans made for me/us by the Agency may be delayed, interrupted, or cancelled by service providers (airlines, cruise lines, lodging, etc.). I also acknowledge travel plans may be delayed, interrupted or cancelled by acts of God, by actions of government entities or by other third-party entities over which the Agency has no control. I further acknowledge that the service provider’s own cancellation, rebooking and refund policies, subject to any applicable current and future laws, will govern my rights and remedies, including my right to receive a refund, in such an event.

Moreover, I understand that should I elect to purchase travel protection plan, the terms of the individual policy I have chosen will dictate whether, and to what extent, coverage for any financial loss may exist under these circumstances.

By agreeing to these terms, I hereby agree to hold the Agency harmless and release it from any and all liability for any damages, including but not limited to monetary losses, I may incur as a result of such interruption or cancellation of these travel arrangements.

I agree to these terms.

 

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No space will be held until deposit is paid.

Terms & Conditions

 

RESERVATIONS AND PAYMENTS

A deposit is required at the time of booking (see individual trips for amount required for deposit). The balance is due 60 days prior to departure unless otherwise specified. Late payments causing penalties to be levied by the airlines or any other supplier shall be the responsibility of the traveller.

 

Reservations are to be made online. We accept credit cards and personal cheques (payable to Comfortable Hiking Holidays). If paying by cheque, mail cheque along with a reservation form to:

 

Maddalena Molino

Comfortable Hiking Holidays

251 Consumers Road, 7th floor

Toronto, ON  M2J 4R3  Canada

 

6079113 Canada Inc., doing business as Comfortable Hiking Holidays, is an independent travel affiliate with Vision Travel DT Ontario-West Inc., a Canada corporation registered under the Ontario Travel Industry Act, 2002 Registration Nos. 50023501 and 50023502.

 

 

DEPOSITS AND CANCELLATIONS

All deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable.

 

Comfortable Hiking Holidays will base the decision whether or not to proceed with a trip taking into account several key factors, including but not limited to: the Canadian government’s travel advisory, the state of entry/exit requirements in each specific country, as well as the overall COVID-19 situation at that time. Rest assured, that our number one priority remains the safety and well-being of all our guests.

 

After the balance has been paid, refund will be made (less $50 per person and less any incurred charges by hotels, airlines etc.) if YOU can find a replacement person. If no replacement is found, then all monies paid will be forfeited. No refund for any unused portion of a trip. All cancellations are only considered to have been received on the date of receipt of written cancellation in the office of Comfortable Hiking Holidays.

 

If we are forced to cancel a holiday, Comfortable Hiking Holidays will endeavour to recoup any monies already paid, however full refunds are not guaranteed.

 

AIRFARE

Group airfare is not offered for any of our trips, but we can recommend and book flights for you. We can accommodate any itinerary that suits you and from any city, including stopovers. There is a service fee for booking flights, which is not included in the cost of the tour package. 

 

Should you decide to book your own flights (which is not a problem at all), Comfortable Hiking Holidays will provide a meeting time and place for you. It will be your responsibility to ensure that you coordinate your schedule to fit with the trip’s itinerary, so that you can take advantage of transfers between airports and hotels together with the group.

 

Do not book your airfare until you check with Comfortable Hiking Holidays that we have the minimum number of participants to move ahead with the trip. Comfortable Hiking Holidays is not financially responsible for additional expenses incurred by you (such as non-refundable airline tickets) should a trip be cancelled.

 

Call us to discuss and we will tailor your flights to meet your needs.

 

TAXES

H.S.T.

The Harmonized Sales Tax will be added to all trips taking place in Canada.

 

INSURANCE

Medical and cancellation insurance is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED and can be arranged through our offices; we work with Allianz Global Assistance. If insurance is declined, a signed form will be required.

 

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS AND HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

Should a participant fall ill with Covid while on the tour, the participant will be expected to isolate themselves until they have recovered or have a negative Covid test. This may require a change of hotels or even hospitalization. Such additional costs associated with care, isolation, and repatriation if necessary will be borne by the participant him/herself and/or his/her travel insurance. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed.

 

It is the traveller’s responsibility to determine what documentation is necessary for each country to be visited. All Canadian and U.S. citizens require valid passports for travel. It is recommended and sometimes necessary that passports have a minimum of 6 months to expiry. Other nationalities should check with Comfortable Hiking Holidays. For more information on travel requirements per country, visit www.voyage.gc.ca.

 

It is imperative that the traveller discloses to Comfortable Hiking Holidays any medical condition(s) that may affect his/her ability to complete the hike and/or tour. Examples include (but are not limited to): allergies, ailments, diseases, medical conditions, special diets, medications and so forth. This information will be kept strictly confidential.

 

Our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, but if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely partake in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, they are authorized to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity. Although rarely enforced, by booking this trip you agree that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these circumstances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be responsible for additional costs incurred.

 

In booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described. If you have any doubt about your abilities, please call us to discuss.

 

FOREIGN EXCHANGE

Prices are quoted are in CANADIAN DOLLARS (with some exceptions which are quoted in USD). They were calculated based on the exchange rates at the tme of publishing and are subject to change without notice. Should tour costs increase, Comfortable Hiking Holidays reserves the right to increase the price accordingly. If the price change is more than 7% of the total price for the travel services (except for a price change that is a result of Government Taxation), you are entitled to cancel if you wish, with full refund. You must notify us of your intention at least 48 hours after notification or if the change is a last minute change, within 24 hours of notification.

 

ACCOMMODATIONS

Prices quoted are for shared accommodations (two to a room). A roommate will be arranged  when possible, otherwise the single supplement will apply. Single rooms are available on most holidays; cost for the single supplement is available on request.

 

PHOTOGRAPHS

The scenery is always picture-worthy so please take as many photos as you wish. We will do the same, but please note that it is customary for us to use photographs taken on actual hikes for our promotional materials. If you do not wish to have your photo used in any of our promotional materials, please inform your hike leader at the BEGINNING OF THE TRIP.

 

SMOKING

As the great majority of trip participants do not smoke, those who do are requested to refrain from smoking while with the group (e.g. on the bus, during the hikes, at meals, in the bar and in your room if sharing with a non-smoker).

 

CHILDREN

All participants must be at least 18 years of age.

 

SITE ACCURACY

Comfortable Hiking Holidays has attempted to make this site accurate. However, changes might occur for reasons beyond the control of Comfortable Hiking Holidays. In addition, the right is reserved to substitute hotels or change the itinerary when necessary, provided the travel facilities or other services are of at least the same standard or value.

 

HIKE LEADERS

All of our leaders are experienced hikers and have had first aid training. A representative of C.H.H. will accompany all of the trips (unless otherwise specified) to ensure they run smoothly and efficiently. Our hike leaders will be your guides on most holidays, but in some cases we will use local guides. C.H.H. reserves the right to make changes in hike leaders when necessary.

 

FORCE MAJEURE

Neither Comfortable Hiking Holidays nor Vision Travel shall be liable for any claims, losses, damages, costs, expenses, delays or loss of enjoyment of any nature or kind whatsoever, resulting from events beyond their control or a supplier’s reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, strikes, lockouts or other labour disputes or disruptions, wars, blockades, insurrections, riots, terrorist acts, fire, earthquakes, weather conditions, storms, hurricanes, flood, civil or military authority, government requirement or restriction, disease, epidemic or pandemic.

 

OPERATOR'S RESPONSIBILITY

Comfortable Hiking Holidays and Vision Travel the operators, its agents, and/or suppliers of services act only as agents for the traveler and accept no responsibility for services of any hotel, aircraft, vessel, train, motor coach or any other conveyance used in connection with these tours, nor any delays, loss or accident to travelers or baggage occasioned by such services, from whatsoever cause. In the event it becomes necessary due to changes by supplier's airlines, or for the comfort or well being of passengers, or for any other reason, to alter the itinerary or arrangements, such alterations may be made without penalty to the operator. The extra cost, if any, resulting therefore, shall be paid by the tour members. Conversely, refunds will be made to passengers if any savings are effected thereby. The right is reserved to cancel any tour and to decline to accept any person as a member of the tour, at any time. Acceptance of the initial service to be provided under the tour shall be considered an acceptance of all these conditions. There may be different living standards and practices and different standards and conditions with respect to the provision of utilities, services and accommodations outside Ontario. Climate conditions may affect the provisions of services and the accommodations included in our tours. Accommodations offered in the tour are, to the best of our knowledge, available at the time of printing and accurately described.

 

TRAVEL WAIVER

Participants are required to sign a “Travel Waiver” form, which acknowledges that your travel plans may be interrupted or cancelled through no fault of ours, and as such you may or may not be eligible for a refund should things go awry as they did in 2020.

 

AIRLINE CLAUSE

The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omissions or event during the time the passengers are not on board the aircraft. The Passenger Ticket in use by the airline(s) when issued constitutes the sole contract between the airline(s) and the purchase of the ticket and/or passenger.

 

Although every precaution is taken for your safety, this type of excursion involves, by its very nature, a certain amount of risk. All participants are therefore required to sign a form releasing Comfortable Hiking Holidays and Vision Travel of all liability.

 

Effective September 7, 2023, until further notice.