Dominica Safaris

With tranquil clear waters and some of the best snorkelling in the windward islands, Dominica is the hidden diamond of the eastern Caribbean. A volcanic island under a coating of verdant green forest, alive with exotic birds and bizaree insects, Dominica is still wild and remote with untamed forests complimented by white-sand beaches and a host of incredible activities. It is also one of the only places in the world where you can swim besides some of the ocean’s giants including the majestic sperm whale, with highly-sought-after permits and dedicated guides. Natural World Safaris is one of the few travel operators with access to arrange these incredible experiences.

Spared mass tourism due to it having only a few white sand beaches, the island of Dominica also scarcely has any big resorts or flashy hotels. Pristine and relatively untouched, Dominica is the jewel of the Caribbean crown, becoming the towering arc of the Carribean archipelago, with its highest peak at nearly 1,500 metres tall. Today, Dominica is a republic in the British Commonwealth, gaining independence from the UK in 1978. Whilst the island retains cultural history from British and French colonialism, territory is reserved for its much older Carib inhabitants. Preservation of natural order and heritage extends far across Dominica’s ethos, because of this it is fondly referred to as the ‘Nature Island of the Caribbean’. From the champagne reefs to hidden waterfalls, this enchanting island of forested volcanic peaks is an authentic slice of Caribbean paradise.

Why NWS for your Dominica safari?

Since 2017 NWS has been sending clients to Dominica to experience swimming with some of the most relaxed marine mammals in the world. Our sperm whale safaris offer you the chance to swim with, and be photographed alongside, these gentle giants as they congregate in the warm Dominican waters, and spend time in a tropical Caribbean paradise. Travelling to the idyllic island with one of our specialist guides and photographers – Patrick Dykstra, Joshua Barton or Rita Messing – has made for an unforgettable wildlife experience each year since release.

We create small group journeys which are led personally by our selected property’s owners or their own hand-picked guides. With group sizes reaching up to just four guests at a time, this ensures quality time with the whales and guides whilst allowing the whales to remain undisturbed. Meet other like-minded travelers over a shared dinner for an even richer experience whilst you experience not just Dominica as a tourist destination, but benefit from a deep immersion into nature and the local culture for some spectacular gems. By taking part in this once-in-a-lifetime expedition, you’ll not only have the chance to become one of the few people privileged enough to swim with sperm whales, but you’ll also contribute towards marine conservation. A portion of funds from each trip are donated to the Dominican people, whose island was devastated by Hurricane Maria in 2017. Our Specialist Leader Patrick Dykstra is keenly involved with community work in Dominica, bringing schoolchildren out on boats to experience their country’s stunning marine life for themselves. We are proud that our safaris help Patrick to achieve this admirable goal.

How much does Dominica cost?

Typically, expect to budget around $9500 per person for a 7-day safari in Dominica. This will generally include food and beverages, excursions and whale permits to swim beside sperm whales with our renowned marine guides.