The Best Time to Go to Dominica

The best time to go to Dominica is between December and May. Dominica’s position in the middle of the Caribbean’s Lesser Antilles island chain gives it a year-round tropical climate, ranging from about 26 – 32°C on average. Rainfall here can be heavy and sustained however, with the rainy season lasting from June to November during which precipitation increases month on month, from around 150 – 350mm per day. As most of the rain arrives with the trade winds from the Atlantic to the northeast, the island’s central mountains shield the west coast from the worst of it, with the average annual rainfall measuring just 100cm compared to 700cm in the interior.

Travellers hoping for memorable wildlife sightings will want to time their trip to coincide with the movements of the island’s resident animals. Perhaps the most famous creature associated with Dominica is the sperm whale, with a group of these gigantic cetaceans living in the nearby waters year-round. Our expert-led safaris depart in February, April and August. Three species of sea turtle also come to Dominica to nest between the months of March and October. Leatherbacks, greens and hawksbills come to the southeast and northeast beaches between March and August, but you can also see nesting greens and hawksbills if you head to the west coast from May to October.

January - May

The high season for tourism in Dominica lasts from February to April. Rainfall is lowest during these months, and temperatures average out at around 31°C. This is something to keep in mind if you’re planning on hiking in the interior, as the hot and humid climate can make physically demanding activity a challenge. Diving is great all year though, with water temperatures averaging between 26°C and 28°C. The dry (well, drier) season is also the best time to spot wildlife in the island’s jungles, with snakes slithering through the canopy, raucous birdsong filling the air and more clear skies than during the rainy season. The shoulder months of December and May offer a chance to beat the crowds, but with an increased chance of rainfall.

June - December

The rainy season makes trekking treacherous as the ground turns to mud underfoot, especially due to the steep elevation found in Dominica’s mountainous interior (the country’s highest point is Morne Diablotins, at 4,747 ft). Waterproof gear and protective storage for electronics and notebooks is essential. September and October are often flagged as hurricane months, and most businesses will close their doors as August draws to a close. Temperatures in Dominica stay relatively consistent throughout the year however, so for those looking to take advantage of a time with fewer tourists and lower ticket prices, the rainy season still offers opportunities to explore this beautiful island nation.