Site Profiles
Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Dominica
A most unusual and unique Caribbean ecosystem
Dominica is the most rugged and mountainous of the Caribbean islands. In the center of a 1,342 meter volcano is Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Dominica’s first National Park and one of only three UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Eastern Caribbean.
In 1997, Morne Trois Pitons National Park was designated a natural World Heritage Site for its diverse flora, endemic plants species, volcanoes, rivers and waterfalls. Morne Trois Pitons – or the “mountains of three peaks” – is named after the spike-like remains of a former volcano. The Park also contains the Valley of Desolation with hot springs; Boiling Lake, the second largest of its kind; Emerald Pool; and Stinking Hole – a lava tube in the middle of the forest.
Untouched by commercial development
Dominica is poised to be a popular sustainable tourism destination because of its unique terrain and its virtually undeveloped land. Most visitors come to Dominica to enjoy hiking and mountain climbing, a rarity amidst the white sand beaches of neighboring Caribbean islands. The island is still building its tourism industry and has avoided the mega resorts and chain hotels of other islands. In fact, Dominica’s unspoiled splendor has attracted major motion picture companies to film its pristine beaches and mountains.
Dominica also holds a longstanding commitment to sustainable tourism, including the local residents who make their livelihoods by sharing the island’s unique beauty to visitors using environmentally-sustainable practices. The mission of Dominica’s Ministry of Tourism is to “pursue sustainable tourism that enriches the lives of all citizens by creating economic, social and cultural opportunities, protecting the natural resources and scenic, heritage and cultural features of the country, nurturing community involvement in tourism at sustainable levels, and by creating career paths for the young people of Dominica.”
World Heritage Alliance members in Dominica offer their guests the chance to experience wild nature, authentic culture and warm hospitality; all while supporting cultural preservation, the local economy, and environmental conservation of the island and its residents. Here are just a few ways that they are committed to sustainable business practices:
| While you enjoy... | You support Dominica by... |
| Your fresh, tasty morning coffee | Giving business to local bean growers, roasters and grinders |
| Authentic tours with certified guides | Following paths for safety and conservation reasons |
| Visting Morne Trois Pitons National Park | Supporting park rangers and ongoing conservation with your entrance fee |
| Purchasing local crafts | Helping artisans continue their tradition of producing authentic, quality producs instead of selling imported souvenirs |
| Luxurious spa treatments | Creating a market for naturla ingredients in spa products and traditional healing practices |
| Eating local cuisine | Supporting local fishermen, organic farmers, and talented chefs and waitstaff, reducing the need for imported products. And, it's fresh and delicious! |
| Sharing tips and gratuities | Rewarding good service, and can go a long way, For example, the staff at Jungle Bay Resort volunteer 10% of their tips to local community projects such as building a nearby orphanage, supporting schools and conservation efforts. The resort owners match their staffs contributions. |
| Dominica's famously warm hospitality | Sharing the locals' love for their country and pride in their heritage. |
For a list of sustainable tourism projects supported by the Ministry of Tourism, click here.
"Luxuriant natural tropical forest blends with volcanic features of high scenic appeal and scientific interest... With its precipitous slopes and deeply-incised valleys, fifty fumaroles and hot springs, freshwater lakes, a "boiling lake" and five volcanoes...together with the richest biodiversity in the Lesser Antilles, Morne Trois Pitons National Park presents a rare combination of natural features of World Heritage value. "—UNESCO World Heritage Centre
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