Caribbean Islands | Dominica | Adventure, Eco Friendly, Family, Group, Honeymoon, LGBT, Sustainable | Resort, Villa | Beach, Coastal, Forest, Island, Jungle, Mountain | Comfort
To visit Jungle Bay is to embark on an unforgettable experience that conjures memories that last a lifetime. Few resorts are able to deliver the ultimate guest experience without compromising their dedication to the environment, but Jungle Bay ticks all the boxes. Situated by Dominica’s southern coast, you will find yourself nestled between the Caribbean Sea and lush, tropical rainforests, the location perfectly facilitates a varied range of water activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking and reef explorations, while traversing inland will present opportunities for forest hikes and mountain excursions, with a vast network of hiking trails waiting for you to enjoy.
15.2352° N, 61.3637° W
Dominica is an island situated within the Eastern Caribbean, mid-way down the chain of Caribbean islands known as the Lesser Antilles, between the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique. The island is an emerging ecotourism destination which is serviced exclusively by commuter flights and ferry services from other nearby islands. The island is comprised of lush rainforests, with a rich and diverse landscape mixing pristine white sand beachfronts, coves, caves, waterfalls, and elevated passages through the thick Dominican Jungle.
The island has two small airports. Douglas Charles Airport (DOM), the primary airport, situated in the northeast of the island near the town of Marigot. Douglas Charles Airport accommodates propeller driven and Dash Eight aircraft. Canefield Airport (DCF) is a smaller commuter airport near the capital city of Roseau. Canefield accommodates smaller aircraft typically. It is located near the capital city of Roseau, which sits on the southwest side of the island.
- 5-star rated sustainable ecolodge
- Spacious and atmospheric villas with a full range of amenities
- Freshly prepared cuisine from on-site vegetable gardens
- An extensive variety of land and water experiences throughout the island
- World renown spa & yoga facilities
- Guided excursion to the island’s capital of Roseau to visit the iconic local markets
- Numerous hiking activities to suit every level of fitness
- Children are welcome
Jungle Bay is a world-renowned eco resort which has accumulated a variety of awards and distinctions from reputable travel operators and publications worldwide. Jungle Bay is featured in Forbes 10 Best Eco Resorts, Travellers Choice Plus #2 Hotel in the Caribbean 2015 and Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Award for Best Personal Contribution to Responsible Tourism – just to name a few.
The sheer number of experiences on offer on the Island of Dominica is remarkable, as one of the most vibrant and alluring destinations in the Caribbean, ‘Nature Island’ is a diverse landscape rich in vegetation and natural splendour, with sustainable operators such as Jungle Bay going above and beyond to harness the full scope of adventure-based activities inherent to the island.
The official currency of Dominica is the East Caribbean Dollar (XCD), which is fixed to the US Dollar. US Dollars, the Euro and the British Pound are also commonly accepted on the island, but change is usually given in EC Dollars. The climate in Dominica is tropical, with year-round heat and humidity.
The cool and dry season lasts from January to mid-April, with the hot, humid, and rainy season lasting from mid-June to mid-November. Depending on what time you visit Dominica, you may wish to pack appropriately. It’s advisable to bring light and airy apparel to wear throughout the day – such as a shirt and shorts – with a jacket for the cooler evenings. If you plan to embark on an island expedition, it’s important to bring a comfortable set of walking shoes or hiking boots.
These spacious, tastefully designed rooms cover a total area of 400ft2 (37m2). Interior invokes the sensation of the encompassing tropical surroundings, offering a wealth of lavish amenities designed to elevate the guest experience. These rooms are accessible via a footpath that allows you to explore the tropical plant life that marks the way. This unit can accommodate a maximum of 2 guests.
Amenities Include:
- Choice of king-size bed or 2 extra-long single beds
- Jungle spa bathroom with rainfall shower
- Patio
- Lounge
- Ceiling fans
- Luxury eco-friendly shampoos and lotions
- Hairdryer
- Coffee & tea maker
- Mini fridge
- Complimentary WIFI
These suites cover a total area of 800ft2 (74m2), providing ample room for you to unwind amidst the backdrop of an activity packed day. Interior compliments the tropical sights around you, including a wealth of luxury amenities designed to elevate the guest experience. This unit can accommodate a maximum of 2 adults and 2 children, making it the ideal choice for visiting families.
Amenities Include:
- King-size bed
- Jungle spa bathroom with rainfall shower
- Patio
- Chaise Lounge
- Ceiling fans
- Luxury eco-friendly shampoos and lotions
- Hairdryer
- Coffee & tea maker
- Mini fridge
- Complimentary WIFI
Dominica is an island synonymous with fine dining and sumptuous cuisine. Local producers provide top quality organic vegetables, seasonal fruit, honey, coffee, spices, eggs, fish, and more, all of which is delivered almost daily to ensure ultimate freshness. The talented chefs of Jungle Bay are delighted to cater to all food sensitivities and dietary options, comprising gluten-free and lactose-free dishes, including any other special requests you may require. Weekly cooking classes are offered to teach you how to prepare some of the islands most infamous local dishes.
The Calabash Restaurant and Bar overlooks the Caribbean Sea, providing an atmospheric platform with which to enjoy a spot of al fresco, semi-open-air dining amidst the backdrop of picturesque tropical scenery. Exquisite menu selections incorporate influences from contemporary cuisine, adapted to take advantage of the island’s organic ingredients and Caribbean flavour.
Each selection is carefully prepared with a focus on freshness.
Dinner menus alternate each evening, presenting a diverse array of flavourful dishes ranging from the catch of the day (mahi mahi, marlin, kingfish, and tuna), a selection of seafood, chicken, vegetarian options, and a wealth of delicious vegan dishes, all lovingly prepared for you to enjoy.
You will begin your excursion to the Boiling Lake by venturing up an arduous trail through the rainforest where, at the highest level, you will become one with the clouds, followed by a descent into the ominously named Valley of Desolation to cross a hotbed of sulphuric steam. Here, your gaze will fall upon the awe-inspiring Boiling Lake – the second largest of its kind in the world and truly a sight to behold. However, you might want to think twice before taking a dip.
This historically significant hike allows you to retrace the footsteps of Dominica’s “Maroons”. Part of the Perdu Temps trail, this excursion takes approximately 1.5 hours through the forest, comprising mainly flat terrain and the occasional river crossing. The path begins to steepen and narrow as you reach the end, opening up to an area referred to as “paradise” and even “the Garden of Eden.
Here, you’re free to pick fruit from the trees, explore Pump’s isolated organic farm with a large variety of exotic fruits and vegetables, or even tour Pump’s Healing Garden, where you will find an assortment of medicinal plants, flora and fauna. Pump and his family warmly welcome you to their home, which they kindly open to Jungle Bay guests, due to the close relationship they have with Sam – the Owner of Jungle Bay. This tour is a guest favourite and should not be missed.
Explore the misty mountain trail to Middleham Falls, absorbing the sights, sounds and aromas of the lush rainforest vegetation along the way. Jaco parrots are occasionally heard or spotted along this trail. The end of the hike becomes a little steeper as you scramble your way down to the waterfall pool for a refreshing dip. Upon hiking back, you will venture to Trafalgar Falls (twin waterfalls) for a short walk (approx. 15 minutes) and another therapeutic swim. Packed lunch is provided.
The Galion Loop Hike begins at Jungle Bay, from where it descends to the village of Soufriere, connecting Segment 1 of the Waitukubuli Trail. From Soufriere, there is a small, scenic track through the bush and local farmlands to a paved road. This road connects the Village of Soufriere and Galion; a mountain village that is home to the talented stonemasons who helped to develop both Jungle Bay, as well as the stone walls you will see along the roadside. Keep your eyes open for star fruit, wild cashews, mango, and many more exotic fruits.
Dominica is host to a wide and varied array of natural habitats and ecosystems, ranging from tropical forests to bushland environments and savannahs. As such, the island is a birdwatches paradise, with numerous indigenous species waiting for you to discover. Syndicate Nature Reserve is one of the best places to see the most famous Dominican bird: the endemic and endangered Sisserou Parrot.
Embark for the pristine waters of Prince Rupert Bay, where kayaking conditions are among the best in the area. Go southward and you will find a number of undisturbed beaches and rivers to explore. Alternatively, just enjoy being out at sea by yourselves, under the warm Caribbean sun, soaking up the dramatic Dominican landscape.
Champaign Reef is part of a marine reserve that is home to numerous species of marine life. The vibrant coral reef, with all its aquatic inhabitants are close to the shoreline, making this a great experience for people with varying degrees of snorkelling capabilities. An experience that’s not to be missed.
As seen on a map of the island, Dominica is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean at one side, and the Caribbean Sea on the other. At Scotts Head, you have the chance to stand between ocean and sea on a narrow strip of land that separates these two different bodies of water.
Snorkel the turquoise waters in the Soufriere-Scott’s Head Marine Reserve (SSMR) to see the amazing colourful fish, sponges, coral and more that makes this one of the top award-winning marine reserves in the Caribbean.
Dominica is among the top 5 diving destinations in the Caribbean, ranked among the top 10 in the world with a variety of sights appropriate for avid divers and upstarts alike. Much less visited than other dive areas around Dominica, the north offers up a range of secluded reefs that will likely be yours to explore alone. The limited number of visitors ensures the vitality of the coral life and sponges present in the area.
Dominica’s underwater landscape provides the perfect habitat for whales and dolphins to live and breed. Peak whale spotting season last from November to March. However, whales can be seen year-round off Dominica’s coast. Whale tour operators boat an impressive 90% success rate when scouting these majestic ocean behemoths, with sightings of whale and dolphin species including sperm, pygmy sperm, pilot whales, spotted dolphin and Atlantic spinner dolphin, amongst others.
Embark for the local village, absorbing the sights, sounds and aromas around you. Observe the traditional techniques that are still practiced to this day in the processing of bay oil or visit a staple farm high in the hills where you will have the chance to sample exotic fruits you may not have even known existed.
Learn a traditional dance and try your hand at traditional Caribbean drumming, or why not watch how rum is traditionally distilled – and try a sip for yourself. These and many other rich community experiences can be available through Jungle Bay as your base to explore from.
Jungle Bay is committed to ecotourism philosophy and as such the community encounters are designed to be respectful to the residents and are a value added for both travellers and hosts. Please be courteous during your village visits and ask permission before taking photos.
Roseau, Dominica’s quaint and soulful capital feels lost in time. Visit on Saturday morning when the streets are packed with merchants and customers. The bustling passages are lined with exotic fruits, vegetables, flowers, and spices. Soak up the atmosphere of this warm and friendly environment, with a unique and authentic market feel you won’t find anywhere else.
The Kalinago are one of the last pre-Columbian populations in the Caribbean who live in eight villages across the Kalinago Territory on the East Coast of the island, having kept much of their traditional culture and indigenous way of life. Here, you can visit the Kalinago Barana Auté (Cultural Village) and stop at the craft stalls for beautiful traditional handiwork including lovely woven straw baskets.
Jungle Bay’s Bamboo Spa overlooks the Caribbean Sea, featuring 14 private spa suites for various blissful wellness therapies. Professional spa therapists are trained to top international standards and will treat you to memorable experiences including massages, pedicures, foot therapy, manicures, and facials to revitalise your body and spirit.
These relaxing therapies are inspired by ancient traditions, blending natural ingredients to bring the body into balance and harmony. The island’s forefathers introduced their philosophy on wellness and healing treatments, which is share with guests through indulgent spa experiences. There are few better ways to unwind after a full day’s adventure than that of a rejuvenating session at Jungle Bay’s renowned Bamboo Spa. Treatments include private massages, romantic couples’ massages, facials, foot care and nail care.
You are invited to participate in one of Jungle Bay’s infamously tranquil and peaceful morning yoga classes. From beginner to moderate level practices, there are exercises, techniques, and routines to appeal to everyone. Yoga classes are included in the Wellness Adventure Package.
Private afternoon yoga and meditation classes can also be arranged. Wellness professionals are invited to bring their own group retreats to Jungle Bay, a location frequented by yoga instructors from around the globe. Jungle Bay’s Signature Yoga Studios feature rustic luxury stone walls, polished hardwood floors, large windows and fourteen-foot ceilings that overlook the Caribbean Sea. Such spaces offer both a dramatic view and relaxing sounds of nature.
Jungle Bay’s focus is on maximum community participation and contribution to biodiversity conservation with minimal environmental disturbance. While providing guest with phenomenal tourism experiences, it’s essential to provide meaningful employment to develop local capacity and support social programmes that improve the standard of living for indigenous communities and ensure environmental protection.
The Jungle Bay community fund is comprised of donations from guests, staff (who generously donate 10% of their tips) and lodge owners who together commit to supporting a variety of community needs. Each September, Jungle Bay hosts a Travel Philanthropy Day, whereby people from the surrounding communities gather to commemorate the “Jungle Bay Spirit” of supporting the social development of local villages. This event highlights the initiatives and contributions undertaken that help empower less fortunate people within the community.
In order to further develop the local economy and preserve cultural heritage, Jungle Bay has undertaken a series of initiatives aimed at nurturing and assisting sustainable elements in the tourism sector. For instance, food is purchased from nearby organic farmers and small-scale fisheries.
This helps to support local merchants, creates a higher volume of local jobs and increases the freshness and quality of the food served at the resort. All foodstuffs used in the resort, such as honey, fruits, vegetables, eggs, fish, and coffee come from local producers who are mentored in sustainable agriculture – helping local merchants make meaningful income for their families and communities. Additionally, Jungle Bay also mentors’ artisans, spa product producers and more, providing the opportunity to sell fair trade products in the resort gift shop.
The pharmacy field school rotation, which started in 2008, invites 15 US students and professors for two weeks at a time to learn about health care in Dominica, facilitating volunteer work in rural clinics. Prior to the trips, students collect medical supplies from US pharmacies to supplement the rural health clinics. In 2012 alone, Jungle Bay achieved a collective donation of over US$50,000 worth of medical supplies. These contributions are invaluable to local communities who often times, without intervention, are forced to do without.
Jungle Bay was a founding partner of Open Books, Open Minds – Leave a Book Behind. A literacy project bringing 250 books per year to hundreds of primary school students in seven schools situated within the southeast of Dominica.
One school went from having among the lowest literacy rates on the island to the highest, according to the Ministry of Education. On an island where many individuals struggle to access adequate levels of formal education, due to lack of facility, availability, funding or accessibility, initiatives such as these go a long way in terms of educational development.
The House of Hope is a community-operated facility for indigent children and young adults with severe disabilities located in the southeast of Dominica. Thanks to a generous contribution of over US$40,000 from Jungle Bay, the contribution to the needy has surpassed all expectations, providing the salaries necessary for 24-hour supervision and care of all patients, as well as other provisions such as food and accommodation.
Sports and recreation are important to the development of children for fitness, community-building, and the development of team skills. Jungle Bay has been contributing sports equipment to teams in closely situated villages since 2006, providing well-needed equipment to communities who would otherwise struggle to manage themselves.
Since 2010, Jungle Bay has been a founder and key partner in the Emerging Entrepreneur and Business Mentor Retreat. This is a collaborative effort of Waitukubuli Entrepreneurs Levé (WEL), Jungle Bay, Dominica Youth Business Trust, and Invest Dominica, with support from additional individual and corporate sponsors, aimed at celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW).
This initiative provides financial benefits to communities in Dominica’s southeast, helping to develop a range of transferable construction skills in a timely manner to local residents who were forced to transition after the decline of the banana trade.
With unemployment rates in Dominica near 25%, its critical to provide business training and mentorship to young adults on the island in order to stimulate the creation of new businesses; many of which can be connected to the ecotourism industry as suppliers or service providers. To date, 32 entrepreneurs are in business thanks to this innovative and important programme, with 123 individuals having benefited through participation.
Jungle Bay is dedicated to supporting local infrastructure and addressing community needs that might otherwise be overlooked with the necessity of improving more overarching social issues such as healthcare and education. One such project saw the provision of piped water into under-serviced areas of villages where elderly or disabled people are unable to collect water and haul it long distances themselves, providing additional support towards the alleviation of poverty.
These initiatives, headed by owners Sam & Glenda Raphael seeks to further develop local capacity for the economic opportunities that Jungle Bay brings to the area, as well as to help ensure the environmental protection of the area through the development of environmentally productive measures.
These measures include the development of walking trails, tour guide training, working with schools and young people with respect to conservation issues and working in partnership for the development of the turtle conservation, as well as promoting turtle watching as a viable tourist attraction.
In 2006, Jungle Bay launched the Southeast Entrepreneur Loan Fund (SELF), which allowed local entrepreneurs to borrow up to EC$12,000 each for business ventures such as organic produce, seafood, local arts and crafts production and guiding of cultural tours and hikes that can contribute to the Jungle Bay services. The incentivisation of entrepreneurship has thus far proven a great success, helping to better the lives and income of local communities, as well as giving a much-needed boost to local economies.
From 2005 – 2008, Jungle Bay committed to financing high school tuition fees for all 200+ students in the Kalinago Territory, the Caribbean’s last remaining indigenous Amerindian peoples. Not only is it important for indigenous citizens to receive a formal education, but to do so in such a way that empowers their local customs, tradition, and language, which is a fundamental aspect of the tuition. Additionally, With the generous help of guests Sue McMillan & John McDonald, Jungle Bay has started a scholarship fund to assist students in financing their secondary education in Dominica.
Jungle Bay was cleverly designed with a consciousness for the environment in mind. The resort is constructed from primarily locally sourced and recyclable materials, negating the need to haul vast quantities of raw construction materials long distances through undisturbed wilderness areas. This ensures that the damage to the surrounding ecosystems is negated to a large extent and offset by the environmental measures taken.
Jungle Bay has reduced its carbon footprint by approximately 35% when compared with traditional resorts found on Nature Island. This achievement is attributed to various initiatives within the resort aimed at conserving resources such as power, installing energy efficient appliances wherever possible and closely monitoring energy and water usage to maintain a comparatively low output, thereby placing less stress on the surrounding natural environment.
Jungle Bay Works with community members to facilitate trails to be stewards of the environment, running beach clean-ups to reduce the hazards posed on sea turtles, all while educating communities about the importance of sea turtle and ocean conservation.
Jungle Bay is one of the few properties certified at the highest level for sustainable tourism & quality standards with Dominica’s Nature Island Standards of Excellence (NISE). In order to achieve such a certification, certain criteria relation to sustainable and eco friendly practices must be met, with many factors taken into consideration, such as carbon footprint/emissions, energy and water usage and general, miscellaneous efforts to conserve the natural environment.
One of many examples of stewardship is Jungle Bay’s contribution to the book “Plants of Dominica’s Southeast”, published in partnership with the Southeast Tourism Development Committee (SETDC), UNESCO and local botanists.
Jungle Bay welcomes families with children of all ages. Children up to 2 years old stay for free when using an available cot.