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Cabrits National Park: Where History Embraces Nature

Explore Dominica's Cabrits National Park: Where history and nature converge, offering hiking, snorkeling, and historical exploration.

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Cabrits National Park, located on a peninsula north of Portsmouth, Dominica, is a protected area encompassing tropical forests, coral reefs, and wetlands. It's best known for Fort Shirley, an 18th-century British garrison, offering a blend of historical significance and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Cabrits National Park

  • HGPG+G8F, Portsmouth, DM

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails and exploring the fort grounds.
  • Bring swimwear and snorkeling gear to explore the coral reefs and marine life.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for cooler temperatures and softer light.
  • Carry water to stay hydrated, especially when hiking.
  • Check with locals for the best snorkeling spots and current conditions.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Roseau, take a minibus towards Portsmouth. Minibuses depart from the main bus stop in Roseau. The ride to Portsmouth takes approximately 45 minutes. The fare is around EC$2-3. From Portsmouth, you can either walk to the park entrance (about 30 minutes) or take a taxi. A taxi from Portsmouth to the park entrance costs approximately EC$20-30.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Portsmouth, taxis are readily available to Cabrits National Park. Agree on a fare before starting your trip; expect to pay around EC$20-30 for a one-way trip to the park entrance. The ride is approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Walking

    From Portsmouth, you can walk to Cabrits National Park. From the center of Portsmouth, follow the signs to Cabrits National Park. The walk is approximately 30 minutes. Be prepared for a moderately challenging walk with some inclines.

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Discover more about Cabrits National Park

Cabrits National Park, established in 1986, spans 1,313 acres on the northern tip of Dominica. The park's name comes from the French, Spanish, and Portuguese word for "goat," referencing the animals that once roamed the area. The landscape is dominated by the remnants of an extinct volcano, forming East and West Cabrit peaks, and is framed by the coastal stretches of Douglas Bay and Prince Rupert Bay. The park was created to protect both the cultural heritage of Fort Shirley and the surrounding environment. Fort Shirley, constructed in 1765 by the British, served as a crucial military outpost. Expanded by the French between 1778 and 1784, it once housed over 600 soldiers. The fort is known for the revolt of the 8th West India Regiment in 1802, where African soldiers rebelled against British colonial rule, leading to the emancipation of slave soldiers in the British Empire in 1807. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of Fort Shirley, including the officers' quarters, barracks, and ramparts. The park also offers hiking trails through lush forests, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for snorkeling and diving in the coral reefs. The park's diverse landscapes include tropical dry forests, home to unique plant species, and important wetland areas that provide habitats for various plants and animals.

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