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Cabrits National Park: Where History Meets Nature

Explore Dominica's Cabrits National Park: Where history, nature, and breathtaking views converge on a stunning Caribbean peninsula.

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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. The park's highlights include Fort Shirley, an 18th-century British garrison, and scenic hiking trails offering panoramic views.

A brief summary to Cabrits National Park

  • HGPG+G8F, Portsmouth, DM

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails and exploring Fort Shirley.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the park's history and ecology.
  • Pack sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent for protection against the sun and mosquitoes.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Portsmouth, local buses labeled 'Cabrits' or 'Douglas Bay' operate from the main bus station to the Cabrits National Park area. The bus fare is around EC$5-EC$10 per person. The bus will drop you off near the park entrance, from where you can walk to the visitor center and Fort Shirley.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Portsmouth, taxis are readily available to Cabrits National Park. The ride is approximately 10-15 minutes, heading north from the town center. A typical one-way fare should be around EC$20-EC$30. The taxi will drop you off at the park entrance.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Portsmouth, you can walk to Cabrits National Park. From the center of Portsmouth, head north along the main road. The walk is approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) and should take around 20-30 minutes. Follow the signs for Cabrits National Park. Be mindful of traffic and wear comfortable shoes.

Unlock the Best of Cabrits National Park

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Discover more about Cabrits National Park

Cabrits National Park, established in 1986, spans 1,313 acres on the northern end of Dominica, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The park's name, derived from the French word for "goat," references the animals that once roamed the area. The landscape is dominated by the remnants of an ancient volcano, forming the twin peaks of East and West Cabrit. The park was created to safeguard 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 in the Lesser Antilles. Expanded by the French between 1778 and 1784, the fort housed over 600 soldiers and featured barracks, storage facilities, and gun batteries. It was abandoned in 1854 and later restored starting in 1982. The fort is known for the revolt of the 8th West India Regiment in 1802, where African slave soldiers rebelled, contributing to the emancipation of slave soldiers in the British Empire by 1807. Cabrits National Park also protects diverse ecosystems, including coral reefs, tropical forests and wetlands. The coastal fringes are populated with coconut trees, sea grapes and almond trees. The park offers hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, providing stunning views of the coastline and lush rainforest. The marine areas are ideal for snorkeling and diving, teeming with colorful fish and vibrant coral formations.

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