Central Forest Reserve: Dominica's Lush Heart
Discover Dominica's natural heart: hike through lush rainforest, explore hidden waterfalls, and spot unique wildlife in the Central Forest Reserve.
Established in 1952, the Central Forest Reserve is Dominica's oldest protected rainforest, spanning over 4,000 acres. It's a haven for biodiversity, offering hiking trails, stunning waterfalls like Spanny Falls and Jacko Falls, and a chance to spot the island's native Sisserou parrot.
A brief summary to Central Forest Reserve
- FM2M+284, Mero, DM
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as the trails can be steep and challenging.
- Hire a local guide to learn about the flora, fauna, and history of the reserve.
- Purchase a site pass to support the maintenance and conservation of the park.
- Visit during the dry season (December to April) for the best weather conditions.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Mero Beach for a relaxing swim and local cuisine.
Getting There
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Driving
From Mero, head east towards the main road and follow the signs for the Central Forest Reserve. The drive is approximately 15-20 minutes. Be aware that the roads can be winding and steep in certain sections. Parking is available near the reserve's entrance. A day site pass costs US$5 (EC$13.25), and a week pass costs US$12 (EC$32.04), granting access to multiple government-managed sites. These can be purchased at the Forestry Division in Roseau or at some site entrances.
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Public Transport
From Mero, take a local bus heading towards Pont Casse or Castle Bruce. Inform the driver that you wish to get off at the junction closest to the Central Forest Reserve. From the junction, there may be a short walk to the reserve entrance. Bus fares typically range from EC$2 to EC$11, depending on the distance. Be prepared for potential delays, as bus schedules can be infrequent. A day site pass costs US$5 (EC$13.25), and a week pass costs US$12 (EC$32.04), granting access to multiple government-managed sites. These can be purchased at the Forestry Division in Roseau or at some site entrances.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Mero, a taxi or ride-share to the Central Forest Reserve will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Expect to pay around EC$50-EC$80 for the trip, depending on the taxi company and your negotiation skills. Confirm the price before starting your journey. A day site pass costs US$5 (EC$13.25), and a week pass costs US$12 (EC$32.04), granting access to multiple government-managed sites. These can be purchased at the Forestry Division in Roseau or at some site entrances.
Discover more about Central Forest Reserve
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