Titou Gorge: A Swim Through Dominica's Volcanic Heart
Swim through a volcanic canyon to a hidden waterfall in Dominica's stunning Titou Gorge, a Caribbean gem and 'Pirates of the Caribbean' filming location.
Titou Gorge is a natural wonder carved into the lush highlands of Dominica, within Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The gorge, aptly named 'little throat' in Creole, invites adventurers to swim through its narrow volcanic canyon. The gorge was formed by ancient volcanic activity, as molten lava cooled and split apart. Over time, freshwater cascaded through the rocks, creating a unique experience of swimming through a series of natural 'rooms and ponds'. The undulating sides of the gorge feature high cliff walls, often canopied by interlaced trees, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow. The highlight of Titou Gorge is the hidden waterfall at the end of the swim. The water is known for being refreshingly cold, and life vests are recommended due to currents. Movie buffs might recognize the location as a filming site for 'Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest'.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Rent a life vest at the entrance for safety, even if you're a strong swimmer.
- Bring waterproof protection for your phone or camera.
- Pack a dry towel and warm clothes to change into after your swim.
A brief summary to Titou Gorge
- Laudat, DM
- +1767-612-3637
Getting There
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Taxi
From Roseau, taxis are readily available. Negotiate a fare for a round trip or combine the trip with other nearby attractions like Trafalgar Falls. The drive is approximately 25 minutes. A taxi from Roseau to Titou Gorge may cost $10-$30 USD per person.
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Public Transport
Local minibusses run from Roseau to Laudat. From the main bus station in Roseau, take a bus towards Laudat. The bus ride costs around EC$4.50 ($1.67 USD) each way. From Laudat, it's about a 17-minute walk to Titou Gorge. Be aware that buses don't operate on a fixed schedule.
