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Dominica Botanical Gardens: A Verdant Oasis in Roseau

Explore a lush tropical paradise in the heart of Roseau, Dominica, with diverse flora, iconic trees, and a rich history at the Botanical Gardens.

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The Dominica Botanical Gardens, established in 1891, offer a lush 40-acre escape in the heart of Roseau. Once renowned as one of the finest botanical gardens in the West Indies, it showcases a diverse collection of tropical flora and fauna, providing a tranquil space for recreation, education, and conservation.

A brief summary to Dominica Botanical Gardens

Local tips

  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially if arriving on a cruise excursion.
  • Take time to explore both the ornamental landscaped area and the practical propagation area.
  • Engage with knowledgeable tour guides to learn more about the plant species in the gardens.
  • Consider walking up Jack's Walk trail from the gardens for panoramic views of Roseau.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Dominica Botanical Gardens are centrally located in Roseau and easily accessible on foot from most downtown locations. From the Roseau Cruise Ship Berth, head north along the Dame Eugenia Charles Boulevard, then turn left onto Bath Road. The gardens will be on your left. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. No entrance fee is required.

  • Public Transport

    Minibuses are a common mode of transport in Roseau. From the Roseau bus station on River Bank, take any minibus heading along Bath Road. Bus fares within Roseau typically range from EC$1.50 to EC$3.00. Ask the driver to stop at the Botanical Gardens. Note that buses may not run frequently after 6:00 PM.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Roseau. Authorised taxis are identified by the letters 'H', 'HA', or 'HB' on their license plates. A short taxi ride from the Roseau Cruise Ship Berth or the city center to the Botanical Gardens typically costs between EC$15 to EC$40. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Dominica Botanical Gardens

Nestled just below Morne Bruce in Roseau, the Dominica Botanical Gardens offer a serene escape into nature. Established in 1891, the gardens were initially conceived by the British Crown Government to encourage crop diversification and provide farmers with properly propagated seedlings. The 40-acre site, formerly a sugarcane plantation, was transformed into a space that now serves as a multi-use urban park. In its early years, the gardens were divided into economic and ornamental sections. The economic section focused on cultivating crops like citrus, sugarcane, and avocado, while the ornamental section showcased over 500 species of trees and shrubs from the tropical world. By the 1920s, the Dominica Botanic Gardens earned a reputation as one of the finest in the West Indies. While the gardens suffered significant damage from Hurricane David in 1979, including the iconic toppling of a giant African baobab tree onto a school bus (which remains as a relic of the storm), restoration efforts have ensured its continued importance. Today, visitors can explore manicured lawns, admire vibrant shrubs, and discover towering trees, including Dominica's national tree and flower, the bois kwaib (Sabinea carinalis). The gardens also house a Parrot Conservation and Research Centre, dedicated to protecting endangered Sisserou parrots, Dominica's national bird. The gardens serve as a vital green space for Roseau, hosting cultural and public events, including independence celebrations. Jack's Walk, a trail constructed in the 1880s, begins in the gardens and leads to Morne Bruce, offering panoramic views of Roseau. The Dominica Botanical Gardens are bordered by Bath Road, Valley Road, and Elmshall Road, providing easy access for visitors.

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