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Titou Gorge: Swim Through Dominica's Volcanic Heart

Discover Dominica's hidden gem: swim through a volcanic gorge to a secret waterfall in the lush rainforest. A Caribbean adventure awaits!

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Titou Gorge, meaning 'little hole' in Creole, is a stunning natural canyon in Dominica, formed by volcanic activity. Visitors can swim through the gorge's cool, emerald waters, passing beneath towering rock walls and lush rainforest canopy to reach a hidden waterfall. It's an unforgettable experience that blends adventure with the tranquility of nature.

A brief summary to Titou Gorge

Local tips

  • Life jackets are highly recommended for swimming in the gorge, even for strong swimmers, due to the currents. You can rent them for around $5 USD.
  • Protect your phone or camera with a waterproof case or bag to capture the experience without damage.
  • Bring a dry towel and warm clothes to change into after your swim, as the water can be quite cold.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Trafalgar Falls or the Boiling Lake hike for a full day of exploring Dominica's natural wonders.
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Getting There

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Roseau, a taxi is the most direct way to reach Titou Gorge. Negotiate a round-trip fare, including waiting time, as return transport can be scarce. The journey takes about 25 minutes. Expect to pay around $60 USD for a round trip including other nearby attractions. Taxis are readily available near the cruise pier.

  • Public Transport

    From Roseau, take a local minibus to Laudat. The bus station is on River Bank. The ride costs about EC$4.50 (approximately $1.67 USD) each way. From Laudat, it's about a 17-minute walk to Titou Gorge. Be aware that buses don't run on a fixed schedule, so ask about departure times.

  • Driving

    If driving from Roseau, take Valley Road towards Laudat. The drive is approximately 25 minutes. Once you pass a small grocery store in Laudat, turn left and follow the road (it will take you slightly to the right) until you reach a small parking lot. From there, it's less than a 5-minute walk to the entrance to the gorge. A vehicle permit fee of $12 USD may apply.

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Discover more about Titou Gorge

Titou Gorge is a natural wonder located near the village of Laudat in Dominica, nestled within Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The gorge was formed over time as molten lava cooled and cracked, creating a narrow canyon through which fresh water flows. The name 'Titou Gorge' translates to 'little hole' in Creole, aptly describing the entrance to this remarkable swimming hole. Swimming through Titou Gorge is a unique experience. The water is cool and refreshing, and the swim takes you through a series of natural 'rooms and ponds' formed by the high cliff walls. The sides of the gorge are undulating, a testament to the way the molten lava cooled and split apart. The light filtering down from the rainforest canopy above adds to the magical atmosphere. Life jackets are recommended due to the currents. At the end of the swim, you'll discover a hidden waterfall cascading into a basin. Movie buffs might recognize Titou Gorge as one of the filming locations for 'Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest'. One of the iconic scenes features Captain Jack Sparrow tumbling down the gorge in a vine cage. For those seeking more adventure, canyoning is a popular activity at Titou Gorge, involving rappelling down waterfalls into the deep river pools.

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