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Cabrits National Park: Where History Meets Nature

Discover Dominica's Cabrits National Park: Hike historic trails, explore Fort Shirley, and immerse yourself in breathtaking Caribbean scenery.

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Explore Cabrits National Park in Dominica, a stunning blend of natural beauty and colonial history. Hike through lush forests, discover the ruins of Fort Shirley, and snorkel in pristine waters. A must-see destination for nature and history enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Cabrits National Park

  • HGPG+G8F, Portsmouth, DM

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails and exploring the fort grounds.
  • Bring insect repellent, especially during the rainy season (June to October).
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.
  • Check with locals about the best snorkeling spots and current conditions before diving in.
  • Carry enough water to stay hydrated, especially if hiking.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Roseau, take a minibus to Portsmouth. Minibuses leave from the main bus stop in Roseau. The ride takes approximately 45 minutes. From Portsmouth, you can walk to the park entrance (about 30 minutes) or take a local taxi. The taxi ride is short. Minibus fare is about $2.50 USD. Taxi from Portsmouth to the park entrance is about $5 USD.

  • Taxi

    From Roseau, a taxi directly to Cabrits National Park takes about 45 minutes. A taxi will cost approximately $15-19 USD. This is the most direct route to the park entrance.

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Discover more about Cabrits National Park

Cabrits National Park, located on a peninsula north of Portsmouth, Dominica, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Established in 1986, the park spans 1,313 acres, encompassing tropical forests, coral reefs, and wetlands. The name 'Cabrits' comes from the French, Spanish, and Portuguese word for 'goat', referencing the animals once abundant in the area. The park's dominant features are the two volcanic hills, East Cabrit (140 m) and West Cabrit (171 m), remnants of an ancient volcanic crater. These hills offer hiking trails with panoramic views of the coastline and Caribbean Sea. The park is also home to Fort Shirley, a large 18th-century British garrison. Constructed between 1770 and 1815, the fort served as a key military outpost, defending Dominica from French invasions. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of Fort Shirley, which once housed 600 soldiers. The fort is historically significant as the site of the 1802 revolt by African soldiers of the 8th West India Regiment, a key event in the emancipation of slave soldiers in the British Empire. The park also offers opportunities for snorkeling and diving in the coral reefs of Douglas Bay, bird watching, and exploring unique dry tropical forests. Cabrits National Park is a testament to Dominica's natural beauty and historical resilience.

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