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Cabrits National Park: Where History and Nature Converge

Explore Dominica's Cabrits National Park: a blend of historic Fort Shirley, lush scenery, hiking trails & vibrant coral reefs.

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Cabrits National Park, located on a peninsula north of Portsmouth, Dominica, is a protected area encompassing tropical forests, coral reefs, and wetlands. The park's main draw is Fort Shirley, an 18th-century British garrison with stunning views and a rich history, including a slave revolt in 1802. Visitors can explore the fort's ruins, hike scenic trails, and snorkel in the clear waters.

A brief summary to Cabrits National Park

  • HGPG+G8F, Portsmouth, DM

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the trails, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Bring insect repellent, especially if hiking in the forested areas.
  • Visit during the dry season (December to April) for the best weather conditions.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the park's history and ecology.
  • Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs in Douglas Bay.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Roseau, take a ferry to Portsmouth. Ferries depart a few times a week and the journey takes approximately 2 hours. From Portsmouth, you can either walk to the park entrance (approximately 30 minutes) or take a taxi. Alternatively, take a minibus from Saint Peter to Portsmouth. The minibuses leave from the main bus stop in Saint Peter. Once in Portsmouth, you can either walk to the park entrance, which is about a 30-minute walk, or take a local taxi for a quicker option. The taxi will take you directly to the entrance of Cabrits National Park. Bus fare is typically around EC$2-3 per person. Be aware that bus schedules can be infrequent on Sundays and public holidays.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Portsmouth, Cabrits National Park is a short taxi or ride-share journey. Taxis are readily available in Portsmouth. Agree on a fare before starting your trip, expect to pay around EC$20-30 for the one-way trip to the park entrance. The ride is approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Walking

    From the center of Portsmouth, Cabrits National Park is approximately a 30-minute walk. Head north from Portsmouth, following the signs for Cabrits National Park. The entrance to the park is located at HGPG+G8F, Portsmouth. Once at the park entrance, there is a user fee of US$5 (EC$13.25).

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Discover more about Cabrits National Park

Cabrits National Park, established in 1986, is situated on the northern tip of Dominica, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The park spans 1,313 acres (5.30 sq km) and was created to protect both the cultural heritage of Fort Shirley and the surrounding environment. The name 'Cabrits' comes from the French word for 'goat,' a reference to the animals that once roamed the area. The park's geography is defined by two volcanic hills, East Cabrit (140 m) and West Cabrit (171 m), remnants of an ancient volcanic crater. These peaks offer panoramic views of the coastline and the Caribbean Sea. The area boasts diverse landscapes, including tropical dry forests, mangrove swamps, and coral beaches. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including the Dominica imperial parrot and the terrestrial hermit crab. Fort Shirley, constructed in 1765 by the British, is a major historical attraction within the park. It was built as a military outpost to defend Dominica, and later expanded by the French. The fort housed over 600 men and consisted of more than 50 buildings, including barracks, officer's quarters, and storage facilities. In 1802, the fort was the site of a significant slave revolt by soldiers of the 8th West India Regiment, which contributed to the eventual emancipation of slave soldiers in the British Empire. The fort was abandoned in 1854 and underwent restoration in 1982. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about the island's colonial past. Cabrits National Park offers a range of activities, including hiking, snorkeling, and diving. Several well-marked trails wind through the park, offering stunning views and opportunities to observe local wildlife. The coral reefs around Douglas Bay are ideal for snorkeling and diving, with diverse marine ecosystems to explore.

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