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Dominica Botanical Gardens: A Verdant Oasis in Roseau

Discover Dominica's natural beauty and cultural heritage at the serene Botanical Gardens in Roseau, a living museum of tropical flora.

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Established in 1891, the Dominica Botanical Gardens is a 40-acre green space in the heart of Roseau, showcasing a diverse collection of tropical plants and trees. Severely damaged in 1979 by Hurricane David, the gardens have been lovingly restored and remain a testament to Dominica's natural beauty and resilience.

A brief summary to Dominica Botanical Gardens

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the gardens, including Jack's Walk if you plan to hike to Morne Bruce.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the gardens in a cooler, quieter atmosphere.
  • Bring a camera to capture the vibrant colors of the tropical flowers, the towering trees, and the iconic crushed bus.
  • Look out for the Sisserou Parrot, Dominica's national bird, in the aviary or flitting among the trees.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Roseau, the Dominica Botanical Gardens are easily accessible on foot. Head south on King George V Street towards Bath Road. Continue along Bath Road, and the gardens will be on your left. The walk is approximately 15 minutes. Look for the West (cemetery) entrance that bounds Bath Road.

  • Public Transport

    Local minibuses frequently operate from the Roseau Bus Station on River Bank to various points around the island. Look for a minibus heading along Bath Road and ask the driver to drop you off at the Dominica Botanical Gardens. The fare is typically between EC$2 and EC$5. From the drop-off point, it's a short walk to the gardens' entrance.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Roseau. A taxi ride from the city center to the Dominica Botanical Gardens should cost between EC$20 and EC$40, depending on your starting point and traffic. It's always a good idea to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Dominica Botanical Gardens

The Dominica Botanical Gardens, locally known as "The Gardens," offer a tranquil escape in the bustling capital city of Roseau. Founded in 1891 on the site of a former sugarcane plantation, the gardens were initially intended to diversify crops and provide farmers with high-quality seedlings. Today, they stand as a living museum, displaying a remarkable array of plant species from around the world. Spanning 40 acres, the gardens feature both ornamental and economic plant sections. Visitors can explore manicured lawns, vibrant shrubs, and towering trees, including Dominica's national tree and flower, the bois kwaib (Sabinea carinalis). Other notable specimens include the cannonball tree, banyan, and century palm. The gardens also provide a sanctuary for Dominica's national bird, the Sisserou parrot, which can be observed in a dedicated aviary. The gardens hold historical and cultural significance. A poignant reminder of Hurricane David's devastation in 1979 is the crushed school bus beneath a massive African baobab tree, which remains as a symbol of the island's strength and ability to rebuild. The gardens have also served as a venue for cultural events, including cricket matches and independence celebrations. Jack's Walk, a historic trail that begins within the gardens, offers a scenic climb to Morne Bruce, providing panoramic views of Roseau and the coastline. The Dominica Botanical Gardens are easily accessible and offer a rich and rewarding experience for anyone interested in botany, history, or simply seeking a peaceful escape.

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