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Dominica Botanical Gardens: A Verdant Oasis in Roseau

Explore Dominica's natural beauty at the Botanical Gardens in Roseau, a historic green space with diverse flora, iconic trees, and the Sisserou Parrot.

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The Dominica Botanical Gardens, established in 1891, offer a tranquil escape in the heart of Roseau. This 40-acre green space showcases a diverse collection of tropical plants, trees, and flowers, providing a glimpse into the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Don't miss the iconic 'crushed bus,' a relic of Hurricane David, and the chance to spot Dominica's national bird, the Sisserou Parrot.

A brief summary to Dominica Botanical Gardens

Local tips

  • Visit early in the day, especially if arriving on a cruise, to avoid crowds.
  • Take time to explore both the ornamental and economic plants sections of the gardens.
  • Engage with knowledgeable tour guides to learn more about the plant species and the garden's history.
  • 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 easily accessible on foot from most points in central Roseau. From the cruise ship pier, it's an interesting walk of approximately 15-20 minutes. Head east along the main road, and the gardens will be on your left, bordered by Bath Road. There are three gated entrances; the West entrance is on Bath Road. No entrance fee is required.

  • Public Transport

    Minibuses are a common mode of transport in Roseau. Several bus routes serve the Botanical Gardens. Check for buses with routes passing along Bath Road. Bus fares in Roseau range from EC$1.50 to EC$10.25 depending on the route. Pay the driver directly upon exiting the bus. The main bus station is located on River Bank.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Roseau. Look for taxis with license plates starting with 'H'. A short taxi ride from the Roseau Ferry Terminal or city center to the Botanical Gardens should cost approximately EC$20-40. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Dominica Botanical Gardens

Nestled at the foot of Morne Bruce, a mere 50 meters from the Roseau River, lies the Dominica Botanical Gardens, a 40-acre testament to the island’s rich natural heritage. More affectionately known as "The Gardens," this green sanctuary stands as the largest open space within the city of Roseau, offering a tranquil escape for both locals and visitors alike. Established in 1891 by the British Crown Government, the gardens were initially conceived to encourage crop diversification and provide farmers with properly propagated seedlings. Over 500 species of trees and shrubs, along with 80 to 100 different types of palms, were planted, transforming the gardens into a living encyclopedia of plant life. By the 1920s, the Dominica Botanical Gardens were widely regarded as the finest in the West Indies, boasting the largest palm species collection in the Western Hemisphere. However, nature's fury struck in 1979 when Hurricane David ravaged the island, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The gardens suffered extensive damage, with many of its impressive old trees uprooted and destroyed. One of the most iconic sights within the gardens is the wreckage of a school bus crushed by an African baobab tree during Hurricane David in 1979. The bus and the fallen tree remain as a powerful reminder of the hurricane's devastating impact and Dominica's resilience in the face of natural disasters. Today, the Dominica Botanical Gardens serve as a multi-use urban park, offering a tranquil escape for locals and tourists alike. The gardens are divided into two main sections: the ornamental and exotic plants section, and the economic plants section. Visitors can explore manicured lawns, admire vibrant shrubs, and discover towering trees, each with its own unique story. The gardens also provide a sanctuary for Dominica's national bird, the Sisserou parrot (Amazona imperialis). The Parrot Conservation and Research Centre, located within the gardens, focuses on protecting the endangered parrot species.

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