Cabrits National Park, Saint Patrick Travel Guide

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Explore Dominica's Cabrits National Park: Where history meets nature in a stunning Caribbean setting. Discover Fort Shirley, coral reefs, and lush trails.

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Cabrits National Park

Cabrits National Park, located on a peninsula north of Portsmouth, Dominica, is a protected area encompassing tropical forests, coral reefs, and wetlands. It features the historic Fort Shirley, an 18th-century British garrison, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

A brief summary to Cabrits National Park

HGPG+G8F, Portsmouth, DM

Monday 8 am-6 pm
Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
Thursday 8 am-6 pm
Friday 8 am-6 pm
Saturday 8 am-6 pm
Sunday 8 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cabrits National Park.

Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the trails, and bring insect repellent and water.
Visit in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and softer light.
If visiting during the rainy season (June to October), be prepared for sudden showers.
Snorkeling is best when the seas are calm, usually midday.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Fort Shirley

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Champagne Reef, Dominica

Middleham Falls Dominica

Kalinago Barana Aute

Explore Cabrits National Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cabrits National Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Roseau or other major towns, take a minibus to Portsmouth. Minibuses are a common form of transport in Dominica. From the main bus stop in Portsmouth, you can either walk for about 30 minutes to the park entrance or take a local taxi. The minibus fare from Saint John to Portsmouth is approximately $2.50 USD. A taxi from Portsmouth to the park entrance may cost around $5 USD.
Taxi

From Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM), a taxi directly to Cabrits National Park will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The estimated fare is $80-$100 USD. Confirm the fare before starting the journey. The drive offers scenic views of the island's coastline.

Discover more about Cabrits National Park

Cabrits National Park, established in 1986, spans 1,313 acres on the northern tip of Dominica, offering a unique blend of historical and natural attractions. The park's name, derived from the French word for 'goat,' reflects the area's history. The park is characterized by two volcanic hills, East and West Cabrit, remnants of an ancient volcanic crater, creating a stunning backdrop to coastal scenery.The park's diverse ecosystems include tropical forests, coral reefs, and wetlands, supporting a wide array of plant and animal life. Visitors can explore well-marked hiking trails that wind through lush forests to scenic viewpoints. The coral reefs around Douglas Bay offer excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, teeming with colorful marine life. Bird watching is also popular, with diverse habitats attracting various bird species.At the heart of the park lies Fort Shirley, a massive 18th-century British garrison. Constructed between 1770 and 1815, the fort was a key military outpost, designed to defend Dominica from French invasions. The fort housed over 600 men and consisted of over 50 buildings. Fort Shirley is also historically significant as the site of the 1802 West India Regiment Rebellion, where African soldiers revolted against British colonial rule. The site was abandoned in 1854 but underwent restoration starting in 1982. Today, visitors can take guided tours of Fort Shirley, exploring its restored officers' quarters, cannons, and strategic viewpoints.