Layou River

The basics

The Layou River stretches through some of the most scenic landscapes in Dominica, and most of it is flanked by thick tropical foliage. There are many ways to experience the river, from swimming in calmer sections to taking a guided inner tubing tour downstream. The river is also famous among kayakers, and you can kayak down the river and straight into the Caribbean Sea.

Things to know before you go

• If you’re heading out on a tubing adventure, be prepared to get wet and bring a change of clothes for after your trip.

• While some parts of the river are suitable for swimming, it’s never a good idea to swim alone.

• Tubing tours are suitable for beginners but involve some rapids and may not suit travelers with mobility concerns.

How to get there

The Layou River has many access points, eventually flowing into the sea near St. Joseph. Many of its inland access points are located along the Dr. Nicholas Liverpool Highway that stretches across the island. Most tubing tours include transfers from Roseau, so you won't need to sort out your own transportation.

When to get there

The best time to visit the Layou River is during the dry season, which starts in December and runs through May, but rainfall sometimes continues into December and January. The waters will generally be higher and wilder during winter and calmer later in the season.

Freshwater Lake

Freshwater Lake is located in the Morne Trois Pitons National Park and is a fantastic place for a kayaking adventure without the rapids. It's the largest lake on the island and sits in a caldera at 2,500 feet (762 meters) in elevation. It’s also an excellent place for hiking, with trails that weave through high-altitude forests.