Dominica Botanic Gardens, Roseau (must see)
Once hailed as one of the finest botanical gardens in the region, Dominica Botanic Gardens has retained its allure despite facing significant challenges, particularly the devastation wrought by Hurricane David in 1979. Despite the adversity, restoration efforts have ensured that the Dominica Botanic Gardens remains a focal point of cultural life in Roseau, attracting visitors with its lush greenery and diverse array of tropical flora.
Among its notable features is the bois kwaib (Sabinea carinalis), which holds the distinction of being Dominica's national tree and flower. Additionally, the gardens boast an impressive collection of botanical specimens, including the cannonball tree (Couroupita guianensis), banyan (Ficus benghalensis), century palm (Coripha umbraculifera), and ylang ylang (Cananga odorata).
The botanical richness of the gardens is further complemented by its diverse fauna, with endemic lizard species such as the Dominican ground lizard and the Dominican anole thriving within its grounds. Visitors are also treated to sightings of various wild birds, including three species of hummingbirds, carib grackles, and the green heron.
The Parrot Conservation and Research Centre, located within the gardens, focuses on safeguarding endangered parrot species such as the Jacko (Amazona arausiaca) and the Sisserou (Amazona imperialis). Furthermore, a molecular diagnostic laboratory established under the Darwin Initiative plays a crucial role in studying the threat of chytridiomycosis to amphibian populations, particularly the endangered mountain chicken frog (Leptodactylus fallax).
Despite its scientific endeavors, the Dominica Botanic Gardens also holds cultural significance, serving as a venue for cricket matches and community events. Its lush landscapes and tranquil ambiance offer respite from the bustle of urban life, making it a cherished retreat for both locals and visitors alike.
Among its notable features is the bois kwaib (Sabinea carinalis), which holds the distinction of being Dominica's national tree and flower. Additionally, the gardens boast an impressive collection of botanical specimens, including the cannonball tree (Couroupita guianensis), banyan (Ficus benghalensis), century palm (Coripha umbraculifera), and ylang ylang (Cananga odorata).
The botanical richness of the gardens is further complemented by its diverse fauna, with endemic lizard species such as the Dominican ground lizard and the Dominican anole thriving within its grounds. Visitors are also treated to sightings of various wild birds, including three species of hummingbirds, carib grackles, and the green heron.
The Parrot Conservation and Research Centre, located within the gardens, focuses on safeguarding endangered parrot species such as the Jacko (Amazona arausiaca) and the Sisserou (Amazona imperialis). Furthermore, a molecular diagnostic laboratory established under the Darwin Initiative plays a crucial role in studying the threat of chytridiomycosis to amphibian populations, particularly the endangered mountain chicken frog (Leptodactylus fallax).
Despite its scientific endeavors, the Dominica Botanic Gardens also holds cultural significance, serving as a venue for cricket matches and community events. Its lush landscapes and tranquil ambiance offer respite from the bustle of urban life, making it a cherished retreat for both locals and visitors alike.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Roseau. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Dominica Botanic Gardens on Map
Sight Name: Dominica Botanic Gardens
Sight Location: Roseau, Dominica (See walking tours in Roseau)
Sight Type: Park/Outdoor
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Roseau, Dominica (See walking tours in Roseau)
Sight Type: Park/Outdoor
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Roseau, Dominica
Create Your Own Walk in Roseau
Creating your own self-guided walk in Roseau is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Roseau Introduction Walking Tour
Roseau, the capital of the Caribbean nation of Dominica, marks the site of the oldest and most important urban settlement on the island.
Although European ships first appeared off the coast of Dominica in the 15th century, over the next hundred years it was inhabited only by Carib Indians, who settled the area of today's Roseau attracted by the nearby river. The French founded the town on... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
Although European ships first appeared off the coast of Dominica in the 15th century, over the next hundred years it was inhabited only by Carib Indians, who settled the area of today's Roseau attracted by the nearby river. The French founded the town on... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles