The Kalinago Territory

On Dominica's rugged east coast lies the Kalinago Territory, home to the largest surviving community of the Kalinago, formerly called the Caribs, the indigenous people who once inhabited much of the Caribbean and gave the region its name. Almost wiped out elsewhere by colonisation, they endure here in a self-governed territory of some 3,000 people, keeping alive their heritage, language, crafts and traditions. Visitors can explore the Kalinago Barana Autê, a recreated traditional village set by a dramatic coastline, learning about canoe-building, distinctive basket weaving, cassava bread-making and the history of a proud, resilient people.

What you actually see

• The Kalinago Barana Autê - the recreated traditional village.
• The crafts - the distinctive basket weaving and canoe building.
• The cassava bread - the traditional food preparation.
• The rugged coastline - the dramatic east-coast setting.

When to go

December to April, the drier season, for the most comfortable weather to visit the territory and its cultural village on the wild east coast; guided visits to the Kalinago Barana Autê explain the traditions and history, and are best arranged in advance or through a tour, ideally with a Kalinago guide.

Honest expectations

This is a living community, not a spectacle, so a visit should be respectful and, ideally, arranged in ways that benefit the Kalinago directly, and the cultural village is a recreated interpretation rather than the everyday homes of the people; the east coast is remote and rugged. As a rare and meaningful chance to encounter the heritage of the Caribbean's indigenous first people, kept alive against the odds in their last stronghold, though, it is a genuinely significant and moving experience.

Nearby

The east coast, the rainforest interior and the capital Roseau are within reach.