Trafalgar Falls and the Hot Springs

In the lush Roseau Valley near Dominica's capital, the Trafalgar Falls are among the island's most beloved and accessible sights, a striking pair of waterfalls, known affectionately as the Father and the Mother, that tumble side by side down rainforest-clad cliffs into boulder-strewn pools. What makes them special is Dominica's volcanic nature: hot and cold streams mingle here, and the surrounding valley is dotted with natural hot springs and mineral pools where visitors can soak in warm, healing volcanic waters amid the jungle, at places like the terraced pools that have made the Nature Island a haven for hot-spring bathing.

What you actually see

• Trafalgar Falls - the twin Father and Mother waterfalls.
• The hot springs - the natural volcanic mineral pools to soak in.
• The rainforest valley - the lush Roseau Valley setting.
• The warm and cold pools - the mingling hot and cold streams.

When to go

December to April, the drier season, for the easiest access and best conditions, though the falls flow powerfully year-round and the hot springs are enjoyable in any weather; a soak is especially welcome after a rainforest hike. The falls are a short walk from the road, with the hot-spring spas dotted around the valley.

Honest expectations

The falls themselves are viewed from a platform or reached by a short but sometimes slippery scramble over boulders to the pools, so care is needed, and the hot-spring spas range from natural to developed and charge entry; this is volcanic, rainforest country, so rain and mud come with the territory. As an easily reached combination of dramatic twin waterfalls and blissful natural hot springs amid the jungle, though, it captures the essence of the Nature Island beautifully.

Nearby

The Boiling Lake trail, Titou Gorge and the capital Roseau are close by.