Dominica is a warm and relaxing country that's famous for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. We've got the ultimate travel cost guide to make sure your adventure is incredible and affordable. Dive into average costs for hotels, food, activities, sightseeing, and transportation. We'll cover all the essentials for a wallet-friendly trip.
How much does it cost to travel to Dominica?
You should plan to spend around $235 (EC$634) per day on your vacation in Dominica. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $78 (EC$212) on meals
- $15 (EC$41) on local transportation
- $270 (EC$730) on hotels
A one week trip to Dominica for two people costs, on average, $3,284 (EC$8,876). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,642
EC$4,438
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$3,284
EC$8,876
-
One Month
Per person
$7,038
EC$19,020
-
One Week
For a couple
$3,284
EC$8,876
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$6,569
EC$17,752
-
One Month
For a couple
$14,076
EC$38,040
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Dominica cost?
A one week trip to Dominica usually costs around $1,642 (EC$4,438) for one person and $3,284 (EC$8,876) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Dominica on average costs around $3,284 (EC$8,876) for one person and $6,569 (EC$17,752) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Dominica will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Dominica on average costs around $7,038 (EC$19,020) for one person and $14,076 (EC$38,040) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Dominica expensive to visit?
Dominica is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.
Within the Caribbean Islands, which is known to be an expensive region, Dominica is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Martinique or Puerto Rico.
Dominica offers a great mix of sights and accommodations, making it a destination that works for travelers of all budgets and preferences. Whether you're traveling on a budget or ready to indulge, there are hotel options for you, with luxury choices for affluent guests and mid-range options for families and couples.
It's true that Dominica can be expensive, but eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities can help you make the most of your money.
On average, budget travelers spend $102 (EC$277) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $235 (EC$634) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $452 (EC$1,221) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Dominica.
For more details, see Is Dominica Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Dominica?
The average Dominica trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Dominica travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Dominica cost?
Dominica on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$59
(EC$160)
|
$135
(EC$365)
|
$257
(EC$694)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$6.65
(EC$18)
|
$15
(EC$41)
|
$28
(EC$77)
|
|
Food 2
|
$34
(EC$92)
|
$78
(EC$212)
|
$153
(EC$414)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$16
(EC$43)
|
$38
(EC$102)
|
$78
(EC$210)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$4-11
(EC$10-30)
|
$9-26
(EC$23-69)
|
$16-49
(EC$44-133)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having a realistic perspective on your travel budget is very important. While many like to think of themselves as "budget" travelers, most people are not prepared for the discomfort and lack of amenities that come with traveling on a shoestring budget. Consider what you really love about travel and thinkg about your previous travel experiences. Are you more inclined to stay in hostels, or do you prefer more comfortable hotels, resorts, or vacation rentals? Is dining out a priority for you? Do you want to visit the major sights and attractions? Your answers to these questions will shape your overall travel budget significantly.
What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?
Many travelers hear that exploring Dominica can be done for $102 a day, but if you want to keep some comforts, expect to pay a lot more.
Backpackers might find a way to travel around on that tight budget, but that usually means dorm stays in hostels, eating at budget-friendly restaurants or fast food places, using public transport or walking, and focusing on free attractions.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
Couples or families on vacation will probably choose mid-range hotels, popular dining spots, and visits to major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most visitors to Dominica will want to visit the major attractions, sights, and landmarks. Since most activities have a cost, you should realisticly plan for your budget to be closer to $235 per person, per day.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you're planning a vacation with all the finer things in life, prepare for a budget that can reach $452 per day. If you want upscale hotels, world-class dining, premium excursions, and private drivers, this will put you firmly in the "luxury" category. Some of the more high-priced destinations include the major cities and resort areas.
Accommodation Budget in Dominica
The variety of accommodation prices in Dominica can be surprising. Some areas and hotels are much more expensive than others, and prices soar during peak season. You'll save more if you visit in the off-season or book in advance.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Dominica for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $270 (EC$730). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $135 (EC$365) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Dominica? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Local Transportation Budget in Dominica
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $15 (EC$41) per person, per day, on local transportation in Dominica. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Dominica is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$15
EC$41
Dominica generally has limited options for public transportation. You should plan to rent a car or have a prearranged form of transportation available, such as a tour. However, this may cut into your overall trip budget.
Food Budget in Dominica
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Dominica can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Dominica is $78 (EC$212) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$78
EC$212
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Dominica is around $78 (EC$212) per person, with previous travelers spending from $34 to $153. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Dominica are as follows:
- Breakfast: $14 to $23
- Lunch: $12 to $39
- Dinner: $27 to $63
- Coffee: $7
- Fast Food or Street Food: $13
Dominica cuisine is heavily influenced by Creole cooking techniques. The dishes use local produce to make Caribbean favorites with a local twist. The cuisine is most comparable to that found on St Lucia and Trinidad. Breakfast is an important meal on the island and often includes saltfish and a dough that is fried in oil. Chicken, beef and fish are the most common meats, and they are often prepared with local vegetables.
Stew chicken: Chicken is probably the most popular meat on the island. It is often prepared into a stew with onions, carrots, garlic, ginger and thyme. It cooks for a long time until a thick sauce forms. Rice and peas are often served on the side.
Roasted Breadfruit with Salted Codfish: This popular Creole dish is common throughout the Caribbean. Like elsewhere, Dominica's version has its own flavor based on locally available ingredients and seasonal produce.
Tasty Bakes:This snack is available around the island at roadside stands. It's also served in small restaurants with fried chicken or fish and chips. Tasty Bakes are fried dough that is made with flour, water, sugar, and a little salt. It's usually served with a cold drink.
If you're eating out with children, seek out restaurants that provide a kids menu. This can significantly reduce your dining expenses, as those options are generally lower priced. Some places may not showcase their kids' meals, so it's always smart to ask the waiter before ordering.
Many hotels include breakfast in their price, while some add it on as an extra charge. The price and quality can vary depending on the hotel. Knowing ahead of time can help you decide if you need to spend even more money. Maybe it's worth your money for the delicious buffet at the hotel. Or, perhaps you should just go to a nearby bakery or cafe that's much cheaper.
Keep a water bottle with you instead of constantly buying drinks. It's a good way to help the environment as well.
When preparing for a tour, make sure you know in advance what meals are included. You might be responsible for paying for some food, which can raise your costs.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Dominica
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Dominica typically cost an average of $38 (EC$102) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$38
EC$102
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Dominica. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
A few typical prices for sights, activities, and entry fees in Dominica are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers to provide you with an idea how much you might need to spend. Your individual costs will vary based on which activities you do, which attractions or museums you visit, and how often you participate in free or low-cost activities.
Nightlife Budget in Dominica
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $17 (EC$46) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Dominica per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$17
EC$46
Cutting back on drinks while enjoying the nightlife can really help you save money on your trip.
Traveling in Dominica
The beach at Rosalie, Dominica
Don't confuse Dominica with the other Caribbean island, the Dominican Republic. Dominica is located between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean about half way between Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago. Dominica is referred to as "The Nature Island of the Caribbean" because it has an impressive diversity of flora and fauna. Much of the wildlife on the island is protected by the country's impressive national park system. If you are a nature lover, then this is a wonderful place to visit.
The island itself is very mountainous. It has volcanic peaks that are dramatic and scenic. They are often topped with crater lakes. Perhaps the most impressive is Boiling Lake, which is the second largest thermally active lake in the world. The highest point on the island is Morne Diablotin, which reaches 1,447 meters in elevation.
The island's climate is tropical. Temperatures stay moderate because of the northeast trade winds, but the island is prone to heavy rainfall. Be on the lookout for flash floods, which are a concern during heavy storms. The island may be affected by hurricanes during the late summer or early fall months.
Dominica was the last Caribbean island to be colonised. France originally held a presence but lost control to Great Britain in 1763. Today there are about 3,000 Carib Indians that still live on the island. This is the only pre-Columbian population that is left in the eastern Caribbean.
At A Glance
- Dominica has two airports. Most commercial flights arrive at Douglas-Charles, previously named Melville Hall. This airport cannot accommodate jet aircraft and night landing only began in 2010. The island is accessible through San Juan, Antigua, Barbados, St. Maarten, Martinique, Guadeloupe and a few other Caribbean hubs. The other airport is Canefield.
- There are ferries that travel to Dominica from both Martinique and Guadeloupe. These ferries run most days of the week and arrive in Roseau. The fare is approximately 120 euros. Cruise ships have increasingly begun to visit the island as well. Cruise ships usually dock at a large pier that is directly in front of the downtown area, but if that pier is occupied then they dock about one and a half miles away in the industrial port.
- A car is very helpful if you hope to explore the island in detail. Although it's small, the roads weave their way around the mountains making for tricky and sometimes dangerous trips. Driving is also on the left hand side of the road. You can rent a car from the rental agencies found at both airports. If you decide not to rent a car you can travel by either bus or taxi. Buses are slow and uncomfortable, but a decent option if you have plenty of time and very little money.
- If you're in the market for souvenirs, a popular handicraft is the Carib made baskets. Make sure that the local materials used to make the baskets are allowed to pass through customs in your home country. Other souvenir options include local music. Jazz, reggae, calypso and soca are all popular genres. There are vendors that sell items along the main cruise ship dock. Another block inland there is an open air market that has the highest diversity of items.
- English is the official language of the island. Some French is also spoken by many residents.
- Fresh squeezed grapefruit juice is found all over the island. Coconut water is also a common drink. Sorrel is another local specialty. It is made with the flowers of a hibiscus plant that is common in Jamaica. You can pick up these drinks up from many vendors along the side of the road.
Related:
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Top Tourist Attractions
Valley of Desolation and Boiling Lake: This destination can be reached with a long and difficult hike. It should take about eight hours round trip, including driving to and from the trailhead. The scenery is stunning and it is worth the effort. It is best to hire a guide though because the area is prone to flash floods and the small rivers become overpowering during rainstorms.
Trafalgar Falls: You can view these falls with only a short hike, but if you want to swim in the pool it's a difficult and long trail to reach the bottom. It's worth it though if you want to bath in natural pools of hot sulfured waters. You do need a pass to access the site, which will cost you US$5.
Syndicate National Trail: This trail is a nice half hour walk that allows you to see parrots and the island's beautiful tropical rainforest. If you don't have a car it is also a two hour walk on a farm road to reach the trail head. You may be able to hitch a ride with a farmer.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.