Where is Dominica Located?

Where is Dominica located on the map? Dominica is an independent nation located in North America. Check out the following images to see location of Dominica on maps.

Dominica Location in World Map

Dominica is part of the Lesser Antilles.

Location Information of Dominica

Dominica is an island nation located in the Caribbean Sea. It is part of the Lesser Antilles and lies between the French territories of Guadeloupe to the north and Martinique to the south. Known for its mountainous terrain, volcanic landscapes, and lush rainforests, Dominica is often referred to as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean.” The island is renowned for its pristine natural beauty, including waterfalls, hot springs, and rich biodiversity.

Latitude and Longitude

Dominica is positioned at approximately 15.3° N latitude and 61.4° W longitude. This geographic location places it in the tropical zone, which ensures a warm and humid climate year-round. The island lies about 50 miles south of Guadeloupe and 115 miles north of Trinidad and Tobago, making it strategically located in the heart of the Caribbean archipelago.

• Latitude: 15.3° N places Dominica just south of the Tropic of Cancer, which helps create its tropical climate.
• Longitude: 61.4° W situates Dominica on the eastern edge of the Caribbean Sea, influencing its weather patterns and maritime culture.

Capital City and Major Cities

The capital city of Dominica is Roseau, located on the western coast of the island. Roseau serves as the political, economic, and cultural heart of the country. The city is situated along the coastline, providing beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.

Roseau

Roseau, the largest city on the island, has a population of around 15,000 people. It is the primary urban center in Dominica and plays a crucial role in the country’s economy and culture.

1. Economy: Roseau is the main port of entry for trade and tourism, and its economy is primarily driven by agriculture, tourism, and government services. The city is home to the majority of the country’s government institutions, businesses, and markets. Key exports from Dominica include bananas, cocoa, citrus fruits, and spices.
2. Culture and Landmarks: The city features a combination of colonial architecture and Caribbean influence, with structures like the Catholic Cathedral of Roseau, the Old Market Square, and the Dominica Museum. Roseau is also the starting point for many tours that take visitors to nearby natural wonders, including Boiling Lake, Emerald Pool, and The Valley of Desolation.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth, the second-largest town on the island, is located on the northern coast of Dominica. It is a smaller, more tranquil town compared to Roseau, offering a more rural, laid-back atmosphere.

1. Economy: Portsmouth’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with farming communities producing bananas, coconuts, and yams. The town is also a gateway for eco-tourism, with visitors often heading to the Indian River and the Cabrits National Park.
2. Culture and Landmarks: Known for its beautiful natural surroundings, Portsmouth is famous for its Indian River tours and the Cabrits National Park, which contains historic sites, hiking trails, and beaches.

Marigot

Marigot is a small town located on the eastern coast of the island. It is known for its fishing community and proximity to the island’s northern beaches.

1. Economy: Marigot’s economy is primarily based on fishing and agriculture, as well as small-scale tourism and crafts.
2. Culture and Landmarks: Marigot offers a quieter, more rural atmosphere compared to Roseau, with access to beautiful beaches such as Scotts Head and Batibou Bay, which are popular with eco-tourists and divers.

Time Zone

Dominica operates on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), which is UTC -4:00 year-round. The country does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so the time remains constant throughout the year. This time zone places Dominica in line with several other Caribbean nations, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as parts of South America.

1. Standard Time: The country follows UTC -4:00, meaning it is 4 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). This is the same time zone as other Caribbean islands such as Barbados and Antigua and Barbuda.
2. Daylight Saving Time: Unlike many countries in Europe and North America, Dominica does not shift its clocks during the summer months, which ensures consistent timekeeping throughout the year.

Climate

Dominica enjoys a tropical maritime climate, characterized by year-round warm temperatures and significant rainfall. The island’s climate is influenced by its mountainous terrain, with higher altitudes experiencing cooler temperatures and more rainfall compared to the coastal areas.

Coastal Regions

The coastal regions of Dominica, including cities like Roseau and Portsmouth, experience hot and humid conditions, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) year-round. The coastal areas are generally more humid and see consistent rainfall throughout the year.

1. Rainy Season: The island experiences its rainy season between June and November, which coincides with the Atlantic hurricane season. During this period, Dominica may experience heavy tropical storms, though it is less prone to direct hits by hurricanes compared to some of its neighboring islands.
2. Dry Season: The dry season lasts from December to May, with lower humidity and fewer rain showers. This is considered the best time to visit Dominica for tourists, as the weather is more pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing.

Mountainous Regions

Dominica’s central mountains, such as the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, experience cooler temperatures, especially at higher elevations. Average temperatures in the mountains can range from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F), and the area is subject to heavy rainfall, particularly in the rainforests that cover the island.

1. Rainforests: The island’s rainforests are some of the most biodiverse in the world. These forests are lush and teem with wildlife, including various species of birds, insects, and plants. Boiling Lake, one of Dominica’s most famous natural attractions, is located in this region.

Economic Status

The Dominican economy is classified as a developing nation with a heavy reliance on agriculture, tourism, and services. Despite its small size and limited industrial base, the country has seen steady growth over recent decades. The island is known for its organic farming, with a focus on producing bananas, citrus fruits, cocoa, and spices.

Major Sectors

1. Agriculture: Agriculture is one of Dominica’s most important economic sectors, contributing significantly to both domestic consumption and export. The country is known for producing organic products like bananas, cocoa, and citrus fruits. The island’s rich volcanic soil supports diverse agricultural production, making it a key player in the Caribbean export market.
2. Tourism: The tourism industry is another cornerstone of the Dominican economy, especially eco-tourism. Visitors come for Dominica’s natural beauty, including its waterfalls, hot springs, beaches, and rainforests. Sustainable tourism practices are emphasized to preserve the island’s unique ecosystem.
3. Services: The services sector, which includes government services, banking, and telecommunications, also plays a significant role in the economy, although it is secondary to agriculture and tourism.

Challenges

Dominica faces several economic challenges, including vulnerability to natural disasters such as hurricanes and volcanic activity. The island’s agricultural sector is particularly susceptible to these events. Additionally, the country has a relatively small industrial base, which limits diversification and economic resilience.

Tourist Attractions

Dominica is a prime destination for nature lovers and eco-tourists. With its rugged mountains, pristine forests, and coastal beauty, the island offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, diving, and birdwatching. Some of the key tourist attractions on the island include:

Boiling Lake

Boiling Lake, located in the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, is a volcanic crater lake that is famous for its steaming waters, which reach temperatures of up to 92°C (198°F). The lake is surrounded by dense rainforest and can only be reached by a challenging 6-hour hike through rugged terrain. It is one of Dominica’s most iconic natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Emerald Pool

Emerald Pool is a stunning waterfall located in the rainforest near Roseau. The pool is surrounded by lush vegetation, and visitors can swim in the cool waters beneath the cascading falls. The site is easily accessible and one of the most popular eco-tourism spots on the island.

Cabrits National Park

Located near Portsmouth, Cabrits National Park is a marine reserve that offers a combination of historical ruins and natural beauty. The park is home to the remains of a British fort and offers opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and diving. The park is also known for its coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Indian River

The Indian River is a serene, mangrove-lined river on the northern coast of Dominica, near Portsmouth. Visitors can take boat tours through the river’s calm waters, observing the rich ecosystem of the area, which includes various bird species, mangroves, and tropical plants.

Roseau Valley

The Roseau Valley is a popular destination for tourists interested in hot springs, waterfalls, and botanical gardens. The valley offers stunning views of the Mountains of Dominica and is a hotspot for hikers, with various trails leading to scenic locations and natural hot springs.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens do not need a visa to visit Dominica for tourism or business for stays of up to 21 days. A valid U.S. passport is required for entry, and travelers must provide proof of onward travel. U.S. citizens can extend their stay for an additional 21 days while in Dominica, but any further extensions require approval from the Dominica Immigration Department.

1. Tourist Entry: U.S. citizens arriving in Dominica will need to present a valid passport, and they will receive a tourist visa for up to 21 days upon entry. No advance visa application is required.
2. Extension: Travelers wishing to stay longer can apply for an extension while in Dominica. Extensions are typically granted for an additional 21 days.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

1. New York City: The distance from Roseau, Dominica to New York City is approximately 1,600 miles (2,575 kilometers). A direct flight usually takes around 4 hours.
2. Los Angeles: The distance from Roseau to Los Angeles is approximately 3,500 miles (5,600 kilometers). A direct flight from Dominica typically takes 6-7 hours depending on the route and layovers.

Dominica Facts

Size	751 km²
Residents	71,600
Language	English
Capital	Roseau
Longest river	–
Highest mountain	Morne Diablotins (1,447 m)
Currency	East Caribbean dollar