Boiling Lake
Amongst the greatest Wonders of the world, Dominica has secured its place, being home to the second largest boiling lake and the only one of its kind in the world! This record is not farfetched since Dominica has one of the largest concentrations of volcanoes in proportion to land mass.
Rising over 2500ft above sea level in the heights of the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, sitting at the edge of the village of Laudat, lays DOMINCIA’S Boiling Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This much sort after gem is not very easy to conquer, since she hides herself so that only the fearless and the determined get to see what she really looks like.
The Boiling Lake trail starts 10.5 km or 6.5 miles from the nation’s capital, Roseau, in the village of Laudat. At this point all motor able road ends and the journey begins up the mountains through a carefully laid out trail. In some cases, this trail runs amidst the tropical rainforest down hills, crossing rivers and passing over gorges and mountain tops.
The journey takes 3 to 3.5 hours one way; approximately 6 to 7 hours round trip. At the half way point is the Breakfast River where you get your last chance for a fresh drink of water and a little breath of fresh breeze. From then onwards it is up hill and over mountains, overlooking some of the most majestic sceneries (Be sure to bring your camera). These areas are very misty so it is necessary to take your time and watch your steps! There are slopes on both sides, and this area is very precarious.
After your final steep descent from the elfin forest, you will now find yourself in a place that is unlike anything you have ever seen, with steam, sulfur and gases bellowing from the earth on every side. This place is called The Valley of Desolation. This is the most rewarding part of the journey since you get the chance to bathe in the sulfur pools and use the mud on your face (the mud is said to have many healing properties). Go easy. There is no hurry. You are less than 45 minutes to the Boiling Lake. Take some time to take photos and see the volcanic activities close-up.
The next leg of the journey takes you right to the gem, “The Boiling Lake”, in its entire splendor. This rare gem measures approximately 200ft or 60meters in diameter, with a depth greater than 195 ft (59 m). This lake boils at 180 to 197 degrees Fahrenheit (82 to 91.5 degrees Celsius) along the edges. Always remember that this is a volcanic area; caution should be exercised since there are no guard rails along the circumference of this volcanic crater. Go ahead! Take pictures! Enjoy this remarkable scene! Your journey is only half way done.
When you get back from your trip be sure to share your experience with us online!
Tips
- Make sure you go with a certified guide.
- Best time to start the journey is around 8:00 to 8:30 AM
- Wear light clothes
- Good hiking shoes or sneakers
- Bring lots of water and a few energy snacks
- Expect to get dirty ( make accommodation for your camera (bring bag of it))
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