Dominica road vector map with flag Lesser Antilles

Dominica Transportation Guide

Dominica Transportation Guide: Use local buses for budget travel, hire a guide for remote areas, and explore by car for flexibility.

Airports

Dominica Transportation Guide – International Airports

Dominica has one international airport that serves as the main point of entry for travelers arriving by air. The international airport in Dominica is:

Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM): Also known as Melville Hall Airport, Douglas-Charles Airport is located on the northeastern coast of Dominica, near the town of Marigot. It is the primary international airport on the island and offers flights to and from various international and regional destinations. Several airlines operate scheduled flights to Douglas-Charles Airport, connecting Dominica with destinations such as Barbados, Antigua, Puerto Rico, and other Caribbean islands.

Douglas-Charles Airport has facilities to handle international flights, including customs and immigration services. It has a single terminal building and provides amenities such as car rental services, taxi services, and a small selection of shops and dining options.

National Airports

Dominica has one national airport that serves as the main gateway for domestic flights within the island. The national airport in Dominica is:

Canefield Airport (DCF): Canefield Airport is located near the town of Canefield, just outside the capital city of Roseau on the western coast of Dominica. It is a smaller airport primarily used for domestic flights and regional connections to nearby islands.

Canefield Airport is serviced by local airlines and offers flights to and from other Caribbean destinations, including nearby islands such as Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Saint Lucia. The airport has a single runway and a small terminal building, providing basic amenities for passengers.

It’s important to note that Canefield Airport has limited capacity compared to Douglas-Charles Airport, which is the international airport in Dominica. Most international travelers arriving in Dominica will land at Douglas-Charles Airport and can then connect to Canefield Airport for domestic flights if needed.

Dominica Transportation Guide – Trains

There are no train services in Dominica. The island does not have a rail network or any functioning passenger train services for transportation. Dominica primarily relies on roads, buses, taxis, and domestic flights for getting around the island.

To travel within Dominica, you can utilize the road network, which consists of paved and unpaved roads connecting various towns and villages. Public buses, private taxis, and rental cars are commonly used for transportation on the island.

Buses are the primary mode of public transportation in Dominica, operating on fixed routes and picking up passengers along the way. They are an affordable option for getting around, although schedules can be irregular. Private taxis are also available and can be hired for more personalized and convenient transportation.

Trains

Buses

Dominica Transportation Guide – Buses

In Dominica, buses are the primary mode of public transportation and provide an affordable and convenient way to travel around the island. The bus system in Dominica consists of privately owned minivans or “public vans” that operate on fixed routes. Here is some information about buses in Dominica:

Public Vans:

Public vans serve as the main form of public transportation in Dominica. These vans are typically minivans or small buses that transport both locals and tourists along established routes. They are usually privately owned and operated by individual drivers or small companies. Public vans are identified by route numbers or names displayed on the vehicles.

Routes and Destinations:

Public vans in Dominica have designated routes that cover most major towns and villages. The routes generally connect urban areas with rural communities, allowing passengers to travel between different parts of the island. Some popular routes include Roseau to Portsmouth, Roseau to Marigot, and Roseau to Canefield. The specific routes and schedules can vary, so it’s recommended to inquire locally or with your accommodation provider for the most up-to-date information.

Fare and Payment:

Bus fares in Dominica are generally affordable. The fare is usually paid in cash directly to the driver when boarding the bus. The exact fare may vary depending on the distance traveled, but it is typically a fixed amount for each route. It’s advisable to carry small denominations of Eastern Caribbean dollars (XCD) for payment.

Bus Stops and Flagging:

In urban areas, there are designated bus stops where passengers can wait for buses. These stops are often marked with signs or shelters. However, in more rural areas or outside of town centers, buses can be flagged down along the route by signaling the driver.

Frequency and Timings:

The frequency of buses in Dominica can vary depending on the route and time of day. Buses generally operate from early morning until evening, but the exact timings may vary. During peak hours and busier routes, you may find more frequent bus services, while less popular routes may have fewer departures.

It’s important to note that the bus system in Dominica may not operate on a strict timetable, and schedules can be subject to change or delays. It’s advisable to be flexible and allow extra time for your travel plans when using public buses in Dominica.

Taking buses in Dominica can be a great way to experience local culture, interact with residents, and explore the island’s scenic landscapes.