Dominica, known as “The Nature Island of the Caribbean”, is a mountainous Island nation in the Lesser Antilles of the Eastern Caribbean, nestled between Martinique to the north and Guadeloupe to the south. It is a volcanic island, with three active volcanoes and many geothermal springs, the largest being Boiling Lake, (the second largest hotspring in the world), which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as is Morne Trois Pitons National Park where Boiling lake is found.
Trail to Boiling Lake and the Valley of Desolation Dominica West Indies.
Jungle Bay, Dominica West Indies
View toward Scotts Head from Jungle Bay
There is a river for every day of the year on Dominica, (which is quite something considering Dominica is approximately 289 sq miles in size) which along with the highest peaks in the Lesser Antilles, has created some incredible waterfalls, lush mountainous rainforests, hot springs, and plentiful rare plant, animal and bird life. The main event by far on Dominica is Nature. The variety of walking and hiking trails is plentiful, ranging from mild and easy to very strenuous (the Boiling Lake hike being the most challenging) and everything in-between. The hike to Middleham Falls and the twin falls of Trafalgar Falls (one waterfall is cold, one flows with hot spring water) for example is easy to moderate and has the treat of a dip in the waterfalls for those that choose. Scuba diving is a big attraction on Dominica for those who partake, the snorkeling is also excellent with a favourite spot being Champagne – a very shallow spot with a hot water spring emerging through rocks in the ocean, which can be enjoyed as an evening excursion when the octopus are active. Whale & dolphin watching, kayaking and paddleboarding are also available.
Claire fell in love with Dominica in the 90’s when she visited many times and stayed with good friends who had returned to their island home. She has hiked much of the island, scuba dived many times there, and even been there for Mas Dominik, widely considered one of the most authentic Carnivals where she was part of the lively procession down from the hills into Rouseau for sunrise. There was a retreat scheduled to Jungle Bay and Dominica several years ago that unfortunately had to be cancelled due to catastrophic damage sustained during a hurricane but they have rebuilt better than ever and it is time to put this retreat back in the diary.
Emerald pool, Dominica, Eastern Caribbean deep in the rainforest
Jungle Bay is a luxurious eco resort designed in harmony with nature and is perched on a hillside in the south of Dominica in Soufriere, near Scotts Head, the “tail” of Dominica. It is staffed by in-the-know locals, and dedicated people who provide fascinating insight into one of the most interesting destinations in the Caribbean. It has been meticulously created by a team of people headed up by Dominican entrepreneur and sustainable development expert, Sam Raphael. We will have a dedicated Yoga Studio for our daily practices that is fully stocked, and enjoy three freshly prepared meals daily at one of Jungle bays restaurants overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Accommodations are spacious, clean and comfortable and can be either private or double occupancy. I have reserved 15 garden view villa rooms, which can be upgraded to partial ocean view and/or full suite rooms for an additional fee.
Sample Day
6.30a ~ Early riser pre-breakfast, coffee, tea
8.00a ~ Spacious morning yoga practice
10.00a ~ Jungle Bay breakfast/brunch
You can make your retreat as unscheduled as you wish or take advantage of some hikes and excursions that I will organize. Scotts Head is a short walk from Jungle Bay which is a lovely walk to a friendly village with the opportunity to climb up to the top of the promontory overlooking Martinique. Massages and Spa services are available at Jungle Bay, there are two swimming pools overlooking the Caribbean, and stunning gardens to explore as well as plenty of places to relax. There are several knowledgeable locals on staff, including Stacy, the head landscaper who gives tours of her meticulously crafted and cared for gardens. Also Sam, who created Jungle Bay gives eco talks of how he was able to transform a childhood dream into a model for sustainable wellness-focused tourism. Scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and so much more available for those interested.
5.30p ~ afternoon chill yoga
7.00p ~ Locally sourced, freshly prepared delicious dinner.
Your Investment
Garden View Villa Room double occupancy (2 people sharing 1 room) with en-suite bathroom ~ $3400 per person
Garden View Villa Room Private Occupancy (1 person in a private room) with en-suite bathroom ~ $4900 per person
Partial Ocean-View upgrade ~ $600 per room
Suites for additional fee based upon availability. Prices available upon request.
What’s Included:
- 7 nights accommodation at Jungle Bay Eco Resort, Dominica
- 3 freshly prepared meals daily & fresh island fruit juices
- Morning Yoga every day and Afternoon Yoga 3 times during the week.
- Use of Jungle Bays facilities
- Round-trip airport pick up and drop off
- 1/2 hour spa treatment of your choice
Non-refundable Deposit of $1000 secures your spot. Payment in full required by November 1st 2025. WE STRONGLY URGE YOU TO PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE. Unforseen things do happen to us all at times, and it is smart to protect yourself just in case. We cannot be held responsible for your plans changing irrespective of the circumstances. You are responsible for your flights! Claire can help guide you as needed. Email [email protected] with your questions and to reserve your spot.
