Car hire in Dominica

Welcome to the tropical utopia of Dominica. Regarded by many as the Caribbean’s nature-rich island, this beautiful destination in Central America is basically a large nature reserve, blessed with exotic fauna and flora, with a few enchanting towns, fishing villages and coastal highlights thrown into the mix. The island nation is connected by a series of highways and roads, so car hire is the preferred option for getting around.

Before arriving, you can compare car hire prices in Dominica online. There are plenty of options when it comes to rates, cars, packages and more when hiring a car in this delightful Caribbean island.

Car hire driving tips in Dominica 

It is possible to find car rental at the ports and two airports of Dominica. Despite the fact that the roads in Dominica are mostly well-maintained, there are parts of the country that have been left behind. Driving with care is recommended along the meandering mountain roads. Trucks can be quite wide, commonly forcing cars to the side of the road. Make sure to follow the local etiquette when driving around blind corners by honking your car horn!

Need to know essentials 

Driving licences: to legally drive in Dominica, visitors need to have a valid driver’s licence from their home nation and acquire a temporary Dominican driver’s licence, which can be done at the airport. Most companies require visitors to be over 25 years old to rent a car and to have two years’ previous driving experience.

Which side does Dominica drive on: the left-hand side.

Speed limits:

Cities and towns: 32kph

Open roads: no limit

Alcohol limits: the blood alcohol limit is unknown; however, it is strongly recommended that tourists do not drive under the influences of alcohol.

Compulsory items: the driver’s licence and rental car documentation must be carried in the car, but these laws are rarely enforced.

Seatbelts: the law states drivers must wear a seatbelt, but this isn’t enforced by local police.

Mobile phones and GPS: new laws in Dominica have made it illegal to talk on a mobile phone while driving in the country. Hands-free kits are available and should be used. Some rental cars come with navigation systems, but make sure to set the system before heading to your next destination, not while driving!

Cost of fuel in Dominica: unleaded petrol and diesel petrol are predominantly used in Dominica. Petrol prices here are comparatively cheaper than in the UK.

Car hire and fuel payment: in most places, tourists can pay for petrol using major credit cards. However, it is advised that cash is carried just in case the plastic doesn’t work.

Insurance: purchasing insurance when hiring a car is not required in Dominica, although it is highly recommended. With the state of roads and environments in the country, picking up a scratch or two is commonplace.

Traffic and parking: because the road rules are generally relaxed in Dominica, parking is not usually a problem in the main cities or rural areas. When driving, be wary of badly parked cars on the side of the roads. Traffic doesn’t usually get congested. Hazards when driving in Dominica include trucks, which often don’t fit on the windy, narrow roads, so it is important to drive slowly when near them and let them pass.

Our travel editor's recommended drives

Jaco Falls: once at the falls, the beautiful, cascading plunges can be enjoyed. However, it’s the drive to Jaco Falls, surrounded by pinnacles reaching the sky and lush tropical rainforests that will capture the hearts of tourists, which is the real highlight.

Northeast coastline: explore the beautiful northeastern coastline, filled with rocky cliffs, small beaches and villages to die for.

Road to Emerald Pool: beginning from the Canefield Estates, motorists can venture through magnificent rolling hills and landscapes bursting with palms. Once at the Emerald Pool, time seems to stand still. Finish the driving tour with a trip through western villages.

Dominica travel tips 

Dominica, regarded as one of the Caribbean’s most eco-friendly nations, is a state under the British Commonwealth. Almost the entire interior of the country is a designated rainforest reserve, boasting stacks of flora and fauna to feast your eyes on. From the peaks of the ever-reaching highland centre, to the crystal blue corals of the fringing coastal reefs, Dominica is an underestimated jewel of the Caribbean that just seems to keep on giving. Don’t forget about the volcanic calderas and the sparkling towns of Dominica. Roseau and Portsmouth are more than just accommodation centres for venturing tourists.  

Dominica weather and tourist seasons

The beautiful island of Dominica is characterised by a tropical climate, which boasts warm temperatures throughout the year and high precipitation. However, unlike other tropical areas, the island isn’t afflicted by stifling humidity, as northeast trade winds usually temper the air. However, these same winds are usually responsible for the hurricanes that hit the island during the wettest months of the year (July to September). It is best to visit during the tourist period between December and April, when temperatures aren’t so high and rainfall not so abundant. However, prices and crowds increase dramatically during these months.

Dominica contact numbers (+1 767)

Medical - 999

Police – 999

Fire – 999

To report an accident to the police – 1 767 448 2222

British Embassy – 1 767 255 3116

United States Embassy – 1 246 227 4000 (Bridgetown, Barbados– responsible for Dominica)  

Canadian Embassy – 1 246 429 3550 (Bridgetown, Barbados– responsible for Dominica)

Holidays and festivals

Most of the colourful events held on the island are hosted by the capital city, Roseau. There is a large selection of festivals and carnivals to enjoy, highlighted by the aptly named ‘Carnival’ held in the capital, boasting music, dancing, contests and more. The event is usually held in the months of February or March. Another spectacular event is the World Creole Music Festival, held over the course of three nights. The nation-wide celebrations for Independence Day (3 November) spark huge crowds and a flurry of food, fun and fireworks. The island also boasts regular holidays during the Christmas and Easter periods. Other public holidays include Carnival Monday in March and Labour Day on 2 May.

Money matters

Dominica’s currency is Eastern Caribbean dollar. There are plenty of exchange bureaux and ATMs on hand at the airports for travellers when they arrive. The two main airports in the country are Melville Hall Airport and Canefield Airport. Even though most of the hotels, shops, restaurants and tour operators accept major worldwide credit cards, it is a good idea to carry a sufficient amount of cash around while travelling on the island. There are banks in Dominica that will exchange travellers cheques.

Health and safety

Dominicais a safe place to explore, with little crime in comparison to other Caribbean neighbours. The major issue with regards to safety is the condition of some of the roads and the nature in which locals drive. Caution is advised, especially when driving at night (which is only advised in case of emergency). There are two main hospitals serving the island, one in Roseau and the other in Portsmouth.

Fitting in…

The people of Dominica are renowned for their friendliness and easy way of life. Therefore it is only fitting that travellers repay their kindness with respect. Dress is an important part of the local culture, so be ready to dress for the occasion. Don’t wear beach clothes when going out to dinner or gym wear when going out for drinks. Casual clothes, including shirts and trousers, are all that is required.

Visas for Dominica

Travellers from any of the British Commonwealth countries only need a valid passport for entry into Dominica. There are a host of other countries whose nationals do not require visas for travel of less than 21 days, including Japan, European Union members and Argentina. French nationals may use a national identification card to enter Dominica, but this is only valid for a two-week stay.

Electricity

Dominica’s electrical sockets are 220-240 Volts, 50 Hertz. There are generally two types of plugs found in the country. Many of the plugs are the British type, with three elongated, rectangular pins, while others are the old British three rounded pin type. An adapter and converter are required for 110-120 Volt appliances from other nations.

Business hours

Most businesses and banks on the island open at 08:00 and close at 17:00, Monday to Friday. Some government offices remain open on Saturdays for half a day in the morning. Trading hours are usually between 09:00 and 17:00, Monday to Friday, while Saturday trading runs from 09:00 to 13:00. Most businesses close on Sundays.

Helpful phrases

Because Dominica was formerly under British rule and still falls under the Commonwealth, English is widely spoken. Nevertheless, Creole, a form of Central American French, is also used throughout the island. Even though most people will confer with you in English, it helps to learn some basic Creole before travelling to the country.

Bon jou - Hello

Mwen pa konpran’n sa - I don't understand

Eskize mwen - Excuse me

Sa ki non’w - What is your name?

Wela… ? - Where is… ?

Merite - You are welcome

Mes - Thank you very much

Resources online

www.wikitravel.org/Dominica

www.dominica.dm

www.visit-dominica.com