Atop a mountain within the UNESCO-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park, thisxa0enchanted lake is the second largest body of hot water on the planet. Formed from a flooded volcanic fumarole, the crater is filled with grey-blue water shrouded in mist. Look past the whirling mass of steam and you’ll see the lake’s bubbling water surrounded by steep cliffs.
This huge bubbling hot springs lake sees temperatures reach almost 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius) with a cloud of vapour rising dramatically from it. Visitors require a guide to lead them along the 7-mile (11 kilometer) hiking trail, which can be a demanding and physically challenging trek. The walk also leads through the otherworldly Valley of Desolation,xa0 a volcanic area with a stream passing through, where the air becomes humid and moist and is filled with sulphuric vapours and gases. Expect the round trip trek to take a full-day.
- The lake is an ideal spot for nature lovers, hikers and thrill seekers.
- You will not be able to drive directly to the Boiling Lake because of the lack of roads.
- Wear appropriate footwear as the approach to the lake requires a long hike.
- From the lake to the nearest road is an 8-mile return hike so make sure that your shoes are comfortable.
- Take a break from walking at Breakfast River where you can fill up your bottles with fresh drinking water.
- Swimming is forbidden, as it would be extremely dangerous.
Boiling Lake is located within Dominica’s extensive Morne Trois Pitons National Park, which covers the bottom half of the island. The hike to the lake leaves from the main access town of Laudat, or from Ti Tou Gorge, which is also in the park. The lake may only be accessed on a 3-4 hour guided trek.
The Morne Trois Pitons National Park is open daily year-round. The best time to visit Boiling Lake is from March to May during the dry season. Make your best effort to make the trek on a clear and dry day as rains may make the trek treacherous or impassable.
UNESCO World Heritage-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park surrounds Dominica’s second highest mountain, Morne Trois Pitons. The lush 16,936-acre (6,857-hectare) park protects six vegetation zones, from low-lying woodlands to mature rainforest, and is home to the giant guinea pig known as the agouti, along with bats, frogs, parrots and hummingbirds. Plan time to see the park’s many attractions including the volcanic Valley of Desolation, Mindenhall Falls, Emerald Pool, and Titou Gorge.
