Morne Trois Pitons National Park

Named after its highest mountain, this 17,000-acre area was established as a national park in July 1975 and named a World Heritage site in 1997. Its Valley of Desolation is a region of boiling mud ponds and small geysers, its Boiling Lake is the world’s second-largest fumarole, and its Emerald Pool is a waterfall grotto that lures locals and visitors alike.

Take a 1.5-mile intermediate hike to the highest waterfall in the eastern Caribbean. Set in the Morne Trois Piton National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this path teems with orchids, tree ferns and buttress-rooted trees. The 275-foot cascade pours through a keyhole notch in the cliff and refreshes a swimmable basin (rumored to be enchanted). Pack plenty of water, as the heat and humidity can really add up. Note: following 2017’s Hurricane Maria, rangers and volunteers have completely cleared the trail and it now has some ocean views.

The world-renowned ornithologist Bertrand Jno Baptiste—better known as “Dr. Birdy”—leads rain forest rambles, ranging from three-hour tours to intensive. all-day hikes. His enthusiasm captivates even those not into bird-watching, as he shows off broad-winged hawks, plumbeous warblers, rufous-throated solitaires, red-legged thrushes, and rare blue-headed hummingbirds. Visitors also stand a good chance of seeing Dominica’s two endemic parrot species: the red-necked Amazon (“jaco”) and the imperial Amazon (“sisserou,” which stars on the country’s flag).

In the heart of Morne Trois Pitons National Park bubbles this deep, flooded fumarole—the second-largest of its kind in the world. The hike to this dramatic blue-grey cauldron traverses steep, rain-forested river valleys and skirts around mudpots veiled in steam. The 8.1-mile roundtrip is best navigated with a local guide. Heed trail closures and never swim in the lake. The temperature occasionally drops, but scalding water and harmful gases could erupt at any time with no warning.

Dominica’s highest peak looms at 4,747ft (1,430m) and its name translates as “little devil.” At least five lava domes stacked together to form the summit of this active volcano, which still keeps hot springs bubbling. Cool mist almost constantly swathes the higher elevations, where cloud forest moss, ferns, and spindly trees rule. Look for the elusive national bird here, the Imperial Amazon parrot, known locally as a “sisserou.” The Syndicate Nature Trail is a great place to start searching, especially guided by world-renowned ornithologist Bertrand “Dr Birdy” Jno Baptiste. Site pass required: EC$13 ($US5) per day or EC$32 (US$12) per week. (767) 266-3817; forestry@cwdom.dm; dominica.dm/index.php/national-parks