Things to Do in Dominica in March

March Weather in Dominica

29°C (84°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

89mm (3.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Peak whale watching season - humpback whales migrate through Dominican waters March-May, with March offering the highest success rates (90%+ sightings) before tourist season peaks
Perfect hiking temperatures - morning temperatures of 23°C (73°F) make strenuous trails like Morne Trois Pitons (1,424m/4,672ft) and Boiling Lake comfortable before 10am
Dry season advantages - only 89mm (3.5 inches) rainfall means waterfalls like Trafalgar Falls run clear but still powerful, ideal for photography and swimming
Pre-cruise season pricing - accommodation rates are 30-40% lower than April-October before major cruise lines increase Caribbean schedules

Considerations

Unpredictable shower timing - afternoon rain bursts occur 10 days monthly with no set pattern, requiring flexible outdoor scheduling
Limited evening entertainment - many bars and restaurants in Roseau close by 9pm during shoulder season, affecting nightlife options
Rough Atlantic coast conditions - northeast trade winds create choppy waters on the windward side, limiting snorkeling to calmer Caribbean coast locations only

Best Activities in March

Whale Watching Tours

March marks peak migration season for humpback whales passing through the Dominica Passage. Success rates exceed 90% with calmer seas than February. Morning departures (7:30am-11:30am) offer best conditions before afternoon wind picks up. Water temperature of 26°C (79°F) means comfortable boat rides.

Booking Tip: Reserve 7-10 days ahead through licensed operators charging EC$180-250 (US$67-93). Look for boats with hydrophones and experienced naturalist guides. Weather cancellation policies are crucial during March's variable conditions.

Rainforest Hiking Adventures

Cool morning temperatures of 23°C (73°F) make challenging trails like Middleham Falls (45-minute hike) and Emerald Pool accessible before heat peaks. March's reduced rainfall means trails are less muddy but still lush. Cloud forest visibility is excellent in dry spells.

Booking Tip: Book guided hikes for EC$120-200 (US$45-75) per person through certified nature guides. Start before 8am to avoid afternoon showers and heat. Multi-trail packages offer better value for 3+ day stays.

Sperm Whale Deep Sea Encounters

Year-round resident sperm whale pods are most active in March's transitional weather. The 2km-deep (1.2 mile) waters off the west coast provide reliable sightings. Calmer Caribbean Sea conditions make longer 6-hour expeditions comfortable for photography.

Booking Tip: Premium half-day tours cost EC$300-400 (US$111-148). Book with operators offering underwater microphones and professional marine biologists. Afternoon departures (1pm-7pm) often see more active whale behavior.

Volcanic Hot Springs Experiences

March's moderate humidity makes soaking in natural hot springs like Ti Tou Gorge and Screw's Sulphur Springs comfortable. Water temperatures reach 37°C (99°F) while air stays around 29°C (84°F). Reduced crowds mean peaceful experiences in these geological wonders.

Booking Tip: Day passes cost EC$25-45 (US$9-17) at developed springs. Combine multiple springs in guided tours for EC$150-220 (US$56-82). Bring water shoes for rocky riverbeds and arrive early morning for best light and privacy.

Caribbean Coast Snorkeling

West coast waters remain calm and clear in March with visibility reaching 25m (82ft). Champagne Reef's geothermal bubbles and Scotts Head's coral formations are perfectly accessible. Water temperature of 26°C (79°F) allows comfortable 2-3 hour sessions.

Booking Tip: Snorkeling tours range EC$120-180 (US$45-67) including equipment and guide. Avoid rough Atlantic east coast entirely in March. Multi-site tours offer best variety for EC$200-280 (US$75-104).

Traditional Rum Distillery Tours

March harvest season means active sugar cane processing at local distilleries. Macoucherie and Shillingford estates offer behind-the-scenes access during peak production. Cooler mornings make walking tours through facilities comfortable before afternoon heat.

Booking Tip: Distillery tours cost EC$35-60 (US$13-22) with tastings included. Book directly through estates for authentic experiences. Combine with lunch at plantation restaurants for full cultural immersion at EC$85-120 (US$32-45) total.

March Events & Festivals

Early March (varies with Easter calendar)

Real Mas Dominica Carnival

Traditional pre-Lenten carnival celebration with jump-up parades, calypso competitions, and street parties in Roseau. Features authentic Caribbean culture without commercialization of larger island carnivals. Local bands, traditional costumes, and community participation create genuine cultural immersion.

Mid March

Nature Island Literary Festival

Week-long celebration of Caribbean literature featuring local authors, poetry readings, and cultural workshops. Events held at Botanic Gardens and Fort Shirley with stunning natural backdrops. Combines intellectual engagement with Dominica's unique cultural perspective.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry hiking boots with ankle support - essential for muddy volcanic trails that can become slippery even in March's drier conditions

Lightweight rain poncho (not umbrella) - afternoon showers last 15-45 minutes but can be intense, umbrellas useless in forest canopy

High SPF reef-safe sunscreen (50+) - UV index of 8 reflects strongly off water, standard sunscreen damages coral reefs

Moisture-wicking synthetic shirts - 70% humidity makes cotton uncomfortable, synthetic materials dry faster between activities

Waterproof phone case - essential for whale watching boats and waterfall photography, frequent spray and splash zones

Sturdy water shoes with grip - volcanic rocks are sharp and slippery, regular sandals inadequate for hot springs and river access

Insect repellent with DEET 25%+ - rainforest mosquitoes and no-see-ums active in March's humid conditions, natural repellents insufficient

Small backpack with waterproof liner - day hikes require hands-free carrying, sudden showers can soak regular packs within minutes

Long-sleeved rashguard for snorkeling - prevents sunburn during extended water activities and protects against jellyfish contact

Cash in small EC dollar denominations - many local operators and entrance fees require exact change, ATMs limited outside Roseau

Insider Knowledge

Local fishermen offer better whale watching value than resort operators - check Portsmouth and Scotts Head beaches for community boats charging EC$150 vs resort EC$300, same whales, more authentic experience

Dominicans eat dinner late (7-8pm) during March's extended daylight - restaurants often empty at 6pm when tourists expect service, wait until after 7pm for fresher food and better atmosphere

East coast drives require 4WD in March despite dry season - Atlantic trade winds create muddy conditions on windward slopes, rental companies often restrict certain roads even when weather looks clear

Purchase local phone SIM with data plan for EC$25 - international roaming costs prohibitive, local coverage excellent except in deepest rainforest, essential for weather updates and emergency communication

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking only west coast accommodations and missing dramatic Atlantic scenery - east coast drives are challenging but offer rugged coastlines and authentic fishing villages without tourist development

Scheduling rigid daily itineraries despite March's shower variability - build 2-3 hour flexibility into each day, indoor backup activities like Fort Shirley or Dominica Museum when weather turns

Assuming all waterfalls require strenuous hikes - Emerald Pool and Trafalgar Falls have easy 15-30 minute walks suitable for all fitness levels, perfect for March's variable energy due to heat and humidity