Map of Dominica – Parishes, Towns & Location Guide
Explore the map of Dominica, a mountainous island country in the eastern Caribbean. Use the interactive map to locate its capital, Roseau, the northern town of Portsmouth, coastal communities, rainforest-covered peaks and the island's ten parishes. Zoom in to examine roads, rivers and the distinctive coastline.
Dominica is an independent island nation in the Lesser Antilles, between Guadeloupe to the north and Martinique to the south. Its capital is Roseau, on the southwest coast. Dominica is not the same country as the Dominican Republic.
Interactive Map of Dominica
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Zoom or drag to explore individual locations.
Where Is Dominica Located?
Dominica lies in the eastern Caribbean island chain, roughly midway between the French territories of Guadeloupe and Martinique. The Caribbean Sea borders the western shore, while the Atlantic Ocean lies to the east. Its steep interior and many streams create a landscape very different from flatter Caribbean islands.
The country covers approximately 751 square kilometres. Its capital, Roseau, is on the southwest coast, with Portsmouth in the northwest. Dominica is sometimes called the Nature Island because of its rainforests, volcanic terrain, rivers and waterfalls.
Capital and Main Towns
| Place | Location and significance |
|---|---|
| Roseau | Southwest coast; national capital, government and commercial centre. |
| Portsmouth | Northwest coast; harbour town near Indian River and Cabrits National Park. |
| Marigot | Northeast coast; community near Douglas-Charles Airport. |
| Castle Bruce | East coast; settlement facing the Atlantic. |
| Soufrière | Southwest coast; village near Scotts Head and a marine reserve. |
| Calibishie | Northeast coast; coastal village known for beaches and bays. |
Dominica's Ten Parishes
For administrative and geographic reference, Dominica is divided into ten parishes. Their names are Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Joseph, Saint Luke, Saint Mark, Saint Patrick, Saint Paul and Saint Peter.
Saint George includes Roseau; Saint John includes Portsmouth. Saint Andrew occupies much of the north and northeast, while Saint David covers part of the central eastern coast. The other parishes extend across different coastal and inland areas. Parish boundaries may not be obvious at the map's default zoom, so use a detailed boundary map when precise administrative limits matter.
Mountains, Rainforest and Natural Landmarks
Dominica's rugged volcanic mountains shape travel routes, settlement patterns and rainfall. Morne Diablotin, in the north, is the island's highest peak at approximately 1,730 metres. The central and southern highlands include extensive protected rainforest.
- Morne Trois Pitons National Park: UNESCO-listed volcanic landscape with forests, lakes, geothermal features and waterfalls.
- Boiling Lake: A hot, water-filled volcanic feature reached via a demanding mountain hike near the Valley of Desolation.
- Emerald Pool: An accessible rainforest waterfall and natural pool in the national park area.
- Trafalgar Falls: Twin waterfalls in the Roseau Valley, inland from the capital.
- Indian River: Waterway at Portsmouth explored on guided boat trips.
- Cabrits National Park: Protected peninsula near Portsmouth with Fort Shirley and coastal views.
Many trails cross wet, uneven ground and can become hazardous after heavy rain. Check current official access arrangements and safety advice before visiting remote natural sites.
Roads, Airports and Getting Around
Roads connect Roseau, Portsmouth and communities around the coast, while inland routes cross steep valleys. Distances on the map can look short, but winding roads and mountainous terrain may make journeys slower than expected. Some areas are best reached with a local driver or guide.
Douglas-Charles Airport is in the northeast near Marigot. Canefield Airport is north of Roseau. Sea travel also plays a role, with ferry or other marine services varying by operator and schedule. Always confirm current routes, airport services, ferry schedules and road conditions before planning a journey.
How to Use This Map
Start at Roseau to understand the southwest coast, then move north along the western side to Portsmouth. Zoom towards the middle of the island to locate the national park, forested highlands and winding inland roads. Compare the eastern Atlantic coast with the generally more sheltered western Caribbean side. The map is useful for geographic orientation, not as a substitute for live navigation, weather alerts or verified trail guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dominica the same as the Dominican Republic?
No. Dominica is a separate island nation in the Lesser Antilles. The Dominican Republic shares Hispaniola with Haiti, much farther northwest.
What is the capital of Dominica?
Roseau, located on the southwest coast of the island.
How many parishes does Dominica have?
Dominica has ten parishes, used to describe its administrative and geographic divisions.
Where is Portsmouth?
Portsmouth is in northwestern Dominica, beside Prince Rupert Bay and near Cabrits National Park.
What is Dominica's highest mountain?
Morne Diablotin, at approximately 1,730 metres above sea level.
Is Dominica volcanic?
Yes. Volcanic activity helped form the island, and geothermal sites such as Boiling Lake remain prominent geographic features.
Which sea surrounds Dominica?
The Caribbean Sea lies to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east.
Disclaimer
This page is provided for general educational and geographic information. Details may change, and map information may be incomplete or outdated. Verify important travel, access and location details using official sources. External websites are independent; links do not imply affiliation or endorsement.