Dominica’s gov’t announces upgraded fees for eco sites

The Dominican government has unveiled a revised fee structure for accessing its protected natural areas and eco-tourism sites, set to take effect December 1, 2025. The Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment, and Constituency Empowerment announced the changes following their inclusion in the recently presented National Budget Address for the 2025/2026 fiscal year.

In a significant development, two of Dominica’s most cherished natural wonders—Titou Gorge and Cold Soufrière—have received formal designation as nationally managed eco-tourism sites. This new status means standard entrance fees will now apply to these previously more accessible locations.

According to the Office of the Prime Minister, the primary objective behind the fee restructuring is to create sustainable revenue streams dedicated to environmental preservation. The generated funds will be strategically reinvested into biodiversity conservation programs, trail maintenance, landscape management, and sustainable tourism infrastructure.

The government also revealed plans to implement an online booking system that will allow visitors to purchase access passes before arriving in Dominica. This digital initiative aims to streamline the entry process and enhance the overall visitor experience while supporting better management of tourist flows.

The new fee schedule establishes clear categories: private site visits (excluding the Waitukubuli National Trail) will cost US$8 per entry, while daily passes for broader access will be priced at US$20. The government indicated that pricing for weekly passes remains under development and will be announced separately.