Boiling Lake
Boiling Lake
5
About
Said to be the second largest in the world, this hot springs lake is a caldron of gray-blue water at a temperature ranging from 180 to 197 degrees Fahrenheit; a full-day rigorous hike with a guide is needed to visit this awesome sight.
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience Boiling Lake
Are you currently on your trip?
Help us find experiences available for you.
The area
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
2 within 5 kms
Attractions
14 within 10 kms
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
436 reviews
Excellent
384
Very good
45
Average
4
Poor
2
Terrible
1
These reviews have been automatically translated from their original language.
This service may contain translations provided by Google. Google disclaims all warranties, express or implied, with respect to translations, including any warranties of accuracy, reliability, and any implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and freedom from forgery.
MeredithS3981
Flagstaff, Arizona, United States11 contributions
Jan 2025 • Couples
Great hike, beautiful area. I would strongly consider a guide for this hike. There are many nuances on this hike that make it difficult, especially after/during the rains. There was a group that was hiking without a guide when we were there, and a woman fell through a weakened area and burned herself. There are not rescue operations here that can be found in other some other countries.
The Dominican government is building a tram in this area, which took away from a bit of the natural beauty and apparently seems to be affecting the parrots in this area.
We had a great guide named Chadi 767-612-4506. He knew the area well, and he had lots of information about the flora and fauna of the region. I would recommend giving him a call.
The Dominican government is building a tram in this area, which took away from a bit of the natural beauty and apparently seems to be affecting the parrots in this area.
We had a great guide named Chadi 767-612-4506. He knew the area well, and he had lots of information about the flora and fauna of the region. I would recommend giving him a call.
Written January 25, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
christiane
Harvard, MA4 contributions
Jan 2025 • Couples
The only reason why only four points is that we unfortunately had constant rain and clouds limited the view. It’s a tough hike under normal conditions but with the views and the nature around you worth it. One of the trickiest part is descending to the valley of desolation which with the rain we had meant to have water from “mini waterfalls “ pouring down your back and the feet ankle deep in water. Our guide pointed out huge waterfalls in the distance that you would normally not see. After exploring the valley which is amazing we had to return, and therefore didn’t make it to boiling lake. On our way in to the valley we had to cross a river. Water was low and it was no problem but our guide got concerned that we might not make it back if we continue because of the rain. He was right. The river crossing was treacherous. The water was knee high and turned into fast moving rapids. We had to hold each other’s arm and slowly crossing from one big boulder for support to the next. When we arrived at the gorge at the entrance they told us that tubing had closed hours earlier because the river became too dangerous for tubing. We were not the only ones who didn’t make it all the way to the lake and from a group wo made it we heard that they regretted their decision to continue after the valley of desolation because they could not see much due to clouds. In all, a good guide is key as small streams quickly can become dangerous. As there is often at least light rain pack clothes and cellphones in additional plastic bags as the backpacks will get soaking wet. Have a good breakfast as the weather may not be good for breaks. The guide told us that the main problem are cramps because of long breaks and muscles getting cold. We only had a couple of one minute stops for a few sips of water to stay warm. If possible be flexible with the date for your hike and check the weather forecast. Otherwise great hike also for people who are no longer in their 30ies. We are way past 60, and it would just have taken perhaps closer to 8 hours but it was doable.
Written January 5, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dirk D
1 contribution
Feb 2025 • Couples
Incredible adventure! There are some dangerously misguiding reviews here, though. I am an extremely experienced international hiker and lead hikes as a part of my occupation; this is not one to be attempted by inexperienced hikers or first time without a guide. Much of the trail is obvious, yes, while other areas are not. Not to mention that some folks will be unable able to complete certain stretches without physical assistance (as witnessed firsthand several times). There are various water crossings (some over water with the potential to be dangerously hot & some trail sections that are directly in water), slick stone sections, climbing sections (with and without ropes), and long segments of steps. We encountered two lost couples and, sadly, an individual died on the trail a few days before we took it on. Heavy rainfall makes multiple stretches of this trail considerably more difficult and potentially impassable in the event of deep, heavy mud, loose ground, and high water.
From the parking area (prior to going across the bridges) and back, this hike clocked in at 8.33 miles and took just over 7 hours to complete (with heavy mud and a stop for lunch) with more than 3000 feet of elevation gain throughout the trail (meaning the total sum elevation ascended, not the maximum elevation reached).
Highly recommend for experienced hikers and highly recommend hiring a guide at least for the first time through. Subsequent visits for seasoned hikers/climbers without a guide could be done for those comfortable with it but being fully informed of current trail conditions and potential incoming weather is crucial. A recurring scene throughout our Dominica adventures were ill-equipped hikers and folks who were simply in over their heads.
Be a smart adventurer, not an arrogant one.
From the parking area (prior to going across the bridges) and back, this hike clocked in at 8.33 miles and took just over 7 hours to complete (with heavy mud and a stop for lunch) with more than 3000 feet of elevation gain throughout the trail (meaning the total sum elevation ascended, not the maximum elevation reached).
Highly recommend for experienced hikers and highly recommend hiring a guide at least for the first time through. Subsequent visits for seasoned hikers/climbers without a guide could be done for those comfortable with it but being fully informed of current trail conditions and potential incoming weather is crucial. A recurring scene throughout our Dominica adventures were ill-equipped hikers and folks who were simply in over their heads.
Be a smart adventurer, not an arrogant one.
Written March 1, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Laura G
le château d'Olonne15 contributions
Nov 2024 • Family
The hike is perfectly without a guide, provided you have a GPS track in case of doubt, on maps.me or AllTrails (no need to log in, just to have turned on the apps before and downloaded the hike on AllTrails). There are two small river crossings where one can ask the question of the passage, where the GPS plot can reassure, if not any way to get it wrong, the way is all set.
We did it in 6 hours with breaks, being in good physical condition and used hikers, with small hiking sneakers, 6 liters of water. You have to be ready to gurgle a little in the mud, sweat a little, use your hands to climb on roots, or help yourself with small ropes once or twice, but nothing very complicated.
The hike passes through various settings, rainforest, hot river where you can swim (magic!) overlooks the dreary, with sea view, passes through a rocky volcanic valley full of fumaroles, up to the boiling lake, impressive!
We left around 8am, returned around 2pm, and took a short swim in the Titou Gorge at the foot of the start of the hike (provide 10 ECD for an imposed life jacket), ideal for the after hike. We swim between walls, absolutely nothing dangerous, to a rock well with a beautiful little waterfall. We ended the day at the warm baths of Ti kwen glo cho, where we stayed, but accessible to visitors, super nice to relax in the middle of nature.
We did it in 6 hours with breaks, being in good physical condition and used hikers, with small hiking sneakers, 6 liters of water. You have to be ready to gurgle a little in the mud, sweat a little, use your hands to climb on roots, or help yourself with small ropes once or twice, but nothing very complicated.
The hike passes through various settings, rainforest, hot river where you can swim (magic!) overlooks the dreary, with sea view, passes through a rocky volcanic valley full of fumaroles, up to the boiling lake, impressive!
We left around 8am, returned around 2pm, and took a short swim in the Titou Gorge at the foot of the start of the hike (provide 10 ECD for an imposed life jacket), ideal for the after hike. We swim between walls, absolutely nothing dangerous, to a rock well with a beautiful little waterfall. We ended the day at the warm baths of Ti kwen glo cho, where we stayed, but accessible to visitors, super nice to relax in the middle of nature.
Automatically translated
Written November 27, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kimber K
3 contributions
Jul 2024 • Couples
After reading all the reviews from previous travelers, we contacted our wonderful guide Chadi Symes. We were so glad that we did. We ended up doing 3 different guided hikes with him culminating in Boiling Lake. All of these hikes were challenging & having a guide was essential. Not only did Chadi show us best routes, help us through toughest parts of each trail but his information about area, ecology, geology & local history was excellent. He showed us all best viewpoints so we could take wonderful pictures. My wife was very nervous about boiling lake hike after reading all reviews about how difficult it was for other travelers. Chadi kept us safe & eased my wife’s anxiety. With his encouragement, we were able to have a great time & complete this challenging hike. Dominica’s landscape is magnificent from its roaring waterfalls, hot springs, black sand beaches, tropical rainforests & volcanic landscape. All local people were very friendly & Chadi was no exception. Contact Chadi Symes to complete your Dominican experience at +1- 767-612-4506. You won’t be disappointed.
Written July 23, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jayne B
6 contributions
Dec 2024 • Couples
I loved this hike so much and would thoroughly recommend it. There was never a dull moment as the scenery varied and there were lots of fun bits to climb up and down. I wouldn't describe it as a difficult hike but you have to be careful with your footing in some places and there are quite a few steep parts where you have to scramble and pull yourself up. Oh and it can be really muddy and slippy at times! We were lucky to have a clear sunny day and the views were magical! I would strongly recommend having a guide because the Valley of Desolation is ever-changing and some of the earth can give way to fumeroles beneath. We hired Chadi Symes (+1 767 612 4506 IG @chadi.767treks) and I'd 100% recommend him. Not only was he a good laugh and jovial, but he also shared a lot of knowledge about the flora and fauna that we wouldn't have known otherwise. He brought us eggs to cook in the fumeroles too which was fun! We were also lucky enough to see an agouti on the trail.
Written January 21, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Connor W
1 contribution
Jan 2024 • Couples
Amazing hike. A must-do in Dominica. The views are amazing. Mountains, the sea, clouds, hot springs, and of course the world-famous Boiling Lake. If you love a mountain adventure and spending some sweat to get your reward, you'll love this hike. This is the coolest volcano experience I've ever had. Give yourself a good part of the day to do this. We had a top-notch guide show us the way with a couple of great stops along the way. I highly recommend you use Chadi for this hike and many others in Dominica. He's a great guy, knows the island better than anyone, and truly loves sharing an authentic Dominica experience with his guests. Give him a shout for some world-class hospitality and adventures in Dominica: +1 767 612 4506.
Written August 26, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maya
Nashua, NH18 contributions
Feb 2025 • Couples
The reviews I have read here are spot on so I'm not sure what I can add except reiterate how incredible this trip is, but you really must be quite prepared. My partner and I (35 f / 42 m) hike a lot all over New England and we thought it would be like other hikes we have done only with different views. This was hands down the most challenging experience. We also had torrential downpours which muddied the trails that much more. When we finished I was covered in mud (swimming in the falls after was a godsend). I recommend a raincoat, hiking sandals (you will be walking through water and mud unless you go in the dry season), and plenty of water although you can also find water along the trail. Also recommend not planning too much for the next day or two haha. Without our guide and group it would have been much more difficult. We reached out to Chadi thanks to a previous review, +1 (767) 612-4506.
Written February 9, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
5lucy
ancaster91 contributions
Jan 2025 • Couples
There are many reviews on Boiling Lake. I read them all prior to venturing out.
I am 67, a small woman, but quite fit, I thought I trained for this. I/ we have done many hikes including 3 weeks in Costa Rica, and last year Saba Mountain. Nothing prepared us for this. It is very strenuous, as well as mentally challenging.
Having said that, the views are spectacular. Valley of desolation is really something to see. The mountain ranges go on seemingly forever.
We had clear skies at the top and so we were rewarded by perfect views of the Boiling Lake. Made all the hard work worthwhile.
Then you have to go back:)
It can be daunting, but the colour in the rocks, the river sounds ,again the views, and some determination will get you there.
Also the encouragement of a great guide.
We used Yanik Desiree 1 767 616 4349. He will get you there safely and happily.
Enjoy!
I am 67, a small woman, but quite fit, I thought I trained for this. I/ we have done many hikes including 3 weeks in Costa Rica, and last year Saba Mountain. Nothing prepared us for this. It is very strenuous, as well as mentally challenging.
Having said that, the views are spectacular. Valley of desolation is really something to see. The mountain ranges go on seemingly forever.
We had clear skies at the top and so we were rewarded by perfect views of the Boiling Lake. Made all the hard work worthwhile.
Then you have to go back:)
It can be daunting, but the colour in the rocks, the river sounds ,again the views, and some determination will get you there.
Also the encouragement of a great guide.
We used Yanik Desiree 1 767 616 4349. He will get you there safely and happily.
Enjoy!
Written February 1, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dode G
5 contributions
Jun 2024 • Couples
We spent a week in Dominica and dove for 5 days. Since we could not dive on our last day before flying, we decided to do the Boiling Lake hike. We signed up at Jungle Bay where we were staying, and we were the only hikers in our group, other than our driver and guide from Jungle Bay, Collin.
This is a good hike. Personally, I found it much less difficult than I expected after reading the reviews. It had up and down sections but we did it in 5 hours even with a lunch break and a couple of other stops. I think we could have done it in an hour less if we’d been in a hurry. The lake was neat at the end. Note that there is wifi there as well (not sure how).
I am 51 and my wife is 52. We are both active (she does cross-fit, I am a forester) and hike a lot in New Hampshire. This was similar to a moderate hike in the White Mountains, like a Franconia Ridge day trip.
If you are an experienced hiker in decent shape you will not have any problems at all.
This is a good hike. Personally, I found it much less difficult than I expected after reading the reviews. It had up and down sections but we did it in 5 hours even with a lunch break and a couple of other stops. I think we could have done it in an hour less if we’d been in a hurry. The lake was neat at the end. Note that there is wifi there as well (not sure how).
I am 51 and my wife is 52. We are both active (she does cross-fit, I am a forester) and hike a lot in New Hampshire. This was similar to a moderate hike in the White Mountains, like a Franconia Ridge day trip.
If you are an experienced hiker in decent shape you will not have any problems at all.
Written June 30, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I wanted to know if you have an email or website for Nigel George... All I could find was a phone number ....thank you
Written April 2, 2024
how much for a taxi from cruise ship to champagne reef please
Written December 9, 2017
Hi, can you tell me where to contact Nigel, the guide for the Boiling lake?
Hope to hear from you
kind regards
Janneke
Written January 26, 2017
The quide was Peter( nick name the bushman), go to the tourist office they will hive you his phone#.
Written February 12, 2017
My husband and i would love to do this hike while our cruise ship is docked for the day. Is it worth it? We are in good physical condition and love to hike. Our little ones would be with our relatives and do one of the easy hikes like the Emerald pool. Trying to decided if its worth it to spend the entire day away from the fam. Also, what is the best way to hire a guide?
Thankyou
Written January 21, 2017
The hike is definitely worth it. If you are on a cruise ship, they will likely have guides available. I'm not in particularly great shape, but was able to do most of it. I'm not great with heights, so when the path got too narrow, I waited for my group to go to the lake and come back. I could see the lake. All that to say, it isn't too bad and definitely worth it. You will never forget a visit to Boiling Lake.
Written July 10, 2017
Should I do boiling lake hike from Fort Young Or Beu River hotel? We are staying at both places. Which would be closer and more convenient? Thanks for any help.
Written January 13, 2017
Sorry, I honestly have no idea. I hired a guide in Portsmouth who drove us to the entrance of the park where the walk begins.
Written July 10, 2017
How far is beginning of hike to boiling lake from Beau River hotel?
Written December 15, 2016
Hi Bnice,
Its a 40 km, so it will take you 1,5 hours.
Just google TiTou Gorge, that is the starting point.
Written December 19, 2016
Is it advised to go with two fit boys 8 and 10 years old (steps might be too high?)
Written May 14, 2016
We climbed to Boiling Lake 17 years ago when my daughter was
8. We had a great guide, Andrew, who kept her happy with swimming in water falls and shampooing her hair with plants.
from the jungle.
he did carry her for a short time, but I think that was more for
fun.
We have done the hike 4 more times once with her about 4 years ago.
Go for it!!
Written July 23, 2016
MartinK1987
Cologne, Germany
Hallo, ich bin auf einer Kreuzfahrt auf Dominica ( 8-18 Uhr ) Reicht das zeitlich aus ? WÜrde gerne wissen, wie die Kosten sind und ob es sich mehr mit oder ohne Guide lohnt ? :) Muss man vorher reservieren oder kann man einfach morgens hin und auf eigene Faust los ? Ab wieviel Uhr kann man dort starten ?
Schöne Grüße
Written January 16, 2016
Hey Martin, wir sind am 1.3.2020 auf Dominica - auch von 8:00 bis 18:00 Uhr. Hast Du schon weitere Infos zur Wanderung Boiling Lake erhalten? Wir würden es super gerne machen, aber die Zeiten der Veranstalter sind nicht möglich bzw. bei dem Veranstalter, der die Zeit ermöglicht, ist es schon preislich ziemlich heftig. Freundliche Grüße
Written January 18, 2020
Showing results 1-10 of 12
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing