Live with and Learn about the Caribbean’s Indigenous People

Dominica is home to the Caribbean’s only remaining population of indigenous people. Known as the Kalinago, approximately 3,000 Carib Indians inhabit a 3,700-acre territory on the eastern coast of the island. Visitors to the island now have the opportunity to experience the rich and unique heritage of Dominica’s first settlers firsthand by participating in the island’s Kalinago Territory Home Stay Program. Participants are provided simple accommodations for a modest fee in private, owner-occupied residences.

Residents of the Kalinago Territory who offer their homes are happy to share the heritage of the Kalinago while they enjoy the additional experiences provided by hosting opportunities. Nightly rates for the Home Stay Program range from $30-$50 (U.S. dollars) per person. These rates include options of a conventional residential home, mix of conventional and traditional residential home or traditional accommodation (thatched/wooden huts). Meals are optional with the Home Stay Program and rates are $15 for lunch and $10 for breakfast and dinner. The Kalinago live a simple, communal life, carrying on the many traditions of their ancestors. The Kalinago Barana Autê cultural village includes an interpretation center and an area where Kalinago artisans display their talents for canoe building, basket weaving and creating authentic crafts. The trail throughout this gorgeous village offers fantastic viewpoints of the rough Atlantic coastline, along with the exciting opportunity to behold the Isulukati Waterfall, which cascades down into the Atlantic Ocean. In addition, Segment 6 of the Waitukubuli National Trail offers a moderate hike through the Kalinago Territory’s ancient trails (Castle Bruce to Hatten Garden), giving visitors the opportunity to experience the life and history of Dominica’s indigenous people. The Waitukubuli National Trail is part of the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dominica is the only Caribbean destination with a walking trail that spans the entire length of the island. The Kalingo Territory is about 20 miles from the capital city Roseau and 5 miles from the main airport, Melville Hall. For information visit www.kalinagoterritory.com