The green tunnel
Branches over the water.
Kay von der Küste — CC BY 4.0 · (Hans Hillewaert) — CC BY-SA 3.0 · (Hans Hillewaert) — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Cowbell Solo — CC BY-SA 2.0
The Indian River is Dominica's widest river, flowing into the Caribbean Sea between the town of Portsmouth and the village of Glanvillia. Visitors go upriver in wooden boats rowed by local guides, under big swamp trees whose twisted red roots tangle along both banks. Indian River boat rides are among the island's best-known tours. Scenes from Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest were filmed here. Guides prefer to row without motors, keeping it quiet so birds, crabs and lizards show on the banks. You set off from the bridge at the river mouth, and the boat enters a green tunnel of branches, the still water mirroring the trees. The guide explains the plants and birds and how the trees live where salt and fresh water meet, and the boat then returns to the mouth. The trip is calm and suits families and older visitors, with no walking or climbing. The river mouth is 1 km south-east of Portsmouth and 1.7 km from Fort Shirley. The price is agreed with the guide, so ask before you set off. Bring insect repellent.
Branches over the water.
Along both banks.
Birds and crabs.
Indian River mouth, between Portsmouth and Glanvillia, Dominica
About one to two hours.
To the guide, after agreeing the price.