Dominica's Boiling Lake
The Hike
This arduous hike starts in the village of Laudat, for the first hour the trail passes through lush rain/montane forests, then moving up into the elfin forests, higher ground and more difficult terrain.
The Valley of Desolation
The trail also passes through the Valley of Desolation an area where there are lots of volcanic related activities like hot fumeroles and Sulphur pits. Because of the mixture of different chemicals and minerals in the area the streams have interesting colours like gray, bluish gray, white and even black.
The Boiling lake
Visitors must be careful not to go too close to the edge of the lake.
Dominica's Boiling lake is said to be the largest of its kind in the world, it is about 200 feet in diameter and is inside a crater.Two freshwater streams feed the lake, the water is heated my magma below the surface, which causes it to boil constantly at the centre where it is over 100 degrees Celsius.This is a very strenuous hike; one should be in very good physical condition before attempting to undertake it. Taking water and a snack is recommended, these things should be carried in a knapsack in order to have your hands free.
The Boiling Lake hike should not be attempted by anyone with heart conditions or suffering from old injuries, which are likely to be aggravated by stress. People with physical problems should discuss them with the guides before doing the hike.
Time 6-7 hours