Hike Fest 2026 Concludes with Historic Jaco Flats Experience, Celebrating Nature, Heritage and Community

The Dominica Hotel and Tourism Association (DHTA) has officially concluded Hike Fest 2026, bringing to a close six weeks of unforgettable outdoor adventures that invited residents and visitors alike to explore Dominica Beyond the Beaten Path.

Originally scheduled for May 23, the final hike, "Echoes of the Maroons" at Jaco Flats, was successfully rescheduled and held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, serving as a fitting finale to this year's festival. Participants journeyed through one of Dominica's most historically significant landscapes, a site deeply connected to the stories of resistance, resilience, and freedom of the island's Maroon communities.

The experience combined breathtaking natural beauty with cultural reflection, allowing hikers to connect not only with the environment but also with an important chapter of Dominica's history. The day concluded in true Dominican fashion with a refreshing river bath and a hearty one-pot meal shared among participants, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.

Throughout the festival, participants explored a diverse range of trails including Boeri Lake, Trinity Lakes, Segment 11, the Sylvania to Middleham Night Hike, Charles Warner, and the iconic Boiling Lake trek. Each hike showcased a different side of Dominica's rich natural heritage while encouraging healthy lifestyles, sustainable tourism, and meaningful connections with nature.

DHTA Board Member and member of the Hiking Committee, Hubert Winston, described this year's festival as a success.

“This year’s Hike Fest saw our largest turnout ever. Several hikes, including Jaco Flats, offered participants a unique opportunity to connect with Dominica’s rich history through newly discovered sites, ruins, and relics. It was a meaningful experience to walk in the footsteps of our ancestors. We’re excited for next year and look forward to delivering even bigger, better-promoted events with enhanced experiences for participants to enjoy.”

DHTA President Kitwani Ferreira, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative.

"What makes Hike Fest special is that it goes beyond hiking. It creates opportunities for people to discover hidden corners of Dominica, learn about our history and culture, and develop a deeper appreciation for the island's unique assets. The response from participants this year confirms that experiential tourism continues to resonate strongly with both locals and visitors."

Participants echoed similar sentiments about their experiences.

Mervin Wallace, a first-time Hike Fest participant, and a Dominican living in the diaspora shared:

"I did the Boiling Lake Hike and it was overall a great experience. I convinced my son to do it with me as it was something off my bucket list. The hike itself was challenging, but the event was well organized. I will be back next year with some of my colleagues who wish to take part in Hike Fest."

Ibrahim Brohim of Dwivayez Hiking Club, who participated in multiple hikes throughout the festival, added:

"The organization was excellent from start to finish. Hike Fest reminded me why Dominica is known as the Nature Island. The final hike felt like a celebration of everything the festival represents—adventure, history, community, and appreciation for our natural environment."

The DHTA extends sincere thanks to the certified guides, volunteers such as Next Level Hikers, partners, sponsors, emergency support teams, and participants who contributed to the success of Hike Fest 2026.

As the festival comes to a close, the Association remains committed to promoting sustainable tourism experiences that showcase Dominica's unparalleled natural beauty while preserving the cultural and environmental heritage that makes the island unique. There are plans to establish a series of hikes in November during the Independence season.

Plans for Hike Fest 2027 are already underway, with organizers looking forward to welcoming even more participants to discover new trails, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences across the Nature Island.