FAQ

Safety

Is canyoning safe?

Canyoning involves inherent risks, including slippery rocks, deep water, falls, changing weather conditions, and rappelling. At Extreme Dominica, safety is our number one priority. Our trained guides provide thorough instruction, use professional safety equipment, and follow a three-way rappelling safety system to help ensure that every guest enjoys the experience as safely as possible.

How does the three-way safety system work?

Extreme Dominica describes three layers of rappel control:

• The participant controls their speed on the rappel line.

• An additional safety line is attached to the participant’s harness and controlled by the guide at the top.

• A guide at the bottom, known as the “fireman,” holds and guides the rappel line as an additional safeguard.

What happens if I become frightened during the tour?

Please tell your guide immediately. Once we make the first descent, guests are expected to continue to the canyon’s exit, as leaving early may be difficult or not immediately possible. Our guides will provide reassurance and assistance throughout the experience.

What happens if I cannot complete a rappel?

Ask the guide for assistance. The available alternative will depend on the location, water level and group safety.

Are guides trained in first aid?

Yes. On all tours, our guides are equipped with complete first-aid kits and reliable communication devices to help respond to emergencies.

Do I need to sign a waiver?

Yes. Before the tour begins, all guests will receive a waiver to review and sign. Guests must sign the waiver to participate, and a parent or legal guardian must sign on behalf of anyone under 18 years of age.

Do I need travel insurance?

We do not require proof of insurance to complete your booking, but we strongly recommend that all guests have travel insurance with adequate coverage, including at least USD $200,000 for medical, evacuation, and repatriation. Canyoning is an adventure activity with inherent risks, and by choosing to proceed without insurance, you accept full responsibility for any costs or consequences that may arise.

Are life jackets always worn?

Yes. Life jackets are provided and worn throughout the canyoning experience as an important part of our safety equipment.

Weather and Water Conditions

Does the tour operate in the rain?

Dominica’s rainforest weather can change quickly. The tour may operate in light rain, but conditions such as heavy rainfall, flooding, high water levels, thunderstorms, or unsafe river conditions may require a delay or cancellation.

Can the tour be cancelled at the last minute because of weather?

Yes. Canyoning is weather-dependent and may be cancelled at short notice if conditions are unsafe.

What happens if Extreme Dominica cancels my tour?

If we cancel your tour before it begins, you will receive a full refund or have the option to reschedule. We will notify you by telephone and/or email as soon as possible. Cruise passengers will generally be contacted at least one hour before the scheduled start time regarding any cancellation or delay.

Will the tour be cancelled if it rains before the tour?

Not necessarily. The decision depends on current and forecasted conditions, river levels, access roads, and guide assessment. Guests should contact the company rather than assume the tour is cancelled.

Is the water cold?

Guests should expect cool rainforest water. A wetsuit and other protective equipment are provided, but guests should ask for additional thermal layers if necessary.

Is the tour affected by hurricanes or tropical storms?

Yes. Severe weather conditions, including hurricanes and tropical storms, may affect our tours and operations. If conditions require a cancellation, delay, or rescheduling, guests will be contacted as soon as possible and informed of the changes.

Transport and Meeting Point

Where do we meet?

Guests should be given the exact meeting address, a map link, arrival instructions, parking information, and a recommended arrival time.

Is transportation included?

Our headquarters are located on Papillote Road, Shawford. Parking is available at our headquarters. Guests may meet us there, or enjoy complimentary pickup within Roseau and the Roseau Valley ONLY.

For out-of-town and cruise-ship guests, we also offer convenient meeting points at:

Roseau Port (include the link)
Woodbridge Bay Port (include the link)

Please select the correct meeting point when completing your booking. Cruise passengers booked on the 8:30 a.m. tour do not need to worry if disembarkation begins at 8:30 a.m.; this is common, and we regularly accommodate guests arriving at that time. Our team will be waiting at the port, so please disembark as soon as permitted and proceed directly to your selected meeting point.

Do you provide pickup from Roseau hotels?

Yes. Complimentary pickup is available from accommodations within the Roseau and Roseau Valley areas only. Please provide your accommodation’s name and any additional pickup details in the notes when completing your booking.

Do you provide pickup from the cruise ship?

For Cruise-ship guests, we offer complimentary pick up and return from convenient meeting points near the cruise ship ports. These are:

Roseau Port (include the link)
Woodbridge Bay Port (include the link)

Please select the correct meeting point when completing your booking. Cruise passengers booked on the 8:30 a.m. tour do not need to worry if disembarkation begins at 8:30 a.m.; this is common, and we regularly accommodate guests arriving at that time. Our team will be waiting at the port, so please disembark as soon as permitted and proceed directly to your selected meeting point.

How much time should cruise passengers allow?

The Canyon Experience package is our most cruise-friendly option because it allows plenty of time for a timely return to your ship. This tour starts at 8:30am and takes approximately four hours from pickup at the meeting point to the end of the canyoning experience. If your ship departs after 6:00 p.m., you may also book the 1:00 p.m. tour or the Advanced Canyon Tour, provided the timing is suitable for your ship’s schedule.

Is parking available at the headquarters?

Yes. Parking is available at our headquarters, and guests are welcome to leave their personal belongings at our base during the tour however, Extreme Dominica does not accept responsibility for stored belongings.

Can I bring luggage?

Large luggage cannot be taken into the canyon. If needed, luggage and personal belongings may be stored at our base during the tour; however, Extreme Dominica does not accept responsibility for stored belongings.

Booking and Payment

How do I book?

Guests can book through Extreme Dominica’s online booking page or contact the company directly.

How far in advance should I book?

Advance booking is recommended, particularly for cruise days, holidays, private groups, and special occasions.

What information is required when booking?

The booking form should request:

• Full names

• Email

• Phone number

• Meeting Point

• Cruise Ship name if applicable

• Number of participants

What currency are prices shown in?

Extreme Dominica publishes its rates in U.S. dollars, and taxes are included. Our advertised rates apply to both adults and children; unless otherwise stated, we do not offer separate children’s rates.

Are taxes included?

All taxes are included in our rates.

Are gratuities included?

Gratuities are not included in the tour price, but they are optional and always appreciated for excellent service. Tips may be given on-site by cash or credit card.

What payment methods are accepted?

Through our website, we accept most major credit and debit cards, as well as PayPal. On-site, credit card payments are preferred. Please note that American Express is not accepted.

Can I book at the last minute?

Last-minute bookings may be possible if guides, equipment, and transportation are available. Guests should contact Extreme Dominica directly for same-day availability.

Can I book if I am travelling alone?

Yes. A minimum of two guests is required to book a tour. Solo travellers may either pay for two guests or choose the more economical option of joining an existing group, subject to availability. Current group availability can be viewed and tracked on our website.

Can children participate without a parent?

Yes, guests aged 16 and older may participate without a parent or guardian, provided they have no illnesses or injuries that could affect their safety. A parent or legal guardian must sign the liability waiver on their behalf before the tour.

Cancellation and Changes

What is the cancellation policy?

You may cancel by notifying Extreme Dominica.

• 24 hours or more before the tour: You will receive a full refund, less a 6% transaction fee.

• Medical reasons or cancellation by your cruise ship, airline, or ferry: You will receive a full refund, less the 6% transaction fee.

• Less than 24 hours before the tour: Please contact us to discuss your cancellation.

• Cancellation by Extreme Dominica: You will receive a 100% refund

Can I change my tour date?

Yes. Please contact us by email at info@extremedominica.com, via WhatsApp, or by telephone at +1 767-285-9136 to request a date change. At least 24 hours’ notice is recommended, and all changes are subject to availability.

What happens if I arrive late?

Late arrival may cause you to miss the departure to the canyon and, consequently, the entire tour. For private tours, late arrival may reduce the available tour time. Late guests are not eligible for refunds.

What happens if my cruise, ferry or airline changes or cancels?

If your cruise ship, airline, or ferry cancels, you will receive a full refund less the 6% transaction fee. Rescheduling your tour is also possible, subject to availability.

Can I cancel because I am sick?

Yes. Cancellations for medical reasons will receive a full refund, less the 6% transaction fee.

What happens if I do not show up?

No-shows are non-refundable. If you are delayed, please contact our office as soon as possible by email at info@extremedominica.com or by call/WhatsApp at +1 767-285-9136.

Accessibility and Personal Needs

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

The rainforest trail, wet rocks, rappelling, and water sections is not suitable for standard wheelchairs. Guests should contact the company before bookings to discuss individual needs.

Can guests with limited mobility participate?

Participation depends on the specific limitation and canyon route. Guests should describe their mobility needs in advance so the company can make a safety assessment.

Can I participate if I cannot walk for several hours?

The experience includes rainforest terrain, uneven surfaces, and approximately 2.5 hours traversing the canyon, including a 15-minute hike out. Please keep these factors in mind when deciding whether the tour is suitable for you.

Are vegetarian, vegan, or allergy-friendly refreshments available?

The tour ends with hot cocoa tea ( with or without coconut milk) and fresh local fruit. Guests should disclose food allergies and dietary requirements when booking.

Can I participate if I have a fear of water?

Guests should inform the guides before the tour. The experience includes water, pools, and canyon travel, so comfort with getting wet is important.

Can I participate if I have a fear of heights?

Guests should understand that rappelling and jumping off waterfalls is a central feature of the experience. Please note all jumps are optional. Guides can support nervous participants, but guests must be comfortable proceeding safely.

Can I canyon on my own without a guide?

No. The Government of Dominica does not permit individuals to canyon without a certified local guide. This rule is in place to protect visitor safety and preserve the natural environment, so even experienced canyoneers must be accompanied by an authorized guide.

During the Tour

What does the tour itinerary look like?

A typical itinerary is:

• Arrive at Extreme Dominica’s headquarters.

• Complete check-in, equipment fitting, and safety briefing.

• Practise rappelling on the training wall.

• Travel approximately 15 minutes to the canyon.

• Hike through rainforest terrain.

• Navigate pools, gorges, and waterfalls.

• Complete the rappelling and canyon activities.

• Hike approximately 15 minutes back to the vehicle.

• Return to the base for refreshments.

• Drop off back to meeting points

Will I get wet?

Yes. Guests should expect to swim, walk, and move through water in the canyon, so all personal items and clothing should be protected accordingly.

Are there jumps?

Yes, there are several optional jumps off waterfalls into pools throughout the canyon tour. If you prefer not to jump, our guides can always provide alternative ways to get down.

How high are the rappels?

Our canyon packages include several rappels ranging from 20 ft to 40 ft in height. The highest rappel is on the Advanced Tour, where the final descent of Papa Falls is 245 ft.

How is the Advanced Trafalgar Tour different from the Canyon Experience?

Both tours follow the same route through the canyon for the first 2 to 3.5 hours. The Canyon Experience ends at that point with a short guided hike out of the canyon, while the Advanced Canyon continues deeper into the canyon after a quick snack break, with a few more technical sections and a final rappel at

Trafalgar Falls. The Advanced tour usually lasts between 5 and 7 hours.

Can I skip activities?

The canyon tour includes hiking, rock scrambling, swimming, and rappelling, which are all part of moving from the start to the end of the canyon. The only activity that may be skipped is jumping off waterfalls, and our guides can use ropes to help guests down instead.

Are there bathrooms and changing facilities?

Yes. Toilet and shower facilities are available at our headquarters for guests to use and change in. We do not have lockers, but guests are welcome to store personal belongings at our headquarters; however, we do not accept responsibility for those items. Please note that there are no restroom facilities in the canyon, so guests should use the headquarters facilities before heading out.

Is drinking water provided?

Guests may bring water bottles for the drive to the canyon, but they must remain on the bus and

cannot be taken into the canyon. If a guest needs water during the tour, our guides carry water in their bags. For our Advanced Tour and Trois Piton Expedition, water and light refreshments are provided.

Are snacks or meals included?

Yes. Hot cocoa tea and fresh fruit are provided at the end of all tours. For the Advanced Tour and Trois Piton Expedition, refreshments are also provided during the tour.