Cabrits National Park
Saint John
Cabrits National Park is a protected area located on a peninsula at the northern end of Dominica, near Portsmouth. Established in 1986, it covers 1,313 acres and includes tropical forests, wetlands, coral reefs, and a marine protected zone. The park is notable for Fort Shirley, an 18th-century British military garrison built to defend northern Dominica, which later played a role in a significant slave soldiers' revolt in 1802. The fort complex consists of over 50 buildings with Georgian architectural style, some fully restored and others in ruins, offering a glimpse into Caribbean colonial military history. Geographically, the park sits on an extinct volcano, with two main peaks, East Cabrit and West Cabrit, formed about one million years ago. The name 'Cabrits' refers to the wild goats introduced by sailors to the peninsula. The park supports diverse ecosystems including dry and wet forests, mangroves, and coral reefs, hosting a rich variety of wildlife such as 162 bird species, amphibians, mammals, and endemic trees. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails leading to the fort and summits, and since 2018, a scuba diving center has been available. The park also marks the northern terminus of the Waitukubuli Trail, Dominica's premier hiking route.
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Tip: The best time to visit Cabrits National Park is during the dry season to enjoy hiking and outdoor activities comfortably. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets or join guided tours in advance, especially for Fort Shirley access. Discounts may be available for groups and locals. The park offers trails suitable for various fitness levels, and a scuba diving center opened in 2018 for underwater exploration. Early arrival is recommended to avoid midday heat and to maximize wildlife sightings.
Interesting facts
- •The park’s two volcanic peaks, East Cabrit and West Cabrit, were formed approximately one million years ago.
- •Fort Shirley housed over 600 men and consisted of more than 50 buildings during its peak.
- •The 1802 revolt by the 8th West India Regiment at Fort Shirley was pivotal in the liberation of slave soldiers on the island.
- •Cabrits National Park protects one of the two largest wetland areas in the Portsmouth region, covering over 35 hectares.
- •More than 30 endemic herbs and shrubs in the park are recognized for medicinal use or Dominican crafts.
History
Cabrits National Park was established in 1986 to protect both the natural environment and the cultural heritage of Fort Shirley.
The fort was originally constructed by the British starting in 1765 under Governor Thomas Shirley to defend northern Dominica.
It was expanded by the French during their occupation from 1778 to 1784.
In 1802, Fort Shirley was the site of a revolt by the 8th West India Regiment of African slave soldiers, an event contributing to the eventual emancipation of slave soldiers in 1807.
The fort was abandoned in 1854 and fell into ruin until restoration efforts began in 1982 led by Dr.
Lennox Honychurch.
Place Guide
Fort Shirley1765-1854
An 18th-century British military garrison with Georgian architecture, comprising over 50 buildings. It served as a key defensive site and witnessed the 1802 slave soldiers’ revolt. Some buildings are fully restored, while others remain as ruins scattered across the peninsula.
East Cabrit Peak~1 million years ago
One of the two volcanic peaks within the park, standing at 140 meters. It offers scenic views and is accessible via hiking trails from Fort Shirley.
West Cabrit Peak~1 million years ago
The higher volcanic peak of the park at 171 meters, providing panoramic vistas of the peninsula and surrounding bays. Accessible by hiking trails connected to Fort Shirley.
