Submitted by Michael Rechsteiner on the 2020 winter session program in Dominica sponsored by the Department of Geography…
The Indian River is the most popular river in Dominica. It is most known for its complete submergence in nature as it winds through the rain forests of the island. I was able to take a boat tour along the river. The boat reminded me of a dual wide canoe big enough to hold up to 12 people. The boat had a small engine attached to the end. However, in order to see the most of animals it was crucial to stay as quiet as possible, therefore our guide rowed for most of the trip while pointing out facts about all sorts of plants and animals. Throughout the journey, I was able to observe species that I have never seen in the wild, including iguanas and multiple species of waterfowl. I was also able to visit the setting of where multiple scenes of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest were filmed which was cool considering I had just watched that movie. The boat tour ended with the opportunity to explore the riverbed forest on foot. I observed a plethora of different plants and trees, as well as tons of scurrying crabs and geckos.
