The Dominica Hotel and Tourism Association, in partnership with other key industry stakeholders, will host its 12th annual hiking festival; Hike Fest 2020 in the month of May.
This year the popular hiking festival highlights the trails of our ancestors, under the theme: Neg Mawon: The Survivor Spirit. “This year’s Hikefest will concentrate on the contributions of our African ancestors, and their journey through the lush rainforests of Dominica. The hikes will take place every Saturday of the month and will feature historically popular trails including segments of the Waitikubuli National Trail”, Kevin A Francis, Executive vice President of the Association.Hikefest forms part of* Tourism Awareness Month in May 2020* annual calendar of events. The objective of Tourism Awareness Month is to increase the public’s awareness of the Tourism & Hospitality industry’s economic, cultural and social contributions to Dominica.
The association is also predicting this to be one of the biggest Hikefest to date. “Based on the strength of our hiking product we have been able to gain the interest from the region with several islands coming to participate last year, including St. Kitts and Martinique.” Mr. Francis added. “This year we have been reaching out to our regional family to hike the nature island and they are answering the call.”Mr. Francis outlined a new component to this year’s festival; the inclusion of packaged stay for regional travel. “Over the years, we have seen an increase interest in hiking the island from the regional.
This year we have decide to pay special attention to this trend and at the same time maximize value to our members. Along with our Tour operator members, the association will be creating travel and accommodation package for persons wishing to travel to Dominica for the Hiking Festival. What is unique about this initiative is that it will be done exclusively with our membership. Truly a great opportunity for our members.”
The Schedule for Hikefest 2020 is as follows:1. May 2nd – Jaco Steps. (Intermediate)
2. May 9th – Night Hike – Fresh water Lake Loop Trail (Easy)
3. May 16th – Neg Mawon Trail (Pont Casse to Castle Bruce) (Intermediate)
4. May 23rd – Syndicate Loop Trail – Children’s Hike (Easy)
5. May 30th – Morne Diablotin (Advanced)
Hike Fest is not exclusively for experienced hikers; all featured trails range from easy to moderate. Still, a qualified tour guide, as well as first aid responders, will accompany the group on each hike to ensure safety.
Adults are required to submit a registration fee of EC$60 per hike while children are $EC30 per hike.
The package includes a t-shirt, transportation and refreshments; lunch will be available for purchase.
All groups and individuals are asked to gather at the Prevost Cinemall at 5:30am for briefings and departure.
