Roseau in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Roseau

30°C (86°F) High Temp

22°C (71°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season perfection - March is the tail end of Dominica's dry season with minimal rainfall but still lush vegetation from previous months, creating ideal hiking conditions on trails like Waitukubuli National Trail
Whale watching peak season - Humpback whales migrate through Caribbean waters from February through April, with March offering the best combination of calm seas and active whale populations just 1.6 km (1 mile) offshore
Perfect temperatures for outdoor activities - Daily highs of 30°C (86°F) and comfortable evenings at 22°C (71°F) make this ideal for both sea-level activities and mountain hiking without excessive heat
Carnival season energy - March captures the post-Carnival cultural buzz with local communities still celebrating, steel pan practice sessions audible throughout neighborhoods, and traditional foods readily available

Considerations

Higher accommodation prices - March falls during peak tourist season with hotel rates 40-60% higher than summer months, and advance booking essential as properties fill up 6-8 weeks ahead
Increased cruise ship crowds - Up to 3 large ships dock weekly in March, creating congestion at popular sites like Dominica between 10am-3pm when 2,000+ passengers explore simultaneously
Limited rainfall means dustier conditions - While great for outdoor activities, the dry period creates dusty roads and hiking trails, particularly problematic for those with respiratory sensitivities

Best Activities in March

Whale Watching Tours

March offers exceptional humpback whale viewing as these massive mammals migrate through Dominican waters. Calm seas and 70% humidity create comfortable boat conditions, while whales are most active during morning hours when temperatures are cooler. Success rates reach 85% in March compared to 60% in other months.

Booking Tip: Book 2-3 weeks ahead through licensed marine operators. Tours typically cost US$65-85 per person for 3-hour trips. Morning departures (7:30am-10:30am) offer best wildlife viewing and calmer seas. Look for operators with marine biologist guides and hydrophones for underwater whale sounds.

Rainforest Waterfall Hiking

March's dry conditions make forest trails more accessible while waterfalls still run strong from accumulated rainfall. Temperatures of 30°C (86°F) at sea level drop to comfortable 24°C (75°F) at higher elevations around 600m (1,970 ft). Low humidity mornings (6am-9am) provide optimal hiking comfort before afternoon heat builds.

Booking Tip: Join guided hikes for safety and local knowledge. Half-day tours typically range US$45-75 per person including transportation and park fees. Book through certified nature guides - many waterfalls require 4WD access and trail knowledge for safety. Allow 4-6 hours for popular routes.

Snorkeling and Diving Excursions

March's calm seas and excellent underwater visibility (often 30m/98 ft) create perfect diving conditions around Dominica and Scott's Head. Water temperatures reach comfortable 26°C (79°F), while minimal rainfall means no terrestrial runoff affecting coral visibility. Sperm whales occasionally spotted during deeper dives.

Booking Tip: Book dive packages 10-14 days ahead, especially for weekend trips. Two-tank dives typically cost US$80-120, snorkeling trips US$45-65. PADI-certified operators essential for safety. Morning trips offer calmest conditions and best marine life activity before afternoon winds develop.

Botanical Garden and Cultural Tours

March's lower rainfall showcases Dominica's botanical diversity while comfortable temperatures make walking tours enjoyable. Local guides share traditional plant uses and Kalinago cultural practices. Post-Carnival period means increased cultural programming and traditional craft demonstrations throughout the month.

Booking Tip: Cultural tours typically cost US$35-55 for half-day experiences including transportation. Book through local cultural centers or certified heritage guides. Morning tours (8am-11am) avoid afternoon heat and offer better photography lighting. Combine with traditional lunch experiences for complete cultural immersion.

River Tubing and Canyoning

March's controlled water levels create ideal conditions for river activities - enough flow for excitement but manageable currents for safety. Morning temperatures of 26°C (79°F) make water activities refreshing rather than shocking. Rivers run clearest in March with minimal sediment from reduced rainfall.

Booking Tip: River adventure packages range US$55-95 per person for 3-4 hour experiences. Book with operators providing safety equipment and certified river guides. Morning departures offer cooler temperatures and calmer water conditions. Weight restrictions may apply - confirm when booking.

Sulphur Springs and Hot Springs Tours

March's comfortable air temperatures of 22°C (71°F) in evenings create perfect contrast with natural hot springs at 40°C (104°F). Dry conditions mean easier access to geothermal sites, while clear weather offers impressive views of volcanic landscapes. Therapeutic benefits enhanced by lower humidity levels.

Booking Tip: Geothermal tours typically cost US$40-70 including transportation and guide fees. Book afternoon tours (2pm-5pm) to enjoy hot springs as air temperatures cool. Licensed geological guides provide safety briefings and volcanic education. Bring water and snacks - facilities limited at remote sites.

March Events & Festivals

Throughout March

Real Mas Dominica (Independence Celebrations)

March celebrates Dominican independence with cultural performances, traditional food festivals, and local music showcases throughout the month. Steel pan competitions and folk dance presentations occur in Roseau's Old Market Square most weekends, offering authentic cultural immersion beyond typical tourist experiences.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight hiking boots with ankle support - trails can be rocky and uneven, especially on popular routes to Boeri Lake at 870m (2,854 ft) elevation

Quick-dry clothing in breathable fabrics - 70% humidity means cotton stays damp, while synthetic blends dry within hours

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index of 8 requires serious protection, and many marine areas prohibit harmful chemical sunscreens

Lightweight rain jacket - those 10 rainy days bring brief but intense tropical downpours, often lasting 20-30 minutes

Water shoes with grip soles - essential for river activities, rocky beaches, and wet waterfall approaches

Insect repellent with DEET - evening mosquito activity increases in humid conditions, particularly near freshwater areas

Waterproof phone case - protect electronics during water activities and unexpected rain showers

Lightweight daypack with water reservoir - long hiking days in 30°C (86°F) temperatures require consistent hydration

Cash in small bills (Eastern Caribbean Dollars) - many local guides and small vendors don't accept cards or US$100 bills

Prescription medications in original containers - medical facilities limited outside Roseau, and some medications unavailable locally

Insider Knowledge

Start outdoor activities by 7am to avoid afternoon heat and crowds - locals do their hiking and gardening before 9am during March's warmer weather

Buy fresh produce at Saturday morning market (6am-11am) in Roseau for 60% less than tourist shops, and interact with farmers who speak Kwéyòl and share traditional recipes

Book accommodations on the Atlantic (windward) coast for natural air conditioning - trade winds provide constant cooling that west coast properties lack

Carry small bills in Eastern Caribbean Dollars - USD accepted but change given in EC$ at unfavorable rates, costing you 15-20% on small purchases

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating hiking difficulty in humid conditions - what feels easy at sea level becomes exhausting at 600m (1,970 ft) elevation with 70% humidity and 30°C (86°F) temperatures

Planning beach days like other Caribbean islands - Dominica's volcanic beaches have black sand that becomes extremely hot by midday, making morning visits essential

Booking accommodations too late - March is peak season with properties filling up 6-8 weeks ahead, especially eco-lodges and boutique hotels with limited rooms