Dominica has been named among the top 20 islands in the Caribbean and the Atlantic in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards, securing 11th place in the region, the Ministry of Tourism has announced.
The recognition places the Nature Isle alongside some of the most sought-after destinations in the Caribbean, as voted by readers of the prestigious international travel magazine. The Readers' Choice Awards are widely regarded as a benchmark of traveller satisfaction, reflecting the experiences of visitors who have personally explored the destinations they rank.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, the placement highlights Dominica's growing appeal as a unique and authentic Caribbean destination. The island has long distinguished itself from its neighbours by promoting eco-tourism, adventure travel and its unspoiled natural environment, rather than the traditional sun, sea and sand model.
The award comes as Dominica continues to rebuild and reposition its tourism product following the devastation of Hurricane Maria in 2017. Since then, the island has invested heavily in resilient infrastructure, including the ongoing construction of a new international airport at Douglas-Charles, and has sought to attract visitors interested in hiking, diving, whale watching and wellness retreats.
Tourism officials have pointed to the Waitukubuli National Trail, the Boiling Lake, the Indian River and the island's extensive network of hiking trails as key attractions that set Dominica apart. The Ministry of Tourism has also emphasised the role of community tourism and the preservation of the island's Creole and Kalinago heritage in creating a distinctive visitor experience.
The 11th-place ranking is expected to provide a boost to the island's promotional efforts as it competes for attention in a crowded regional market. The Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards are closely watched by the travel industry, and a strong showing can influence the decisions of high-value travellers planning Caribbean holidays.
Dominica's placement in the top 20 follows similar recognition in recent years, as the island has consistently appeared in international travel lists celebrating sustainable and authentic destinations. The Ministry of Tourism has indicated that it will continue to work with stakeholders across the sector to build on this momentum.
The full list of the 2026 Readers' Choice Awards is published by Condé Nast Traveler, with rankings determined by the votes of the magazine's readership. Dominica's 11th-place finish places it ahead of several larger and more established Caribbean destinations.
For local tourism operators, hoteliers and tour guides, the recognition is a welcome endorsement of their efforts to offer visitors a genuine and memorable experience. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting the natural and cultural assets that underpin the island's reputation as the Nature Isle of the Caribbean.
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