{"id":355998,"date":"2026-01-28T12:42:48","date_gmt":"2026-01-28T16:42:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dominicanewsonline.com\/news\/?p=355998"},"modified":"2026-01-28T12:42:48","modified_gmt":"2026-01-28T16:42:48","slug":"officials-say-swiss-tourists-successfully-rescued-on-waitukubuli-national-trail","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dominicanewsonline.com\/news\/homepage\/homepage-carousel\/officials-say-swiss-tourists-successfully-rescued-on-waitukubuli-national-trail\/","title":{"rendered":"Officials say Swiss tourists successfully rescued on Waitukubuli National Trail"},"content":{"rendered":"

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The Ministry of Tourism, together with the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), reports that two Swiss tourists who went missing on Monday, January 26, 2026, along a section of the Waitukubuli National Trail, have been safely rescued.<\/p>\n

A press release shared that the rescue was the result of a well-coordinated search and rescue operation, culminating in a helicopter extraction on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.<\/p>\n

Officials say that the disappearance of the visitors prompted an immediate emergency response on January 26.<\/p>\n

Over the following day, a comprehensive search effort was carried out, involving personnel from the Forestry Division, the Dominica Police Force, as well as Fire and Ambulance Services. Dedicated volunteers also played a critical role in the operation.<\/p>\n

The successful extraction by helicopter allowed the two individuals to be transported to the Dominica China Friendship Hospital (DCFH), where they received medical assessment and care.<\/p>\n

Both the Ministry of Tourism and the Discover Dominica Authority reportedly expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all rescue team members and volunteers for their professionalism, coordination, and relentless dedication throughout the mission.<\/p>\n

Their prompt actions and persistent efforts were vital in ensuring a positive and safe resolution.<\/p>\n

In addition, officials from the Ministry of Tourism and DDA took the opportunity to remind both residents and visitors that hiking on any of the official national trails should always be done with a certified tour guide.<\/p>\n

This precaution is important for safety, effective navigation of the often challenging terrain, and ensuring quick emergency response if needed.<\/p>\n

Dominica\u2019s trail networks traverse rugged landscapes, remote areas, and are subject to unpredictable weather conditions, all of which pose significant safety risks\u2014especially for those unfamiliar with the environment.<\/p>\n

Certified guides bring essential local expertise, safety oversight, and environmental awareness, thereby greatly reducing the chances of accidents or getting lost, said the release.<\/p>\n

Looking ahead, the Discover Dominica Authority, in partnership with the Dominica State College, says it will conduct its annual Tour Guide Training and Certification Program\u00a0from April 13 to 20, 2026, and again from September 14 to 21, 2026.<\/p>\n

According to the release, the goal is to strengthen guide skills, raise safety standards, and enhance the quality of professional services offered within the sector.<\/p>\n

Individuals interested in obtaining certified guiding services or in enrolling for the upcoming training sessions are encouraged to contact the Discover Dominica Authority at (767) 255-8221 or the Forestry Division at (767) 266-5856.<\/p>\n

Listen to Marva Williams’ audio statement:<\/p>\n