Construction for a new cable car system, the world's longest of its kind, is underway in Dominica.
The single-cable system will take riders 4.1 miles from the Roseau Valley up to Boiling Lake, one of the world's largest thermal springs, located in the Morne Trois Pitons National Park. The 10-passenger, detachable gondola will make the trip to the top in 20 minutes -- a big time-saver from the rugged hike to the lake across the rainforest, which can take six hours roundtrip.
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Tourism minister Denise Charles said she expects the cable car project, to be completed in early 2024, to draw 20,000 visitors a year.
"We are thrilled that Dominica will be home to the world's longest cable car, encouraging more visitors than ever before to visit the beautiful Boiling Lake," Charles said. "Not only will this allow for more cruise visitors to explore our lush landscape while they are in port, but it will also allow easier access to travelers who are unable to hike the rugged trail to its peak."
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The $54 million project is being constructed by Austrian cable car manufacturer Doppelmayr Group.
The bottom station will include shopping and refreshments areas, and the top station will include a cafe, a viewing platform and a 19-foot statue of Dominica's national bird, the sisserou parrot.
Vietnam is home to the current world's longest single-cable gondola ride, at 3.6 miles long.