Established in 1956, the Armando Bermúdez National Park stretches 767 square kilometers (296 square miles), and together with the neighboring José del Carmen Ramírez National Park, boasts the tallest peaks in the Caribbean region, including the mighty Pico Duarte, source of the Yaque del Norte river, as well as several more river sources. The two parks cover the surface of the entire Cordillera Central mountain range. You’ll spot unique flora at this altitude, where temperatures range from 12ºC (53ºF) to -8ºC (17ºF) at night, including endemic criollo pine trees, ferns, and mahogany, among others. Amid these precious trees are numerous bird species such as the cigua palmera or palmchat–the DR’s national bird–the Hispaniolan parrot, butterflies, and frogs. You might even spot the hutia–an endangered large rat species. One of the most popular hiking routes to Pico Duarte depart from this national park’s main office, where you can hire the required certified guides, as well as mules for the two- or three-day overnight journey.
Armando Bermúdez National Park
The Armando Bermúdez National Park stretches 767 square kilometers (296 square miles), and together with the neighboring José del Carmen Ramírez National Park, boasts the tallest peaks in the Caribbean region, including the mighty Pico Duarte, source of the Yaque del Norte river.
Stop at this river park for an easy dip in the fresh, calmer waters of the Yaque del Norte river. There are a handful of benches and picnic tables. Bring your own food and drinks for a lovely day out.
Rancho Baiguate provides a challenge for photographers at its Mariposario, or butterfly house. Take home the shapes, designs and colors of these tropical butterflies in your digital photos. http://ranchobaiguate.com
The Café Monte Alto coffee factory offers a complete tour of the facility and its production of organic coffee. See their process from tree to cup, ending the journey with multiple tastings of fresh-brewed coffee at the onsite café.
Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción
This modern Roman Catholic Church took 15 years to build, and was completed in 1992. The cathedral is one of the few in the world where the statue of Christ is portrayed as already having resurrected and not dying on the cross.
Hiking El Mogote is a physically challenging but immersive experience. The three-hour climb takes you to this 1,163 meter (3,815 feet) high peak, taking you along a very steep hike through thick pine forests and vegetation and onto steep, rocky dirt slopes all the way to the top.
Jarabacoa’s nightlife kicks off on Thursday, when locals head to the handful of bars and lounges in the center of town. There are also a few casual spots across from the central park.
José del Carmen Ramírez National Park
Just like its adjacent Armando Bermúdez National Park, yet less explored, this is one of DR’s first national parks and protected areas. Stretching across three provinces at 764 square kilometers (295 square miles), it provides an alternative entry point to Pico Duarte.
La Ciénaga is one of the most scenic riverside villages and serves as a gateway to the journey towards Pico Duarte. Spend an authentic day out in a mountainside village, taking in the verdant mountain scenery and agricultural life, and colorful wooden homes dotting the landscape.
Head to this waterfront park, located a mere ten minutes from downtown Jarabacoa, where two of the area’s rivers merge and create mini pools amid the rocks.
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