Its surface covering over 350 square kilometers (135 square miles), Lago Enriquillo is the largest lake in the Caribbean, and also the region’s sole body of water located more than 43 meters (140 feet) below sea level. Named after Enriquillo, the first Taino chief who successfully revolted against Spanish colonialists, the lake and its surrounding lands are ideal for wildlife watching and nature exploration. Boat trips along the lake’s waters and onto Isla Cabritos–sitting in the middle of this unique body of water–reveal a large population of American crocodiles which you’ll view up close, as well as pink flamingos at Boca de Cachón, and numerous other bird species. Iguanas guard the entrance to the lake, and the surrounding land includes tropical and dry forests, water springs–La Azufrada–and farmland. Bring a hat and plenty of water as the heat is at its most intense in these parts, particularly on the boat ride.
Recognized as the most beautiful beach in the DR and part of the Jaragua National Park, this diamond-white stretch runs a whopping five miles, boasting crystal clear turquoise waters, and a spectacular rocky karst landscape hugs this beach all along the coastline.
The city of Barahona is ideally located near beaches, cold rivers for swims, and is less than an hour away from an array of biodiverse parks, lakes, and mountains.
Barahona Enriquillo Coastal Highway
The drive down the Barahona Enriquillo Coastal Highway shows off a sparkling turquoise Caribbean Sea on your left, while the mountains of Barahona tower on the not-so-distant right.
Cabo Rojo remains one of the DR’s most popular beaches, winning visitors over with its captivating coastal views. Its turquoise waters are also home to some of the Caribbean Sea’s best-preserved coral reefs, providing a breeding ground for Antillean Manatees and the juvenile hawksbills.
Cabral is best known for its colorful carnival at the end of Easter, when the Cachúa characters dress in bat-like costumes and unfold impressive whips as they go in pursuit of the demons from Thursday to the Monday after Easter Week. Close by is La Lista, a small town famous for its wooden rocking chairs and other arts and crafts from wood. Some 22 workshops fill the town.
Cachote is a stunning protected cloud forest area, with a tiny community living at 1,097 meters (3,600 feet) above sea level. There are winding paths along which you can observe tropical flora, including bromeliads and wild orchids, as well as a series of hiking trails for excellent bird-watching.
Hop on Café Toral’s coffee trail, a comprehensive hour-long tour of this popular coffee plantation located in the mountains of Polo. Learn about the various stages of coffee production from tree to cup.
Cafeto Madre is another option for a coffee trail in the mountains of Polo. Local guides will take you hiking across multiple trails leading to the coffee plantation. You could also combine an excursion to the nearby cloud forest of Cachote while you’re there.
This short but scenic zipline adventure takes you right over a pristine river as you glide through tropical forests. The Canopy Tour ends at an onsite spa, the perfect way to cool you down.
Corporativa Simona Esmeralda Feliz
This locally run cooperative in Polo produces their own coffee on site; tour their small factory and process during the months of November through January.
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