Dominican Republic is a popular tour destination, known for its beautiful resorts and its breathtaking beaches. If you can make it beyond the resort you will discover mountain ranges, rivers, salt-water lakes, waterfalls, organic farms, off-shore islands, caves and much more natural parks and resources to explore! They also have a very diverse wildlife with endemic species such as rhinoceros Iguanas, a variety of exotic birds such as; pink flamingos, parrots, woodpeckers and hawks (just to name a few), crocodiles, hump back whales and turtles. Another interesting fact is that Dominican Republic has the highest and lowest point of all the Caribbean islands.
One of the most favorite natural parks to visit is in Pedernales which is located in the southwest corner of the DR. . Bahia de Las Aguilas which means “Eagle’s Bay” is located inside the park.
The park has a totally isolated beach which is 8 km long and is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world by many locals and travellers. It feels like you are in paradise! It is also a part of Jaragua National Park, the largest protected area in the Caribbean which has a wide range of rich natural resources from green forests, beaches, rocky hills and coral reefs. Bahia de Las Aguilas which means “Eagle’s Bay” is located inside the park.
Another favorite sight is Lake Enriquillo which is located in the southwestern part of DR and north of Pedernales provnince. This salt water lake is the lowest point and largest lake in the Caribbean, which is 148 ft below sea level covering 145mi2. This place is breathtaking with flowing rivers and mountain ranges. The highest mountain point in the Dominican Republic and in all of the Caribbean is Pico Duarte. It lies in central mountain range known as Cordillera Central. It is filled with volcanoes and pine forests. It makes a cool break from the hot weather in the West Indies. It has great hiking trails that may last a day or more with spectacular views of ocean, lakes and summits. The hiking can include a donkey that will carry your belongings up the steep mountain.
One of the most attractive water falls in the DR are The 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua River. This place is where visitors can really get an adventure by a combination of sliding, jumping, hiking, repelling, zip-lining, waking and swimming which is all together known as canyoning! This is a true wet ride of your life in crystal blue waters in a valley of mountains and tropical forests! Located in Puerto Plata, known as the “Bride of the Atlantic” in the northern part of the DR. It’s land is rich in natural resources and soils, corals in the forests where Ampoules trees grow and blossom!
These are only some of the most favorite and beautiful eco-friendly places to visit in the Dominican Republic. This heavenly island has so many secret spots waiting to be discovered! It is a true Caribbean treasure!
