Visiting Jarabacoa
Slightly different from the rest of the holiday destinations in the Dominican Republic, Jaraboa attracts a different type of tourist. Even without a beach, Jarabacoa offers many activities to enjoy its cooler weather.
Why Is Jarabacoa Famous?
Jarabacoa in the Dominican Republic is famous because of its landscape. With the surrounding Dominican Alps, this mountain resort is an ideal location for those packing their hiking boots.
The area is also famous for its coffee production. In fact, a large portion of the country’s beans come from this luscious green area.
Jarabacoa certainly isn’t famous for its beaches. However, it has a lot of other natural beauty that you won’t want to miss out on. For a little variety to your trip, ensure you add it to your Dominican Republic itinerary.
What’s really great is that, although it looks remote, the region is incredibly accessible. This is because of its modern highways and accessibility to cars.
Tourists often flock to the area to take on a challenge: Pico Duarte. This is the tallest peak in the entire Caribbean and has an outstanding view at the summit. The longest river then flows down from here, just some of the spectacular water displays on offer in Jarabacoa.
Things To Do In Jarabacoa
Despite the lack of beaches, there are still so many things to do in this beautiful part of the Dominican Republic.
Horseriding
If hiking up the mountain isn’t for you, there is the chance to travel by horse instead. This is a huge part of the culture in Jarabacoa. You will feel like a local as you horse ride through the green valleys. Take in the fresh smells of coffee and coriander as you pass through the small communities hidden in the mountains.
Take In the Beautiful Water Structures
Though it doesn’t have a coastline, Jarabacoa is still rich in beautiful water. Waterfalls inundated the green hills, with pools and lagoons you can dip in to rest weary feet.
If watching them isn't enough, then you can participate in a wide selection of activities.
Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, enjoy some water rafting, tubing and canoeing through the scenery.
Want to see it from a different perspective? You can also paraglide, getting a bird's eye view of all that’s on offer from above!
Climb Jarabacoa’s Pico Duarte
The tallest mountain in the Caribbean, and a challenge that many locals take much pride in completing. Standing at just over 10,000 feet, the hike takes 2-3 days and the base camp is around 45 minutes from Jarabacoa.
It is a slightly pricier excursion, however, many believe the experience to be well worth it and even spiritual at times. Once at the peak, you will get some stunning views of the Dominican Republic. Capture a selfie with and statue of Juan Pablo Duarte, the country's founder, standing tall at the top.
Aroma la Montana
Highly regarded as one of the best restaurants in the area, Aroma La Monta in Jamaca de Dios is at the height of the residential mountain area.
The food and wine are known to be delicious, but it's the view that tourists and locals alike come for. Look over the deep valleys and across the Dominican Republic Alps as you enjoy some authentic cuisine with loved ones.
Only a 15-minute drive from Jarabacoa centre, even if you’re travelling on a budget you can still enjoy the immense view
Take A Tour Of A Coffee Factory
As Jarabacoa is famous for its coffee production, it wouldn’t be right to pay it a visit when visiting the area!
This is definitely an activity for those who want a slower and more restful day - especially if you are a coffee lover. Learn all about how the delicious drink is made right before your eyes, enjoying a fresh cup from the factory line at the end. It really doesn’t get more authentic than that!
Just a warning that the tours are often in Spanish. So, if you don’t speak the language, you might struggle a little bit.
Though Jarabacoa is far from the Punta Cana beaches, it is definitely worth a visit when travelling to the Dominican Republic. Not only are there plenty of things to do in Jarabacoa, but visiting means you’ll get the full Dominican experience!
