Visiting Jarabacoa: 18 Things to Do in the Dominican Alps

Jarabacoa in the Dominican Republic is a quaint mountain town located at the foot of the majestic Dominican Alps. This area is often overlooked by tourists, most of whom travel to the Dominican Republic seeking our beautiful beach towns or resorts. Thus, Jarabacoa has retained a quaint and underrated beauty, encapsulating an almost spiritual ambiance. With its dark pine trees and lush forests; tall mountains and rejuvenating waterfalls; freshwater rivers and cool hikes– there are endless things to do in Jarabacoa. 

I. Visit Jarabacoa’s Many Waterfalls

Jarabacoa is home to some of the best waterfalls in the Dominican Republic. Here are just a few of the many natural wonders in this Dominican hidden gem. If you’re not renting a car, we recommend hiring taxi drivers to get around from place to place. You can inquire with your hotel or home rental for taxi services.

1. Jimenoa I Waterfall

Local rumor is that the Jimenoa I Waterfall is where Jurassic Park was filmed (although Kiskeya Life argues otherwise). This beautiful waterfall is at the corner of massive rock formations that look almost out of this world. Before the hike to this waterfall, you will pass an interesting bean plantation and have the chance to see the waterfall from the very top of the lively green hills.

Just this beautiful view from the entrance to the start of the hike is well worth the visit to Jimenoa I Waterfall. It’s a lovely but steep hike, so bring water and comfortable clothing. The way up will, of course, be harder. It takes about 30 minutes to go down and 45 minutes to get back up.

Please note: No swimming is allowed by the falls during certain times of the year for safety reasons. 

Transportation: 15 minutes by car to the entrance. Then a 30-minute hike down a beautiful path of copper-red soil surrounded by pine trees. 

2. Baiguate Waterfall

Baiguate is a beautiful waterfall with shallow waters (during dry season) that empty into the Baiguate River. You can walk under the waterfall during the dryer season, but you can’t really swim since the water is so shallow at about 2 feet high. In the wet season, the water level rises and you can have a proper swim in the natural pool. The highlight of this experience is the horse ride there which is a wonderful adventure through the roads of Jarabacoa town and then into the lush woods.

You can get to Baiguate Waterfall by car (10 min drive) and a short 15-minute walk. Or you can take a horse directly there for 30-50 minutes (depending on how fast you ride) plus the walk down.

Cost: $30 per person includes horse and guide. 

3. Salto Secreto (Secret Waterfall) 

This is hands down one of my favorite places to visit in the Dominican Republic! After a 30-minute drive towards the town of Manabao, you leave the car at a cute storefront with an older lady who sells homemade ice cream and herbal medicinal teas.

Then you hike through a finca and at one point walk through a river. So your feet will get wet! Then you reach this awe-inspiring waterfall which you will likely have all to yourself. 

4. The 27 Waterfalls Park (Damajagua)

This is a lot more touristy so avoid it if you prefer raw nature. However, if you like sliding down rock formations and jumping into the water, then this might be the place for you. The 27 Waterfalls is a natural park complex of dozens of waterfalls along the Damajagua River. You will slide, jump, hike, and climb up and down this natural limestone water park. It is approximately 2 hours from Jarabacoa.

Cost: This varies depending on if you want a tour or going on your own. You can join this group tour, which is about $60 per person and that includes lunch and hotel pick up from Puerto Plata.

5. Jimenoa II Waterfall

This is the easiest waterfall to get to in Jarabacoa. It’s just 15 minutes walking on short bridges along plants and waterways. So I would also probably rate this one as the least impressive due to the short journey but easiest for travelers who don’t want to walk much. It’s still beautiful to see, but I’d only recommend this one. After you leave, there is an area where you can sit on the river and even go in if you like – but it’s cold!

II. Hiking Around Jarabacoa

6. Hike the Tallest Mountain in the Caribbean: El Pico Duarte

Pico Duarte is the tallest mountain in the Caribbean and as such, takes 2-3 days to complete. The Pico Duarte camp base where the hiking starts is about 45 minutes from Jarabacoa by car. And it is a national pride for many of us Dominicans to complete this hike.

The Pico Duarte hike can be rejuvenating, spiritual (you will likely find yourself by day 3 of this hike – trust me), and overall a special experience for both tourists and local Dominicans alike. At the top of the peak are the mountainous views of the Dominican Alps from thousands of feet above sea level and the Dominican flag with a statue of the country’s founding father: Juan Pablo Duarte. A must-do for outdoor lovers.

Here is my comprehensive guide to hiking Pico Duarte if you are interested in learning more about it.

7. Valle del Tetero Hike

The cold Yaque del Sur River runs through the cool lush valley of El Valle del Tetero. Located halfway between the Manabao camp base and the top of Pico Duarte, you can easily combine both Pico Duarte + Valle del Tetero as a 4-day hiking excursion. After a day’s hike to get here, you can set up your tent, go for a swim in the river, make a bonfire to cook your food, and just… relax.

8. El Mogote Mountain Hike

If you’re limited on time and would rather do a full-day hike instead, El Mogote Mountain hike is likely your best bet. It’s not as quick as the waterfall hikes since it takes at least 3 hours up and down to complete. It is a 4,000 feet climb, with stunning views from above. This is moderate-level hiking.

9. Ébano Verde Scientific Reserve Hike

Just an hour drive from Jarabacoa, this natural wonder offers the perfect opportunity for seeing flora and fauna and wildlife as you hike. The Las Nubes Trail is a moderate one, which will reward you with a swimmable waterfall in the warmer months! But if you prefer a more challenging route, La Sal Trail is the way to go!

• Note: You need a stable vehicle to get to the area. 
• Cost: $350 for 2 persons

III. Relaxing & Rejuvenating in Jarabacoa

10. Professional Massage + Facial

Get an hour massage by a professionally trained masseuse (Margarita) who comes to your house in a little tuk-tuk. This facial was one of the best I’ve ever had, and for once I felt a noticeable difference in my extremely sensitive skin! Margarita also gave me one of the best massages I’ve had in years. This is the cherry on the top of an adventurous and sometimes physically exerting time through Jarabacoa.

She’s a smart lady and her business is excellent! We love supporting Margarita’s work. Message her on Whatsapp for her services: (829)333-9709.

Please note: NO CREEPY MEN. She actually had to move from Sosua because the European/American men kept getting inappropriate with her at her business and soliciting her. NOT OK! She will call the police if you try anything inappropriate.

Cost: About $50/hour for a massage and $60/hour if with hot stone.

11. Aroma la Montana in Jamaca de Dios

This is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful restaurants you’ll likely visit in the Dominican Republic. Coming is one of the coolest things to do in the Dominican Republic for the epic views! Perched at the very top of Jamaca de Dios, a tall mountain residential area, you will find the restaurant: Aroma la Montana. The food here used to be amazing but they switched owners and the quality wasn’t the same last time I visited. So maybe just opt for drinks with gorgeous views of the valley and Dominican Alps alone. 

Cost: Plates range between $10 and $30 dollars depending on what you order. You can always grab a coffee or lemonade if you’re on a budget but want to appreciate the views.

12. Glamping

If you want to relax after a day of adventure but still can’t get enough of the outdoors and prefer the comforts of a hotel, consider glamping. At The Domes Jarabacoa, sit in your private hot tub to stargaze or admire the distant lights of the town and then enjoy a BBQ at night. Igloo tents have bathrooms, beds, and kitchens with modern appliances. If you’re feeling social, join other visitors at the common lounge with a fireplace. Breakfast is delivered in the morning.

IV. Adrenaline Adventures in Jarabacoa

13. River Rafting

Raft down the Yaque del Norte River, the second-longest river in the Caribbean with Rancho Baiguate. Depending on the time of the year the rapids can be smoother or a bit stronger. The tallest drop is about 3 meters. This is the perfect experience for both beginners and more experienced rafters. 

Cost: $650 per group of up to 5 people. This tour includes lunch and round trip transportation.

14. Paragliding 

Paragliding is a highlight experience for adventure lovers coming to Jarabacoa. You can go with a professional pilot and roam the skies above the Jarabacoa valleys. 

Cost: $60-ish per person

15. Canyoning 

Alongside professional guides, descend through canyons, down the Baiguate Waterfall, and into the Baiguate River. You can also enjoy the lush woods and go for a swim in the crystalline waters. This excursion is also through Rancho Baiguate.

Cost: $50 per person – includes breakfast and lunch. There is a two-person minimum or you can pay $100 to go solo. 

16. ATV Tour

Another way to experience the area’s river and trails is on an ATV tour. You get to learn how to drive or have your own driver through the rugged terrain of the area. Or you can book this ATV tour, which will take you to the rural areas of Jarabacoa Town, La Confluencia, and other hiking areas including Baiguate Waterfall, where you’ll hike then swim in the natural pool! 

V. Soak in the Local Dominican Culture in Jarabacoa

One of the best parts of travel is culture. If you’re interested, check out our Dominican culture guide to better contextualize your DR experience before you go. Here are some Jarabacoa things to do for cultural immersion.

17. Coffee Tours in Jarabacoa

• Spirit Mountain: Only a 50-minute drive from Jarabacoa, a tour at this small, organic coffee farm in Manabao will show you different coffee varieties and the sustainable ways of producing them. You can harvest coffee beans between January and April, too. A day pass is free, so you can enjoy the farm after the tour if you want to stay and disconnect. There are horseback riding opportunities and a hiking trail, which reaches a waterfall at the end. 
  • Note: You need a 4×4 to reach the place.
  • Cost: $17 per person 
• Ramirez Coffee: Spanish-speaking tour of a local Jarabacoa coffee factory. An easy option if you want a more accessibility activity in Jarabacoa. It does provide an insight to the coffee process which I think could be fun if you’ve never seen the coffee plant before. It’s also an experience that’s easy to do with kids or those who are not able to go on more physically exerting adventures. 
  • Cost: $20 for two people

18. Dabble in Jarabacoa’s Nightlife

Party lovers can still partake in some nightlife fun sometimes in quaint Jarabacoa. Although we don’t want this mountain town’s peace ruined, you can enjoy some local nightlife. Some locals like to go dancing at Venue Bar & Lounge or grab a drink at Camelot Sports Bar — to name a few nightlife venues.

VI. Indulge in the Local Gastronomy at these Restaurants in Jarabacoa

Sample delicious food at these local restaurants to see what flavors Jarabacoa has to offer!

19. El Taino Restaurant

Hands down, the most delicious Dominican restaurant in town. It’s by no means a fancy place. You will order from an open buffet behind a glass window. In return, you’ll be handed a styrofoam box of the different items.

But everything was delicious. Especially their rotisserie chicken. Don’t miss out on the table sour sauce. If you want to try local Dominican food, this is the place. 

20. Tostado

This is the complete opposite of El Taino Restaurant except it’s also delicious. Gigantic burgers with sides are their famed dishes here. One burger dish is enough for two people. Non-burger eaters will have other options to choose from. The tables are in a very cute outdoor patio upstairs with a beautiful and modern decor. Sometimes they have live music. 

21. Cafe Colao

A beautiful cafe on an artistic street full of colorful umbrellas. Inside you can get sweets, snacks, and drinks. It gets very busy on the weekends so get there early to snag a good seat.

22. Helados Ivon

This local ice cream shop is a must-visit for their organic, homemade ice cream, which is the best in Jarabacoa… and maybe the whole of the Dominican Republic. Their refreshing treats may not look like the fanciest, but these are the most fruity and authentic you’ll ever find and at less than $1 USD! Most customers love their chinola-flavored one! 

Note: There’s little space for sitting and no parking because it’s a store in front of a home, so you’ll most likely order to-go.

VII. Day Trip to Constanza from Jarabacoa

Constanza is also an amazing place to situate yourself during your travels through the Dominican Alps. It’s the next best place after Jarabacoa and is PERFECT if you love being deep in the mountain nature. Constanza also offers some of the most beautiful home rentals and Airbnbs in the Dominican Republic.

23. Aguas Blancas + Mountain Cliff Natural Pool

Consider a 90-minute ride from Jarabacoa to see the beautiful region of Constanza. This region is home to tall mountains, meadows, valleys, and stunning outdoor opportunities. Aguas Blancas waterfall, pictured above is close to the mountain cliff natural pool which you can combine together for an epic day trip from Jarabacoa. 

Fun fact: This region is home to a Japanese diaspora that moved here during the mid-1900s. As such, you may find some remnants of that Japanese influence including communities who still live in the region today.

24. Strawberry Picking in Constanza

Visiting Fresas Ariyama for strawberry picking is perfect for families! Or for those with limited mobility and who don’t want to hike or do anything too strenuous. Our friend Jenny (pictured above) loves this place as it’s perfect for her and her family to spend a day on the farms relaxing and eating farm-to-table goodies.

VIII. Where to Stay in Jarabacoa

Jarabacoa offers many exciting things to do, which make it an amazing destination for an active vacation. But it’s also one of the best places to relax and unwind. To experience the best of it, end your days at these excellent lodging options.

• Hotel Gran Jimenoa ★: This is a high-quality hotel on the very relaxing and almost spiritual Gran Jimenoa River. It’s a great place to go if you want to have breakfast included, housekeeping, and other hotel amenities. This is my favorite hotel in the area.
  • Costs: Starts at $142 per night
  • Booking.com | Expedia
• Hotel Pinar Dorado by Gran Jimenoa: This quaint, quiet, and cozy hotel makes the perfect place for a much needed tranquil stay if you wish to disconnect. Yet it’s only a 3-minute drive from town. Aside from beautiful grounds, swimming pool, and hot tubs, it houses a restaurant, which serves wonderful food.
  • Booking.com | Expedia
• Guest Houses: Jarabacoa is also home to lovely guest houses that are perfect options if you’re a big group. Consider this beautiful guesthouse if you’re looking for the perfect mountain escape with a modern vibe. However, having that beautiful view means being a 20- to 30-minute drive away from town. This guest house cabin, on the other hand, is nearer town, but it sits on top of a steep hill, which means you’ll need a 4×4 to get there. But the place and views are worth it!

IX. Transportation: How to Get to Jarabacoa

It’s super easy to get to Jarabacoa. You can either take a Caribe Tours bus from Santo Domingo for about $5 each way. There is one that leaves every day express (without making stops in between). Or you can hire a taxi for about $100 from Santo Domingo to Jarabacoa or $250 from Punta Cana to Jarabacoa.

X. Things to Do in Jarabacoa: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Jarabacoa Worth Visiting?

Definitely. With its beautiful mountain sceneries, various outdoor exploration activities, relaxation opportunities, and excellent gastronomy, Jarabacoa is worth visiting. It’s a healing destination!

What is an Interesting Fact About Jarabacoa?

Jarabacoa is home to Yaque del Norte, the longest river in the Dominican Republic, making it one of the best places to chase waterfalls in the country.

When is the Best Time to Visit Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic?

The best time to visit the Dominican Republic, including Jarabacoa, is during the drier months, which begins in December and ends in April. But summer is also great, as the area remains relatively cooler year-round, than the rest of the island due to the altitude.

How’s the Weather in Jarabacoa?

It can get chilly in the region at night! Dropping to the 60s-ish (summer) and 50s-ish (winter). So bring a sweater.

Is Jarabacoa Safe for Tourists?

Yes, Jarabacoa is pretty safe for tourists. But of course, be aware at all times (as anywhere) and avoid isolated places, especially at night if you’re a solo female traveler. Check out these important Dominican Republic travel safety tips.

XI. My Other Dominican Republic Posts

• 48 Fun Things to Do in the Dominican Republic
• 38 Incredible Places to Visit in the Dominican Republic Beyond the Resorts
• 25 Coolest Hikes in the Dominican Republic
• 23 Beautiful Waterfalls in the Dominican Republic + How to Visit Them
• 29 Best Boutique Hotels in the Dominican Republic and Places to Stay
• 23 Things to Know Before Traveling to the Dominican Republic for the First Time

XII. Pin Me for Later!

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