Hidden Gems in the Dominican Republic: Discovering Lesser-Known Paradises
Well, the Dominican Republic is famous for its beautiful places specifically the seashore, colorful lifestyle, and the latter’s all inclusive hotels. However, beyond all the silicon limits of the tourist attractions are some hidden gems that most tourists have not discovered due to ignorance. They say that sometimes it is more amazing to travel in places that few people know and this is why if you are looking to spend your holidays in the Dominican Republic is a good time to visit some of Dominican Republic’s secret treasures.
1. Jarabacoa: The Dominican Alps :
Located in the middle of the Dominican Republic ‘s interior, Jarabacoa does not have the glamor associated with many beach front cities. But, this beautiful town which has been nicknamed the dominican alps is an opportunity to breath in crisp mountain air. Here, you can view beautiful and stunning tracts of green vegetation, free falling water falls and thrilling exercises. There are seven waterfalls in the country and it is best to visit the Salto de Jimenoa, and the Baiguate Waterfalls the other tourist attractions are the trails for hiking. For those who want something less strenuous there are coffee plantations in the town offering a view of the towns agricultural past.
2. Samaná Peninsula: Beyond the Whale Watching
Despite the fact that, Samaná Peninsula is well known due to one unique experience of whale watching season, it also has other mysterious treasures. Proceed to Las Terrenas, definitely, a small town with population of foreigners and relaxed atmosphere. It is the right place to start to look for virgin lands such as Playa Bonita and Playa Cosón. However if you want to go somewhere quite different and take a horse ride or a trek through the woods and then be rewarded with a beautiful waterfalls then El Limón Waterfall is a must visit.
3. Constanza: A Hidden Alpine Retreat
Of similar style to Jarabacoa, Constanza is another highland town that provides a unique taste of the mountains. Constanta is renown for its superior soil base and a relatively low temperature that supports crop farming especially horticultural crops such as strawberry. They can get to see tremendous natural beauty having a rich view of the Tropic of Cancer, go for the flabbergasting Valle Nuevo National Park and savor picturesque villages scattered throughout the highland terrain. Easy trails and bird watching are good activities to be enjoyed when in the park that hosts a rather special páramo biome.
4. Cabarete: The Kitesurfing Capital
Despite the fact that Kitesurfing in Cabarete is still relatively on the rise, the place has that secluded feel compared to other tropical beaches that have been largely commercialized. The following is one of the highly recommended small town on the northern coast, which offers a relaxing and an artistic feel with its golden sand spread on the shores. Aside from kitesurfing, the area presents off-shore visits to caves with natural waterfalls and real beach night life in small close to the water bars.
5. Bonao: Cultural and Natural Riches
Bonao can be found in the central region of the DR and for some reason, tourists prefer to skip it but it has much to offer. The town is also adorned with Dominican customs and traditions, including festivals and art crafts amongst others . The Mamey River is also nearby and has a clear water that when one has energy, can go in and swim in natural pools. Another attraction of the area is the Cueva de las Maravillas or the Cave of Wonders which is actually a large cave that features paintings and engravings depicting human and animal figures besides a variety of rock formations.
6. La Romana’s Altos de Chavón: A Step Back in Time
The moment one sets foot in La Romana, they expect the typical Caribbean luxurious resort kind of experience, but a trip to Altos de Chavón will take you back in time. This is an accurate reproduction of an old Mediterranean village of the sixteenth century and artists’ work and the historic atmosphere is evident. It has a cobblestone alleys and crafts and artisan commerce, and there is also the famous Altos de Chavón Amphitheater that presents the live shows in an ancient style at an open stage. The other nearby attraction includes the Chavón River where one can take a relaxing boat ride and make explorations.
7. Bani: A Desert Oasis
Bani situated at the south-western region of the country is however not so frequently visited by tourists but the place has a beautiful geography. Because of its desert type of landscape this location is quite uncommon for tropical climate regions and the famous Las Dunas de Bani (Bani Dunes) area. It offers opportunities to hike on the sand dunes, taste seafood, and just relax as people in this town do not rush a bit.
Conclusion
This goes to show that even though the DR offers some of the best tourist sites, knowing these off-beat places takes one to another level of appreciating the country’s beauty and heritage. For those who search for a wild adventure, solitude on less crowded beaches or proud to step back into history, this list of deserted and hidden gems provides extraordinary experiences and fast impressions of the Dominican Republic along with the sense of the country’s cultural heritage. After reading this article, the next time you plan a vacation think beyond the guides and discover these hidden gems.