5-Day Family Adventure Itinerary in Jarabacoa's Hidden Trails
Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic
5 days
About Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic
Experience the heart of the Dominican Republic in Jarabacoa, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Nestled in the mountains, this charming town offers a refreshing climate and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the lush, green valleys on horseback, hike to the majestic waterfalls, or challenge yourself with white-water rafting on the Yaque del Norte River. For a more relaxed experience, enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning mountain views or visit a local coffee plantation to learn about the region's rich coffee culture. With its unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and local charm, Jarabacoa promises an unforgettable travel experience.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Coffee Plantation Visit and Ebano Verde Science Reserve Exploration
Morning
Kick off your day with a visit to the Jima Coffee Plantation. Learn about the coffee-making process and sample some of the finest Dominican coffee.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local café, where you can try a variety of sandwiches and salads made with fresh, local ingredients.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Ebano Verde Science Reserve, home to a variety of endemic plants and animals. Take a guided tour to learn more about the local ecosystem.
Dinner
Dine at a local seafood restaurant and enjoy fresh fish, shrimp, and other seafood delicacies.
Evening
Spend the evening at a local music venue, enjoying live performances of merengue, the national dance of the Dominican Republic.
Day 3
White-Water Rafting and Manabao Pine Forest Tour
Morning
Start your day with a thrilling white-water rafting adventure on the Yaque del Norte River, the longest river in the Caribbean.
Lunch
Enjoy a riverside picnic lunch. Try local specialties like empanadas and fresh tropical fruits.
Afternoon
After lunch, take a guided tour of the Manabao Pine Forest. This is a great opportunity to see a different side of the Dominican Republic's diverse landscapes.
Dinner
Dine at a local restaurant, trying dishes like mofongo, a delicious dish made from mashed plantains.
Evening
End your day with a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs of Jarabacoa. This is a great way to unwind after a day of adventure.
Day 4
Hiking Pico Duarte and Local Market Exploration
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the Pico Duarte, the highest peak in the Caribbean. Take a guided hike to the summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Lunch
Have lunch at a mountain lodge, enjoying hearty meals like stewed chicken and rice.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the local markets of Jarabacoa. This is a great opportunity to shop for local crafts and souvenirs.
Dinner
Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, trying traditional Dominican dishes like la bandera, a meal consisting of rice, beans, and meat.
Evening
Spend the evening stargazing. The clear skies of Jarabacoa offer a great opportunity to observe the stars and planets.
Day 5
Jimenoa Waterfalls Visit and Town Exploration
Morning
Start your last day with a visit to the Jimenoa Waterfalls. Take a guided hike to the falls and enjoy the stunning views.
Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch by the waterfalls. Try local delicacies like tostones, fried plantain slices, and fresh tropical fruits.
Afternoon
Spend your last afternoon in Jarabacoa exploring the town and its charming streets. Visit the local church and soak in the local culture.
Dinner
Have your farewell dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional Dominican cuisine.
Evening
End your adventure in Jarabacoa with a relaxing evening stroll through the town square, reflecting on the wonderful experiences of the past five days.
Attractions in Itinerary (8)
1Baiguate Waterfall
Visit the stunning Baiguate Waterfall, a natural landmark located in a lush park just outside of Jarabacoa.
2Mountain Trails
A network of trails that wind through the mountains, offering stunning views and opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
3Jima Coffee Plantation
A working coffee plantation where visitors can learn about the coffee-making process, from bean to cup. Tours include tastings of the plantation's own coffee.
4Ebano Verde Science Reserve
A nature reserve dedicated to the preservation of the Dominican Republic's unique flora and fauna. Guided tours are available.
5Yaque del Norte River
The longest river in the Caribbean, popular for rafting, kayaking, and other water sports.
6Manabao Pine Forest
A beautiful pine forest located in the mountains of Jarabacoa, offering stunning views and a peaceful environment for hiking and picnicking.
7Pico Duarte
The highest peak in the Caribbean, offering challenging hikes and stunning views.
8Jimenoa Waterfalls
A stunning natural attraction where you can hike, swim, and enjoy the beauty of the Dominican Republic's landscape.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
La Bandera
This is the national dish of the Dominican Republic, consisting of rice, red beans, and meat (usually chicken, beef, pork, or fish). It's a staple in Jarabacoa and a must-try for any visitor.
Sancocho
A hearty and traditional Dominican stew made with a variety of meats and root vegetables. It's particularly popular in Jarabacoa, especially during colder months.
Mofongo
A delicious dish made from fried plantains that are mashed and mixed with garlic, pork cracklings, and broth. It's a favorite in Jarabacoa and throughout the Dominican Republic.
Chivo Guisado
A popular dish in Jarabacoa, this is a stew made from goat meat, seasoned with a variety of spices and typically served with rice.
Morir Soñando
A refreshing drink made from milk, sugar, and freshly squeezed orange juice. It's a popular choice in Jarabacoa, especially during the hot summer months.
Pastel en Hoja
A traditional Dominican dish similar to a tamale, made with ground meat, cornmeal, and wrapped in a plantain leaf. It's a common street food in Jarabacoa.
Locrio de Pollo
A flavorful rice dish similar to paella, made with chicken and a variety of spices. It's a common meal in Jarabacoa and throughout the Dominican Republic.
Empanadas
A popular snack in Jarabacoa, these are pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables and then fried until golden brown.
Mangú
A traditional Dominican breakfast dish made from mashed plantains, often served with fried eggs, salami, and cheese. It's a staple in Jarabacoa.
Chicharrón
Fried pork rinds, a popular snack in Jarabacoa and throughout the Dominican Republic. They're often served with a side of pickled vegetables.
Presidente Beer
The most popular beer in the Dominican Republic, it's a must-try for any visitor to Jarabacoa. It's a light, refreshing lager that pairs well with many local dishes.
Dulce de Leche
A sweet, creamy dessert made from condensed milk. It's a favorite treat in Jarabacoa and throughout the Dominican Republic.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic is from December to April. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, river rafting, and exploring the waterfalls. The rainfall is also less during this period, making it ideal for sightseeing and other tourist activities.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 9 | Tue | Epiphany |
January 21 | Sun | Our Lady of Altagracia |
January 26 | Fri | Duarte's Day |
January 29 | Mon | Day off for Duarte's Day |
February 27 | Tue | Independence Day |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day |
May 30 | Thu | Corpus Christi |
August 16 | Fri | Restoration Day |
September 24 | Tue | Feast of Our Lady of Mercy |
November 4 | Mon | Constitution Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Car Rental
Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Jarabacoa. There are several car rental companies available at the airports in Santo Domingo and Santiago. It's recommended to rent a 4x4 vehicle if you plan on exploring the mountainous areas.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Jarabacoa. They are a convenient way to get around the city and to nearby attractions. Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Public Bus
Public buses, known as 'guaguas', are a cheap way to get around Jarabacoa and the surrounding areas. They run regularly but can be crowded. It's a good way to experience local life.
Motoconcho
Motoconchos are motorcycle taxis that are a common form of transportation in Jarabacoa. They are a quick and cheap way to get around, but they may not be the safest option, especially for those not used to riding motorcycles.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Jarabacoa. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're not comfortable with negotiating taxi fares.
Bicycle Rental
Bicycles are a great way to explore Jarabacoa, especially the city center. There are several places where you can rent bicycles for the day.
Horseback Riding
For a unique way to explore the mountainous areas around Jarabacoa, consider going on a horseback riding tour. Several local companies offer guided tours.
Foot
Walking is a viable option for getting around the city center of Jarabacoa, where attractions, restaurants, and shops are close together.
Important information
Currency DOP
Time zoneUTC-4
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic as a first time visitor
1
Jarabacoa is located in the mountains, so the climate is cooler than the coastal areas of the Dominican Republic. Average temperatures range from 60-80°F (15-27°C).
2
The official language is Spanish, but English is also spoken in many tourist areas.
3
The local currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP). Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand.
4
Tipping is customary in the Dominican Republic. A 10% tip is standard in restaurants, but you may want to tip more for excellent service.
5
The Dominican Republic operates on Atlantic Standard Time, which is four hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-4).
6
The Dominican Republic uses Type A and Type B electrical plugs, so you may need a converter if your devices use a different type.
7
Tap water is not safe to drink in the Dominican Republic. Always drink bottled water.
8
Public transportation is available, but it can be unreliable. Taxis, rental cars, or guided tours are often the best way to get around.
9
The Dominican Republic has a high crime rate, but tourist areas are generally safe. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
10
The emergency phone number in the Dominican Republic is 911, just like in the United States.
11
Healthcare facilities in Jarabacoa are limited. For serious medical issues, you may need to travel to a larger city.
12
The Dominican Republic is in the Atlantic hurricane belt, and the hurricane season runs from June to November.
13
Jarabacoa is known as the 'City of Everlasting Spring' due to its pleasant climate year-round.
14
Local cuisine is a mix of Spanish, Taino, and African influences. Try local dishes like mofongo, sancocho, and pastelitos.
15
The Dominican Republic has strict laws against drug use and trafficking. Penalties can be severe.
16
The country is predominantly Catholic, and local customs may reflect this. Modest dress is recommended, especially in religious sites.
17
Jarabacoa is known for its eco-tourism and adventure sports, including white-water rafting, mountain biking, and hiking.
18
The Dominican Republic has a departure tax of $20 USD, which is usually included in the price of your airline ticket.
19
The country's voltage is 110V, the same as the United States, so you won't need a voltage converter unless you're coming from a country with a different voltage.
20
Always apply a high-factor sunscreen, even on cloudy days, as the sun can be very strong.
Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Hola | O-la | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Adiós | A-dee-os | Leaving or saying goodbye |
Please | Por favor | Por fa-vor | Making a request |
Thank you | Gracias | Gra-see-as | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Sí | See | Agreeing or confirming |
No | No | No | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Perdón | Per-don | Getting attention or apologizing |
I don't understand | No entiendo | No en-tee-en-do | When you don't understand something |
Do you speak English? | ¿Hablas inglés? | Ab-las in-gles | Asking if someone speaks English |
Where is...? | ¿Dónde está...? | Don-de es-ta | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Baño | Ban-yo | Looking for a restroom |
Help | Ayuda | A-yu-da | In case of emergency |
I'm lost | Estoy perdido | Es-toy per-di-do | When you're lost |
Can I use my credit card? | ¿Puedo usar mi tarjeta de crédito? | Pwe-do u-sar mi tar-he-ta de cre-di-to | When you want to pay with credit card |
How much does it cost? | ¿Cuánto cuesta? | Kwan-to kwes-ta | Asking for the price |
Water | Agua | A-gwa | Asking for water |
Food | Comida | Co-mi-da | Asking for food |
Beer | Cerveza | Ser-ve-za | Ordering a beer |
Wine | Vino | Vee-no | Ordering wine |
Cheers | Salud | Sa-lud | Toasting |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Swimwear
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Rain jacket or umbrella
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)
Prescription medications
Travel-size laundry detergent
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver’s license or other ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash and change
Health insurance cards/documents
Travel itinerary
Hotel and/or car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power bank
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Memory card for camera
Travel adapter for plugs
Miscellaneous items
Snacks
Bottled water
Books or e-books
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Reusable shopping bag
Travel guidebook
Spanish-English dictionary or phrasebook
Weather Conditions
Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic, is known for its year-round mild weather, often referred to as "eternal spring." The average temperature ranges from 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C), making it a pleasant destination for tourists at any time of the year. However, it's important to note that the region experiences a rainy season from May to November. During this period, you can expect frequent, though usually brief, rain showers. If you're planning outdoor activities, it's advisable to carry a light rain jacket or umbrella. Despite the rain, temperatures remain warm, so you won't need heavy clothing. The dry season, from December to April, is the best time for outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and exploring waterfalls. The weather is generally sunny and dry, but it can get a bit chilly in the evenings and early mornings, so packing a light sweater or jacket is recommended. Regardless of when you visit, remember to stay hydrated, especially when engaging in physical activities. The sun can be stronger than you're used to, even if the temperatures aren't extremely high. Also, don't forget to pack your sunscreen to protect your skin from the tropical sun. Lastly, keep an eye on the local weather forecast during your stay. Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains, and being prepared will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip to Jarabacoa.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 26° / 13° | January is a cooler month in Jarabacoa, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 26°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather. |
February | 27° / 13° | February is similar to January, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 27°C. It's a good time to visit for outdoor activities. |
March | 28° / 14° | March sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 14°C to 28°C. It's a great time to explore the natural beauty of Jarabacoa. |
April | 29° / 15° | April is a bit warmer, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 29°C. It's a perfect time for hiking and exploring the mountains. |
May | 30° / 16° | May is the start of the warmer months, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 30°C. It's a good time to visit for water activities. |
June | 31° / 17° | June is a warm month, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 31°C. It's a great time to visit for beach and water activities. |
July | 31° / 17° | July is similar to June, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 31°C. It's a perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring the local culture. |
August | 31° / 17° | August is also a warm month, with temperatures ranging from 17°C to 31°C. It's a great time to visit for beach and water activities. |
September | 30° / 17° | September sees a slight decrease in temperature, ranging from 17°C to 30°C. It's a good time to visit for outdoor activities. |
October | 29° / 16° | October is a bit cooler, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 29°C. It's a perfect time for hiking and exploring the mountains. |
November | 28° / 15° | November sees a further decrease in temperature, ranging from 15°C to 28°C. It's a good time to visit for outdoor activities. |
December | 27° / 14° | December is a cooler month, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 27°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather. |
Did you know?
Places near by Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic
Pico Duarte
The highest peak in the Caribbean, offering challenging hikes and stunning views.
La Vega Carnival
One of the oldest and most traditional carnivals in the Dominican Republic, held in February.
Monumento a los Héroes de la Restauración
A monument dedicated to the heroes of the Dominican Restoration War, offering panoramic views of Santiago.
27 Waterfalls of Damajagua
A natural water park where you can hike, slide, and swim through 27 cascading waterfalls.
Amber Museum
A museum dedicated to the amber gemstone, featuring a collection of amber pieces with prehistoric inclusions.
Fortaleza San Felipe
A historic Spanish fortress that offers panoramic views of Puerto Plata and the Atlantic Ocean.
Teleferico Puerto Plata Cable Car
A cable car ride to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres, offering panoramic views of Puerto Plata and the surrounding area.
Samana Bay
A beautiful bay known for its whale watching, beaches, and waterfalls.
Los Haitises National Park
A national park featuring mangroves, caves, and a variety of bird species.
Zona Colonial
The historic colonial zone of Santo Domingo, featuring historic buildings, museums, and shops.
