Explore and Get to Know the Natural Beauties that The Dominican Republic Has to Offer
Dominican Republic has it all, and it’s not just beaches—so all that’s needed is to explore and discover all that this Caribbean island has to offer.
While you’ll find fascinating places in the central provinces, the north coast boasts a privileged location—never more than two hours away from natural wonders worth discovering and exploring.
Let’s begin with some of the provinces in the Cibao Valley, the country’s fertile heartland surrounded by mountains. The Cordillera Central offers lush pine forests where temperatures can dip as low as 10°C and reach highs above 28°C almost year-round.
Constanza
If you enjoy cold nights by the fireplace, Constanza is the place for you. It’s the coldest spot in both the country and the Caribbean, with cool temperatures and, on occasion, frost in the mornings. Last winter, Valle Nuevo de Constanza recorded a temperature of -1°C.
Constanza offers several chalets and hotels, but it’s best to research accommodations before traveling. Book a tour to the Pyramids of Valle Nuevo de Constanza and the Aguas Blancas waterfall, ideally with a 4x4 and local tour operators.
Don’t miss the strawberry plantations or the local products made from them, and be sure to stroll through the town center, home to the Japanese Garden. Each year, Constanza also hosts the Spring Festival—check dates in advance if you wish to attend.
Jarabacoa
Jarabacoa is a symbol of ecotourism and the go-to destination for adventure sports. Locals from Santiago and beyond flock here, especially in summer, to escape the heat.
It’s common to see people from Santiago or Puerto Plata taking a day trip to Jarabacoa, and expats on the north coast are often captivated by its climate, greenery, and hospitality.
In Jarabacoa, you can try canyoning, hiking, paragliding, rafting, golf, horseback riding, and visiting national parks and freshwater springs.
The region produces much of the country’s vegetables, fruits, and coffee. Both Jarabacoa and Constanza are true national gardens thanks to their unique climate.
La Vega
La Vega is synonymous with carnival, holding the country’s most famous celebration every Sunday in February. This is a bucket-list cultural experience!
Many from Cabarete travel to La Vega to join in the festivities each February. But La Vega is also an agricultural hub, producing coffee, cocoa, flowers, and citrus. Don’t miss the local wine and carambola liquor sold in La Vega and Jarabacoa.
La Vega Vieja, near Cerro Santo, is worth a visit for its archaeological ruins—it’s the site of the town founded by Christopher Columbus in 1494.
Visit Santiago and the Mountain Municipalities
In the Cibao Valley, just 40 minutes from Puerto Plata and 1h20 from Cabarete and Sosua, you’ll find Santiago—the “Heart City” and the second most important city in the country. Many locals enjoy weekend escapes here for nightlife, movies, shopping, or museums.
The Centro León is a must-visit for exhibitions and artisan cigar making; enjoy a drink or coffee at their bar. The Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration, with its panoramic city views, is also a highlight.
Visit Camp David for breathtaking vistas and vintage cars, or Las Aromas Golf Course (club rentals available). Santiago’s nightlife is lively, thanks to its university and industrial status, but remember it’s more city style than beachwear!
There’s also a botanical park, and just 15–20 minutes away are mountain municipalities well worth a short drive.
Important note: The Cibao is world-famous for its tobacco. On the drive from Puerto Plata to Santiago, you’ll spot tobacco fields lining the road. La Aurora, the country’s oldest and most prestigious tobacco company (part of the León Jiménez group), offers guided tours.
Sabana Iglesia
Sabana Iglesia is a small mountain town only 15 minutes from Santiago’s center. It’s a favorite recreation spot for locals, who tow boats and Jet Skis to the Presa de Bao (“Bao Dam”) for a day on the water.
For a similar experience, search for Jet Ski or boat rentals in the area. Nearby Presa de Tavera (“Tavera Dam”) offers scenic walks and fresh fish at local restaurants. Both reservoirs are key to Santiago’s water supply.
San José de las Matas
San José de las Matas, or Sajoma, has become a center for ecotourism and mountain adventure, easily reached by bus, car, or taxi (always check rates first). Disconnect in its lush green landscapes, and stop at roadside viewpoints on the way.
The area thrives on livestock, agriculture, pine, and furniture making—but today, it’s famous for mountain tourism. Sajoma is a favorite with locals, especially for its rivers and inland recreation.
Sajoma is also home to the Aguas Calientes thermal springs. Here, you’ll find two pools—one fed by a rocky pipe with thermal water, and another where river and thermal waters mix for a pleasant soak. A wooden walkway leads down to La Playita, a riverside spa on the banks of the Bao River.
Conclusion
If you are planning to buy real estate in the country, Century 21 Perdomo, as a North Coast real estate company, hopes these destinations—close to Puerto Plata, Sosua, and Cabarete—inspire you to invest in the Dominican Republic.
Explore, discover, and enjoy everything the northern region of the Dominican Republic has to offer.
