Discovering Paradise
Jarabacoa
Experience adventure in Jarabacoa, home to mountains, rivers, and the Caribbean's only whitewater rafting.
☀️November to April
🌡️22°C (72°F)
✈️Cibao International (STI) — 1.5 hr drive
Quick Facts
🌡️
Avg Temperature
22°C (72°F)
☀️
Best Months
November to April
✈️
Nearest Airport
Cibao International (STI) — 1.5 hr drive
Jarabacoa is the adventure capital of the Dominican Republic — a mountain town at 530 meters elevation where rivers converge, waterfalls thunder, and the air is cool enough to need a light jacket at night. Dominicans call it the "City of Eternal Spring" for its year-round pleasant climate.
While the coast bakes at 35°C, Jarabacoa hovers around 22-28°C, making it the country's premier destination for hiking, rafting, canyoning, horseback riding, and paragliding. It's also the main gateway to Pico Duarte, the highest peak in the Caribbean.
Beyond adventure sports, Jarabacoa is surrounded by coffee plantations, flower farms, and natural hot springs. The Jimenoa and Baiguate waterfalls are easily accessible, and the town itself has a charming mountain village feel with good restaurants and a growing eco-tourism infrastructure.
Ideal
Good
Rainy
Apr
16° — 27°
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Aug
18° — 30°
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Dec
15° — 26°
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Feb
14° — 26°
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Jan
14° — 25°
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Jul
18° — 29°
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Jun
18° — 29°
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Mar
15° — 27°
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May
17° — 28°
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Nov
16° — 27°
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Oct
17° — 28°
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Sep
18° — 29°
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Temperature in °C💧 = ~5 rain days
Jarabacoa is in the Cordillera Central, about 1.5 hours from Santiago and 2 hours from Santo Domingo.
From Santo Domingo
Drive north on the Autopista Duarte toward La Vega (1.5 hours), then take the mountain road to Jarabacoa (30 minutes). Caribe Tours and Metro run buses to La Vega (RD$300), then take a guagua or taxi to Jarabacoa.
From Santiago
About 1.5 hours south via La Vega. Well-signed and straightforward.
Nearest Airport
Cibao International Airport (STI) in Santiago is the closest, about 1.5 hours away. From POP (Puerto Plata), it's about 2.5 hours.
Getting Around
Motoconchos are everywhere in town (RD$25-50 per ride). For waterfalls and adventure sites, you'll need a rental car, a hired driver, or an organized tour.
Jarabacoa has the best mountain accommodation selection in the DR.
Eco-Resorts
Jarabacoa River Club and Rancho Baiguate are the top options — both offer riverside settings, pools, restaurants, and can arrange all adventure activities. Rates from US$80-200/night. Rancho Baiguate is particularly popular for its all-in-one approach to rafting, canyoning, and horseback riding.
Mountain Cabins
Rustic to modern cabins are available throughout the valley, many with river views and fireplaces. Ideal for couples or families wanting privacy. Airbnb has good options from US$40-100/night.
In Town
Hotel Gran Jimenoa and several smaller hotels sit in or near the town center. Good for those who want walkable access to restaurants and nightlife. Rooms from US$40-80/night.
White Water Rafting
The Yaque del Norte river (the longest river in the DR) offers Class II-III rapids perfect for beginners and intermediate rafters. Trips run 2-3 hours and cost US$45-65 per person through operators like Rancho Baiguate or Jarabacoa River Club.
Salto de Jimenoa
A stunning 40-meter waterfall accessed via a series of suspension bridges through lush forest. The 15-minute trail is well-maintained, and you can swim in the pool at the base. Entrance fee: RD$100.
Salto de Baiguate
Another beautiful waterfall, slightly easier to access. A short walk from the parking area leads to a wide cascade with a swimmable pool. Popular with Dominican families on weekends.
Canyoning
Rappel down waterfalls, jump into pools, and traverse narrow gorges. Jarabacoa's canyoning routes range from beginner-friendly to seriously challenging. Half-day tours cost US$50-80.
Paragliding
Tandem paragliding flights launch from the hills above town, soaring over the valley with views of rivers, farms, and mountains. Flights cost US$60-80 and last 15-30 minutes depending on thermals.
Coffee Farm Tours
Several local farms offer tours of their coffee growing and processing operations. You'll learn the bean-to-cup process and sample some of the best coffee in the Caribbean. Tours run US$15-25.
- Bring layers. Days are warm (25-28°C) but nights drop to 15-18°C. A light jacket is essential.
- Book Pico Duarte in advance. The 2-3 day trek requires a guide, mules, and park permits. Book at least a week ahead through Rancho Baiguate or local guides.
- Don't skip the coffee. Jarabacoa coffee is among the best in the Caribbean. Buy beans directly from farms for the freshest roast.
- Visit waterfalls on weekdays. Jimenoa and Baiguate are packed on weekends with Dominican day-trippers. Weekday mornings offer a more peaceful experience.
- Try the strawberries and cream. Local restaurants serve fresh Constanza strawberries with cream — a mountain tradition.
- The rafting is real. Unlike tourist-grade "rafting" in some places, Jarabacoa's rapids are genuine. Wear water shoes and listen to your guide.
Sample Itineraries
Mountain Adventure Day
Waterfalls, rafting, and mountain air.
🌅 Morning2.5h
Salto de Jimenoa
Hike through suspension bridges and forest to the stunning 40-meter waterfall. Swim in the cool pool at the base.
Jimenoa
Midday3h
White Water Rafting
Hit the Yaque del Norte river for 2-3 hours of Class II-III rapids. No experience needed — guides handle everything.
Yaque del Norte
☀️ Afternoon2h
Coffee Farm Visit
Tour a local coffee plantation and sample freshly roasted Jarabacoa coffee — some of the best in the Caribbean.
Jarabacoa hills
🌙 Evening2h
Mountain Town Dinner
Dinner in town — try the local strawberries and cream for dessert. The mountain air makes everything taste better.
Jarabacoa town
Practical Information
🚗 Getting Around
Caribe Tours Bus(RD$250-350)
Bus from Santo Domingo to La Vega, then guagua to Jarabacoa.
Private Transfer(US$80-120)
From STI airport or Santo Domingo.
Rental Car(US$35-55/day)
Useful for waterfall visits and mountain exploration.
💵 Daily Budget
BudgetUS$30-50
Mid-rangeUS$60-120
LuxuryUS$150-300
🛡️ Safety Tips
- ✓Jarabacoa is the safest mountain town in DR — very tourist-friendly
- ✓Mountain roads can be winding — drive carefully
- ✓Bring layers — temperatures drop significantly at night
- ✓Waterfall hikes can be slippery — wear good shoes
- ✓Rain can come suddenly in the mountains — carry a rain jacket
📶 Connectivity
Good. 4G in town. WiFi in most hotels. Signal weakens on mountain trails.
💰 Tipping
10% service charge (propina legal) included in restaurant bills. Tip extra 5-10% for excellent service. Hotel housekeeping: RD$50-100/day. Tour guides: US$5-10/person.
Photo Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Is white water rafting safe for beginners?
Yes — the Yaque del Norte offers Class II-III rapids that are exciting but manageable for first-timers. Professional guides from operators like Rancho Baiguate provide all safety equipment and instruction. No experience needed.
What should I pack for Jarabacoa?
Layers (warm at night, comfortable during the day), water shoes for waterfalls, swimsuit, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket. The mountain climate is unpredictable — you can experience sun, rain, and cool breezes in a single day.
Can I visit both waterfalls in one day?
Yes — Salto de Jimenoa and Salto de Baiguate are both easily accessible. Visit Jimenoa first (the more dramatic waterfall with suspension bridges), then Baiguate in the afternoon. Allow 2-3 hours for each including travel.
Is the food good in Jarabacoa?
The mountain cuisine is distinctive — heartier and more comforting than coastal food. Try chivo guisado (stewed goat), sancocho (seven-meat stew), and the famous fresh strawberries with cream. Coffee from local farms is exceptional.
How long should I stay in Jarabacoa?
2-3 days is ideal. Day 1 for waterfalls, Day 2 for rafting and/or canyoning, Day 3 for paragliding and a coffee farm. You could spend a week if you include the Pico Duarte trek (adds 2-3 days).
Nearby Destinations
Explore more places near Jarabacoa
Plan Your Jarabacoa Trip
Everything you need to plan an unforgettable visit.
Nearest airport: Cibao International (STI) — 1.5 hr drive