Discovering Paradise
Jimaní
Jimaní sits on the shores of Lago Enriquillo — the largest lake in the Caribbean and one of the few saltwater lakes in the world below sea level. The lake is home to American crocodiles, rhinoceros iguanas, and flamingos. Jimaní also serves as the main border crossing to Haiti.
☀️December to March
🌡️32°C (90°F)
✈️Las Américas International (SDQ) — 3.5 hr drive
Quick Facts
🌡️
Avg Temperature
32°C (90°F)
☀️
Best Months
December to March
✈️
Nearest Airport
Las Américas International (SDQ) — 3.5 hr drive
Jimaní is the gateway to one of the Caribbean's most extraordinary natural wonders — Lago Enriquillo, the largest lake in the entire Caribbean and one of the few places on earth where a saltwater lake sits below sea level. This vast, shimmering expanse of water in the arid Enriquillo Valley feels more like an African rift lake than anything you'd expect to find on a Caribbean island.
The lake is home to a remarkable population of American crocodiles, some reaching over three meters in length, along with rhinoceros iguanas that roam freely on Isla Cabritos — a national park island sitting in the middle of the lake. Flamingos wade through the shallow waters, and the surrounding desert-like terrain creates a landscape unlike anything else in the Dominican Republic.
Jimaní also serves as the main border crossing between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, giving the town a unique cultural energy. The twice-weekly border market draws thousands of traders from both sides, creating one of the most vibrant and chaotic commercial scenes in the entire island of Hispaniola. For travelers seeking the road less traveled, Jimaní offers an experience that no resort or beach town can match.
Ideal
Good
Rainy
Apr
21° — 32°
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Aug
23° — 34°
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Dec
20° — 31°
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Feb
19° — 31°
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Jan
19° — 31°
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Jul
23° — 34°
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Jun
23° — 33°
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Mar
20° — 32°
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May
22° — 32°
💧💧
Nov
21° — 31°
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Oct
22° — 32°
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Sep
23° — 33°
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Temperature in °C💧 = ~5 rain days
Jimaní is in the far southwest of the Dominican Republic, near the Haitian border.
By Air
Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo is the nearest major airport, about 4 hours east. There are no commercial airports near Jimaní, so all visitors arrive overland.
By Car
From Santo Domingo, take the Autopista 6 de Noviembre west through San Cristóbal and Baní, then continue through Azua and onto the road south through Neyba to Jimaní. The drive takes about 4 hours and passes through increasingly dramatic arid landscapes as you descend into the Enriquillo Valley. The road is paved the entire way.
By Bus
Caribe Tours runs daily buses from Santo Domingo to Jimaní, departing in the morning and early afternoon. The journey takes about 4.5 hours with a stop in Neyba. Local guaguas also connect Jimaní to Barahona and Neyba throughout the day.
Getting Around
A rental car or hired driver is strongly recommended for exploring Lago Enriquillo and Isla Cabritos. Motoconchos are available in town for short trips. Boat tours to Isla Cabritos depart from La Azufrada, about 15 minutes from the town center.
Jimaní is an off-the-beaten-path destination with very limited tourist infrastructure — pack your expectations for adventure rather than comfort.
In Town
A handful of basic hotels and guesthouses offer clean rooms with air conditioning and cold water from US$15-35/night. Hotel Jimaní and a few family-run posadas near the main road are the most reliable options. Don't expect luxury — this is frontier territory.
Near the Lake
There are no hotels directly on Lago Enriquillo. The park headquarters area has basic facilities but no overnight accommodation. Most visitors base themselves in Jimaní town or make day trips from Barahona (about 1.5 hours south) where more comfortable hotels are available.
Day Trip Option
Many travelers visit Jimaní and Lago Enriquillo as a long day trip from Barahona or even Santo Domingo. If you plan to explore the lake thoroughly, staying overnight in Jimaní gives you the advantage of an early morning start when wildlife is most active.
Lago Enriquillo Boat Tour
The essential Jimaní experience. Boats depart from La Azufrada to cross the lake to Isla Cabritos National Park. The crossing itself is memorable — the vast lake surrounded by desert mountains creates an otherworldly atmosphere. Tours last 2-3 hours and cost around RD$2,000-3,000 per group.
Isla Cabritos National Park
This island in the middle of Lago Enriquillo is a protected wildlife sanctuary. Walk the trails to see American crocodiles basking on the shoreline, rhinoceros iguanas roaming freely, and a variety of birds including flamingos, herons, and roseate spoonbills. A park guide is mandatory and included in the boat tour price.
Crocodile Watching
The shores of Lago Enriquillo are home to one of the largest populations of American crocodiles in the wild. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for sightings, when crocodiles emerge to bask in the sun along the lake's edge.
Las Caritas Taíno Carvings
Near the lakeshore, carved into the limestone cliffs, are ancient Taíno petroglyphs known as Las Caritas (The Little Faces). These small carved faces date back hundreds of years and offer a tangible connection to the island's pre-Columbian inhabitants.
Border Market
On market days (Monday and Friday), the Jimaní border crossing comes alive with thousands of Haitian and Dominican traders. The energy is intense and the scene is unforgettable — mountains of goods, animated haggling in Spanish and Creole, and a raw commercial vitality that few places can match.
- Go early to the lake. Arrive at La Azufrada before 8:00 AM for the best wildlife sightings and calmer water for the boat crossing. The midday heat in the valley is intense.
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen. The Enriquillo Valley is one of the hottest and driest places in the Caribbean. Temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F) and there is no shade on the lake.
- Carry cash. There are limited ATM options in Jimaní and none at the lake. Bring enough Dominican pesos for tours, food, and any emergencies.
- Don't swim in the lake. Lago Enriquillo is saltwater with a high mineral content and is home to crocodiles. Admire from a safe distance.
- Hire a local guide. Beyond the mandatory park guide on Isla Cabritos, a local guide can help you find Las Caritas, navigate the border market, and discover spots that aren't signposted.
- Best months: December-March when temperatures are slightly cooler. Avoid July-August when the heat in the valley can be extreme.
Sample Itineraries
Jimani & Lago Enriquillo
Visit the largest lake in the Caribbean and its wild island inhabitants.
🌅 Morning3.5h
Lago Enriquillo & Isla Cabritos
Take a boat to Isla Cabritos in the center of the hypersaline lake. See American crocodiles basking on the shores and rhinoceros iguanas roaming freely.
Lago Enriquillo
Tip: Bring sun protection. The island has zero shade and temperatures can exceed 40 degrees Celsius.
Midday1h
Flamingo Observation
Scan the shallow lake edges for Caribbean flamingos and other wading birds. The birdlife around the lake is exceptional.
Lago Enriquillo Shores
☀️ Afternoon2h
Border Market
Visit the bustling Haitian-Dominican border market for a cross-cultural experience. Vendors sell goods from both countries in a vibrant, chaotic atmosphere.
Jimani Border Crossing Area
🌙 Evening1.5h
Local Dinner
Dine in Jimani town on hearty border-region cuisine. The food here blends Dominican and Haitian flavors in unique ways.
Jimani Town
Practical Information
🚗 Getting Around
Caribe Tours Bus(RD$350-500)
Bus from Santo Domingo. About 3.5 hours.
Rental Car(US$40-55/day)
Needed to explore Lago Enriquillo and surroundings.
💵 Daily Budget
BudgetUS$15-25
Mid-rangeUS$30-50
LuxuryUS$60-100
🛡️ Safety Tips
- ✓Jimaní is a border town — stay in tourist/city areas
- ✓Lake Enriquillo excursions should be done with a guide
- ✓Extremely hot — hydration is essential
- ✓Border crossing to Haiti is possible but check current conditions
📶 Connectivity
Limited. Basic 4G in town. WiFi in some hotels.
💰 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lago Enriquillo and can I see crocodiles there?
Lago Enriquillo is the largest lake in the Caribbean and the lowest point in the region at about 40 meters below sea level. It is home to American crocodiles, rhinoceros iguanas, and flamingos. Boat tours from the park ranger station take you to Isla Cabritos in the center of the lake where you can see crocodiles basking on the shore. Tours cost around RD$1,500-2,500 (US$26-43) per group.
How do I get to Jimani?
Jimani is located in the far southwest of the Dominican Republic, about 270 km (4-4.5 hours) from Santo Domingo via Azua and Neyba. Caribe Tours runs buses to Jimani from Santo Domingo for around RD$500-600 (US$9-10). A rental car is recommended for flexibility, as the attractions around the lake are spread out.
Can I cross into Haiti from Jimani?
Yes, Jimani has an official border crossing to Malpasse, Haiti. The border is open during daytime hours. You will need a valid passport and, depending on your nationality, a Haitian visa. Border crossings can be chaotic and slow. This crossing is used mainly by traders and humanitarian workers. Check current conditions and travel advisories before attempting to cross.
Is Jimani safe for tourists?
Jimani is generally safe but very much off the tourist trail. The town is small and locals are welcoming. The border area can be hectic during market days. Use standard precautions: do not flash valuables and avoid the immediate border zone after dark. The Lago Enriquillo area itself is managed by park rangers and is safe to visit during the day.
How many days should I spend in the Jimani area?
One full day is enough to tour Lago Enriquillo and Isla Cabritos. If you combine it with the Neyba area (Hoyo de Pelempito viewpoint), plan for two days. Most visitors include Jimani as part of a broader southwest road trip covering Barahona, the Enriquillo Valley, and the Pedernales coast over 3-5 days.
Nearby Destinations
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Plan Your Jimaní Trip
Everything you need to plan an unforgettable visit.
Nearest airport: Las Américas International (SDQ) — 3.5 hr drive