Dominican Republic National Parks

Dominican Republic National Parks

With more than two dozen national parks, several have become especially popular with visitors including naturalists, amateur archeologists and adventure travelers.

Most Popular Parks

Armando Bermudez National Park, the first national park, the most popular and home to Pico Duarte, the Caribbean's highest peak. Here's how to climb Pico Duarte.

Jaragua National Park, the country's largest with lots of flamingos.

Los Haitises National Park, accssed from the Samana Peninsula at El Portillo.

National Park Isla Cabritos, not only the lowest point in the Caribbean but with a large population of imported American crocodiles.

Park Entry & Fees

Entrance fees vary from $1 to $5. The real cost is the mandatory guide to accompany you. Check at your hotel what a normal guide fee is; the fees are usually negotiable.

The idea of a mandatory guide does seem annoying but a good one definitely will make any park vist more worthwhile.

I had one convince me to scrape a few termites off a tree and eat them. Little substance but nice and nutty.

Gear to Take

In many parks, because of terrain, shoes with good traction are far better than sandals or flip flops.

For high altitude hikes, wear layered clothing.

In parks with caves, bring your own flashlight, the only way you can ensure you have one working with a bright beam.

For birdwatching, bring binoculars.

Insect repellent, bottled water, sunglasses and a brimmed hat are also recommended.

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