Vacation to Jarabacoa in the Dominican Republic 2024

When most people think of a vacation in the Dominican Republic, images of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters immediately come to mind. However, the country has much more to offer. In the lush mountains of La Vega Province lies Jarabacoa, a hidden gem of the Dominican Republic. From stunning waterfalls to exhilarating outdoor activities, a vacation to Jarabacoa reveals a different side of the Dominican Republic, where nature reigns supreme and every moment is an opportunity to explore.

About Jarabacoa, the Dominican Republic

The second-largest municipality in La Vega Province is Jarabacoa. And this place has its name for a reason. The name was formed out of the words “Jaraba” and “Coa,” and it means “Land of Waters.” You may have wondered what kind of waters we are talking about if there are no beaches in Jarabacoa. The nature of the Dominican Republic is not limited to beaches. An example is Jarabacoa, where rivers flow and stunning waterfalls.

If you want to see the real nature of the Caribbean tropics, you should come here. As you explore the town, you will have breathtaking views. This type of travel is undoubtedly the best way to connect in harmony with nature and get to know the country from the inside.

What is there to do in Jarabacoa?

Known for its ecotourism, Jarabacoa is one of the best places for activities in the Dominican Republic. Located in the mountains of Central Cordillera, which has the highest mountain range in the Caribbean, Jarabacoa is a wonderful place for horseback rides or hiking to the best waterfalls. So, let us look at what to do in this area.

• Salto Jimenoa Waterfall. Be sure you will be amazed by the landscapes when you walk the three suspended bridges around the waterfall and its pools. Moreover, before hiking to the waterfall, you will pass a bean plantation and see the waterfall from the very top of the lively green hills. There is also a beautiful Jimenoa river, where you can swim.
• Pico Duarte. This is the tallest mountain in the Caribbean. Without a doubt, if you like outdoor activities and sports, you definitely need to go hiking on this mountain. The higher you climb, you will unfold stunning views. At the top, you will see the Dominican flag with a statue of the country’s founding father – Juan Pablo Duarte.
• Baiguate Salto Waterfall. Baiguate is a stunning waterfall that empties into the Baiguate River. Usually, the tour includes a horse ride, which is an adventure through the roads and forests of the city of Jarabacoa. You can walk under the falls during the dry season, but you cannot swim as the water is very shallow. Despite this, the water level rises during the rainy season, and you can take a dip in the natural pool.
• Rafting. Being in Jarabacoa, you will have an opportunity to move around the canyons and rapids. Be sure that this type of activity will definitely give you an adrenaline rush. You will discover places that are often unknown to most visiting tourists.

The difference between Punta Cana and Jarabacoa

First, you must understand that a vacation in Punta Cana differs from a vacation in Jarabacoa, because the first one is known for being within walking distance of the Dominican Republic’s most stunning beaches, and Jarabacoa is amazing because of its tropical nature and mountains. That is why the types of housing are also different in both areas. So, let us show you the differences between these two destinations.

• Most of our Punta Cana villas are located by the sea, so you can undoubtedly call your stay there a beach holiday. On the other hand, Jarabacoa villas are surrounded by tropical forests and mountains.
• There are way more activities in the Punta Cana area, from water sports to mountain hiking. There are also excursions in Jarabacoa, but not that many because there are no beaches in the area.
• Also, we should note that housing prices in Jarabacoa are lower than in Punta Cana. As you may know, Punta Cana is considered the most popular destination in the Caribbean. So, housing there is more luxurious and more expensive.

Jarabacoa vs Punta Cana villa rentals

As we already have mentioned, villa rentals in Jarabacoa, the Dominican Republic, are cheaper. So, the average price for a villa in Jarabacoa is about US$ 400 per night. The average price for a one-day stay in a luxury villa in Punta Cana will be about US$ 600-2500. Nevertheless, you can find a villa in Jarabacoa just for US$ 290, and the cheapest price for a villa in Punta Cana is US$ 208.

So, in practice, if you put in some effort, you can find a house in Punta Cana even for a lower price than in Jarabacoa. And this is all because Punta Cana is the most popular destination among tourists, so there are also more rental options for your stay. Usually, there you can find accommodation based on any of your budgets.

Jarabacoa vs Punta Cana:
Which Destination Suits You Best

When planning a trip to the Dominican Republic, both Jarabacoa and Punta Cana offer unique experiences. While Punta Cana is famous for its stunning beaches and luxury resorts, Jarabacoa is captivated by its breathtaking mountains and ecotourism opportunities. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you choose the best destination for your vacation:

Comparison of Jarabacoa & Punta Cana

Feature	Jarabacoa	Punta Cana	Who Should Visit?
Landscape	Mountains, Rivers, Forests	Beaches, Tropical Resorts	Nature lovers, adventure seekers
Activities	Hiking, Rafting, Waterfalls, Horseback	Water Sports, Beach Relaxation, Nightlife	Beach enthusiasts, water sports lovers
Villas	$290–$600 per night	$208–$2,500 per night	Budget-conscious travelers, luxury-seekers
Climate	Cooler, Mountain Climate	Tropical, Hot Year-Round	Those who prefer mild temperatures
Tourism Focus	Ecotourism, Adventure	Beach Tourism, All-Inclusive Resorts	Ecotourists, explorers
Best Time to Visit	December–March (Cooler & Drier)	Year-Round (Warm & Tropical)	Year-round visitors looking for sunny beaches
Closest Airport	Santiago Municipal Airport (STI)	Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)	Travelers preferring easy beach access
Unique Attractions	Salto Jimenoa Waterfall, Pico Duarte	Bávaro Beach, Scape Park, Cap Cana	Adventurers, mountain hikers
Price Range	Lower housing prices	Higher-end accommodations	Luxury travelers, budget-conscious tourists

Both Jarabacoa and Punta Cana cater to different types of travelers. Punta Cana is your go-to destination if you’re looking for a beach-centric holiday with luxury resorts and water sports. However, if you seek adventure, stunning mountain views, and ecotourism, Jarabacoa offers a refreshing alternative away from the coastline.

As a conclusion

While many associate the Dominican Republic solely with its pristine beaches, Jarabacoa proves there’s more to this tropical paradise. Nestled in the mountains, Jarabacoa offers a refreshing contrast to the coastal allure of Punta Cana. With its rich ecotourism opportunities, waterfalls, and breathtaking landscapes, Jarabacoa provides a unique, adventurous experience for those seeking to connect with nature.

For travelers deciding between these two destinations, the choice depends on your preferences. Punta Cana is the ultimate choice for a luxurious beach holiday with plenty of water sports and entertainment options. Jarabacoa beckons adventurers and nature lovers who crave cooler climates and mountain escapes.

No matter which destination you choose, Jarabacoa and Punta Cana offer unforgettable experiences and showcase the Dominican Republic’s diverse beauty. Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, your perfect getaway awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions About
Jarabacoa, the Dominican Republic

Updated on: 2024-12-18. Author: Diana

Tags: Dominican Republic Jarabacoa Tourist destinations Vacation rentals