Ecotourism in Dominican Republic is asset on the rise, that is not only expanding the country’s offer and appeal, but is also helping tremendously in environmental protection and the socio-economic development of rural communities. The government has taken on the sustainable development goalsset out by the United Nations. Progress to date includes a notable increase in the number of protected ecological areas,the prohibition of various substances harmful to the ozone layer, and the development of various sanitation services.
Dominican Republic boasts in its interior an astounding national treasure. It is one of the few countries in the world that can boast nine ecological zones in such a small space. It also contains an impressive number of ecosystems. Its topography shows the highest and lowest points in all the Caribbean, affording a distinct advantage when it comes to landscapes; from tropical jungle to desert, Dominican Republic is home to countless species of flora and fauna.
In the heart of the Central Range, surrounded by Duarte Peak, La Pelona and La Rusilla – known as the Alps of the Caribbean – lies Jarabacoa, a town that has become the cradle of ecotourism and adventure sports. Its mighty rivers are ideal for rafting, tubing and abseiling. Its exotic mountains, which set the scene for the PanAmerican Games’ mountain bike event, have lured thousands of adventurers.
Fans of virgin beach, far from the bars and crowds, love to head north to the wild sands of Puerto Plata, Playa Dorada and Cabarete, where they enjoy spectacular waves and reefs, ideal for surfers. Those who simply seek tranquillity call Samaná paradise. Its peaceful bay has an added draw: from January to March, it is a sanctuary for a large community of humpback whales that come to enjoy the warm Caribbean waters.
For a lesser-known, more hidden paradise, near the region of Barahona in the province of Perdenales, one can find Dominican Republic’s best kept secret: the beach on the Bahía de las Aguilas, or Eagle Bay.
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