When we write the word waterfall, what comes to mind? We think the words adventure, fun, beauty, adrenaline and peace are fitting. Did you know there is a trek to 27 waterfalls in the Damajagua, a lush tropical jungle and forest just outside Puerto Plata?
Whether you’re an adventure traveler, parent bringing your kids to see nature at its finest or photographer looking to capture the beauty of Dominican Republic – the 27 waterfall trek is one you simply shouldn’t leave the country without experiencing.
Depending on how much time you have you, get ready to experience anywhere from 1 to 12 to all 27 waterfalls in hikes guided by experts like Iguana Mamas.
Where are the Damajagua 27 waterfalls?
The 27 Charcos (a.k.a. waterfalls) rest along the Rio Damajagua. Local and international travelers alike have been exploring this part of the Dominican Republic for decades. While water coming from through the rocks have been etching into Dominican Republic’s terrain for millenia.
Do I really need a guide?
Yes, all visitors much have a guide to visit the waterfalls, no matter one’s experience level. We can attest, having a guide makes this trek 10x more fun than going solo. The team at Iguana Mamas will match you with the perfect guide based on your personal or group preferences. Whether you want to take it slow and connect with nature or you’re looking for a great cave to swim in, they will take your preference and ability into account, so the trek is a joy filled workout.
What comes with a 27 waterfall trek?
What should I bring?
What can I expect on this trek?
The tour will start out with a one mile, mostly uphill hike. The full trek is not for the faint of heart. It can become very hot, especially in the late spring and summer months. When you have a private guide, it makes this hike to paradise much more pleasant – especially for a beginner hiker.
The majority of the waters do not harbor critters. However, they aren’t clear – so your best bet is to listen to the guide about which waterfalls are swimmable vs. jumpable and climbable. When the guide gives you the go ahead to take a dip, you’ll head into cool blue waters. Most of the water is waste deep for a person of average height. Keep in mind, the mineral deposits that come from water pouring down the rocks make the water look murky. This is nature at its finest so push past what’s holding you back and take that dip! If this isn’t adrenaline pumping, the guide will be sure to step it up, just let them know you want something “more epic”.
Guides will give you the options on some of the waterfalls to Jump, slid or walk down. Do what feels most comfortable for you and never be ashamed if you take the easier option. You know your comfort level and the trek isn’t about getting to the final waterfall fast, it’s about emerging yourself in every piece of this part of paradise.
Are kids allowed?
Children ages 8 years old and over are allowed to go on the full hike. While younger children can head to waterfall #1 with an adult family member and local guide.
Embocca Cabarete’s team of experts are at your disposal to book this hike ahead or during your stay, as well as arrange transport to and from the starting if you aren’t renting a vehicle.
Cabarete is known around the world as a kitesurfing mecca. This piece of paradise offers ideal conditions for kiteboarding. With more enthusiasts discovering Cabarete as the place to experience the hottest watersport on the planet, it’s no wonder so many aficionados come here year after year.
Kitesurfing, also known as kiteboarding, is a sport that combines aspects of wakeboarding, windsurfing, surfing, paragliding, sailing, skateboarding and snowboarding (yes you read that right, skateboarders and snowboarders will love kiting!) into an action-packed extreme sport.
The best time of year for kitesurfing in Cabarete is between December and August. With prime wind conditions from January to March and June to July, the beaches tend to become crowded quickly. Cabarete has warm waters year-round and averages of 26°C/80°F in the winter and 30°C/86°F + in the summer. You can get away with wearing boardshorts and a rash guard to protect from the sun. A good hat and sunglasses are also strongly suggested.
Kiteboarders typically flock to Kite beach due to its sheer popularity, along with Cabarete Beach and Bozo Beach if they’re beginners. You will find the majority of Cabarete’s kite schools at these three beaches. By just sitting down at one of the beaches you will easily see a handful of pro-riders turning out tricks and drumming up applauds from on lookers.
La Boca River mouth and Playa Encuentro aren’t in Cabarete but happen to be less than 2.5 and 4 miles respectively from the town center. Each offer a unique benefit depending on the skill you’re looking to hone. Playa Encuentro is a great place for kitesurfers that enjoy riding waves. However, it is not a destination for beginners. La Boca River is perfect for kitesurfers looking for flat water to practice their freestyle skills.
With over a dozen kite schools in Cabarete, it can be hard to know which ones offer the newest equipment and best instructors. If you’re interested in taking a lesson, we will provide a list of recommended schools before or during your trip. Keep in mind, during busy season the best schools book up weeks and sometimes months in advance. Some of these schools even offer equipment storage and areas to hang out between sessions.
If you’re experienced and want to take a 1-3 day tour of Dominican Republic’s coastline, just let us know and we’ll place you in touch with the schools that offer these outings.