Best Waterfalls in the Dominican Republic to Visit & Explore
Discover the best waterfalls in the Dominican Republic! Plan your trip, explore stunning cascades, and book top-rated tours for an unforgettable adventure...
NATURE & OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
2/9/20255 min read
Ready to explore some amazing waterfalls in paradise? The Dominican Republic isn’t just about beaches and lively cities—it’s also full of stunning natural spots. Imagine standing under a rushing waterfall, feeling the cool mist on your skin, surrounded by lush greenery. Whether you're up for an adventure, love nature, or just want a refreshing escape, these waterfalls are waiting for you!
From the thrill of sliding down natural pools at 27 Charcos to the peaceful beauty of Salto de Socoa, this guide will show you the best waterfalls to visit. Let’s jump in!
1. El Limón Waterfall (Salto El Limón)
Location: Samaná Peninsula
Height: 130 feet (40 meters)
How to Get There: Take a guided tour from Samaná or Las Terrenas. You can hike (about 45 minutes) or ride horseback through lush forests, crossing rivers and scenic trails.
Tours: El Limón Waterfall on Viator.
Tips: Wear water-resistant shoes, bring a swimsuit, and pack light. The trail can be muddy, especially after rain. Consider hiring a local guide to enrich your experience with cultural and natural insights.
2. 27 Charcos de Damajagua (27 Waterfalls of Damajagua)
Location: Near Puerto Plata
Experience: Slide, jump, and swim through a series of natural pools and cascades carved into limestone canyons.
How to Get There: Book a tour from Puerto Plata, Sosúa, or Cabarete. Self-driving is also an option with ample parking facilities.
Tips: This is an active adventure. Wear sturdy water shoes and be prepared for physical activity. Helmets and life jackets are provided for safety. Pack a waterproof camera to capture the thrilling moments.
Did You Know? The 27 Charcos were discovered by locals and opened to the public in the 1990s, now a top eco-adventure destination.
3. Salto de Socoa
Location: Near Bayaguana, Monte Plata Province
Highlight: A hidden gem featuring a beautiful 65-foot (20-meter) waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming.
How to Get There: Drive from Santo Domingo (about 1.5 hours) via the Autopista Las Américas, taking the Bayaguana exit. There’s a short, easy hike from the parking area to the falls.
Tips: Less crowded than other waterfalls, perfect for a peaceful retreat. Bring snacks, plenty of water, and a good book to relax by the natural pools. Wear sturdy shoes, as the path can be slippery after rain.
Local Insight: The area around Salto de Socoa is rich in biodiversity—keep an eye out for tropical birds and vibrant plant life!
4. Salto Alto de Bayaguana
Location: Monte Plata Province
Feature: A beautiful triple cascade waterfall surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
How to Get There: About an hour's drive from Santo Domingo. It’s a popular day trip for both locals and tourists.
Tips: Ideal for a family outing. Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the natural pools. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic surroundings.
Local Tip: The nearby town of Bayaguana is known for its fresh fruit markets—perfect for picking up snacks before your waterfall adventure. Learn more about Dominican fruits
5. Salto La Jalda
Location: Hato Mayor Province
Claim to Fame: The tallest waterfall in the Caribbean at over 400 feet (122 meters).
How to Get There: Accessible via a challenging hike (4-6 hours round trip) through dense rainforest. Guided tours are highly recommended for safety and navigation.
Tips: Best for experienced hikers. Wear durable hiking boots, bring plenty of water, high-energy snacks, and sun protection. The effort is worth it for the breathtaking views.
Adventure Tip: You can go ahead with a visit to nearby cacao farms for a sweet post-trek treat. Read more about cacao.
6. Salto de Jimenoa I & II
Location: Jarabacoa
Feature: Majestic twin waterfalls surrounded by lush mountains, accessible via hanging bridges and forest trails.
How to Get There: Drive to Jarabacoa from Santiago or Santo Domingo. Local tours offer transport and guided hikes.
Tips: Ideal for photography enthusiasts. The bridges offer unique angles for capturing the cascading waters.
7. Aguas Blancas
Location: Constanza, in the Central Mountain Range
Height: Over 1,680 meters (5,511 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest waterfalls in the Caribbean.
How to Get There: From Santo Domingo, drive to Constanza (about 3.5 hours). A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for the mountain roads leading to the falls.
Tips: The water here is icy cold due to the high altitude—perfect for a refreshing dip! Dress in layers, as the mountain climate can be chilly.
Scenic Bonus: The journey offers breathtaking views of pine forests and valleys along the way.
8.Tabernacle Thundering Waterfall (El Tabernáculo)
Location: San Cristóbal Province
Height: 27 meters (89 feet), offering an exhilarating blend of hiking, swimming, and optional cliff jumps.
How to Get There: From Santo Domingo, take a 2-hour drive to a local town. The guided hike leads you through streams and smaller falls to the main waterfall.
Tips: Swimming is required along the route, but life vests are provided, so you don’t need advanced swimming skills. Wear sturdy water shoes with good grip, as the trail can be slippery. Bring a waterproof bag for personal items. There are no restrooms at the waterfall site.
Bonus : Stay at Hotel Caño Hondo, Sabana de la Mar
Nestled within the Los Haitises National Park, Hotel Caño Hondo is an eco-lodge offering breathtaking views of mangroves, karst formations, and natural springs. The hotel features rustic yet comfortable rooms built with local materials, blending seamlessly with the environment. What’s more? The hotel boasts its own natural waterfalls and cascading pools right on-site—perfect for a dip after a day of exploration.
Distance from Punta Cana: Approximately 3.5 hours by car.
Activities: Guided hikes, cave exploration, mangrove tours, birdwatching, kayaking, and boat excursions.
Sustainability: Operates with eco-friendly practices, supporting local conservation efforts.
Why Stay Here? It’s the perfect base for exploring the nearby Los Haitises National Park and immersing yourself in nature.
Plan Your Waterfall Adventure Today!
Ready to chase waterfalls in the Dominican Republic? Book your tours, pack your bags, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in paradise.
For more travel tips and guides, visit DRSimplified.com!
Explore the Dominican Republic with DR Simplified – Your Viator Travel Shop!
Discover the best excursions, cultural experiences, and adventure tours in the Dominican Republic, all handpicked for travelers like you! Whether you're looking for stunning beaches, historical sites, or thrilling activities, our Viator shop offers top-rated tours with trusted guides. Book with ease and make your trip unforgettable!
Terms and condtions
All rights reserved 2025
Affiliate Disclaimer
Some links on DR Simplified are affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!