Dreaming of vacationing with the white sand, crystal blue water but without all the Ibiza-like party crowd and noise? No better option to look forward to than the Pedernales in the Dominican Republic. This Caribbean destination is emerging as the new travel favourite for multiple reasons. Hidden in the southwest corner of the country, Pedernales offers some of the best postcard-worthy landscapes, plenty of adventures and a punch of traditional Dominican Republic and Haitian culture as well.
Here are a few steps you must make in The Península de Pedernales for the best experience:
Jaragua National Park
Dominican Republic’s first UNESCO biosphere reserve, the Jaragua National Park is spread in a massive area of 1,295 square kilometres (500 square miles) and spans major diverse ecosystems from water to land and lagoon to isles. The national park also covers Beata and Alto Velo islands along with the Los Frailes and Piedra Negra cayes. Talking about the Fauna, you are likely to spot American flamingos, manatees, turtles nesting on the beaches and birds like white-crowned pigeons and blue herons. Moving on to flora, there are about 400 different species to look out for. If you are invested in the Jurassic era, keep an eye out for the different types of igneous and sedimentary rocks dating back to nearly 140 million years.
Bahía de las Águilas
Popularly hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the country, Bahía de las Águilas is stretched over 5 miles of pristine white sand shore. Nestled within the Jaragua National Park, this beach will give you uninterrupted views of crystal clear turquoise water. With no hotels or restaurants to spoil the natural landscape, you can reach here with the help of an ATV (All-terrain vehicle).
Parque Eólico Los Cocos
Ever thought about visiting a wind farm? If not, here’s an incredible opportunity to stop by the Parque Eólico Los Cocos. This place will offer you iconic sights and all the essential information related to wind farming. The wind turbines go as high as a 40-floor building and connect to the national grid. Parque Eólico Los Cocos is the largest wind farm in all of the Caribbean and Central America. 40 wind turbines of 77-megawatt capacity generate power that could be sufficient for lighting 1 million bulbs. Take an official tour for a better technical understanding of the farm.
Hoyo de Pelempito
If you want to surprise yourself with the high altitude landscapes that morph from deserts to a cloud forest, head on to the Aceitillar – an observatory in the Hoyo de Pelempito park which is situated at an elevation of 1,300 meters (4,265 feet). To reach here, you will have to drive about 32-kilometer (20-mile) up from sea level. With dense vegetation and mountain trails, the geological depression between the Sierra de Bahoruco mountains is nearly 700 meters (2,300 feet). Pack accordingly as the temperature varies from 0°C in the morning to 25°C in the noon.
Lago Enriquillo
The largest lake in the whole of the Caribbean, Lago Eriquillo takes its name after Enriquillo, the first Taino chief that stood against Spanish invaders. Lake Enriquillo is also the region’s lowest point with a depth of more than 43 meters (140 feet) below sea level. Stretching over 350 square kilometres (135 square miles), here you can boat ride to the middle of the lake i.e. Isla Cabritos and see the American crocodiles, pink flamingos and several other bird species. At the entrance of the lake, you will spot many Iguanas and nearby water streams and farmland. If you are planning to stay long for the wildlife observation, be sure to stock up on snacks and hats as the weather can be a bit heated here.
Cabo Rojo
With captivating shore views and turquoise waters, Cabo Rojo beach derives its name from the area’s bauxite presence. It also results in rust-coloured dirt roads. Along with the juvenile hawksbills, this white sand beach is also a breeding ground for Antillean Manatees and consists of several, best-preserved coral reefs. Boat rides to Bahía de las Aguilas can also be easily found from Cabo Rojo.
Local Cuisine
Is it even worth visiting a new destination if you don’t make enough space for trying the local cuisine? Pedernales will amaze you with some delectable spiny lobsters. Popular along the continental belt, these lobsters have forward-pointing spines to prevent any predatory attack. Stop by the restaurants like King Crab, Jalicar and Perla Negra to pick your grilled version. For different varieties, you can stop by other famous eateries in town and enjoy the selected local dishes. If you are planning to visit Bahía de las Aguilas, plan to have your lunch at the Cabo Rojo on the beach.
Haitian Market
Pedernales touches the Haiti-Dominican Republic border and the traditional market is set up on Mondays and Fridays nearby. It is basically a large flea market with things like second-hand clothes and electronic devices for sale. Check with the locals beforehand to ensure that you reach right during the peak hours.
Laguna de Oviedo
If you are an avid bird watcher, head on to the largest lagoon in the country i.e. Laguna de Oviedo. Here, the salt water level is thrice that as compared to the sea’s. Surrounded by dense swamps of Mangrove, this lagoon is spread in more than 10 kilometres. American flamingos, blue herons, roseate spoonbills, sandpipers, parrots, pelicans, the great egret are some of the common bird species you will spot here. Book an official tour through the channels of the Ministry of Environment. Remember, it is better to head out early in the morning to avoid intense heat.
Conclusion
Pristine Pedernales is a hidden gem in the crown of Dominican Republic. You might not find a bustling nightlife or party culture, but if you are an avid nature lover, you are in for a treat. From salt water lagoons to white sand beaches, Pedernales has a lot to offer. Apart from that, you get to experience the perfect mix of Haitian and Dominican Republic culture.
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