Los Haitises National Park, Round Mountain & Bacardi Island

The Dominican Republic’s northeastern region boasts a trifecta of natural wonders. Los Haitises National Park enchants visitors with its mangrove forests and limestone formations. Round Mountain offers thrilling hikes and birdwatching opportunities. Just offshore, Bacardi Island captivates with its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. These destinations promise an unforgettable ecotourism experience, but the key is knowing how to navigate the area’s logistics and find the hidden gems. Dive in to uncover the secrets of this remarkable Caribbean region.

Key Points

• Los Haitises National Park is a protected area in the Dominican Republic known for its lush mangrove forests, caves, and limestone formations.
• Exploring Round Mountain within the park offers a moderately challenging hike with stunning views of the karst landscape and opportunities to spot endemic wildlife.
• Bacardi Island, also known as Paradise Island, features pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and snorkeling excursions showcasing the area’s diverse coral reefs.
• The tour package includes a guided snorkeling adventure, a buffet lunch, and an open bar on Bacardi Island, providing a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.
• Roundtrip transportation from Puerto Plata hotels is included, with an additional supplement for transfers from Cap Cana or Bayahibe.

Los Haitises National Park

Los Haitises National Park is a protected area located in the northeastern region of the Dominican Republic.

It’s known for its lush mangrove forests, caves, and limestone formations. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, spot diverse wildlife, and take boat tours through the waterways.

The park’s unique ecosystem is home to over 140 species of birds, as well as endangered species like the Hispaniolan Amazon parrot.

Los Haitises offers a window into the country’s natural heritage and is a popular destination for ecotourism.

It’s a must-visit for nature lovers exploring the Dominican Republic.

Exploring Round Mountain

Round Mountain, situated within the expansive boundaries of Los Haitises National Park, beckons adventurous travelers seeking to enjoy the park’s captivating natural wonders.

Hiking the trails leading to the summit, visitors are rewarded with stunning vistas overlooking the park’s karst formations, lush forests, and sparkling waterways. The climb, while moderately challenging, offers a chance to witness the park’s diverse flora and fauna up close.

Birdwatchers may spot the endemic Ridgway’s Hawk, while nature enthusiasts can explore the unique limestone caves and sinkholes that dot the mountain’s slopes.

Discovering Bacardi Island

What lies beyond the mainland’s lush forests and rugged coastline? Paradise Island, also known as Bacardi Island, beckons with its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life.

This idyllic retreat offers:

• Snorkeling excursions to explore the colorful coral reefs and diverse aquatic wildlife

• Opportunities to swim, sunbathe, and relax on the island’s picturesque sandy shores

• A delectable buffet lunch and open bar, providing a satisfying respite from the day’s adventures

Accessible by a thrilling speedboat ride, Bacardi Island delivers a truly unforgettable island escape, inviting visitors to enjoy the natural wonders of the Dominican Republic.

Snorkeling Adventures

Although the tour starts with a journey to Puerto Rusia, the true highlight awaits on Paradise Island, where guests can dive into the vibrant underwater world through guided snorkeling expeditions.

The tour includes all necessary snorkeling equipment, allowing visitors to explore the island’s thriving marine life with ease. Participants can swim alongside colorful fish, discover hidden coral formations, and enjoy the serene beauty of the Caribbean waters.

With a buffet lunch and open bar provided, the snorkeling adventure is a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, offering an unforgettable experience for all travelers.

Culinary Delights

A delectable buffet lunch and an open bar are included in the tour package, ensuring a culinary delight for all participants.

The tour’s culinary offerings feature a variety of local and international dishes, catering to diverse tastes. Theres some good:

• Freshly caught seafood, expertly prepared

• Authentic Dominican rice and beans, a national staple

• A selection of tropical fruits and refreshing beverages

The open bar allows travelers to sample the region’s signature rum-based cocktails, complementing the flavorful cuisine and creating an unforgettable dining experience amidst the stunning natural surroundings.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour package includes round-trip transportation from Puerto Plata hotels to the starting point at the Four Points by Sheraton Puntacana Village.

The air-conditioned coach takes guests on the journey, which lasts about 10 hours in total. Those staying in Cap Cana or Bayahibe will need to pay an additional $20 supplement for transfers.

The tour accommodates up to 100 travelers, so guests can expect a comfortable and efficient transportation experience.

Travelers should note that this tour isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with reduced mobility, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Important Considerations

While the Los Haitises National Park tour offers a captivating experience, it’s important to consider several key factors before booking.

The tour involves moderate physical activity, so a decent fitness level is recommended. Pregnant travelers and those with mobility issues may find it challenging.

Plus, visitors should prepare for potential exposure to insects and bring appropriate repellent.

Finally, the tour may not be suitable for young children as the boat ride and activities could be overwhelming for them.

By considering these factors, travelers can ensure they’ve an enjoyable and safe experience exploring the natural wonders of Los Haitises.

• Moderate physical fitness required

• Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with mobility issues

• Potential exposure to insects, bring repellent

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have largely praised the Los Haitises National Park tour, with a solid rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars across 9 total reviews.

Guests highlighted the tour’s beautiful scenery, attentive guides, and enjoyable boat ride. The snorkeling experience and quality of the buffet lunch also received positive feedback.

While the moderate physical fitness level required may not suit all visitors, the included transportation and covered entrance fees were appreciated.

Ask Away

Is This Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour may not be suitable for families with young children. It requires a moderate fitness level and is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with reduced mobility. Smaller children may struggle with the long day and activities.

Can We Bring Our Own Snorkeling Equipment?

According to the tour overview, participants can’t bring their own snorkeling equipment. The tour provides snorkeling gear, including masks, fins, and snorkels, as part of the included activities and inclusions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

While the tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, travelers can inquire about adding extra time or activities for an additional cost. The standard 10-hour itinerary provides ample time to enjoy the snorkeling, swimming, and beach exploration on Paradise Island.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

No, you don’t need to bring your own food and drinks. The tour includes a buffet lunch and an open bar, so all meals and beverages are provided. Just bring your swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

The tour itinerary is fixed, but travelers can discuss additional activities with the tour operator. Customizing the trip to visit extra sites may not be possible, as it could impact the tour schedule and logistics.

Final Words

Los Haitises National Park, Round Mountain, and Bacardi Island offer unparalleled natural beauty and adventure for eco-conscious travelers. From hiking scenic trails to snorkeling vibrant marine life, the region captivates visitors with its diverse landscapes and wildlife. While logistics and transportation require some planning, the unforgettable experiences make this Dominican Republic destination well worth the effort.