Los Haitises national park is a true journey to the heart of the Dominican Republic. “Haitises” means “highlands” or “mountains” in the Taíno language (the indigenous people of the Dominican Republic), and with 1,600 square kilometers, only a portion of the park is open to the public. This Caribbean oasis features pristine mangrove forests, Taíno petroglyphs, secluded beaches, pirate hideouts, and a rich diversity of endemic flora and fauna.
Upon arriving at our destination, the coastal town of Sabana de la mar, we board a catamaran on the outskirts of Los Haitises national park and navigate through the narrow mangrove channels, which serve as an ideal habitat for hundreds of species of birds, fish, reptiles, and crustaceans. Leaving the mangrove forests behind, the landscape opens up to the San Lorenzo bay, offering fantastic views of the park and the distant mountains of Samaná. If we’re lucky, we might even spot some dolphins in the deep waters of the bay, as dolphin sightings are quite common.
During our visit to Los Haitises, we will explore two caves that were used by the Taíno Indians for over a millennium. The first, cueva de la arena, is located on a secluded beach with several sea-facing caverns and Taíno rock carvings. The second, cueva de la línea, is situated in the forest and is filled with Taíno drawings, giving us a better insight into how these indigenous people lived before Christopher Columbus arrived.
After leaving the park, it’s time for lunch. A typical Dominican meal of chicken, rice, beans, vegetables, salads, fruits, and a delicious local fish called Minuta will be served at Yanigua spa, a small ranch with lush vegetation and even a hidden waterfall! After lunch, we will head to the river where you can swim in the refreshing waters or apply healing mud from the riverbed. When we leave the water, we’ll enjoy some hot chocolate or coffee, made on-site.
For an authentic experience with the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Dominican Republic, join us on this unique adventure to Los Haitises national park.