Cabarete, Dominican Republic AKA the Adventure Capital of the Caribbean beckons thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies from all around the world. Although a lot of the action takes place seaside, the vast mountainous regions combined with winding river systems have created an exciting playground for canyoning and cascading. A wide range of locations and options makes a fun day out for families and groups of all ages.
Local’s Tip: The more water, the better, so these types of adventure are perfect for that odd rainy day in Cabarete!
Below we’ve described some of our favorite canyoning adventures so you can decide which you’ll want to do first!
Magic Mushroom
If you ask anyone about canyoning, they’ll tell you about the Magic Mushroom. The name comes from the canyon, smoothly rounded at the top, which then cuts back in halfway down, just like a mushroom! It’s a breathtaking sight and even more magnificent when you repel 60m down amongst the fresh flowing water. Just getting to and from the Magic Mushroom is exciting as you traverse through the spectacular scenery and plunge into clear spring-fed pools. At every jump site, there is a choice of a higher ledge for those feeling extra brave, and a smaller ledge for those who just want to have a little fun. This tour takes 2-3 hours and is only a 45-minute drive away making it a fun post-surf or pre-kitesurf trip!
Ciguapa Falls
Located in the main river slightly further along from the Magic Mushroom, the Ciguapa Falls has 12 jumps and passes through 6 waterfalls. These drops vary in size with some of the biggest at 30ft! Once again don’t fret, you can jump from a higher or lower platform depending on how you’re feeling. The drive takes only 45 minutes, and the mountain scenery is beautiful. Including a hike through the lush jungle and rainforest, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into Jurassic Park. In total, the tour takes 2-3 hours so you can be back for some afternoon festivities in Cabarete!
Big Bastard
Affectionately named, the Big B is titled after its 60ft jump! Adventurers can also choose to jump from the lower platform at 49ft, or you can rappel from this height if you prefer. Rest assured, there are plenty of jumps and rappels to get you warmed up on the way to the grand finale. Getting to the river is an adventure in itself since the enchanting waterfalls split into emerald green pools. It is truly stunning. Still only 45 minutes away and 2-3 hours long, you will probably need a nap after this tour! Good thing our condos are so cozy!
27 Waterfalls of Damajagua
On the other side of Puerto Plata, the 27 Waterfalls are probably the most well-known of the bunch. The tour starts with a moderate 70-minute hike through an exotic jungle where you reach the first pools and jumps! There’s a choice of sized jumps often with the option to walk around if you’re not sure. Even more fun, the flowing water has carved chutes out of the rock-forming water slides that plunge into the crystal clear water below. It takes roughly 2.5 hours for the entire tour by which time your cheeks will ache from laughing and smiling so much!
In Cabarete, we have plenty of tour operators that include transport and an authentic Dominican lunch. The most popular tour operators are Kayak River Adventures and Iguana Mama Adventure Tours. Both operators offer the tours we’ve listed and more!
Local’s Tip: If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can you can take public transport or grab a taxi from Cabarete to get to the 27 Waterfalls. Once you get there, you can purchase 12 or 27 waterfalls (we always recommend 27), then you’ll be put added into a group and designated a guide. HERE you can find the directions.
More Tips:
- All the tours are suitable for novices. However, a reasonable level of fitness is required since hiking and swimming are a part of every tour.
- Unfortunately, these tours are not suitable for children under 12.
- Wear a bathing suit and bring dry clothes for the long ride home.
- Some of these tours provide sneakers or water shoes, but it’s always nice to have your own if you have them.
- The water can feel a little fresh, so if you are cold natured you have a wetsuit, bring it. Some of the tours provide them, but it is always more comfortable to wear your own. A full length or shorty 3mm or 2mm wetsuit will be perfect.
- Bring money just in case you would like to take a donkey ride back instead of hiking, or maybe you’ll want a drink en route.
Ready to go on adventures in Cabarete? Book your ocean-view condo now!