Sunrise
Above the clouds.
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The highest peak in the Dominican Republic and the whole Caribbean, rising about 3,100 metres in the Cordillera Central and named after Juan Pablo Duarte, one of the fathers of independence. Strikingly, it lies only about 85 kilometres from the region's lowest point, Lake Enriquillo, below sea level. The climb is a long mountain trek, usually two or three days. Its best-known route starts at La Ciénaga near Jarabacoa on a trail of about 23 kilometres each way, climbing through broadleaf forest and then the island's native pine forest to La Compartición camp, where trekkers spend the night. Climbers reach the summit at dawn to watch the sun rise over a sea of cloud filling the valleys; at the top stand a bust of Duarte and the national flag. Mules usually carry groups' gear. A guide and permit are compulsory, and nights are cold, sometimes near freezing, so bring warm clothes. The trek needs good fitness. The mountains are much cooler than the coast, especially at night, so bring a jacket.
Above the clouds.
Native to the island.
La Compartición.
Armando Bermúdez National Park, central mountains
Usually two or three days from La Ciénaga, camping at La Compartición and summiting at dawn.