How to Hike, Camp at Pico Duarte in Dominican Republic

Pico Duarte is located in the Cordillera Central, a mountain range that runs across the center of the Dominican Republic.

How to Get There

The closest airports are Las Americas International Airport in Santo Domingo, and Santiago Municipal Airport. The most common starting point for the hike is the town of La Ciénaga, which is about a 3-hour drive from Santo Domingo, the capital city. You can either rent a car or take a bus to La Ciénaga, where you will find several tour operators that offer guided hikes to Pico Duarte. I recommend booking your hike in advance, as the number of permits is limited, and the demand is high.

Once you get the permit to hike, you will have to attend a briefing the same day you begin the ascending route. There are different hiking routes, depending on your preference and fitness level. La Ciénaga-Arroyo Frío-La Compartición-Pico Duarte-La Compartición-Arroyo Frío-La Ciénaga loop is the most popular route.

This route covers about 48 kilometers and takes 3 days and 2 nights to complete. This is the route that I took, and I found it challenging but manageable. Other routes include the Sabaneta-Jarabacoa-Pico Duarte-Jarabacoa-Sabaneta loop (about 60 kilometers and 4 days). And the Mata Grande-Pico Duarte-Mata Grande loop which is about 40 kilometers and 2 days.

When to Go

The best time to hike Pico Duarte is from December to March, when the weather is dry and cool. On average temperature at the summit is around 10 degrees Celsius during this period, but it can drop below zero at night. The rainy season runs from May to November.

What to Pack

Hiking Pico Duarte requires some preparation and planning, especially when it comes to packing. You will need to carry everything you need for the hike, including food, water, clothing, sleeping gear, and personal items. But hiring a guide with a donkey will help you carry most of those items. A guide is recommended and will help you enjoy the hike without worrying about a huge backpack and extra equipment.

Here is a list of some essential items that you should pack for your hike:

1. – A backpack with a capacity of at least 50 liters (your tour guide can carry this for you on the mule)
2. – A sleeping bag rated for temperatures below zero degrees Celsius
3. – A sleeping pad or mat
4. – A tent or hammock (optional, as there are shelters along the way)
5. – A headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
6. – A water bottle or hydration bladder with a capacity of at least 2 liters (you can refill it with spring water)
7. – A water filter or purification tablets (I did not use any, but if it makes you feel better, do it)
8. – Food for 3 days (I recommend freeze-dried meals, jerky, energy bars, nuts, dried fruits, chocolate, etc.)
9. – Snacks for the trail (I recommend granola bars, crackers, cheese, jerky, etc.)
10. – A first aid kit with basic medications and supplies
11. – A knife or multi-tool
12. – A map and compass or GPS device
13. – A whistle or emergency signal
14. – A camera or smartphone with extra batteries or power bank
15. – Sunglasses and sunscreen
16. – A hat or cap
17. – A rain jacket or poncho
18. – A fleece jacket or sweater
19. – A down jacket or vest
20. – Thermal underwear (top and bottom)
21. – Hiking pants or shorts
22. – Hiking shirts (long-sleeve and short-sleeve)
23. – Hiking socks (at least 3 pairs)
24. – Hiking boots or shoes
25. – Trailbuddy Hiking poles #ad (optional but helpful, very helpful)
26. – Gloves or mittens
27. – A scarf or buff
28. – Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, towel, toilet paper, baby wipes, etc.)
29. – Personal items (ID, passport, money, insurance card, etc.)

Next: Hiking Pico Duarte: Caribbean’s Highest Peak – GoTravelHiking