Whether you’re a thrill-seeker eager to tackle the exhilarating cliff jumps or simply looking to immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of these cascading waterfalls, this guide has got you covered. So let’s dive in and discover all the incredible experiences awaiting you at the 27 Charcos de Damajagua!
What are the Charcos de Damajagua
The Charcos de Damajagua (the Damajagua waterfalls) are a series of 27 small pools, each of them cascading onto the next one. Do not expect waterfalls with huge drops. However expect to have an amazing time in one of the most gorgeous places I’ve ever been to. They’re famous for their crystal-clear waters and stunning surroundings, making them a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
History of the Charcos de Damajagua
The history of the Charcos de Demajagua dates back to the colonial era when the indigenous Taíno people inhabited the island. These pools were believed to be sacred by the Taíno, who used them for spiritual ceremonies and rituals.
During the Spanish colonial period, the area around the Charcos de Demajagua was part of a sugarcane plantation. Enslaved Africans brought to the island to work on the plantations also used the pools as a place of refuge and resistance against their oppressors.
How to Get to the 27 Charcos de Damajagua
To visit the Charcos de Demajagua in the Dominican Republic, you can join a guided tour or go on your own. If you’re taking a tour, look for one that includes transportation to and from the site. You can also rent a car or take a taxi if you prefer to go independently.
When choosing a tour, make sure it includes a knowledgeable guide who can provide information about the area and ensure your safety during the visit. It’s also a good idea to check if the tour includes any additional activities, such as hiking or swimming in the natural pools.
Different Types of Tours
When looking at tours to visit the Damajagua Waterfalls you will find tours geared to cruises stopping in Puerto Plata’s Amber Cove. It is often more affordable to book your own tour rather than booking it through the cruise so there are some of the best options for tours picking you up at the port.
Tours leaving from Puerto Plata will usually pick you up at your hotel in Puerto Plata. You can find the best tours to the Damajagua Waterfalls from Puerto Plata below, just click on the Viator tour you prefer to book it.
What to Expect at the Charcos de Damajagua
If you are not traveling with a tour you can book a tour and a guide once you get there. You’ll start buy trekking through dense tropical forests, cross sturdy footbridges, and pass by abundant plant life until you reach a rocky hilltop.
You can choose to go down 7, 12, 19 or 27 cascades. We chose 12 and wish we had done the 27 but my husband had an injured foot so 12 was the right choice for us. For the 12 cascades we walked for about 30-40 minutes at a slow pace and the guide said that for the 27 you have to hike about 45 minutes more.
Once you get to the river the adventure begins as you descend by sliding or jumping down a series of waterfalls. With helmets and safety gear on, you’ll glide down smooth water chutes, leap into deep turquoise pools and swimming and wade along the small river gorge. The guides help you through and tell you exactly what to do.
The highest jump is about 24ft high and you have the option to slide down, jump or both and it was so exciting. I was having a hard time jumping so the guide jumped with me. You also have the option to go around any cascade if you do not want to slide down or jump, there are steps down for people who don’t want that much excitement.
Check out my short video to get a better idea of what to expect when visiting the Charcos de Demajagua:
Charcos de Damajagua Prices
Here are the prices according to the route and jumps you wish to make. The prices include a life jacket, helmet, and the service of a trained guide for this occasion, which you shouldn’t miss.
- 7 jumps cost $25 USD (500 pesos)
- 12 jumps cost $30 USD (550 pesos)
- 27 jumps cost $40 USD (700 pesos)
Charcos de Damajagua Schedule
The park is open every day of the week from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Tips When Visiting The Damajagua Waterfalls:
- Reservations: It’s advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. This will help secure your spot and prevent any disappointment upon arrival.\
- Get there early: Get to the Charcos de Damajagua early so that you can enjoy it better and to avoid the crowds.
- What to wear: Bring a swimsuit and a towel as well as dry clothes to change into when you are done. I wore shorts because I did not want my new swimsuit to get damaged since we would be sliding down rocks, smooth rocks but still they can be rough on your swimsuit.
- Protect yourself: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and bug spray. You will not be able to carry much except maybe a water bottle and your GoPro during the hike since you are swimming, sliding and jumping into the water on your way back.
- Bring the right footwear: Bring shoes with good grip that you do not mind getting wet as you will be walking through the river and the falls and there are lots of rocks. You can rent water shoes.
- Take your GoPro: If you do have your own GoPro give your guide some extra money and ask him to take all the photos and video as he knows what the best spots are and how to take the videos.
- You can rent a camera there: If you did not bring your own GoPro you can rent one there as well. They are not cheap and renting the camera along with a photographercan add up.
- Not for small children: I would not recommend this for small children and if you are doing 12 or more you should be in an ok physical condition as the hike up is a bit of work.
- Restaurant on site: There is a restaurant with a buffet, the food was ok and it was a good option as we where starving when we got back but if you have time eat elsewhere as the food is very basic (rice, beans, hot dogs and roasted chicken).
This was an exciting and fun activity with truly breathtaking views. I feel that the photos and video I took does not do this place justice. If you will be in the Puerto Plata region in Dominican Republic the Charcos de Damajagua are a must!
Where to Stay When Visit the 27 Charcos de Damajagua
Puerto Plata is more than just a gateway to the Charcos de Demajagua; it’s a vibrant city with its own unique charm and attractions. If you are looking for more great activities in Puerto Plata be sure to read or article: 10 Awesome Things To Do In Puerto Plata.
Best Hotels in Puerto Plata
Here are some of my favorite hotels in Puerto Plata:
- Cofresi Palm Beach & Spa Resort: Situated on the picturesque northern coast of the Dominican Republic, this all-inclusive resort offers luxurious accommodations and breathtaking ocean views. With a variety of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options, including a water park and live shows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach or adventure in the water, Cofresi Palm Beach & Spa Resort has it all. Book it here..
- Emotions by Hodelpa: Nestled along the coastline, this modern resort features stylish rooms with ocean views, three swimming pools, and a luxurious spa. Visitors can indulge in gourmet dining experiences, unwind at the beach club, or partake in water sports activities. Book it here.
- Marien Puerto Plata: Located on the stunning Playa Dorada beach, this family-friendly resort boasts spacious rooms, multiple swimming pools, and a wide range of activities for guests of all ages. From beach volleyball and snorkeling to nightly entertainment and a kids’ club, there’s never a dull moment at Be Live Collection Marien. With its convenient location near shopping centers and golf courses, it’s the perfect choice for a fun-filled vacation in Puerto Plata. Book it here.
Paula studied architecture and now makes a living as a freelance writer,traveler and amateur photographer.She started her writing & publishing career as the editor of Bebé y Mamá, the first parenting magazine in Guatemala.She is the founder of www.GrowingUpBilingual.com and www.365thingsswfl.com and writes articles in Spanish and English for both magazines and the web on travel,food and bicultural and bilingual parenting .
When she is not on a plane or road trip she likes to create recipes inspired in the flavors of her native Guatemala.
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