Monte Cristi National Park

The basics

Founded in 1506, Monte Cristi served as a trading post until the 19th century. Today, its 25,000 inhabitants make their living fishing, farming, and harvesting salt. A trip to Monte Cristi National Park usually includes a boat ride through the mangroves to spot some of the 160 bird species. The Monte Cristi province boasts 15,000 acres (6,070 hectares) of mangrove forests. One of the driest areas of the Dominican Republic, it receives little rain.

Several offshore islands called the Seven Brothers Cays (Los Cayos Siete Hermanos) are visible from Monte Cristi National Park, and a stop at the nearby island of Cayo Paraiso is usually included on day trips to the park. This uninhabited island is considered some of the best snorkeling in the Dominican Republic. Its shallow lagoon and coral reef give visitors the opportunity to see brightly colored fish and coral formations.

Things to know before you go

• The most common bird species in Monte Cristi include the turtle dove, night heron, endangered crow, gray kingbird, American kestrel, and broad-billed tody.

• Monte Cristi can get extremely hot in summer; bring sunscreen and protective gear like a hat.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the rocky paths by El Morro.

• Visit El Morro at sunrise for the best photos.

• Pack insect repellent to fight off the many mosquitoes.

How to get there

Monte Cristi is located about 84 miles (135 kilometers) west of Puerto Plata, near the border of Haiti, for about a 3-hour drive. Tours to the area typically include a 30-minute boat ride through the mangroves as well as roundtrip transportation to and from the park. If you plan to rent a car to get around, keep in mind that the Dominican Republic is known for its aggressive traffic conditions.

When to get there

From May through August, migrating seabirds—including the bridled tern, sooty tern, brown noddy, pelican, white-crowned pigeon, and Hispaniolan spindalis—flock to the Seven Brothers Cays, making this period a popular time for bird watchers. If you want to experience the culture of Monte Cristi, visit on the days leading up to Easter Sunday when locals host a big Carnival-like celebration.

Cayo Paraiso

About halfway between Puerto Plata and Monte Cristi, you’ll find Paradise Island, also known as Cayo Paraiso. It's one of the most popular snorkeling spots in the Dominican Republic. On land, the uninhabited sandbar boasts thatched-roof huts and not much else, but the surrounding crystal clear blue waters and massive reef are what attracts travelers to this tiny island.