Pico Duarte Summit Trek: 3-Day Adventure from Santo Domingo

Challenge yourself with the Pico Duarte Summit Trek: 3-Day Adventure from Santo Domingo. At 3,101 meters (10,174 ft), Pico Duarte is the highest mountain in the Caribbean—a true bucket-list climb.

Your journey begins with an early morning pickup in Santo Domingo and a scenic transfer to the La Ciénaga ranger station near Jarabacoa, sitting at ~1,100 meters elevation. Here, our certified mountain guides handle permits, organize the pack mules, and brief you for the expedition.

Day One leads through lush tropical forest and highland pines, crossing streams and steady ascents on a well-marked trail. The hike covers ~16 km (6–9 hours) before reaching La Compartición Camp at ~2,450 meters. Dinner and a starry night await in tents or the rustic refuge.

Day Two is the highlight. Starting before dawn, you hike with daypacks to the summit of Pico Duarte (3,101 m), arriving in time for sunrise. The sweeping views across the Central Cordillera and the Caribbean’s “Alps” make every step worthwhile. After celebrating at the monument, return to La Compartición for lunch, rest, and a second night at camp.

Day Three is a descent of ~16 km (6–8 hours) back to La Ciénaga, followed by transfer to Santo Domingo, with evening arrival.

This trek is demanding: expect 12–18 km (7–11 mi) of hiking per day, with significant elevation gain (~2,275 m total ascent). Nights near camp can drop close to 0°C (32°F) between December and March, so proper cold-weather gear is required.

Our experienced team manages logistics—permits, meals, mule support, and camp setup—so you can focus on the climb. For fit and adventurous travelers, this is the ultimate Dominican experience.

Day 1 – Santo Domingo → La Ciénaga → La Compartición (Camp)

• 4:00 AM pickup in Santo Domingo.
• Transfer to La Ciénaga ranger station (permits & prep).
• Trek ~16 km (6–9 hrs) through forests and streams.
• Dinner and overnight at La Compartición (tents/refuge).

Day 2 – Summit Pico Duarte → Return to La Compartición

• Pre-dawn start with daypacks (~10 km round trip).
• Sunrise at 3,101 m summit; photos at Duarte monument.
• Return to camp for lunch, dinner, and second night.

Day 3 – La Compartición → La Ciénaga → Santo Domingo

• Descend ~16 km (6–8 hrs) to trailhead.
• Lunch at base; return transfer to Santo Domingo (evening arrival).

⚠️ Disclaimer: This itinerary is for reference only. Weather, group pace, and park conditions may alter timing and sequence. Safety is always the priority.

• Round-trip transport Santo Domingo ↔ La Ciénaga.
• Park entry fees & summit permits.
• Certified mountain guide & muleteers.
• Pack mules for group gear and provisions.
• Camping logistics (tents, shared refuge when available).
• Meals: D1 lunch/dinner, D2 breakfast/lunch/dinner, D3 breakfast/lunch.
• Daily trail snacks.
• Water treatment (filter/boil).
• Summit certificate photo at the Pico Duarte monument.

• Personal trekking gear (0–5°C sleeping bag, pad, headlamp, layered clothing, poles).
• Personal insurance (mandatory).
• Tips for guides and muleteers.
• Optional private mule for personal use.

• Good health & physical fitness required.
• Must be able to hike 12–18 km/day with sustained climbs.
• Minimum age 14 (with guardian).
• Preparation: 4–6 weeks recommended training (stairs, cardio, hikes).
• Nights can reach freezing—proper cold-weather gear mandatory.