Armando Bermúdez National Park: The Heart of Dominican Nature and Adventure

If you love mountains, fresh air, and untouched nature, then Armando Bermúdez National Park is one of the most breathtaking places to explore in the Dominican Republic. Declared a national park by Law No. 4389 on February 19, 1956, this natural treasure covers more than 779 km² and stretches across the Central Mountain Range (Cordillera Central) — the very heart of the Caribbean Island.

Home to the highest peak in the Antilles, Pico Duarte, this park is a dream for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking an authentic eco-adventure in the Dominican Republic.

Location and Geography

Armando Bermúdez National Park lies on the northern slope and the central part of the island’s main mountain range. It extends from La Ciénaga de Manabao in the province of La Vega to the Nalga de Maco National Park, near the upper basin of the Artibonite River.

To the north, it borders the provinces of Santiago and Santiago Rodríguez, while to the south, it adjoins the José del Carmen Ramírez National Park — together forming one of the most extensive protected natural areas in the Caribbean.

This mountainous park features rugged terrain, dramatic valleys, and dense forests. Its highest points include Pico Duarte (3,175 m), La Pelona (3,097 m), La Rusilla (3,038 m), and Yaque (2,760 m), offering visitors stunning panoramic views and unforgettable hiking experiences.

Ecosystem and Climate

Armando Bermúdez National Park is characterized by Lower Montane Wet Forests and Very Wet Forests, filled with lush greenery and constant humidity. In some areas, you’ll find pluvial forests—rich in mist and home to fascinating species like tree ferns and manacla palms.

Because of its altitude, the climate is fresh and cool year-round. During the winter months (December–January), temperatures can even drop below 0°C (32°F), and the meadows known as “pajones” are often covered with frost at sunrise. Average rainfall ranges from 1,000 to 3,500 mm annually, and in some places, it exceeds 4,000 mm, making it one of the most humid and fertile regions in the Dominican Republic.

Flora: A Paradise of Pines and Native Species

The park’s vegetation is mainly composed of coniferous and broadleaf forests, dominated by the native Hispaniolan pine (Pinus occidentalis) — an iconic tree species found only in the Dominican Republic and Haiti. These pines can reach heights of over 30 meters and create an incredible natural canopy.

Other native trees include sabina (Juniperus gracilior), almendro (Prunus occidentalis), cigua blanca (Nectandra coriacea), cedar (Cedrela odorata), palo de viento (Didymopanax tremulus), and pino de teta (Zanthoxylum spinifex). The diversity of plant life makes this park a living museum of Caribbean mountain ecology.

Fauna: A Sanctuary for Wildlife Lovers

The park is home to a rich variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles, many of which are endemic to Hispaniola. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting:

• Hispaniolan parrot (Amazona ventralis)
• Green-tailed warbler (Carduelis dominicensis)
• Palmchat (Dulus dominicus) — the national bird of the Dominican Republic
• Hispaniolan trogon (Priotelius roseigaster)
• Ridgway’s hawk (Buteo ridgwayi) and Red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)

You may also encounter small mammals such as the Hispaniolan hutia (Plagiodontia aedium), a native rodent species, and the wild pig (Sus scrofa). Reptiles include the Celestus Marcanoi lizard and snakes of the Alsophis genus.

This abundance of wildlife makes the park a prime destination for birdwatching and eco-tourism.

Things to Do in Armando Bermúdez National Park

1. Hike to Pico Duarte

The most popular activity in the park is the hike to Pico Duarte, the highest point in the Caribbean. The trail passes through breathtaking landscapes filled with pine forests, rivers, and scenic viewpoints. It’s a challenging yet rewarding journey for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

2. Ecotourism and Birdwatching

With more than a dozen major rivers, including the Yaque del Norte, Bao, Jagua, and Guayubín, the park offers plenty of opportunities for eco-tourism, camping, and birdwatching.

3. Rafting and River Adventures

On the outskirts of the park, the strong river currents make it an excellent spot for rafting and water adventures, perfect for adrenaline lovers.

How to Get There?

The easiest way to access Armando Bermúdez National Park is from the province of La Vega through the mountain towns of Manabao and La Ciénaga.

• From Jarabacoa, it’s about 23 kilometers to Manabao, and another 15 kilometers to La Ciénaga.
• Another route leads from San José de las Matas (Santiago province) to Mata Grande, on the park’s northern border.
• It’s also possible to enter through La Diferencia, Manacla, or La Leonor in Santiago Rodríguez province.

Because of the steep terrain, it’s highly recommended to use a 4×4 vehicle for safe and comfortable access.

Why Visit Armando Bermúdez National Park?

Visiting Armando Bermúdez National Park is one of the most authentic nature experiences you can have in the Dominican Republic. It’s a journey through pine forests, crystal-clear rivers, cool mountain valleys, and some of the most impressive landscapes in the Caribbean.

Whether you’re hiking to Pico Duarte, exploring its lush trails, or simply breathing the fresh mountain air, this park will remind you of the Dominican Republic’s incredible biodiversity and natural beauty.