Santiago Dominican Republic
Santiago
Santiago Dominican Republic is located in the northern part of central Dominican Republic. It is about 155 kms to the north of the capital Santo Domingo, so if you visit from the north, about an hour's drive south of Puerto Plata.
Known as Santiago de los Trenta Caballeros [of the Horsemen],it nestles in the Valley of the Cibao. it is surrounded by abundant fertile earth and bathed by waters of the Yaque river.
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It is surrounded by tall mountains which offer protection from hurricanes and allows for dense tropical forests to develop on the slopes of such mountains. These are among the highest in the region.
The climate can be hot and humid and enjoys temperatures between 23-28 celsius.
Santiago, is the second city of the Dominican Republic in terms of political and economic importance. It is also home to around 750,000 people, and is the fulcrum of economic activity in the Cibao. Key to its economic success is the commercialization of farming products. In addition cement, skins, rum, coffee, and tobacco are important, as is shoe manufacturing and furniture making.
Santiago came to life when Columbus had a fort built on the banks of the Yaque del Norte River to protect gold mining being done in the area. In 1504 Spanish farmers settled in this fertile center of the Cibao Valley and began
Nearby towns
Within striking distance there are a good number of pleasant towns, many of which are quite prosperous.
Jarabacoa
Southeast of Santiago and about one hour`s drive away, you will find Jarabacoa. This town is a popular location for wealthy Dominicans to spend their summer.
It is increasingly popular for adventure-sports tourism and as a starting point for those wanting to hike Pico Duarte, highest peak in the Caribbean (10,128 feet). Sports such as river rafting, kayaking, canyoning, hiking, climbing, paragliding and horseback riding trips are available in this area.
Jarabcoa has an excellent selection of restaurants and hotels, complete with nightly baseball games at the field on Calle la Confluencia.
Santiago Dominican Republic [cont]
Constanza
Constanza is located about an hour from Santiago. It is well worth a visit and is located in a beautiful valley. It is well known for its strawberries, raspberries, apples and a wide variety of flowers.
If you enjoy long country walks and beautiful sunsets you will love Constanza.
Santiago Dominican Republic [cont]
Santiago Dominican Republic
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