Due to its low temperatures and high ecotourism potential, the Valle Nuevo National Park, located 2,200 meters above sea level in the Central Mountain Range (center of the Dominican Republic’s geography) has become one of the favorite places to visit this season for locals and foreigners.
In this sort of alpine plateau, where in the last few days there have been numerous frosts that have attracted attention, with temperatures below zero up to -7.6 degrees Celsius, visitors can enjoy the characteristic cold of “New York”, without visa or passport, where the variety of the microclimate of the country is highlighted.
In the place, between Constanza and La Vega, people can appreciate the scenic beauty of the humid forests of this abode of conifers (Pinus occidentalis), a widespread forest in the protected area. There are also more than 200 species of plants.
According to the Vice-Minister of Protected Areas and Biodiversity of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Federico Franco, there is a list of more than 65 bird species and, unfortunately, there are invasive exotic species such as the wild rabbit (Orictolagus coniculus) and the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).
“This reserve is the most important hydrological potential in the country because it is the source of important rivers,” said Franco.
He specified that the camping areas are located about 30 kilometers from the pyramids.
To get to the area, one can arrive by Constanza – Camping-Rancho al Medio (by El Convento) at about 30 kilometers.
Visiting requirements
According to Julio Jhanel Encarnación Apolinar, ecotourism promoter, there are two ways to get to Valle Nuevo, the first is to visit from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. as long as you are not going to spend the night there.
“If you intend to camp for up to two nights, no more, you must make a reservation, obtain an overnight stay permit, through Email: [email protected] at least ten days in advance,” he said.
This email must contain the date of the trip, group leader and campers, with their full names and ID or passport number (and if they are minors, indicate their age).
In case the group exceeds six people, the amount of the group will be distributed among the camping spaces (17 spaces with capacity for 06 people), the entrance fee to the Park is RD$150.00 per person, children under 12 years old are exempt.
In the place it is prohibited to drink alcohol, use disposable utensils, introduce domestic animals. Also, making noise and bonfires are only authorized in the surveillance area under the control of the park rangers, added Julio J. Encarnación.
Clothing
When visiting the place, called “Madre de las Aguas” (Mother of Waters), it is recommended to bring coats to cover yourself from the cold, closed shoes such as boots or resistant tennis shoes, food that does not require cooking and easy to prepare.
Source: Mitur.gob.do
