Paraiso Caño Hondo: A Natural Oasis in the Dominican Republic

Paraiso Caño Hondo is a nature lover's paradise located in the Los Haitises National Park in the Dominican Republic. This eco-lodge offers guests a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. With 11 natural pools, guests can take a dip in the refreshing waters while surrounded by lush greenery.

The lodge's rooms are designed with comfort in mind, featuring wooden floors, a desk and chair, and ceiling fans to keep guests cool. Each room also comes with its own bathroom, complete with a toilet and shower. Free Wi-Fi and parking are available to guests, and a complementary breakfast is served each morning.

Paraiso Caño Hondo has received high praise for its commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism. The lodge is powered by solar energy and uses biodegradable products in an effort to minimize its impact on the environment. Guests can feel good about their stay knowing that they are supporting a business that is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Location and History

Geographical Location

Paraiso Caño Hondo is located in the Los Haitises National Park, in the northeastern region of the Dominican Republic. The eco-lodge is situated in the town of Sabana de la Mar, which is approximately 5.6 miles away. The lodge is surrounded by lush greenery and is known for its natural pools and waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests, while also taking a dip in the refreshing waters.

History of Paraiso Caño Hondo

Paraiso Caño Hondo was established in 2002 as an eco-lodge, with the aim of providing visitors with a unique and sustainable experience in the heart of the Los Haitises National Park. The lodge was built using local materials, such as wood and stone, and was designed to blend in with the natural surroundings. The lodge's name, "Caño Hondo," refers to the nearby river that flows through the park and feeds the natural pools that are a highlight of the lodge.

Over the years, Paraiso Caño Hondo has become a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The lodge offers a range of activities, such as hiking, bird watching, and boat tours of the park's mangroves and caves. Visitors can also relax and unwind in the lodge's natural pools, or enjoy a massage or yoga session in the peaceful surroundings.

Paraiso Caño Hondo has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainable tourism. The lodge uses solar power for its electricity, recycles waste, and sources food locally to reduce its carbon footprint. The lodge also supports the local community by providing employment opportunities and promoting the conservation of the park's natural resources.

Natural Attractions

Paraiso Caño Hondo is a nature lover's paradise, with a variety of natural attractions to explore. From waterfalls to caves to rivers, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Waterfalls

The lodge is home to several stunning waterfalls, including the Salto El Limón and the Salto El Guayabo. These cascading falls are surrounded by lush vegetation and offer a refreshing swimming experience. Visitors can take a dip in the cool waters or simply relax and take in the breathtaking views.

Caves

Exploring the caves is a must-do activity for visitors to Paraiso Caño Hondo. The lodge is situated near the Los Haitises National Park, which is home to a number of caves. Visitors can explore these caves and marvel at the unique rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. Two popular caves to visit are Cueva de la Arena and Cueva de la Línea.

Rivers

The Jibales River is the main attraction at Paraiso Caño Hondo. The river flows through the lodge's property and is a great spot for swimming, kayaking, and tubing. The crystal clear waters are perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Visitors can also take a relaxing walk along the riverbank and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

Accommodation Options

Lodges

Paraiso Caño Hondo offers a variety of lodge options for guests. Each lodge is designed to blend in with the natural surroundings and provide a comfortable, yet rustic experience. The lodges are built on stilts over the river, providing a unique and peaceful setting.

Guests can choose from several different lodge types, including standard, superior, and deluxe. The standard lodges feature a private bathroom, while the superior and deluxe lodges offer additional amenities such as a balcony, hammock, and air conditioning.

The lodges are spacious and feature traditional Dominican decor, with wooden furniture and colorful textiles. Each lodge also has a ceiling fan and mosquito netting to ensure a comfortable stay.

Camping

For those looking for a more adventurous experience, Paraiso Caño Hondo offers camping options. The campground is located in a secluded area of the property, surrounded by lush vegetation and the sound of the river.

Guests can choose from several different camping options, including tent camping and glamping. The glamping tents are equipped with a comfortable bed, electricity, and a private bathroom, providing a luxurious camping experience.

The campground also features a communal area with a kitchen, BBQ grill, and picnic tables, making it easy to prepare and enjoy meals in the great outdoors.

Activities

Paraiso Caño Hondo offers a variety of activities for guests to enjoy during their stay. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, there's something for everyone.

Hiking

Explore the beautiful Los Haitises National Park on foot with a guided hike. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including mangroves, caves, and numerous bird species. Guests can choose from a range of hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, each offering stunning views and unique experiences.

Swimming

With 11 natural pools on site, guests can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush greenery. The pools are fed by fresh water from the nearby river and are a perfect spot to cool off after a day of exploring.

Bird Watching

Los Haitises National Park is a bird lover's paradise, with over 100 species of birds found in the area. Guests can take a guided bird watching tour to spot some of the park's most beautiful and unique birds, including the Hispaniolan parrot, the white-necked crow, and the mangrove cuckoo.

Photography

For those who love photography, Paraiso Caño Hondo offers endless opportunities to capture stunning shots of the natural beauty of the park. From the rugged coastline to the dense mangrove forests, there's no shortage of breathtaking landscapes to capture on camera.

Local Culture

Food and Drink

Paraiso Caño Hondo is located in the Dominican Republic, a country known for its delicious food and drinks. Visitors can try traditional Dominican dishes such as sancocho, a hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and plantains, or mofongo, a dish made with mashed plantains and meat. Seafood is also a popular choice, with fresh fish and shrimp caught daily in the nearby ocean. Visitors can wash down their meals with a refreshing glass of mamajuana, a local drink made with rum, red wine, and honey.

Festivals and Events

The Dominican Republic is known for its lively festivals and events, and visitors to Paraiso Caño Hondo can experience some of the local culture by attending these celebrations. One of the most popular festivals is Carnaval, which takes place in February or March and features colorful costumes, music, and dancing. Another popular event is the Santo Domingo Jazz Festival, held in the capital city in October and featuring world-renowned jazz musicians. Other festivals and events include the Merengue Festival, held in Santo Domingo in July, and the Festival of the Bulls, held in the town of La Vega in February. Visitors can also attend local fairs and markets, where they can buy handmade crafts, sample local food and drinks, and watch traditional dance performances. Paraiso Caño Hondo is located near several of these festivals and events, making it a great place to stay for visitors who want to experience the local culture.

* All hotels and resorts listed on this website are independently owned and operated.