Dominican Republic: El Tabernáculo Waterfall Hike & Swim Day Trip

Summary

El Tabernáculo hike, river swims and Dominican countryside adventure

You’ll leave Santo Domingo behind for a full day hiking through rivers and scrambling up rocks to reach El Tabernáculo waterfall. With a local guide leading the way (and making sure everyone laughs), you’ll swim in clear pools and finish with lunch in Los Cacaos before heading home tired but happy.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember how sticky my shirt felt after we piled into the van in Santo Domingo — city sounds fading as we drove out toward Los Cacaos. Our guide, Luis, kept pointing out things I’d never have noticed: a mango tree drooping over a fence, the way old men played dominoes under blue tarps. The road twisted through green hills for almost two hours. I tried to nap but the windows were down and there was this smell of wet earth and gasoline, not unpleasant, just real.

By the time we reached the start of the El Tabernáculo hike, I’d already sweated through my sunscreen. We stretched under some trees (Luis joked about his “professional” warm-up routine — it was just arm circles). The first steps into the river were cold enough to make me yelp. The water pressed against my calves and then thighs as we moved upstream. Sometimes you had to grab onto rocks slick with moss or help each other up little ledges. There’s no pretending: parts are tough, especially if you’re not used to scrambling around outside. But nobody rushed us — Luis kept checking if we needed breaks or more jokes.

The waterfall itself is loud — like standing next to a subway train — and throws mist everywhere so your skin feels cool even when you’re tired. I didn’t expect how clear the pool would be; you can see your toes wiggling underwater. Swimming isn’t optional here (life jackets are non-negotiable), but honestly that made it less scary for me. We laughed at each other’s attempts at dramatic jumps — one guy lost his sandal and Luis fished it out with a stick.

Changing afterward was… well, let’s just say there’s no restroom, so you get creative behind bushes or in the van (which is weirdly freeing). Back in town, lunch tasted better than anything I’ve eaten after a workout: rice, beans, fried plantain — simple but perfect when you’re starving. I tried saying “gracias” with my mouth full and probably failed at both Spanish and manners.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hike and explore El Tabernáculo waterfall

• Meet and board vehicle
• Drive 2 hours to Los Cacaos
• Stop at Los Cacaos park
• Stretch and start hiking upstream
• Swim and climb along route
• Reach El Tabernáculo waterfall
• Swim or relax at waterfall
• Hike back downstream using waterslides
• Have Dominican lunch at colmado Maria
• Drive 2 hours back to Parque Cervantes
• End tour and depart

Top questions

How long does the El Tabernáculo hike take?

The total hike lasts about 4-5 hours including swimming and climbing sections.

Do I need to know how to swim for this tour?

No, swimming is mandatory but life jackets are provided so you don’t need strong swimming skills.

Is lunch included on this day trip from Santo Domingo?

Yes, a typical Dominican lunch is included after the hike in Los Cacaos town.

Are there restrooms or changing rooms during the hike?

No restrooms or changing rooms are available; people use nature or change in the vehicle.

What’s the difficulty level of this waterfall hike?

The route is considered medium difficulty; it’s strenuous but doable for most moderately fit travelers without injuries.

Is transportation from Santo Domingo included?

Yes, private transportation from Santo Domingo is included in your booking.

Can vegetarians be accommodated for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian options are available for lunch upon request.

Is this experience LGBTQ+ friendly?

Yes, this tour welcomes LGBTQ+ travelers.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from Santo Domingo with pickup at Parque Cervantes, guidance throughout by a local expert (and plenty of jokes), all necessary safety gear like life jackets even if you can’t swim, plus a hearty Dominican lunch before heading back in the afternoon.