Dominican Republic

Hispaniola is the second largest and most populated island in the Caribbean region. It is located within the Greater Antilles and is divided politically into two sovereign nations: the Republic of Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

Christopher Columbus founded La Isabella during his second voyage in 1493, and it was the first European town in America. It was intended to be Columbus's home in the New World and a base from which to establish Spanish presence and dominion in the West Indies.

Nestled in the southwestern region of the Dominican Republic lies a natural marvel – the Lago Enriquillo and Isla Cabritos National Park. This stunning protected area encompasses the largest lake in the Dominican Republic, Hispaniola, and the entire Caribbean Region, along with the captivating Isla Cabritos (Goat Island) at its center. This remarkable destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and a fascinating cultural heritage.

Los Haitises National Park is a protected area on the remote northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. Featuring a spectacular landscape of conical hills, mangroves and coastal rock islets, it protects a diverse habitat of subtropical forests and coastal mangroves.

Santo Domingo, the sprawling capital of the Dominican Republic, emerges as a city where the echoes of history resonate alongside the vibrancy of modern life. Santo Domingo has evolved into a thriving metropolis, the largest city in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean region, encompassing a dynamic blend of culture, commerce, and heritage.

The Cordillera Central, stretching across the central part of Hispaniola, defines the Dominican Republic's landscape, influencing its terrain, climate, and biodiversity. Its rugged peaks and verdant valleys showcase the island's diverse natural heritage. Pico Duarte, the highest summit in the country, stands as an icon within this breathtaking landscape. Similarly, José Armando Bermúdez National Park reflects the nation's dedication to preserving its environmental legacy.

The Cordillera Septentrional, also known as the Northern Mountain Range, is a prominent geological and cultural feature in the Dominican Republic, shaping the landscape and livelihoods of those residing there. This mountain range, stretching in a northwest-southeast direction parallel to the northern coast, boasts rugged terrain characterized by steep slopes and lush valleys. The range is known for its rich biodiversity and is an important water source.

Spanning the borders of Haiti and the Dominican Republic, the La Selle / Jaragua-Bahoruco-Enriquillo Biosphere Reserve stands as a testament to the region's rich biodiversity and ecological significance. This transboundary reserve encompasses two distinct yet interconnected protected areas: La Selle in Haiti and Jaragua-Bahoruco-Enriquillo in the Dominican Republic, forming an environmental corridor that transcends political boundaries.