Espaillat offers striking contrasts between cultural discoveries and excursions into river and forest landscapes. In Moca, a three-dimensional street, a museum, and workshop visits take center stage; in Jamao al Norte, swimming spots and a range of outdoor activities are among the defining features.

Moca: Street, History, and Handicrafts

Calle 26 de Julio in Moca is considered the country’s first three-dimensional street and is one of the city’s main attractions. The Museo Presidente Ramón Cáceres is located in Estancia Nueva near Moca, presents the history of the Dominican Republic, and is surrounded by gardens. The two attractions offer different experiences: the street stands out for its three-dimensional design, while the museum focuses on the country’s history.

On the Ruta de los Artesanos del Higüerito, you can visit workshops and learn firsthand how different products are made. You can also buy handicrafts there. Check in advance what visitor options are currently available. Characteristic handicraft motifs from Espaillat province include the faceless clay doll and the metal butterfly.

Rivers and Excursions in Jamao al Norte

Jamao al Norte has swimming spots along the Río Yásica and Río Jamao. The forested foothills of the Cordillera Septentrional and scenic landscapes also define the area. Excursions differ considerably in their activities: the tour known as Cannoying passes through the natural pools of Arroyo Blanco and includes rappelling down waterfalls up to 200 feet high. The Cabalgata is a horseback ride that crosses the Río Yásica seven times and continues to Cueva de los Durán. The first tour focuses on pools and rappelling, while the Cabalgata centers on a ride with repeated river crossings and the cave as its destination.

The Jamao / Las Espinas / El Ramonal excursion includes a ride in a four-wheel-drive vehicle. The Las Caobas / Arroyo Frío route has caves with entrances and exits, as well as large waterfalls. At the waterfalls, visitors can choose whether to climb up or jump into the water. The Ruta Ecológica Marinero Tinajones is considered an ecological protected area and offers opportunities to experience nature. Another option is the Ruta del Kayak, which includes a ten-kilometer kayaking trip on the Río Jamao through forested and cultivated areas.

The activities offered at Complejo Ecoturístico Sereno de la Montaña include hikes with views of the Cordillera Septentrional, horseback riding with stops at swimming spots and waterfalls along the Jamao, Arroyo Blanco, and Partido rivers, as well as tubing and kayaking on the Río Jamao. If you are not staying there, check in advance whether you can take part in these activities. You should also ask the respective providers about current availability and tour conditions; local access to the Las Caobas / Arroyo Frío route should also be checked in advance.

Choose Where to Stay Based on Your Interests

When choosing a hotel, first consider what you want your stay to focus on: Moca’s street, museum, and workshops, or the river and outdoor activities in Jamao al Norte. Use this difference in focus as a guide when searching for hotels in Espaillat.

Discover more destinations: Gaspar Hernandez, Moca, Villa Magante, San Cristóbal, Pedernales, Monseñor Nouel Province, San Pedro De Macorís, Sanchez Ramirez.

Return to the main travel guide: Dominican Republic.