PicoDuarte
46KM
2.0kM
3d
Route Typology: High-Altitude Multi-Day Trek. Pico Duarte is the highest peak in the Caribbean, reaching 3,098 meters (10,164 feet) within the Cordillera Central of the Dominican Republic. Located within the José del Carmen Ramírez National Park (Parque Nacional José del Carmen Ramírez), this 46km (28-mile) round-trip trek from La Ciénaga traverses several climate zones, from humid jungle to high-altitude pine forests. The route follows established trails shared with mule convoys, offering panoramic views across the central mountain spine of Hispaniola. Note: The information on this page is for general guidance. Always verify local weather and park regulations with official Dominican tourism authorities (Ministerio de Medio Ambiente) before your hike. Compiled from publicly available sources — not a field report.
Mission Directive / X-Factor
“Sub-Tropical Pine Transition. The shift from humid jungle to open Hispaniolan Pine forests (Pinus occidentalis) is a highlight of the trek. At the 3,098m summit, which features a bronze bust of Juan Pablo Duarte, exceptionally clear weather can provide distant views toward both the northern and southern coastlines of the island.”
Hazard Assessment
Temperatures at the high-altitude camp (Comparticion) and the summit can drop below 0°C (32°F) at night.
MITIGATION: Bring a 0°C rated sleeping bag; carry a down jacket and thermal layers; wear a warm hat at night.
Ascending to 3,098m can cause symptoms of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
MITIGATION: Hike slowly; mild altitude effects are possible above 2,500m so gradual pacing is recommended; drink 3-4L of water per day.
Critical Loadout
Water Logistics
HIKING
PATHWAY
central-mountain-range // hiking
La Cienaga to La Compartición
Climbing from the valley through pine forests and past freshwater springs. Reaching the high-altitude base camp.
The Summit Push
Departing camp at 4:30 AM. Reaching the peak for sunrise. Views over the entire island of Hispaniola.
Return to Base
Descending from the summit back to camp for lunch and then all the way back to the valley.
| Step | Sector / Waypoint | Dist. | Gain (↑m) | Duration | Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | La Cienaga to La Compartición Climbing from the valley through pine fo... | 7-9 hours | --- | 7-9 hours | Standard Segment |
| 2 | The Summit Push Departing camp at 4:30 AM. Reaching the ... | 2-3 hours | --- | 2-3 hours | Standard Segment |
| 3 | Return to Base Descending from the summit back to camp ... | 6-8 hours | --- | 6-8 hours | Standard Segment |
Technical Specifications
DOC_REF: GOLDEN_HIKING_DO_002Refuge Capacity
La Compartición (2,450m) and Valle del Tetero provide basic shared shelters. Most hikers prefer camping in tents for privacy and warmth.
Regulatory
- Permit REQUIRED
- Authority Ministerio de Medio Ambiente (José del Carmen Ramírez National Park)
A certified guide is legally required. Mules are typically used to carry camping gear and supplies. Permits are issued at the La Ciénaga entrance.
Climatology
- OptimalDec, Jan, Feb, Mar
The primary trekking season runs from December to March for the best sunrise clarity. Operations may be suspended during peak hurricane season (August-October) due to flood risks.
Emergency / Comms
- Rescue (EU) 112 ACTIVE
- Signal Partial
Compare With Other Hikes
Side-by-side metric analysis. Compare Pico Duarte directly against similar routes ÔÇö distance, elevation gain, HikeMetrics Hazard Score, and more.
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