Charco Bonito
Charco Bonito is an exquisite waterfall located near Los
Quemados. The hike to the waterfall passes through thick forest and
glades, but is not very strenuous.
Testimonial
The
magic of the forest lies in its infinite promise of
discovery.
Above,
below, and all around, one’s senses are electrified
by
this mysterious enclosed world.
It was only 2 hours I spent
in the Central Mountain forests near Bonao,
Dominican
Republic, but I emerged exhausted due to a
complete
sensory overload.
We set off in search of Charco Bonito, a waterfall in the
thickly forested valleys beyond Los Quemados.
Before anything else, we had to negotiate the crossing of the wide, fast
flowing Rio Yuna. Although
the water only reached up to my kneecaps, its deceptive currents made me sway like a
staggering drunk, much to the mirth of some kids on the bank.
So with dignity slightly impaired, we began to step steeply into the
forest.
As climates go,
few are as hospitable year round as this one.
Every crop, fruit
and root worth growing simply thrives here.
As a result the mountain absorbs you with the sweet fragrance
of life; fruits maturing and flowers blossoming.
Birds and insects grow heady feasting on fallen pods of cacao.
While walking we are able to gather succulent guava or chinola fruit almost
bursting the branches with their goodness. Although the sun is directly above the canopy, the dewy leaves keep us constantly refreshed
as we brush against them.
For a good 20 minutes we can hear the churning of Charco
Bonito in the distance, yet its location is so well concealed
one could easily miss it. Through
ever thickening vegetation we are drawn frantically
like starving children towards the water source.
And when we arrive no one is disappointed. Charco Bonito turns out to lie in a wonderful clandestine glade, an enchanting respite from the
claustrophobia of the forest.
Costs
You may hike Charco Bonito with or without a guide. If you
choose to hike with a guide (recommended), we will provide horses($10.00) and lunch.
This option costs $29 USD. If you choose to hike without a guide, there is
no charge, and we will provide you with a map. Lunch alone is $5 USD.
Back To Tours
