Guide to Dominican Republic’s Thermal Springs
Many people visit the Dominican Republic for its turquoise coastal waters and the beauty of the mountains but don’t forget about the bevy of hot springs in the country. From the western border shared with Haiti to the eastern coast, there’re beautiful hot springs where therapeutic relaxation can be found for everyone from the world-weary traveler to the family seeking some in the sun.
Mineral bathing in the Dominican Republic is both common and a large part of the local wellness culture.
Below, we’ll break your thermal bathing options down into two categories. We’ll look first at hot springs resorts and secondly at hot springs in national parks or otherwise situated in nature.
Hot Springs Resorts and Spas
The hotel Las Marias de Neyba is built around a natural spring (although this one is a cold spring). The hotel is in the eastern half of the nation and keeps a stand open where bathers can buy food and drinks while using the pool.
Previous visitors enjoyed the cleanliness of the water, which is crystal clear year-round. However, they also warn that, during the summer months, mosquitos can be a real nuisance in and out of the water.
In Sabana de la Mar, you’ll find Paraíso Caño Hondo, a hotel in the middle of Los Haitises National Park. The accommodation is the landing spot for guests looking to make an excursion out of the kayaking, zip lines, and several shallow spring pools nearby.
A few of these pools have waterfalls, where visitors can shower in the natural mineral water. The rooms for purchase are tiled and open to the surrounding nature.
Hot Springs in Nature
La Zurza de Vicente Noble is a hot spring in the middle of a small town near the country’s southern coast. The town in the Baharona Province is known as the ‘Pearl of the South.’ This hot spring is sulfurous and therefore can be a component in treating several skin conditions or softening rough, dry skin.
In the heart of the country, you’ll find Aguas Calientes Parque De Aguas Termas Naturales, where two natural hot springs bubble up from the ground. The land here is protected, part of a national park, and the closeness of the thermal pool to the river allows bathers to enjoy both.
Wooden stairs lead to the pools and hiking trails. This place is often called the Dominican Republic’s best-kept secret.
The last spring we’ll highlight is Parque Nacional Los Tres Ojos, where a series of underground lagoons are accessible to swimmers. The water in these underground springs is crystal clear and supports plenty of wildlife.
The rock formations are spectacular and many are amazed that this paradisical escape is in the middle of a bustling city. Just be aware that the caves can get very hot, and you’ll have to bring drinks to stay hydrated.
Other Hot Springs in the Dominican Republic:
- Parque Nacional El Choco y Las Cuevas de Cabarete
- El Saltadero
- Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve
- Cueva de la Virgen
- CUEVA DE LAS GOLONDRINAS
- Hoyo Azul
Visit the Dominican Republic
The tropical weather and mix of jungles, beaches, and mountains make the country an outdoor enthusiast’s dream vacation. Hurricane season typically takes over from the month of July through October. November through March is the Dominican Republic’s busy period when tourists show up in droves.
Be aware that you’ll have to show up early in the morning before the parks and venues reach max capacity to enjoy some of the hot springs. Happy soaking!
Learn more about visiting Dominican Republic on our sister site, La Vida Nomad.
