Jarabacoa awaits government support to boost ecotourism development

Jarabacoa’s ecotourism sector has grown steadily, attracting both local and Dominican-American visitors, even without significant government investment in infrastructure or promotion. According to the Jarabacoa Tourism Cluster, the lack of a proper land use plan, delays in major infrastructure projects like the aqueduct and the highway to Constanza, and the municipality’s exclusion from national tourism campaigns continue to hinder its full potential.

Alba Yris Rodríguez, president of the Tourism Cluster, highlighted that local tourism currently dominates, with activity peaking only around 12 days per month—mostly on weekends and holidays. While real estate and short-term rental investments surged during the pandemic, infrastructure has not kept pace with demand, exposing weaknesses in public services.

Jarabacoa now boasts over 1,000 lodging options, including country villas and hotels, and offers a range of nature-based experiences such as rafting, hiking, paragliding, and 4×4 tours. However, community leaders like Rodríguez and José Tejeda of the Jarabacoa Support Council stress that unresolved issues—such as poor road conditions, inadequate signage, noise pollution, and delays in public works—are holding back the town’s potential as an international destination.

Despite promises and investments from the Ministry of Public Works, key projects like the four-lane highway remain unfinished, prompting concerns among visitors and investors alike.