Green ebony scientific reserve

If you want to enjoy the natural flora and fauna of the Dominican Republic, the scientific green ebony reserve is a must for you. An ecotourism space where biodiversity and adventure merge perfectly.

This reserve is located between the towns of Constanza, Bonao, La Vega and Jarabacoa, the so-called Ebony region, very close to the border with Haiti. The name is due to its immense amount of green ebony, a typical tree of the Dominican Republic and a very valuable resource because of its hard and resistant wood.

In fact, this tree was in danger of extinction as a result of deforestation and indiscriminate carving for furniture and other products. This led to the creation of a protected area in 1992 to conserve the environment and all its biodiversity. Green ebony is an important natural area dedicated to the conservation of all species, from orchids to countless wildlife.

The green ebony scientific reserve is one of the most important places for biodiversity in the Dominican Republic. In addition to the trees that give the place its name, it is home to a great variety of wildlife and flora. Monkeys, birds, reptiles and endemic plants are found in the park. It is also a place of great importance for scientific research and the study of Caribbean nature.

As it is a protected area, mass tourism is not permitted. Although there are some areas where you can enjoy hiking and look out to observe the natural beauty of the entire park. Bird watching, sun, and vegetation in the Caribbean sun will delight nature lovers.

Some of the most interesting routes in the ebony-green reserve in the Dominican Republic are:

• Waterfall Route. So called because it leads to a beautiful waterfall, it is a fairly simple route and can be done by people of any age.
• Ebony Trail. This route runs through a spectacular ebony forest, which also serves as a refuge and home to a large number of animal and plant species, such as orchids and other plants.
• River Route. This trail goes from the visitor's center to the Limón River, home to aquatic species and a variety of birds. It is one of the longest routes and has some difficulty, so it is not suitable for everyone.
• Cloud Bathing Route. A route a thousand meters above sea level from which, on days when visibility permits, you can see the Bay of Samaná. Its name is due to the fact that the humidity that rises from the valley produces clouds that often cover the area, creating the sensation that you are walking through the cloudy sky.

From the Fernando Domínguez Visitor Center you can find all the information about the routes that can be done, a spectacular tourist attraction. There is also a museum and explanations about the actions carried out in the reserve by the Fundación green ebony.

As interesting facts about this reserve, more than 600 plants have been identified, a quarter of them endemic to this area of the planet. In terms of fauna, there are 10 reptiles and 8 amphibians, several mammals (some endangered, such as the solenodonte) and various birds that can be spotted from the observation posts.

If you are planning a visit to the ebony-green science reserve, pay attention to a few tips and recommendations to enjoy ecotourism to the fullest:

• Wear comfortable clothes for walking, such as sneakers and light, long-sleeved clothing, as the reserve is a site with a humid and warm climate. It is important to protect yourself from the sun, so don't forget to bring a cap or hat.
• Sun protection is also necessary. Make sure that all areas of the body that are not covered are protected from the sun's rays with a good sunscreen. Even more so if you plan to make a stop to sunbathe in nature or take a swim, always in permitted areas.
• Make sure you walk safely. The routes through which you can walk in the reserve have uneven terrain and a lot of vegetation, so it is important that you take firm steps and can walk safely.
• Take care of the environment. Keep in mind that the reserve is a biodiversity conservation area, which also includes areas where tourism is allowed. Therefore, it is very important to respect the environment and not to do anything that affects the flora or fauna of the area. Do not leave waste anywhere or damage the vegetation.
• Be patient and respect the animals space. The reserve is home to hundreds of animal species, and it is essential that you respect their space and do not disturb them. Do not try to approach or touch them. And if you don't get to see them, be patient and don't try to force them to come out.

Bearing in mind that you may encounter mosquitoes and other insects, it is a good idea to carry some repellent to prevent them from approaching you. Use it responsibly and only to protect yourself from the action of organisms that can cause you harm during your journey.

As mentioned at the beginning, the location of the ebony-green scientific reserve is very close to the Haitian border. In this map you can see the location so you can check how to get there.

The truth is that getting to the Fernando Domínguez Visitor Center is quite easy. You have to take the Duarte highway and go to Constanza. The access to the visitable area of the reserve is located in this town.

You can get close to this reserve and enjoy nature by hiring our private transportation service and moving around the Dominican Republic at your own pace.