I think the walk at the top of the Isabel de Torres is one of the best hikes in the country. It is chilly cool up there, almost as if someone had turned on the A/C. The vegetation is impressive -- the virgin mountain land and air makes flora seemingly grow double their size as on the coast. I think people rarely go beyond the small area surrounding the Christ. When it gets inspiring, is when you walk through the winding trails all around.
Years ago, I toured the Botanical Gardens with its creator, architect Benjamin Paiewonsky. He was also responsible for the Botanical Gardens of Santo Domingo. I have visited many Botanical Gardens around the world, and I am very proud of our botanical garden. It definitely is a must see for those visiting Santo Domingo, ditto for the Mount Isabel de Torres botanical gardens.
USA Today recently rated it among the best hikes in the Caribbean. I would highly recommend active persons to hike up and then take the cable car down. I always recommend going early so as to be able to see the views without the clouds covering.
From DR1 Travel News 11 November 2014:
uerto Plata's Isabel de Torres ranked high by USA Today
USA Today has included the hike up Mount Isabel de Torres in Puerto Plata on the north coast among the most scenic hikes in the Caribbean. The hike starts from 120 meters above sea level to the top of the mountain at 800 meters. The trek is about 4 km through winding trails covered by jungle-like foliage and where butterflies, birds and flora can be seen in their natural state. The good news is that a cable car ride can be taken to return to Puerto Plata.
Walking wonderlands: The Caribbean's most scenic hikes