The visitor’s center at the Natural Monument of Damajagua, an adventure tourism site that features 27 levels of natural pools and waterfalls, was inaugurated last week. Damajagua (Los 27 Charcos) is located three kilometers south of Imbert, Puerto Plata. Damajagua is co-managed by the Association of Guides of Damajagua and the Ministry of Environment.
A popular tour with those visiting the north coast, Damajagua tourists can carry out a 20-minute walk through lush forests to the top of the hill and then climb and swim down each level of waterfalls and through channels carved out by the river. There is also the option to climb up to the 7th, 12th or 27th waterfall and then return the same way by jumping, sliding and swimming.
The new facilities enhance service, safety and the experience at the site. To enhance the safety, each visitor is now equipped with a life jacket and helmet and every guide is certified in CPR and First Aid. The trail has been improved with better water drainage, handrails, stairs, and trash bags along the path for a cleaner park. A higher guide to tourist ratio has been established along with new uniforms for a more professional appearance. In addition, many of the guides are enrolled in weekly foreign language classes to improve the service to international visitors.
The Visitor Center includes a large reception area, gift shop, ticket office, beverage bar, bathrooms and changing area, showers, and a kitchen. In addition to the newly completed landscaped center, a small wooden suspension bridge was built from the Center to the first river crossing.
The Asociation is in the process of obtaining the Green Globe Certification, an international certification for socially and environmentally sustainable eco-tourism.
The website is www.27charcos.com.