The surprises begin as early as the drive up the avenue that leads to the funicular. Panoramic scenes of Puerto Plata’s port area can already be taken from the road leading to the entrance.

There are two ways to ascend: by automobile or by the Italian-built red, yellow and green-colored cable cars that depart every 10 minutes from the foot of the 2,565-foot (800-meter) mountain. Those going up the winding trail by vehicle have somewhat more flexibility in moving around by car once on the mountaintop, but the advantage in choosing the teleferico is that even the driver gets to enjoy the spectacular views on the way up.

The skylift operates from 9am to 6pm (closed on Wednesdays), with variations in time depending on the season, but usually running as long as there is sunlight. While one can feasibly ascend and descend the mountain in less than half an hour, allow approximately three hours for the walking portion of the excursion. The best time to go is in the morning, when the misty clouds that gave Puerto Plata its "silver port" name are less likely to have assumed their usual positions.

The funicular ride lasts around 8 minutes, but actually seems longer and there is ample time to gape in awe at the tops of the palm trees that appear as a blanket of green when seen from such heights. There is time to observe the many colors of the sea and even the coral reefs that dot the North Coast. Bigger landmarks such as the suburb of Cofresi, Puerto Plata’s port, Puerto Plata city, Playa Dorada, the Gregorio Luperon International Airport and even Sosua are observable from the cable car’s vantage point.

Upon reaching the mountaintop, everyone gets the feeling the air-conditioning has been turned on, with its average temperature of 20 C degrees. Sweaters are not needed, however, as the invigorating walk warms the body. Good walking shoes and comfortable clothing are essential. But nothing enhances the visit more than a reflective state of mind as you prepare for the dazzle of flora hidden behind the Christ the Redeemer statue (Rio de Janeiro style) and the concrete- and stone-paved walks. Keep in mind that the Mount Isabel de Torres trip is intended foremost as a spiritual excursion and to provide a place from where to give thanks for the gifts of nature and for being able to share these things with friends and family.