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Rivers & Lakes

Taking a cold river dip, near or away from the beach, is part and parcel of DR culture. Locals love to swim in fresh water rivers, cooking along the banks, and resting in the shade. For more adventure, go river rafting in Jarabacoa and feel the rapids as you tumble over mini cascades past a rocky shore. Rent a kayak and glide along the majestic Chavón River, in La Romana, once featured in the movie Apocalypse Now. In the southwest, the rivers of Barahona—easily accessed as they tumble down to meet the sea—are so magnificent for a swim that they are natural attractions, combining food and drinks on site. Lakes are no less impressive—hop on a boat tour of Lago Enriquillo, sitting 30 meters (138 feet) below sea level at the lowest point in the Caribbean, and home to American crocodiles.

Rivers dips are ideal during the summer when temperatures are at their highest, but you can enjoy them year-round, while lakes are ideal for bird spotting.

Tumble or swim in rivers, ubiquitous across this mountainous land, particularly across the cool Jarabacoa region, and tour a salty lake home to crocodiles.