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Adventure Collective Journal

Damajagua Waterfalls Adventure: 27 Charcos Natural Water Slides & Jumps Near Puerto Plata

Damajagua Waterfalls Adventure: 27 Charcos Natural Water Slides & Jumps Near Puerto Plata

Leap into a day of natural slides, cliff jumps, and jungle canyons at Damajagua’s 27 Charcos. This full-day adventure from Puerto Plata blends adrenaline, local guides, and a market stop for authentic Dominican crafts.

Puerto Plata, Puerto Plata Province
8 hours (full day)
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Wear grippy water shoes

Closed-toe water shoes with stiff soles protect toes and improve traction on slick volcanic rock.

Bring a dry bag

Keep your phone, ID, and a lightweight spare dry inside a small dry bag—most pools are shallow but unpredictable.

Hydrate and pace yourself

Start hydrated and sip frequently; humidity and repeated climbs make this more tiring than a typical hike.

Follow guide instructions for jumps

Guides know which pools are deep enough and which ledges are safe—never jump without a guide’s go-ahead.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Finish at the nearby Imbert market for handmade cigars and woven baskets not sold near tourist hotels
  • Combine your trip with a morning ride on Puerto Plata’s cable car for island views before heading inland

Wildlife

  • Hummingbirds
  • Green iguanas

Conservation Note

Visitor numbers are managed by local authorities and guides to limit erosion and litter; follow leave-no-trace practices and support local vendors to benefit the community.

The river systems around Damajagua cut through volcanic and sedimentary rock and once served agricultural settlements during the colonial plantation era.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Morning (calmer water, clearer pools), Late afternoon (softer light under the canopy), Overcast days (more saturated colors)
Key viewpoints:
  • Top of the first cascade for a wide canyon shot
  • Natural waterslide sections for long-exposure motion
  • A shady pool edge for action shots of jumps
Subjects to capture:Rock-cut waterfalls and slides, Action jump and slide sequences, Local guides and market crafts

What to Bring

Closed-toe water shoesEssential

Protects feet on wet, sharp volcanic rock and provides traction on slick surfaces.

Quick-dry swimwear and lightweight trekking clothesEssential

Dries fast between pools and layers for changing sun and shade.

Dry bag (small)Essential

Keeps phone, wallet, and spare clothing dry during slides and swims.

Sunscreen and broad-brim hatEssential

Tropical sun is strong between shaded stretches—protect exposed skin.

Common Questions

How long is the tour?

The full experience runs about 8 hours including hotel pickup, transport, the canyon route, lunch, and a market stop.

Is it safe to jump from the waterfalls?

Guides assess water depth and currents; only jump when instructed—some pools and ledges are off-limits depending on flow.

Are helmets and life vests provided?

Most operators provide helmets and basic flotation; verify with your booking if you require specific sizes or extra equipment.

Can non-swimmers do the trip?

Basic swimming skills are strongly recommended—while life vests are used, some sections require confident movement in water.

Is there a minimum age?

Age policies vary; many tours limit participation for young children—check the supplier’s age rules when booking.

What languages do guides speak?

Local guides typically speak Spanish; many also speak conversational English—confirm if you need a specific language guide.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

8 hours (full day)

Location

Puerto Plata, Puerto Plata Province

Difficulty

challenging

Fitness Level

Good to excellent cardiovascular fitness; be comfortable with swimming, scrambling, and repeated short climbs.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Puerto Plata?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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