salto de socoa

The Dominican Republic is replete with natural beauty. Many visitors don't seem to stray from the all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, La Romana, etc. But, those visitors are missing out. The Salto de Socoa is not the most impressive waterfall with swimming hole this country has to offer but it certainly offers a convenient way to get a refreshing swim under a beautiful "jungle" waterfall. Just a few miles north of the Monte Plata turn-off from the brand-new Autopista Juan Pablo II (toll road), there is a turn-off with a big sign identifying the access road to the falls. Don't be deterred by the tough conditions of the beginning of the road. It's steep and rocky but there were sedans at the top as well as a mini-van in our own convoy. Entry prices weren't posted and we might have been ripped off since we are foreigners. Who knows. There is an actual gate that is kept closed and opened once you pay the 100 peso entry fee per person plus 50 pesos for parking. Since the peso is currently about 45 to the US dollar, it's fairly affordable. There aren't many ways for the people in this area to make money so we didn't really mind the fee. For that fee, we could park and walk down the very short path and staircase (concrete with railings) to the naturally pool and falls. The owners have run a thick rope from the shore line to the other side of the falls so that non-swimmers can also enjoy the experience. There was minimal trash and the water seemed clean though no one tested it for sure!The online information indicates that there is food available for purchase. However, when we went, there was a small shack that looked like it might be a snack bar with a heat lamp for keeping something warm - like chicken - but nothing was in it. In fact, the parking lot was overrun by chickens so it seems that the birds had received a reprieve for the day. I give the site an "average" review because while the site was perfectly fine and we had a great time, I found it annoying that the "park" charges for entry and then completely ignores the guests. It's all about the money. At Saltos de Jima, the staff was eager to share in the excitement and the beauty. Not here.A word on the route. The Dominican Government recently completed the new toll road from Santo Domingo to Samana. But, it is expensive. The trip to the falls from Santo Domingo cost us about $8 round-trip...but it cost our friends more. If you go on a weekend, ask the tollbooth clerk if they have a round trip (returno or ida y vuelta) deal. They offered it to us but not to the other two cars that went with us. It's worth asking!!Oh, the bathrooms are at the top by the parking lot. I did not even attempt to go in them. But, they do supposedly exist!

Pasando por la autovía de los Haitises hay un lugar poco conocido por los occidentales llamado Salto de Socoa. Cuesta 50 pesos (1 €) por barba y coche. Acceso para 4x4. Vale la pena.