Santiago de los Caballeros

Region: Cibao / Norte · Best season: Todo el año

Tourist sites · Santiago de los Caballeros

The country's second city and the heart of the Cibao, with its Monument to the Heroes, tobacco, rum and a lively cultural scene.

Practical guide

Best season

All year; from December to April the weather is drier and cooler. February brings the Santiago Carnival, one of the most colorful in the country.

Things to do

Climb the Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration and take in the city from above
Walk through the historic center and Parque Duarte
Visit a tobacco factory in Santiago or Tamboril
Day trip to the 27 Charcos de Damajagua and the coast of Puerto Plata
Rum route and nightlife along Avenida del Sol

What to pack

Light clothing Comfortable walking shoes Sunscreen Water bottle Cash (RD$) for the market and museums

How to get there

Santiago has the Cibao International Airport (STI), about 20 minutes from downtown. From Santo Domingo, the Duarte Highway links the two cities in about 2 hours; from Puerto Plata it takes around an hour along the north road.

Car rental

The main car rental agencies operate at STI airport. A car is ideal to explore the Cibao valleys, drive up to Jarabacoa or cross to the north coast; check the insurance and mileage included.