The Ébano Verde Scientific Reserve was created on October 26, 1989, to protect the cloud forest of the Cordillera Central and the tree it is named after, the green ebony. It is managed by Fundación Progressio. The founding decree set it at 23.1 km²; other sources put it at about 30 km² today.
Getting there from Bonao
Drive north past Bonao on the Autopista Duarte, take the Constanza turnoff and climb the Casabito road. The reserve has two entrances:
- Casabito, at the highest point of the road.
- El Arroyazo, home to the visitor center.
The trails
Baño de Nubes
About 7 km between Casabito and El Arroyazo, roughly two and a half hours, with viewpoints over the Vega Real valley and, on clear days, Samaná Bay.
La Sal
About 10 km from El Arroyazo to La Sal hill: around five hours each way. For experienced hikers.
Permits and cost
As a scientific reserve, public access is limited and regulated, and only some areas are open to visitors. In 2023 the guided trails cost RD$300 per person. Contact Fundación Progressio before your visit to request permission and confirm the price.
What to bring
- A warm layer and a rain jacket: it is a cloud forest and the weather changes fast.
- Hiking shoes, water and snacks.
- Binoculars if you like birds.
- A bag to carry out your trash.
Before or after
Ébano Verde fits well into a trip to Constanza or Jarabacoa. Coming from Santo Domingo, you can spend the night at Tony Ranch in Piedra Blanca and leave early for Casabito: 16 rooms with hot water from RD$4,000 a night, a pool, a jacuzzi and a river. See also our stop on the way to Jarabacoa.