Tubagua Ecolodge — Hotel in Puerto Plata

From beginning to end, this was a fantastic experience. This was my first time visiting DR and found great reviews for the ecolodge. My decision was made when they confirmed they were able to transport to/from Santiago (90 min away). The food and excursions were bonus (and necessary)! I was comfortable with the level of communication leading into the trip and they were quick to respond. The taxi driver was easy to find when exiting Santiago airport. Arriving at the lodge was easy, the staff welcoming, and instructions about accessing food/alcohol clear. |I chose to stay 5 days, 4 nights. 3 of the days we planned excursions - 2 hiking, 1 coffee farm tour. Having one extra day to relax before leaving was nice but not necessary. There wasn't much to do besides the excursions (bring a book!). Our hut was spacious and completely open to the outside, glamping-style. Mosquito net was provided and we took advantage, even in the winter. The views from the Casitas were outrageous - you can see all the way to the ocean! The bathroom in the Casitas was sufficient for basic needs. The shower wasn't consistently hot or cold but, that's to be expected. Might be helpful to have body wipes and dry shampoo.|The excursions were great for seeing landscape and learning about the landscape/community/history. Shout out to Juanin, our knowledgable guide for all excursions. He's the best! The hiking excursions were not well-described, so I'll take a moment to warn readers that these hikes are moderate, at the least. There were several rainshowers leading into the trip which made the paths very muddy. Bring hardy sandals for changing into when you start tromping through the river/mud to spare your tennis shoes. The second hike was less muddy but had more elevation change. I couldn't identify which of the hikes was which based on my invoice vs. the website - sorry. Both ended at beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes, so you can't go wrong there. Bring a backpack to store water/snacks/towels. |The coffee farm served as the highlight of the excursions. Touring the farm and learning about the coffee farming and producing process provided an opportunity to learn and interact. We participated in the grinding process and drank some delicious coffee to cap off the trip. |The food was AMAZING (thank you, Norma and the crew!) and the portions were huge. Highly recommend purchasing the meals. I wouldn't have known how to get food otherwise. Bring snacks if you like to eat between meals, but the meals are certainly filling. |Overall, this was a fantastic experience! Below I've listed essentials to our trip based on experience. This doesn't necessarily translate to everyone's trips, especially when considering duration. ||Essentials for 5d/4n with excursions:|Steripen + backup sterilization drops (not tabs - yuck) + nalgene|Backpack for hiking|Crappy tennis shoes|Sandals (not flip flops)|Book(s)|Quick dry towel - this came in handy for drying hands as there were no hand towels||Loved this vacation and I hope you do too! Don't miss the "View from the Lou" when...

Writing this review, I still feel like I am on cloud nine, reminiscing on the one-of-a-kind experience that I had while visiting paradise on Earth. As a Dominican residing in the United States, I was in need of an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life (plus, it was my birthday and I wanted to do something special). Tubagua was that and more. From the moment I drove up to the lodge, I felt that I was in the most magical place for various reasons. I was immediately awestruck by the rustic beauty of the building structures, the landscape, and the amenities (including the pool). But, the view..the panoramic view is the most attractive feature. It's an exhilarating sight that makes you feel like you're on top of the world, while being connected to nature. The only struggle is waking up early from the most comfortable sleep to witness the sunrise.

On that note, the rooms are very unique and ideal for those that are yearning for an outdoors experience with vast amenities. Particularly, the casita that's below the restaurant is phenomenal. It included a comfortable bed with a traditional mosquito net, hot water, electricity, and that view that left me enamored and planning to return soon. The service and hospitality is top-notch. I had the pleasure of interacting with the employees, as well as the owner and his family. Incredible kind and pleasant human beings that make the experience even more special. I am grateful to Tim, Jesse, Alfredo, Perla Taina, and everyone else that I met at Tubagua. It's aways a gratifying experience to meet people that care for the environment and its well-being. In terms of food...wow. I don't what I was looking forward to the most, breakfast, lunch or dinner. Everything was absolutely exquisite. It was also a plus to have Wifi to post the many "Instagram worthy" pictures!

If you enjoy nature and you seek the authentic Dominican experience, at another level, this is the ideal place. More than an ecolodge, it's an oasis. You'll definitely believe it when you reach the El Charco de los Militares or "God's Swimming Pool" after a pleasant hike in Alfredo's company. If the stunning mountain views aren't enough, the crystalline water will surely impress you.

I recommend Tubagua as the perfect getaway with your friends, significant other and/or family. Even as a sole traveler, you’ll enjoy the experience. It’s an oasis filled with the wonder, beauty and simplicity that will satisfy the wanderlust and the adventurers, the city dwellers, as well as those that reside in the countryside. You...

The Ecolodge is a more special accommodation. Everything is built ecologically. The location is beautifully high and the view is breathtaking.

There are 3 different types of cabins. We had the Private Lodge, which offers the convenience of a private bathroom and toilet. On the other hand, there would only be "public" toilet options.

The lodge was beautiful. Super view and lots of space. But you notice clearly that it is a bit outdated. Here and there the lodge could use some repairs and embellishments. Also you have to like insects :). These are of course always there.

The swimming pool is also okay. Not so big that you could swim, but great to relax as long as not too much is going on.

Outstanding is the food which is there. Everything is freshly prepared and it tastes great. The portions are very large and you get full.

What is somewhat unmanageable is the meal package which you can book on the homepage. We had to pay in the end, unfortunately.

The service is super nice and courteous. Always there and helpful.

There are also various excursions offered. The hike is highly recommended. It takes a while, but you see a lot. The offered tour through the coffee plantation and the mine are ok. In my opinion a little too expensive for what you get.

All in all, highly recommended. Only a renovation of the lodges would soon...