Constanza

Constanza is a good place to stay if you want to explore the interior of the Dominican Republic. The hill station sits at an altitude of 1200 m (4,000 feet) on the Cordillera Central and is surrounded by fruit orchards, flower gardens and forests. The climate of the region has converted Constanza into an important agricultural center and favorite destination for Dominicans escaping the heat of the coast. Constanza's climate is remarkably cool for a tropical island.

Constanza has a small Japanese community, who were brought there by Trujillo to found the area's commercial gardens.

In the region around Constanza are several interesting places to visit. The Aguas Blancas waterfall is 10 km (6 miles) south of town, while the virgin forests of the nearby Reserva Cientifíca Valle Nuevo are also worth a visit. The river that runs through the area is excellent for swimming.

There is not much accommodation in Constanza, as the town is not geared toward tourism, but the fresh air and beautiful countryside make up for the lack of comfort. Constanza is 100 km northwest of Santo Domingo.