Things To Do
in Cercado Abajo

Cercado Abajo is a charming village located in the Dominican Republic, known for its rich agricultural landscape and vibrant local culture. Nestled amid lush mountains, it offers a serene retreat away from the bustling tourist spots. The area is characterized by friendly locals and a slower pace of life, making it perfect for travelers seeking an authentic Dominican experience.

Visitors can enjoy traditional music, beautiful scenery, and a taste of local culinary delights.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market where you can find fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with local vendors and taste some fresh tropical fruits.

afternoon
:

Explore the surrounding countryside on a guided tour to learn about local farming practices and the history of the area. Visit a coffee plantation to see the coffee-making process.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Dominican dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to a nearby bar for live music and dancing.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a nature hike in the nearby hills, taking in the breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit a local family’s home to learn about traditional cooking methods and participate in a hands-on cooking class.

evening
:

Wind down with a sunset picnic at a scenic viewpoint, enjoying the local delicacies you prepared during the cooking class.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$10
🚕Taxi Ride (within town)$3
🏨Budget Hotel Night$30
Coffee$2
🍉Fresh Fruit$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic cultural experience away from tourist crowds.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh ingredients.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • English is not widely spoken, making communication challenging for some.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Adiós" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Cercado Abajo

Visit one of these nice places.

Mirador de Cercado

A stunning viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the lush countryside and surrounding mountains.

Local Market

Vibrant colors and bustling activity make the market a perfect spot for capturing daily life.

Coffee Plantation

Capture the beauty of coffee plants and the traditional methods used in coffee cultivation.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cercado Abajo

Cercado Abajo offers a delightful culinary experience, with an array of local dishes that highlight the flavors of the Dominican Republic.

Cercado Abajo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sancocho

A hearty meat and vegetable stew, often considered a national dish, perfect for sharing.

Must-Try!

Mangu

Mashed plantains served with eggs and salami, a traditional breakfast staple.

Tostones

Fried green plantains, often served as a side dish or snack with garlic sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cercado Abajo Market

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and traditional snacks.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offering quick bites like empanadas, chicharrones, and fresh fruit juices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cercado Abajo experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges from 75°F (24°C) in winter to 90°F (32°C) in summer. The rainy season typically runs from May to November, with the heaviest rains in September and October. Humidity is high, so lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake or a friendly greeting is expected when meeting locals.

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable clothing is suitable, though modest attire is appreciated in rural areas.

Respect for Customs

Take care to respect local traditions and customs, particularly during festivals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cercado Abajo is generally safe for travelers, but it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables. Use common sense when wandering in remote areas, especially at night. Always opt for reputable transport services, and keep emergency contacts handy.

Tipping in Cercado Abajo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

It is customary to tip about 10-15% in restaurants; rounding up taxi fares is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred in local markets, though some restaurants accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather with blooming flora, perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.

Summer

Hot and humid, ideal for enjoying the beaches and cooling off in the sea.

Fall

Warm temperatures with occasional rain, great for enjoying the lush green landscapes.

Winter

Cooler temperatures and drier conditions, making it a popular time for tourists.

Nightlife Guide

Cercado Abajo at Night

Cercado Abajo has a relaxed nightlife scene primarily centered around local bars and community gatherings. Visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance, particularly Merengue and Bachata. Events often feature live bands, and locals are welcoming, encouraging visitors to join in the festivities.

Hiking in Cercado Abajo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Bandera

A moderate hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a great spot for bird watching.

Reserva Científica Ébano Verde

A more challenging trail through protected rainforest, showcasing the region's biodiversity and unique flora.

Airports

How to reach Cercado Abajo by plane.

Cibao International Airport (STI)

Located approximately 80 kilometers from Cercado Abajo, this airport is the main international gateway for the region, offering connections to various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cercado Abajo is relatively walkable, with most local attractions, markets, and restaurants within easy walking distance. The village is small, allowing for leisurely strolls through its streets, but be prepared for some uneven terrain in rural areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dominican Locals

The majority of the population consists of Dominican nationals who are friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Agricultural Workers

Many residents are involved in agriculture, particularly coffee and fruit production, contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is the most popular sport in the Dominican Republic, with many local teams and leagues.

Basketball

Basketball is also widely played, with many local courts and community games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cercado Abajo is generally light, with a mix of pedestrians, bicycles, and a few vehicles. Public transportation consists mainly of 'carros públicos' (shared taxis) and motoconchos (motorcycle taxis) that provide local transport. Traveling during peak hours may require patience due to limited options.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cercado Abajo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is prevalent, many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, especially with the use of beans and vegetables.

Gluten-Free Choices

Many traditional dishes like sancocho and tostones are naturally gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Cercado Abajo is limited to local clinics and smaller facilities. For serious medical needs, visiting larger hospitals in nearby towns like San Juan de la Maguana is recommended. Travelers should ensure they have adequate health insurance and consider bringing a basic first aid kit.

Discover Dominican Republic

Read more in our Dominican Republic 2025 Travel Guide.

Dominican Republic Travel Guide