The day started at 7 am and was immediately followed by a hefty breakfast of mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and hot chocolate. We filled up and set off in safari trucks for the long adventurous day ahead.
A two and a half hour truck ride was filled with positive vibes as we began our journey to Valle Nuevo. Valle Nuevo is a national park and popular tourist attraction but mostly known for its pyramid. We started by playing games to energize the group. Then we ate sandwiches and took in all the beauty around us. Our leader Miguel explained to the group the significance of the pyramid. The pyramid is in the center of the Dominican Republic and divided into 4 parts to represent the North, South, East, and West. We took many pictures and enjoyed the landscape until thunder rolled in. We piled into the safari trucks to proceed to our next destination: Aguas Blancas.
On our way to Aguas Blancas we endured a hefty rainstorm. Even though it was an hour and a half of downpour and cold weather, our positive spirits proved to be stronger. We sang and yelled to each other across the trucks and remained determined to hike to the top of Aguas Blancas and swim in the water.
We finally arrived at Aguas Blancas ready to begin our hike to the top of the waterfall standing tall around 100 meters. The cold was not about to get in the way of our once in a lifetime opportunity to hike to the waterfall. The view from the top was surreal. After taking many photos, we walked down to the base of the waterfall were we were faced with the challenge of swimming in the 13 degree celsius water. An absolutely amazing experience and one of the most beautiful landscapes.
It took us about an hour to get back to Constanza to eat dinner. The trip back was filled with laughter, smiles, and incredible memories. Whether singing, talking, or falling over each other because the driver was dodging huge rocks and potholes in the ground, it was an amazing bonding experience for everyone. We ate dinner at Antojito’s. A classic meal of rice, beans, chicken, and salad hosted by the Director of Tourism in Constanza, Jonny Tactuk. Then headed back to the hotel for our nightly meeting.
Overall today was an amazing day filled with memories and awesome bonding experiences. We couldn’t be more proud to lead such a positive and adventurous group thought the day.
Hello everyone! I have so enjoyed reading all of your blogs. This delegation has been on my mind for 3 reasons: 1. You have my awesome student, Akira… Hiiiiii!! 2. I will be leading the next delegation to Constanza, so thanks for the sneak peek and for paving the way! 3. Many of us in the states are currently reading and discussing at length everything going on regarding inmigration and forced deportation of Haitian- born or descended peoples.
I look forward to seeing more of your journey and learning from each of you. Thanks!
With all the adventures and experience, all of you Glimpsers had a great day full of fun. Steven, this is mom…I love you!
Another great trip report! Thank you! It really puts me there and I can imagine how exciting and adventurous this day was. I’m glad everyone survived the cold. And hi Jakob:)