Riding the Cable Car in the Dominican Republic

TELEFERICO IN PUERTO PLATA

In the Dominican Republic, the city of Puerto Plata is home to the only teleferico (Cable Car) in the Caribbean. Two cable cars run from the south-west side of the city to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres 2525 feet above the city. The ride took about ten minutes. I’d admit when we first took off my knees started shaking a bit, but the chatter among the friendly locals and other tourists on board we enough to keep my fear of heights in check. As we climbed higher, My fear was outweighed by the sheer majesty of the view. My senses came alive and I was engrossed by the view of the city landscape and the ocean and the lush green forest below me.Combine that with the feel of the breeze against my skin and I was completely captivated.

As we approached the top of the mountain we were able to touch the clouds which engulfed the tiny cart. I was able to put my hand out of the car and the cold air just before we reached the top of the mountain.

One of my follow cable car passengers touching the clouds.

At the top Mount Isabel de Torres is a nature reserve, its home to many species of plants and animals. There are Botanical Gardens, picnic areas, caves, lagoons and even a restaurant for when all that walking opens up your appetite.

One the most noticeable things at the top of the mountain is a statue of Christ the redeemer, similar to the one found in Brazil though much smaller in scale. The site was originally intended to be a base to protect the airways and coasts from foreign intrusion, the dome on which the statue stands was equipped with cannons. The altitude and the climate, however, proved to be insurmountable challenges because they were unable to see clearly. The site was later converted to a national reserve and a tourist attraction. The tour guides advised that the best time to visit is in the morning before it becomes too cloudy. I wish I was given that advice sooner

I was so caught up with the views that I spent more time being present and taking it all in than taking pictures. I wish I had more to share with you guys. This place is definitely a must-visit if you're in the Dominican Republic

Here's a few more pics that I was able to take.

The building at the end of this bridge is the restaurant.

The view from the top of the bridge while it's cloudy.

The view from ontop the bridge when there's no cloud cover which is why it's recommended to go earlier in the morning.

One of the parts we followed.

There's also this little hut, inside there are clay pots and utensils that they used to use long ago, there were even some musical instruments.

Another picture showing the incredible view from the top of Mount Isabel