When planning a hiking trip, choosing the right destination is crucial.

For my friend and me, Pico Duarte was the perfect choice. At an official height of 3,087 meters, it stands as the tallest peak in the Dominican Republic. However, various measurements have reported different altitudes: 3,175 meters in the 1990s and 3,140 meters in 1851, with a more recent 2005 measurement giving 3,098 meters.

Regardless of the exact height, summiting Pico Duarte was an adventure we were eager to undertake, and we decided to make the hike on April 20th to celebrate 420 at the peak.

Preparation

Preparing for the hike didn't require any special physical preparations. Both of us were in good shape, which made the physical aspect of the hike manageable. However, we encountered many hikers who struggled with the trail, emphasizing that being in good physical condition is beneficial.

Our preparation primarily involved researching the logistics of the hike, such as transportation and the necessity of hiring a mandatory guide.

Ensuring we had all necessary gear was another critical aspect. We packed everything we thought we might need, even though some of it turned out to be unnecessary (e.g. tent which was an additional 3kg for my friend )

Getting to trailhead

Our journey to the trailhead was straightforward, though intense.

We started very early on a Friday morning, at 2:00 am, from Samana and drove to Parque Nacional Armando Bermudez, reaching the park at 6:30 am. We started our hike at 7:30 am, and we reached the camping spot at 3:40 pm.

Normally, hikers take three days to complete this trail, but due to time constraints, we planned to do it in two days. This meant reaching the summit at sunrise on Saturday and descending the same day, then driving back to Samana.

Hiking Experience

The trail to Pico Duarte is relatively straightforward for moderately experienced hikers. However, we did encounter several people who were exhausted, including one girl in significant pain, whom I helped with painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs.

The first day of the hike was somewhat uneventful due to foggy and rainy weather, which obscured the views. The hike up to the camp, La Comparticion, was not particularly scenic under these conditions.

We had our own tent to save costs, but we discovered that the camp had a cabin where we could have stayed free of charge, making the extra weight of the tent unnecessary.

Reaching the Summit

Our goal was to celebrate 420 at the peak during sunrise, so we woke up at 4:00 am on Saturday. After a quick snack and some hot chocolate and coffee, we began our ascent. I felt strong that morning and overtook everyone who had set out earlier, reaching the summit at 6:00 am. My friend joined me a few minutes later.

The weather was perfect on Saturday, and the sunrise was breathtakingly beautiful. Words can't do justice to the views; photos are the best way to capture the experience. We celebrated 420 at the peak with a spliff and enjoyed the tranquility until other groups started arriving. It was a moment of pure joy and a significant highlight of our trip.

Descent and Return

Descending from the summit, we were grateful for the clear weather we had enjoyed earlier. The weather started to cloud over again during our descent, which confirmed our decision to reach the summit at sunrise.

For those doing the regular three-day version of the hike, the descent would usually involve a return to the camp for rest and relaxation. However, we needed to return to Samana, so after a brief breakfast at the camp, we continued our descent. The hike down was challenging and taxing on our feet, but we were determined to complete it within our tight schedule.

Upon completing the hike, I felt an immense sense of satisfaction and happiness. Sharing this adventure with my good friend made it even more memorable. As a personal reward, I indulged in a Dr. Pepper, a treat I usually avoid. This is what I love about hiking: the small things like a can of a beverage or a simple snack taste soooo much better :)

For those considering hiking Pico Duarte, there are a few important points to keep in mind:

Guides and Mules:
Guides are mandatory for this hike, and while mules can carry your gear for a more comfortable experience, it's entirely possible to carry your own gear. Be wary of tour companies offering "VIP" packages, as these can be overpriced and sometimes scams. Speaking Spanish can be helpful in negotiating prices and ensuring you get a fair deal.

What to Pack: If you're taking an organized tour, you won't need much.

Essentials include:

• Sleeping bag

• Sleeping mat for insulation from the cold cabin floor

• Gloves and head bandana (it can get cold)

• Hiking rain jacket

• Layers of clothing, as needed (personal preference)

• Water and snacks for the trail

Hiking Pico Duarte was a remarkable experience. It was physically demanding but incredibly rewarding. The journey, the camaraderie with my friend, and the stunning views from the summit were unforgettable. This hike reinforced my love for adventure and my appreciation for nature's beauty.

The hike also taught me valuable lessons about preparation and the importance of flexibility. Despite carrying unnecessary gear, we managed to enjoy the trip and help others along the way. It's a reminder that even the best plans can be improved upon and that the journey is just as important as the destination.

For anyone considering hiking Pico Duarte, I highly recommend it. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a novice looking for a challenge, this hike offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic and achieve a significant personal milestone. Happy hiking!