Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
Mexico
South Africa
Fiji
Viewpoint · San Fernando de Monte Cristi, Monte Cristi
El Morro de Monte Cristi
A limestone table about 240 meters high that rises beside the sea in Monte Cristi National Park, with a staircase to a lookout and a beach at its foot.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About El Morro de Monte Cristi
El Morro is a flat-topped limestone formation about 240 meters high that rises alone by the sea, a few kilometers north of the city of Monte Cristi. Its silhouette, like a table or a reclining cetacean, can be seen from afar and has become the symbol of the region. It is part of Parque Nacional Monte Cristi, which also protects mangroves, coastal lagoons and islets.
A staircase climbs part of the slope up to a viewpoint, from where you can see the blue Atlantic, the white salt flats, the mangroves at the mouth of the Yaque del Norte and, on clear days, the mountains of Haiti in the distance. Vegetation consists of cacti and dry forest, with iguanas and birds.
At the foot of El Morro there is a light-sand beach and usually calm sea, protected by reefs, good for swimming and snorkeling. There are few stalls, and the place is often nearly empty during the week.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day, including the climb and the beach.
Best time
Early morning, before the heat builds, for the climb; the beach is best in the early afternoon. Late afternoon offers the most beautiful light at the viewpoint.
How to get there
It is about 5 km north of downtown Monte Cristi, along a road that follows the coast. By car, mototaxi or taxi.
Tip
Bring water, a hat and sunscreen: there is no shade on the staircase. Wear sturdy footwear and check at the park station whether the ascent is open.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about El Morro de Monte Cristi
How tall is El Morro?
About 240 meters.
Can you climb El Morro?
There is a staircase up to a viewpoint on the slope; check at the park station whether it is open.
Is there a beach at El Morro?
Yes, at the base of the formation, with generally calm waters.