Cibao, Agricultural region in northern Dominican Republic
This northern territory spreads as a wide valley between the Cordillera Septentrional to the north and the Cordillera Central to the south. Fields of tobacco, rice, and cacao alternate with settlements along roads that lead toward the coast.
Christopher Columbus reached the eastern edge of this territory in 1494 and named the fertile land La Vega Real during his search for gold. Spanish settlers began establishing small towns and opening farming areas afterward.
Residents kept the tradition of cigar rolling alive when Cuban families settled in the area during the early 20th century. Workshops grew into producers whose creations now reach markets around the world.
The largest city Santiago de los Caballeros serves as a starting point for journeys in different directions across the valley and surrounding hills. Public buses connect smaller towns if you want to travel off the main highways.
The Pueblo Viejo Mine lies to the east and has been among the most productive gold mines worldwide since reopening in the 1970s. Visitors cannot enter the area, but the operation shapes the economy of several nearby communities in visible ways.
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