population: 0.12 million

extension: 865.16 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in San Juan de la Maguana and interested in museums, one place you may want to visit is the Archeological Museum of San Juan. It's located in the city center and features exhibits on the indigenous Taíno people and the region's pre-Columbian history.

If you're looking for other nearby museums, you might consider visiting the Regional Museum of San Juan de la Maguana or the Museum of Dominican Resistance in Santo Domingo, which is about a two-hour drive away.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to eat in San Juan de la Maguana (Dominican Republic) according to local people are:

1. Mangú: Mashed plantains served with sautéed onions, cheese, and salami.

2. Sancocho: A hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, often served with rice and avocado on the side.

3. Chenchén: A traditional dish made with boiled cornmeal and spices, typically served with goat meat or other meats.

4. Locrio: Similar to paella, locrio is a rice dish cooked with various meats such as chicken or pork, along with vegetables and spices.

5. Moro de guandules con coco: Rice and pigeon peas cooked with coconut milk and spices, often served with meat on the side.

6. Pastelón: A layered casserole made with mashed sweet plantains, ground beef, and cheese.

7. Tostones: Fried plantain slices that are crispy and savory, often served as a side dish.

8. Habichuelas con dulce: A sweet dessert soup made with red beans, coconut milk, condensed milk, cinnamon, and other sweet spices.

These dishes are all delicious and represent the rich culinary traditions of the Dominican Republic.

Activities

There are several fun activities that local people enjoy in San Juan de la Maguana and its surrounding areas. Here are a few:

1. Visit the Cerro de la Sal National Park: This park offers hiking trails, natural pools, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

2. Explore the Cuevas de los Tres Ojos: These natural limestone caves contain three crystal-clear lakes that visitors can swim in.

3. Attend a cultural festival or event: San Juan de la Maguana hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Festival del Cacao and the Fiesta Patronal de San Juan Bautista.

4. Go horseback riding: Horseback riding is a popular activity in San Juan de la Maguana, and there are several ranches and stables in the area that offer guided tours.

5. Relax at a local hot spring: The Balneario El Saltadero is a natural hot spring located about 30 minutes outside of San Juan de la Maguana, where visitors can soak in the mineral-rich waters and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.