The Larimar Mines

The Larimar Mines (Mon.–Fri., closed when it rains, free), high up in the lush mountains, are open for viewing, and the drive there is gorgeous. A craftsman from Santo Domingo [1] named this semiprecious blue pectolyte after his daughter Larissa and the Spanish word for “sea,” mar. Today, larimar is found in two mines in the Bahoruco Mountain Range, 10 kilometers from Barahona [2]. They are the only mines in the world.

These open-cast mines are where the semiprecious mineral is dug. The Dominican Republic [3] is the only place where larimar is mined; it is then mostly used for jewelry. It is mined by hand, and the men will sell you uncut stones by weight for around US$5–10. Remember that larimar’s blue color is enhanced when wet, which is why some will try to sell you pieces that are in jars filled with water.

Getting to the Larimar Mines

You’ll need a four-wheel-drive to get to the mines. Just south of Las Filipinas village (about 14 kilometers south of Barahona [2]), turn right onto a dirt road for 15 kilometers into the hills. Follow this rough road to Las Chupaderos and the mine is at the end of the road. Tours are available with the EcoTour Barahona [4] company by Safari truck. They will take you on a visit to the mines complete with lunch and a visit to the beach and natural swimming pools (US$70).