Mountain Ranges of the Caribbean Region

The Caribbean landscape is a mosaic of peaks and plateaus sculpted by volcanic activity and erosion. Mountain ranges, with peaks exceeding 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) on some islands, form the backbone of the archipelago. These dramatic highlands gradually transition into rolling hills and fertile valleys carpeted with lush rainforests, cultivated fields, and the Caribbean Sea. The coastlines are fringed by pristine beaches and coral reefs, offering a vibrant contrast to the island interiors.

This diverse topography, shaped by geological forces and environmental processes, provides a unique backdrop for the region's rich ecosystems and human communities. These are some of the Caribbean region's most prominent mountain and hill ranges, as well as some of the most notable peaks:

Cuba

• Sierra Maestra: Located in southeastern Cuba, the Sierra Maestra is known for its rugged terrain and historical significance as a stronghold during the Cuban Revolution. Pico Turquino is the highest point in this range, at 1,974 m (6,476 ft).

• Cordillera de Guaniguanico: The Guaniguanico mountain range is a prominent geographical feature in the western part of Cuba. It stretches across the Pinar del Río and Artemisa Provinces and is known for its scenic beauty, diverse ecosystems, and historical significance. The range is divided into two main sections: the Sierra del Rosario and the Sierra de los Órganos.

• Sierra del Rosario: The Sierra del Rosario is a mountain range and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve located in the western part of Cuba, primarily in the Pinar del Río Province. It is known for its lush vegetation, rich biodiversity, and historical significance. The range is part of the more extensive Guaniguanico Mountain Range that extends across western Cuba.

• Sierra de los Órganos: This section of the mountain range is particularly notable for its distinctive limestone formations that resemble organ pipes, which is how it got its name. The range is home to some of Cuba's most iconic natural landmarks, including the Viñales Valley, which hosts steep, dome-shaped hills of limestone.

Dominica

• Morne Trois Pitons: This range is located in the southern part of Dominica and is named after the prominent Morne Trois Pitons mountains. It includes the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique geological features and natural attractions, such as Boiling Lake and the Valley of Desolation.

• Morne Diablotins Range: The Morne Diablotins Range includes the highest peak in Dominica, Morne Diablotins, which reaches an elevation of 1,447 m (4,747 ft). The range is part of the Morne Diablotin National Park and is covered in dense rainforest, contributing to the island's biodiversity.

• Northern Mountain Range: The northern part of Dominica is characterized by a series of mountains that extend along the north coast. This range contributes to the island's scenic beauty and rugged coastline, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

• Central Mountain Range: The central part of Dominica features a mountainous terrain with several peaks and valleys. These mountains are integral to the island's volcanic landscape and are covered in lush vegetation, including rainforests.

• Southern Mountain Range: The southern part of Dominica also has a range of mountains that contribute to the island's diverse topography. These mountains provide opportunities for hiking, exploration, and experiencing Dominica's natural beauty.

Dominican Republic

• Cordillera Central: The Cordillera Central is the largest and most prominent mountain range in the Dominican Republic. It runs roughly east-west across the center of the country. At 3,098 m (10,164 ft) above sea level, Pico Duarte is the highest peak in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean.

• Cordillera Septentrional: Situated to the north of the Cordillera Central, the Cordillera Septentrional is a parallel mountain range that runs along the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. It provides a stunning backdrop to several coastal towns and cities.

• Sierra de Baoruco: Situated in the southwestern part of the Dominican Republic, near the border with Haiti, this mountain range is home to the country's third-highest peak, Pico La Selle. The Sierra de Bahoruco is also home to several other peaks, including Loma El Toro and Loma La Rusa.

Grenada

• Mount Saint Catherine: Mount Saint Catherine is situated in the northern part of Grenada. It is part of the volcanic structure in the island's northern region and is its highest point at 840 m (2,756 ft).

Guadeloupe

• La Grande Soufrière: La Grande Soufrière is the highest peak on Guadeloupe and an active stratovolcano. It reaches an elevation of approximately 1,467 m (4,813 ft) above sea level. The volcano's name translates to "Big Sulphur Outlet," reflecting its geothermal activity.

• Basse-Terre: The western half of Guadeloupe is dominated by Basse-Terre, a mountainous region that includes La Grande Soufrière and the Guadeloupe National Park. This area is known for its lush rainforests, waterfalls, and diverse plant and animal life.

Haiti

• Massif du Nord: The Massif du Nord is a mountain range in northern Haiti. Known for its rugged terrain, it is home to the country's second-highest peak, Pic Pictet. The Massif du Nord is also home to several other peaks, including Morne Noir and Morne à Roche. The range includes the Citadelle Laferrière, a historic mountaintop fortress that is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Massif de la Selle: This mountain range is located in the southern part of Haiti, near the border with the Dominican Republic. It includes Pic La Selle, the highest peak in Haiti, reaching an elevation of approximately 2,680 m (8,793 ft) above sea level.

• Massif de la Hotte: The Massif de la Hotte is a significant mountain range in southwestern Haiti, home to the country's third-highest peak, Pic Macaya. It includes several sub-ranges, with the Macaya Mountain Range being one of the most prominent. The Massif de la Hotte is known for its exceptional biodiversity and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Jamaica

• Blue and John Crow Mountains: These mountains are located in eastern Jamaica and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Park, known for their cultural significance and diverse ecosystems. The Blue Mountains are the highest mountain range in the Caribbean, with Blue Mountain Peak reaching 2,256 m (7,401 ft) above sea level.

Martinique

• Mount Pelée: While not a mountain range per se, Mount Pelée is a prominent volcano on the island of Martinique. Its eruption in 1902 devastated the town of Saint-Pierre.

Montserrat

• Soufrière Hills: A recently active volcano, the Soufrière Hills, is found on the island of Montserrat. Its eruptions have significantly impacted the island's landscape and settlements.

Puerto Rico

• Cordillera Central: The Cordillera Central is the main mountain range in Puerto Rico, running diagonally across the island from southwest to northeast. This range is home to the highest peaks in Puerto Rico, including Cerro de Punta, the highest point on the island at approximately 1,338 m (4,389 ft) above sea level. Lush forests and rugged terrain characterize the Cordillera Central.

• Sierra de Cayey: Located in southeastern Puerto Rico, this range features rolling hills and scenic landscapes. It is part of the more extensive Cordillera Central.

• Sierra de Luquillo: This mountain range is located in the northeastern part of Puerto Rico, within the El Yunque National Forest. It is known for its dense rainforests, waterfalls, and diverse plant and animal species. El Yunque Peak is a notable summit in this range.

• Sierra Bermeja: This range is located in the southwestern part of Puerto Rico and is known for its dry forest ecosystem. It forms the southern boundary of the Lajas Valley, and La Parguera borders it on the Caribbean coast.

Saint Lucia

• Pitons: The Pitons are iconic twin volcanic peaks, Gros Piton and Petit Piton, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the island's natural beauty. The two peaks rise dramatically from the sea, creating a stunning landscape. The Pitons are a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

• La Soufrière: La Soufrière is in the northern part of Saint Vincent, part of the Lesser Antilles volcanic arc. The volcano dominates the northern landscape and is a defining geographical feature of the island.

Trinidad and Tobago

• Northern Range: Stretching across the northern part of Trinidad, this range comprises various hills and mountains, including El Cerro del Aripo, the highest point in Trinidad and Tobago.

• Central Range: This mountain range runs through the central part of Trinidad and is characterized by forested hills and valleys.

U.S. Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands

• Virgin Islands Hill Range: This range encompasses the hilly terrain across the Virgin Islands, both the U.S. and British territories.