The Caribbean: Mountain Ranges
The Caribbean region is known for its beautiful landscapes, including mountain ranges and volcanic peaks. In addition, many smaller hills and elevated areas throughout the various islands contribute to the region's diverse topography.
Mountain Ranges of the Caribbean
The Caribbean region is known for its beautiful landscapes, including mountain ranges and volcanic peaks. In addition, many smaller hills and elevated areas throughout the various islands contribute to the region's diverse topography.
These are some of the Caribbean region's most prominent mountain and hill ranges, as well as some of the most notable peaks:
Cuba
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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).
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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Northern Mountain Range: The northern part of Dominica is characterized by a series of mountains that extend along the northern coast. This range contributes to the island's scenic beauty and rugged coastline, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
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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.
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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
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Cordillera Central: This mountain range runs through the center of the Dominican Republic and includes the highest peak in the Caribbean, Pico Duarte, which rises to 3,098 m (10,164 ft) above sea level.
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Sierra de Baoruco: Situated in the southwestern part of the Dominican Republic, this mountain range includes the highest peak on the island of Hispaniola, Loma del Toro, which rises to 895 m (2,936 ft).
Grenada
- Mount Saint Catherine: Mount Saint Catherine is situated in the northern part of Grenada. It is part of the island's mountainous interior and is its highest point at 8410 m (2,756 ft).
Guadeloupe
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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.
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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 that includes the Pic la Selle, the highest peak in Haiti and the third highest in the Caribbean, with an elevation of about 2,680 m (8,793 ft).
Jamaica
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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Cordillera Oriental: The Cordillera Oriental is an extension of the central mountain range that runs along the eastern coast of Puerto Rico. It features various hills and elevations that contribute to the island's topography.
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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.
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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.
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
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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.
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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
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Virgin Islands Hill Range: This range encompasses the hilly terrain across the Virgin Islands, both the U.S. and British territories.