Dominican Republic Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and everything you need to know to have an unforgettable trip to the Dominican Republic.


Introduction to Dominican Republic

On the eastern side of Hispaniola Island, the second-largest island in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is situated. It is a beautiful country with golden sand beaches, azure waters, stunning natural landscapes, and welcoming locals. The country is also well known for its music, dance, and rich history. Santo Domingo, the capital city of the Dominican Republic, is also the oldest continually inhabited European settlement in America, offering various historical places that showcase its colonial past.

List of Places to Visit in Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a country that boasts an endless array of attractions to explore. When you’re planning your trip to the country, here are a few places that you must include in your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Alcazar de Colon: Situated at the heart of the Colonial Zone, the palace was built by Diego Columbus, Christopher Columbus’s son. It is now a museum displaying 16th-century European and American art.
  2. Faro a Colon: This monument was built to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s discovery of Hispaniola and houses an elaborate tomb which is said to have been Columbus’s final resting place.
  3. Altos de Chavon: A replica of a sixteenth-century Mediterranean village, it is now an art school. Visitors can visit the archeological museum to learn about the region’s pre-Columbian history.
  4. National Museum of Natural History: with over 200,000 specimens on display, it is the most comprehensive of its kind in the Caribbean.

Natural Attractions of Dominican Republic: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Damajaqua Cascades: Named the “27 Charcos,” it consists of 27 interconnected waterfalls considered one of the world’s top places for canyoning.
  2. Los Haitises National Park: A tropical forest and mangrove swamp that covers over 300m² and is home to an abundance of rare birds, turtles, and dolphins.
  3. Samana Bay: Famous for its humpback whale watching tours, Samana Bay is one of the most biologically diverse places on the planet.
  4. Playa Rincon: This secluded beach is considered the most beautiful in the country, with its untouched sand and crystal-clear waters.
  5. Lake Enriquillo: The largest lake of the Dominican Republic, home to 400 American crocodiles, the lowest point in the Caribbean.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic offers an abundance of hiking and biking routes for adventure enthusiasts. Here are some of the popular routes:

  1. Pico Duarte: The highest peak in the Caribbean, it is an overnight trek that takes 2-3 days with stunning views from the top.
  2. Cordillera Central: Offers the best hiking trails with diverse terrain and a mix of landscapes ranging from pine forests to tropical rainforests.
  3. Jarabacoa: It is known as the “adventure capital” of the Dominican Republic, offering a significant number of hiking and mountain biking trails.

Best Things to Do in Dominican Republic: Activities and Tours

  1. Whale watching in Samana Bay: Samana Bay becomes a haven for Humpback Whales from mid-January to March, providing unforgettable experiences for visitors.
  2. Zip Lining: Canopy tours, cowboys-style zip lining, and line-riding are some of the best ways to view the lush tropical forests and canyons
  3. Horseback riding: Whether it’s an uphill climb or a leisurely ride along the beach, the experience of riding a horse is something you shouldn’t miss when in the Dominican Republic.
  4. Catamaran sail and snorkel tour: Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the Caribbean sea and coral reef through a catamaran tour, and also engage in snorkeling, giving an up-close view of marine life.
  5. Sandboarding in Punta Cana: With its massive dunes, Punta Cana beach is considered one of the best places in the world for sandboarding.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dominican Republic

Planning a week-long trip to the Dominican Republic? Here’s what you can do during seven days in the country:

Day Activity
1 Explore Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone
2 Take a hike to Pico Duarte
3 Visit Damajaqua Cascades and Los Haitises National Park.
4 Tour Santiago & Montecristi and enjoy the local culture.
5 Enjoy whale watching and coastal trekking in Samana.
6 Take a trip to Punta Cana and enjoy various activities.
7 Explore an off-beat location such as Jarabacoa & Bonao.

Food and Drink Scene of Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic’s food scene is as diverse as its landscape. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Chivo Guisado: A popular stew dish made with goat meat.
  2. La Bandera Dominicana: The national dish of the Dominican Republic, consisting of rice, beans, and meat (usually chicken or beef).
  3. Sancocho: A hearty stew that typically contains yucca, plantains, and vegetables with meat chicken or beef.
  4. Mofongo: Fried plantains mashed with garlic, olive oil, and a variety of meats.

Local Beverages

  1. Mama Juana: Dominican Republic’s popular alcoholic drink made from a blend of rum, red wine, and honey soaked in a mixture of herbs, sticks, and tree barks.
  2. Presidente Beer: The country’s prized beer that is slightly darker and smoother than most other regional brews.

Where to Stay in Dominican Republic: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Dominican Republic has various accommodation options for travelers of all budgets. Here are some of the popular options available in the country:

  1. Luxury Resorts: The Dominican Republic offers world-class resorts with facilities like swimming pools, spas, restaurants, and other amenities that cater to luxury travelers.
  2. Guesthouses: For budget-minded travelers, guest houses offer an affordable yet comfortable stay while immersing in the local culture.
  3. Hostels: Hostels provide affordable accommodation options for solo travelers or groups traveling together, often offering dormitory-style rooms.

What to Buy in Dominican Republic: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

To cherish the memories of the Dominican Republic, here are some souvenirs and local products to buy:

  1. Amber: The country is the world’s leading producer of amber, so it has a huge selection.
  2. Larimar: A semi-precious stone that is uniquely Dominican.
  3. Cigars: The country produces high-quality cigars, which are famous worldwide.
  4. Coffee: Dominican coffee is one of the best in the world, with a unique taste and aroma.

Local Culture and Customs of Dominican Republic

The people of the Dominican Republic are warm and friendly, with a relaxed demeanor towards life. Music, dance and sports are vital parts of the country’s culture, and locals frequently engage in these activities.

Best Time to Visit Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has a tropical climate, with warm weather all year round. The best time to visit depends on your preferences since the country has two distinct seasons: the rainy season (May to October) and the dry season (November to April). December to February is peak season since it has the best weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dominican Republic

Do:

  • Try the local food and drinks.
  • Learn a little bit of Spanish beforehand to help with communication.
  • Take cash since many establishments do not accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  • Wear expensive jewelry in public areas.
  • Leave your valuables unattended on the beach.
  • Take photos of the locals without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dominican Republic

Like any other country, the Dominican Republic has its fair share of crime, mostly related to theft and pickpocketing in tourist areas. Visitors should exercise caution and take the necessary safety precautions.

Health in Dominican Republic

Visitors should take precautionary measures, such as vaccinations, to avoid contracting common illnesses like hepatitis A and dengue fever. Travelers should avoid consuming tap water, uncooked foods, and ice made from tap water to prevent gastrointestinal issues.

Getting to Dominican Republic: Transportation Options and Logistics

The Dominican Republic is well connected with the rest of the world, with multiple international airports across the country. Here are the transportation options available:

Airports Near Dominican Republic

Punta Cana International Airport, Santo Domingo Las Americas International Airport, and Cibao International Airport are some of the significant international airports.

Bus Stations Near Dominican Republic

North Coast, South Coast, and Santo Domingo’s Metro Bus System are popular options for bus travel across the country.

How to Get Around in Dominican Republic

The best way to explore the Dominican Republic is by renting a car. However, public transportation, buses, and taxis are also available.

Where to Go Next from Dominican Republic: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Haiti: The Dominican Republic shares an island with Haiti, providing many opportunities to visit the country’s beautiful beaches and cities.
  2. Cuba: A popular tourist destination is just a few hours away by flight.
  3. Puerto Rico: This nearby island is known for its exciting nightlife, beaches, and historic Old San Juan.

Conclusion

The Dominican Republic is a beautiful country that offers something for everyone, from the breathtaking beaches, lush tropical forests, delicious local dishes, and vibrant culture. Plan your trip, and you will have an experience of a lifetime in this Caribbean paradise.

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    Eastern Cibao
    Eastern Dominican Republic
    Greater Santo Domingo
    Southern Dominican Republic
    Western Cibao