Eastern Dominican Republic Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do and see, where to stay, what to eat, and more in Eastern Dominican Republic.
- Introduction to Eastern Dominican Republic
- List of Places to Visit in Eastern Dominican Republic
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Dominican Republic
- Best Things to Do in Eastern Dominican Republic: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Dominican Republic
- Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Dominican Republic
- Where to Stay in Eastern Dominican Republic: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Eastern Dominican Republic: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Dominican Republic
- Best Time to Visit Eastern Dominican Republic
- Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Dominican Republic
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Eastern Dominican Republic: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Eastern Dominican Republic
- Where to Go Next from Eastern Dominican Republic: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Eastern Dominican Republic
Located in the Caribbean region of North America, Eastern Dominican Republic is a popular tourist destination known for its pristine beaches, diverse culture, and outdoor adventures. This region is home to many stunning beaches, including the famous Playa Bavaro and Playa del Macao. The Eastern Dominican Republic also boasts several national parks and nature reserves, including the Parque Nacional del Este and Los Haitises National Park. The region is rich in history and culture, with museums, monuments, and historic sites that tell the story of the country’s past. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Eastern Dominican Republic has something to offer every traveler.
List of Places to Visit in Eastern Dominican Republic
Eastern Dominican Republic is home to several places worth visiting. Here are a few must-see places to add to your itinerary.
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Alcazar de Colon: a museum located in Santo Domingo that was once the residence of Christopher Columbus’ son Diego.
- Faro a Colon: a massive monument located in Santo Domingo, dedicated to the memory of Christopher Columbus.
- Altos de Chavon: a recreated medieval European village that serves as an art center and cultural hub, located in La Romana.
- Casa de Campo: a luxurious resort with a marina, golf courses, and several dining options, located in La Romana.
Natural Attractions of Eastern Dominican Republic: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Parque Nacional del Este: a national park located on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic and home to two of the most beautiful beaches on the island – Playa Rincon and Playa Fronton.
- Los Haitises National Park: a nature reserve located on the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic that contains caves, mangrove swamps, and several species of birds and marine life.
- Saona Island: an island located off the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic that offers beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and plenty of outdoor activities.
- Hoyo Azul: a natural pool located in Punta Cana, surrounded by lush tropical forest and limestone cliffs.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Dominican Republic
Eastern Dominican Republic offers several great opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are a few routes worth checking out:
- Jaragua National Park: a national park located on the southwestern coast of the Dominican Republic, with trails that lead to beautiful beaches and coves.
- Parque Nacional del Este: the park offers several hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views and secluded beaches.
- Cueva de las Maravillas: a cave system located in San Pedro de Macoris that offers guided tours through the underground tunnels and chambers.
Best Things to Do in Eastern Dominican Republic: Activities and Tours
Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Eastern Dominican Republic has plenty to offer. Here are some of the best activities and tours to consider:
- Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: With crystal clear waters teeming with marine life, diving and snorkeling are a must-do activity in Eastern Dominican Republic.
- Adventure Sports: From zip-lining to ATV tours, Eastern Dominican Republic offers plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities for adventure lovers.
- Fishing: The region is known for its world-class fishing, with plenty of opportunities for deep-sea and freshwater fishing.
- Cultural Tours: Take a tour of Santo Domingo to explore its historic sites and museums, or visit Altos de Chavon to experience its unique culture and art.
Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Dominican Republic
A week-long itinerary for Eastern Dominican Republic could include the following:
- Day 1-2: Explore Santo Domingo and its historic sites, such as the Alcazar de Colon and the Faro a Colon.
- Day 3-4: Visit the beaches of Punta Cana and indulge in water sports and relaxation.
- Day 5-6: Take a trip to Saona Island and explore its gorgeous beaches and natural beauty.
- Day 7: Spend the day at Parque Nacional del Este and hike through its lush forests and secluded beaches.
Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Dominican Republic
Eastern Dominican Republic offers a diverse range of cuisine, influenced by Spanish, African, and indigenous cultures.
Must-Try Dishes
- Mangu: a dish made from mashed plantains that is typically eaten for breakfast.
- La Bandera: a popular lunch dish consisting of rice, stewed beans, and meat.
- Chimichurri: a sandwich made with beef, cheese, and a variety of toppings.
- Sancocho: a hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and plantains.
Local Beverages
- Mama Juana: a drink made from rum, red wine, honey, and tree bark that is said to have medicinal properties.
- Presidente: the most popular beer in the Dominican Republic, with a light and refreshing taste.
Where to Stay in Eastern Dominican Republic: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Eastern Dominican Republic offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort or a budget-friendly hostel, there’s something for everyone.
Here are a few options to consider:
- Excellence Punta Cana: a luxurious adults-only resort located on the beach in Punta Cana.
- AlSol Luxury Village Cap Cana: an all-inclusive resort located in Cap Cana, with several dining options and a beautiful beach.
- RD68 Hostel: a budget-friendly hostel located in Santo Domingo, with shared and private accommodation options.
What to Buy in Eastern Dominican Republic: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Here are a few souvenirs and local products that you can bring home from Eastern Dominican Republic:
- Larimar: a rare blue stone unique to the Dominican Republic and only found in the Caribbean region.
- Handcrafted Dominican Cigars: The cigars made in the Dominican Republic are known for their high-quality and unique flavors.
- Coffee: The Dominican Republic has a thriving coffee industry, with several coffee plantations producing high-quality beans.
- Dominican Chocolate: The country produces some of the best chocolate in the world, with a rich and unique flavor.
Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic has a rich culture and a unique way of life. Here are a few customs and traditions to be aware of:
- Religion: The Dominican Republic is a predominantly Catholic country, with most of the population practicing the Catholic faith.
- Language: The official language of the Dominican Republic is Spanish.
- Music and Dance: The country is known for its vibrant music and dance culture, with genres such as merengue and bachata being popular.
- Greetings: It is customary to greet people with a handshake, and a kiss on the cheek for close friends and family.
Best Time to Visit Eastern Dominican Republic
The best time to visit Eastern Dominican Republic is from December to April, when the weather is warm and dry. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. If you’re looking for a quieter and more affordable time to visit, consider traveling during the rainy season from May to November.
Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Dominican Republic
Do:
- Try the local cuisine and drinks.
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals.
- Respect the local customs and traditions.
- Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen when at the beach.
Don’t:
- Drink tap water – stick to bottled water.
- Carry large sums of money or valuable items.
- Leave your belongings unattended on the beach.
- Visit areas with high crime rates.
Safety and Health
Safety in Eastern Dominican Republic
Like any other destination, Eastern Dominican Republic has its fair share of safety concerns. It’s important to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings when traveling in the region.
Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:
- Stay in well-lit and populated areas.
- Avoid traveling alone at night.
- Use licensed taxis and public transportation.
- Be cautious of street vendors and pickpockets.
Health in Eastern Dominican Republic
Travelers to the Dominican Republic should be up to date on routine vaccinations. It’s also recommended to get vaccinated against Hepatitis A and Typhoid.
Getting to Eastern Dominican Republic: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Eastern Dominican Republic
The region is served by several airports, including:
- Punta Cana International Airport
- Las Americas International Airport in Santo Domingo
- La Romana International Airport
Bus Stations Near Eastern Dominican Republic
Several bus companies operate regional and national routes in the Dominican Republic, with Santo Domingo and Punta Cana being the main hubs.
Other Options
There are several ferry services that operate between the Dominican Republic and neighboring countries, including Puerto Rico and Haiti.
How to Get Around in Eastern Dominican Republic
There are several ways to get around Eastern Dominican Republic, including:
- Car Rental: Several international car rental companies operate in the Dominican Republic.
- Taxis: Taxis are widely available, but make sure to agree on a fare before getting in.
- Public Transportation: Public transportation is available but can be unreliable and crowded.
Where to Go Next from Eastern Dominican Republic: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Here are a few nearby destinations and excursions to consider:
- Samana Peninsula: a beautiful peninsula located on the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, known for its whale-watching opportunities and stunning natural beauty.
- Haiti: The neighboring country of Haiti has a unique culture and landscape worth exploring.
- Isla Catalina: a small island off the coast of La Romana, known for its crystal clear waters and seclusion.
Conclusion
Eastern Dominican Republic is a diverse and vibrant region with plenty to offer travelers. From stunning beaches to rich culture and history, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful destination. Follow these tips and recommendations to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Eastern Dominican Republic.
