Bavaro Travel Guide

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Introduction to Bavaro

Bavaro, located in eastern Dominican Republic, is widely known for its pristine beaches and crystal clear waters. The town is situated next to Punta Cana, and together they comprise some of the most visited destinations in the Dominican Republic.

Apart from being a preferred spot of tourists, Bavaro provides a warm welcome to visitors from different cultures all over the world with its exotic appeal, local food, and exciting adventures. Whether you are interested in immersing yourself in the rich culture of Dominican Republic or taking part in outdoor activities, Bavaro has something for everyone.

This travel guide provides a comprehensive itinerary to help you explore Bavaro like never before. From places to visit, things to do, where to stay, the best time to visit, and what to buy, this guide has got you covered. Let’s dive into it!

List of Places to Visit in Bavaro

Below are the top places to visit in Bavaro.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo de la Altagracia: This museum is dedicated to the Lady of Altagracia, who is the patron saint of the Dominican Republic. If you want to know more about the dominant religion of Dominican Republic, this is the must-visit museum.

  • Basilica Our Lady of Altagracia: This is a beautiful church that attracts tourists from all over the world. It has a unique colonial architecture style that stands out among other buildings nearby.

  • ChocoMuseo Punta Cana: This museum is dedicated to chocolate and its production history. From the Aztec civilisation to the chocolate-making processes, everything can be learned about chocolate in this museum.

Natural Attractions of Bavaro: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bavaro Beach: A place where crystal-clear waters meet white sand, Bavaro beach is a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming and relaxing.

  • Hoyo Azul: Hoyo Azul is a natural swimming pool located in the Scape Park Cap Cana. The water derives its blue color from the high content of minerals and the sunlight passing through the surface.

  • Bavaro Adventure Park: The park has an array of outdoor activities such as ziplining, horse riding, paragliding, and other adventures.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bavaro

  • Sunrise Mountain Bike Ride: La Romana Tours organize this trip that lets you enjoy the sunrise while cycling through the mountains.

  • Scape Park Cap Cana: This location offers many hiking trails, including the popular Hoyo Azul Trail, offering scenic views and plenty of photo opportunities.

Best Things to Do in Bavaro: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Tour: Take a boat tour to explore the shoreline of Bavaro and enjoy snorkelling in crystal-clear waters.

  • Barcelo Bavaro Golf Course: For avid golfers or those who are interested in the sport, this golf course is a magnificent location to play golf in Bavaro.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bavaro

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for Bavaro.

Day Activity
1 Explore the city on foot
2 Take a boat tour and snorkelling
3 Visit Museo de la Altagracia & Basilica Our Lady of Altagracia
4 Visit Hoyo Azul
5 Go ziplining and horse riding at Bavaro Adventure Park
6 Play golf at Barcelo Bavaro Golf Course
7 Relax on Bavaro beach

Food and Drink Scene of Bavaro

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mangu: This dish is made of mashed plantains and served with eggs, cheese, and onions.

  • Sancocho: A hearty stew made with meat, yucca, and plantains, Sancocho is a must-try dish.

Local Beverages

  • Mamajuana: A drink made by macerating rum, red wine, and honey with a mix of herbs such as aniseed, cinnamon, and a local tree bark.

  • Presidente: A popular beer, this is the unofficial drink of the Dominican Republic.

Where to Stay in Bavaro: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Barcelo Bavaro Palace: A five-star hotel right on the beach with a lot of outdoor activities to enjoy.

  • Ixora Hotel Punta Cana: A budget-friendly hotel with an ideal location and modern amenities.

What to Buy in Bavaro: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cigars: Dominican Republic is known for its premium cigar manufacturing, and Bavaro has many popular cigar shops.

  • Rum: The rum in Dominican Republic is famous around the world. You can buy premium quality rum in Bavaro as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Bavaro

Dominican Republic has a rich history and a unique local culture that is heavily influenced by Spanish culture. On holidays, they dance and sing “merengue” and “bachata.”

Best Time to Visit Bavaro

The best time to visit Bavaro is from mid-January to mid-April when the weather is dry and the temperature is comfortable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bavaro

Do:

  • Try local food and drink.

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter on beaches.

  • Don’t go to unsafe parts of the city.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bavaro

Bavaro is generally considered a safe location for tourists. However, it is always necessary to take basic precautions such as guarding your valuables and staying alert in crowded areas.

Health in Bavaro

Dominican Republic is prone to dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases, so it is essential to take preventative measures before coming.

Getting to Bavaro: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bavaro

The closest airports to Bavaro are Punta Cana International Airport, La Romana International Airport, and Santo Domingo International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Bavaro

The bus station in Bavaro is Terminal de Bavaro, frequently connecting to Santo Domingo and other locations.

Other Options

Taxis, rental cars and private transport companies, such as Uber, are also available in Bavaro.

How to Get Around in Bavaro

Taxis, rental cars, and public buses are available for tourists to move around.

Where to Go Next from Bavaro: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • La Romana: This is a budget-friendly option for those looking to explore more affordable beaches and inland areas.

  • Santo Domingo: The capital of the Dominican Republic and a historical location, Santo Domingo is an ideal destination for history buffs.

Conclusion

Bavaro is a truly magical destination that offers numerous activities, attractions, and culture that doesn’t disappoint. Whether you are looking for a relaxing island vacation or a more active trip filled with adventure and exploration, Bavaro has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and head out to experience Bavaro, a hidden paradise in your Dominican Republic vacation.