Barahona Travel Guide

Visit Barahona in the Dominican Republic and discover the cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking trails, activities and tours, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Barahona is a beautiful and cultural city situated in the southern part of the Dominican Republic. This picturesque city is known for its Caribbean charm, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through everything you need to know to make your trip to Barahona an unforgettable experience.

Introduction to Barahona

Barahona is a city located on the southern coast of the Dominican Republic. It boasts a vibrant culture and history, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that will leave you in awe. Barahona is known for its beautiful beaches, eco-tourism, colonial architecture, and delicious local cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Barahona

During your visit to Barahona, make sure to check out the following:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo de la Familia Dominicana: A museum that exhibits the history of the Dominican family structure, lifestyle, and culture.
  • Catedral Santa Cruz: A beautiful colonial-style cathedral in the center of the city.
  • Casa-Museo del Padre Billini: A museum that showcases the life and works of the Dominican priest Padre Billini.

Natural Attractions of Barahona: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bahia de las Aguilas: A pristine beach with crystal clear turquoise waters and white sand.
  • Lago Enriquillo: A saline lake that is the largest in the Caribbean and home to native wildlife such as American crocodiles, iguanas, and flamingos.
  • Parque Nacional Jaragua: A national park with diverse ecosystems, including deserts, savannas, and forests. It is home to several endemic species, including the Hispaniolan iguana, rhinoceros iguana, and several types of bats.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Barahona

Barahona is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the best hiking/biking trails include:

  • Sierra de Bahoruco National Park: A 750 square kilometer national park with stunning mountain landscapes, rivers, and waterfalls. It offers a wide range of trails for hikers of all levels.
  • Polo Magnético: A natural phenomenon that is a slope with magnetic properties that pull objects uphill.
  • Parque Eólico Los Cocos: A wind farm with biking trails and scenic views of the mountain range.

Best Things to Do in Barahona: Activities and Tours

There are several things to do in Barahona, including:

  • Snorkeling and Diving: Discover the underwater world of Barahona’s pristine beaches and coral reefs.
  • Whale Watching: Observe the magnificent humpback whales that visit the area between January and March.
  • Coffee Tours: Learn about the coffee production process and taste the local organic coffee at Finca Montaña

Week-Long Itinerary for Barahona

Here’s a possible week-long itinerary for your trip to Barahona:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in Santo Domingo and transfer to Barahona
Day 2 Visit Bahia de las Aguilas and snorkeling
Day 3 Hiking in Sierra de Bahoruco National Park
Day 4 Visit to Lago Enriquillo and the American Museum
Day 5 Coffee tour at Finca Montaña and Polo Magnético
Day 6 Whale watching tour
Day 7 Departure from Barahona

Food and Drink Scene of Barahona

Barahona offers a range of culinary delights that blend local and international flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sancocho: A traditional Dominican stew with meat, vegetables, and root crops.
  • Locrio de Mariscos: A seafood dish made with rice, vegetables, and a variety of seafood.
  • Mangu: A breakfast dish made with mashed plantains, topped with fried cheese, eggs, and salami.

Local Beverages

  • Mamajuana: A traditional Dominican alcoholic beverage made from rum, red wine, and a variety of herbs and spices.
  • Coco Loco: A refreshing drink made with coconut water, rum, and ice.

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

There are great accommodations in Barahona for every budget, including:

  • Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge: A luxury eco-boutique hotel surrounded by nature with stylish rooms and excellent amenities.
  • Hotel Caribe: A budget hotel with great value and centrally located in the city.
  • Casa del Mar Lodge Barahona: A beachfront lodge with panoramic sea views and a relaxing atmosphere.

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

When shopping in Barahona, look for the following souvenirs and local products:

  • Larimar Jewelry: A beautiful blue stone that is only found in the Dominican Republic.
  • Cocoa Products: The Dominican Republic is one of the world’s leading cocoa producers, so make sure to try locally-made chocolate and cocoa products.
  • Amber Jewelry: Amber is a beautiful local stone that is often made into jewelry and other decorative objects.

Local Culture and Customs of Barahona

Dominican culture is a mix of African, European, and Taino indigenous cultures, resulting in a rich heritage of music, dance, and food. The people are hospitable and friendly, and the religion is predominantly Catholic.

Best Time to Visit Barahona

Barahona is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Barahona

When visiting Barahona, remember the following do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals.
  • Respect the culture and traditions of the locals.
  • Dress modestly when visiting churches, religious places, and rural areas.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water or eat uncooked food.
  • Leave your belongings unattended in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Barahona

Barahona is a safe city, but always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions like not carrying too much cash or valuable items. Also, avoid wandering alone at night in unfamiliar, poorly lit areas.

Health in Barahona

Make sure to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Before traveling, consult your doctor about travel vaccinations and medication for common travel illnesses like diarrhea and malaria.

Getting to Barahona: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Barahona

  • Maria Montez International Airport (BRX): The closest airport to Barahona, located in the city of Barahona. It handles domestic flights from Santo Domingo and Punta Cana.

Bus Stations Near Barahona

  • Bus Station Barahona: This is the main bus station in Barahona, with daily departures to Santo Domingo and other cities in the Dominican Republic.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Renting a car is a convenient way of exploring the city at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Barahona

The best way to get around in Barahona is by taxi, which are readily available and reasonably priced. You can also rent a car or scooter if you prefer to have more independence.

Where to Go Next from Barahona: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Barahona is a great base for exploring the Dominican Republic’s southern coast. Popular destinations include:

  • Santo Domingo: The capital city of the Dominican Republic, known for its colonial architecture, museums, and great nightlife.
  • Pedernales: A small coastal town with quiet beaches, natural parks, and lagoons.

Conclusion

Barahona is a beautiful city that offers a blend of culture and nature. From stunning beaches to mountain landscapes, cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in Barahona. Plan your trip today and explore this incredible destination in the Dominican Republic.