Visit the Dominican Republic: 30 places should not be missed!
The Dominican Republic is a beautiful and diverse Caribbean destination known for its stunning beaches, rich history, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. If you’re planning to visit, here are some highlights and recommendations:
- Punta Cana: Famous for its white-sand beaches and luxurious resorts, Punta Cana is a popular tourist destination. Enjoy water activities, relax on the beaches, and explore nearby attractions.
- Santo Domingo: As the capital city, Santo Domingo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich colonial history. Visit the Colonial Zone to explore historic buildings, museums, and the first cathedral in the Americas.
- Puerto Plata: This northern coastal city is known for its Victorian architecture, the Amber Museum, and the cable car ride to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres for panoramic views.
- Jarabacoa: For nature lovers, Jarabacoa in the central mountains offers stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and opportunities for adventure sports like hiking and river rafting.
- Samana Peninsula: This area is known for its pristine beaches, whale-watching (in season), and El Limón waterfall. Explore the natural beauty and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
- Isla Saona: Take a boat trip to Isla Saona for a relaxing day on a picturesque island with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.
- Cultural Experiences: Experience the lively Dominican culture through music and dance. Merengue and bachata are popular dance forms, and you may have the chance to enjoy them in local clubs or during cultural events.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying traditional Dominican dishes, such as mangu (mashed plantains), mofongo, and various seafood delicacies. Also, enjoy the tropical fruits and beverages.
- Carnival: If your visit coincides with the Carnival season, especially in February, you’ll witness colorful parades, costumes, and lively celebrations.
Remember to check travel advisories and entry requirements, as they may change, especially considering any Enjoy your trip to the Dominican Republic!
What to do and see in the Dominican Republic?
Are you planning to visit the Dominican Republic?
Excellent idea!
This small country with incredible biodiversity fascinates travellers with its long white sand beaches and crystal clear water.
To help you prepare for your stay, I have prepared the guide to the best things to do and see in the Dominican Republic.
You will, of course, find the most beautiful beaches there, but also ecotourism and cultural destinations, as well as my suggestions for family activities.
I also added all my advice and practical information concerning the money and budget to be expected, the entry formalities and how to connect to the internet.
So, what to do and see in the Dominican Republic?
Summary
- What to do and see in the Dominican Republic?
- 1. Punta Cana
- 2. Santo Domingo
- 3. The Kah Kow Chocolate Museum
- 4. Puerto Plata
- 5. Damajagua waterfalls
- 6. Cotubanama National Park
- 7. Saona Island
- 8. Bayahibe
- 9. Catalina Island
- 10. Los Haitises National Park
- 11. Jarabacoa
- 12. Pico Duarte
- 13. Valle del Tetero
- 14. Bani dunes
- 15. Playa Bavaro
- 16. Cap Cana
- 17. Viola de Chavon
- 18. Samana Bay
- 19. Las Terrenas
- 20. Lake Enriquillo
- 21. Cayo Levantado
- 22. Uvero Alto
- 23. Cabarete
- 24. Cueva de las Maravillas
- 25. Pedernales
- 26. Macao Beach
- 27. Cayo Arena
- 28. Costa Esmeralda
- 29. Finca la Protectora
- 30. The best activities to do with the family
- Everything you need to know about the Dominican Republic: practical information
- How to have internet in the Dominican Republic?
- Where is the Dominican Republic located?
- Does the Dominican Republic depend on the United States?
- Is it dangerous to travel to the Dominican Republic?
- What language do we speak in the Dominican Republic?
- Do I need a visa for the Dominican Republic?
- When to go to the Dominican Republic?
- Is the water safe to drink?
- Money in the Dominican Republic
- What currency is used?
- What budget for the Dominican Republic?
- Bank card or cash?
- Going to the Dominican Republic: what if you went through a local agency?
- How to get around the Dominican Republic
- By bus
- By rental car
- Find the best cheap flight to the Dominican Republic
1. Punta Cana
Who hasn’t heard of Punta Cana?
The main seaside town of the Dominican Republic is where the island’s largest airport is located.
Contrary to what one might think, it is not located on the Caribbean coast but on the side of the Atlantic Ocean.
But that doesn’t change its charm!
Its 48km beach of white sand and turquoise water is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world!
The Park and Imaginarium park are two famous places to snorkelling in the coral reef and swim with nurse sharks and rays.
And, of course, Punta Cana is the best place to party in the Dominican Republic!
Punta Cana Beach
2. Santo Domingo
Here we are in the country’s capital, located in the south of the island and which is a must in the Dominican Republic.
It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its beauty and historical importance.
It is the oldest capital of the New World, founded in 1496 by the brother of Christopher Columbus.
To see in Santo Domingo:
- The vast botanical garden with a great diversity of plants, palm trees, endemic plants, a magnificent Japanese garden and a train allows you to browse the park with an entry of $5.
- The Phare à Colomb, a mausoleum built in honour of Christopher Columbus, discovered the island in 1492. There is a museum inside.
- The Colonial Zone is the charming historic centre of Santo Domingo, ideal for strolling and admiring the colonial buildings.
- The Calle de las Damas, the oldest street in town
- The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Incarnation is the first cathedral of the Americas.
- The Alcázar de Colón is located in the Spanish Steps, and it is in this palace that the family of Christopher Columbus lived. Today it hosts an interesting museum on the colonial era.
- The Palais des Beaux-Arts is a majestic building of 13,000 m² where many artistic events occur: concerts, theatre performances, ballets, etc.
- Tres Ojos Park is located in a tropical forest with caves and crystal-coloured lakes. Entrance around 200 pesos, visit 1h-1h30.
3. The Kah Kow Chocolate Museum
On Calle Las Damas in Santo Domingo is Kah Kow Experience, a museum, a cafe, and a chocolate factory.
It is an ideal interactive visit for the whole family where we discover the history of cocoa, the chocolate-making process, with tasting!
There is also a shop with all kinds of products and a lovely café where I recommend tasting the frozen chocolate and the cheesecake which are my favourites.
If you have a little time, you can participate in their chocolate making workshop, which allows you to create your bar. Read Also: The best place to Visit Spain
4. Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata is a major tourist destination in the Dominican Republic.
There are magnificent beaches such as Playa Dorada, Playa Luperón, Punta Rucia, Playa Cofresí, Playa Sosúa, Playa Encuentro and Playa Cabarete.
The city has the only cable car in the Caribbean, which takes you to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres.
There is a miniature replica of the statue of Christ the Redeemer of Rio de Janeiro and a superb panoramic view of the surroundings!
The region is also renowned for the quality of its amber. You can find beautiful jewellery and take a visit to the Amber Museum if the subject interests you.
Stroll on the Malecon (seaside), discover the old town of Puerto Plata with its Victorian houses, Plaza Independencia and Fort San Felipe.
My advice
To live an exceptional experience, I especially recommend visiting Cayo Arena from Puerto Plata. It is a small island of white sand surrounded by a turquoise sea that is so beautiful that it is nicknamed Paradise Island!
5. Damajagua waterfalls
Here is a must-do activity in the Dominican Republic for adrenaline fans! The 27 Charcos de Damajagua is a natural site 1.5 hours from Puerto Plata, which contains 27 waterfalls that can discover with a guided tour.
It would help if you first reached the top of a hill in the middle of the tropical forest (30 min climb), then you start the descent between natural pools, slides and canyoning.
It is a safe activity because it is mandatory to be accompanied by a professional guide which also provides all the necessary equipment (life jacket, helmet)
There are different routes available to choose from depending on your level and the time you have available. In addition, the whole family can participate because it is possible to bypass the waterfalls on foot.
So that you don’t have to worry about transportation, I recommend this excursion to Damajagua with a pick-up from your hotel.
A course of 12 waterfalls allows you to slide in these magnificent natural slides and bathe in caves.
The excursion also includes a buffet lunch and a visit to Imbert and its local market.
6. Cotubanama National Park
The Cotubanam Park á, also called National Park del Este, is one of the most beautiful destinations in the Dominican Republic!
It is located in the southeast of the country. It is mainly covered by a semi-tropical forest that hosts varied flora and fauna, more than 400 gro tts, coral reefs, and paradisiacal beaches.
Friends, it is, therefore, the ideal place for hiking, snorkelling and diving!
Among the best activities to do at Parque Nacional del Este, we must mention hiking the Padre Nuestro trail, visiting the Cueva del Puente to see its Taíno designs and of course Saona Island and Catalina Island for their dreamy tropical decor!
7. Saona Island
It is a tropical island of 100 km² in the heart of the Caribbean, in the Cotubanama National Park.
Friends, it is one of my favourites from the Dominican Republic!
It is trendy because it is a protected nature reserve, preserved from any construction, except for the two small villages of Mano Juan and Capuano.
As its turquoise waters are shallow, it is possible to observe starfish, coral, and tropical fish.
Allow a whole day from Punta Cana or Bayahibe to fully enjoy it, and it’s worth it, I guarantee it!
I recommend booking this Isla Saona excursion with pickup from your hotel, including the catamaran, beer, wine and soft drinks, and buffet lunch.
8. Bayahibe
This small seaside resort is the main starting point for travelling to the Saona and Catalina Islands.
There are several all-inclusive hotels in Dominicus, the modern part of town, which is a great place to relax, snorkelling, buggy and horseback riding.
Bayahibe
9. Catalina Island
Isla Catalina is one of the most beautiful places of interest to see in the Dominican Republic.
It is also known for its white-sand beaches, its spectacular diving spot with coral reefs, but above all, the wreck of the pirate ship William Kidd which is home to colourful flora and fauna.
It is also possible to walk on an ecological path and enjoy superb views. And what I especially appreciated is that it is still well preserved from mass tourism.
Of course, the only way to get there is by taking a boat!
I recommend this excursion to Catalina Island, which includes pickup from your hotel, with catamaran transport, snorkelling equipment, lunch and drinks, with free time to enjoy the island and the beaches.
10. Los Haitises National Park
Los Haitises is a must-see park in the Dominican Republic.
There are limestone islets and an extensive network of caves where Tainos petroglyphs are found, the area’s first inhabitants.
Its unique landscape has also earned it one of the filming locations of the film Jurassic Park!
Due to its tropical climate, the park has incredible biodiversity: forests of mangroves, lianas, mahogany trees, many endemic birds and mammals.
My advice
If you go alone, that is to say without an organized excursion, and it is still compulsory to take a guide.
You have to take a ferry from Samana to Sabana de la Mar from where the tourist boats leave.
It is also possible to easily combine the Parc Los Haitises with Cayo Levantado or the natural pools of Paraiso Ca ño Hondo.
One of the caves in Los Haitises National Park
11. Jarabacoa
This city, located in the centre of the country, is the capital of ecotourism in the Dominican Republic.
There is a fertile land with a multitude of flowers and fruit trees. There is even a flower festival in June!
For example, you can go rafting on the Rio Yaque, the longest river in the Caribbean, walk to the Salto Jimenoa, a 60m high waterfall, or to the Salto Baiguate.
The main starting point is to get to Pico Duarte, which I discuss in the next issue.
- To get to Jarabacoa, it takes about 2 hours from Santo Domingo or 30 minutes from Santiago. There are several ecolodges in Jarabacoa to spend the night.
Jarabacoa
12. Pico Duarte
If you are looking for what to visit in the Dominican Republic by making a trek, the ascent of Pico Duarte ( 3098 m) is a must: it is the highest peak in the country and all the C araïbes!
There are four possible routes from 23km to 58km, lasting from 3 to 6 days.
The shortest and best-known path is the one that begins in the village of La Cienega in Jarabacoa.
Regardless of the route chosen, the ascent allows you to pass through a magnificent cloud forest and, of course, to obtain an impressive view of the surroundings once at the top!
To know for the hike of Pico Duarte:
- It is necessary to be in good physical shape, although the mules help to carry the equipment.
- It is mandatory to go with a professional guide.
- The night is spent either in a (rustic) refuge or in a tent.
- In addition to hiking shoes, it is essential to have clothes for all temperatures because the higher you go, the colder it gets.
The Pico Duarte
13. Valle del Tetero
It is a green valley located in the José del Carmen Ramírez National Park where people come to hike, camp, walk among pine trees or bathe in the calm waters of La Ballena.
Its El Tetero summit is located 1,500 meters above sea level and can be reached on foot or horseback. It is also the most famous hike in the Dominican Republic after that of Pico Duarte.
The temperatures are relatively calm, so don’t forget to bring warm clothes!
14. Bani dunes
Located on the Las Calderas Peninsula, 1h30 from Santo Domingo, the Bani dunes extend for 15 km and offer a magnificent view of the beaches and the sea!
You will notice that the sand is lovely, and this is because it contains quartz and feldspar.
The entrance costs 100 pesos, and we meet cacti, small reptiles including several iguanas, birds and flamingos.
I especially recommend climbing on its highest dune of 35m!
My advice
Remember to take a cap or a hat and enough water because there is no grey area!
Bani dunes. Photo Cristopher Noble
15. Playa Bavaro
Unesco has designated this 2 km long beach as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world!
It is located near Punta Cana and has some lovely all-inclusive hotels. Delicate and soft white sand, coconut palms, turquoise waters, mangroves, coral reefs, it is worthy of a postcard.
You can do several activities there such as catamaran trips, diving and kitesurfing.
Bavaro Beach
16. Cap Cana
Just 15 km from Punta Cana, Cap Cana is the emblem of luxury tourism in the Dominican Republic.
It is an exclusive location with luxury hotels, golf courses, including the famous Punta Espada, a yacht marina and the trendy Dux nightclub.
Among the best all-inclusive hotels in Cap Cana:
- Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana: this is the favourite hotel for families because, in addition to its large swimming pool and the beach, it offers a wide variety of activities (Zumba classes, spinning, pilates, yoga, etc.), a club for children and adolescents, spectacles in the evening. There is even a water park! From 314 euros per night
- Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa – Adults Only: This upscale, adults-only hotel is ideal for enjoying Juanillo Beach in peace. Excellent service, large swimming pool, casino, delicious buffet breakfast. From 400 euros per night
- Eden Roc At Cap Cana: this 5-star Relais & Châteaux hotel is the dream location for a luxury vacation in the Dominican Republic. A private Blue Flag certified beach, an infinity pool, several upscale restaurants and bars, a gym, spa, and a kids’ club. From 550 euros per night
The Eden Roc hotel in Cap Cana
17. Viola de Chavon
This tourist village located in the vicinity of La Romana is a replica of a Mediterranean village from the 16th century.
It was built in the 1970s by Americans who worked for Paramount Studios.
With its tiny cobbled streets, terracotta and coral buildings, its beautiful view of the Chavon River, shops, restaurants and cafes, it is a great visit to do during a stay in the Dominican Republic, in a very different style. Beaches with all-inclusive hotels.
Take a walk through the central square to see the neoclassical-style San Estanislao Church and the Archaeological Museum, which houses a collection of 3,000 pieces from the pre-Columbian era found in the area.
The village Altos de Chavon in La Romana. Photo Caio Vinicius
18. Samana Bay
Samana Bay is one of the best destinations in the Dominican Republic!
It is a green bay fed by the Yuna river with still wild beaches, preserved from mass tourism and hotel complexes.
In addition, it is here that humpback whales come to reproduce and give birth from January to March. You can also observe turtles and manatees.
- Playa las Terrenas: a beautiful white sand beach where you can observe the fishermen returning from their sea trip.
- Cayo Levantado: a dream island easily accessible by boat, it has a public site where you can enjoy the beach in the shade of coconut trees, and on the other side is a luxury hotel.
- Playa Rincon: a paradisiacal beach of white sand, coconut palms and turquoise waters. One side of the island is perfect for lazing around and snorkelling, and the other, more agitated with beautiful waves, is ideal for bodysurfing.
- Salto el Limon: a 40m waterfall accessible with a 2.5 km walk between palm trees and pineapples trees. At the foot of the fall is a small emerald-coloured lake where you can swim!
- Playa Honda: Another dreamy beach with its expanses of white sand surrounded by lush vegetation is available here.
19. Las Terrenas
Las Terrenas is a fishing village that has turned into a small seaside resort.
People come here to enjoy the beach and take long walks by the sea. The atmosphere is lively but without mass tourism. The perfect balance!
Moreover, several foreigners fell in love with the region if one relies on the number of businesses managed by Europeans.
The international airport El Catey in Samaná is just 45 minutes from Las Terrenas.
20. Lake Enriquillo
Enriquillo Lake, which is just a few kilometres from the border with Haiti, is part of a national park and a biosphere reserve.
It is the largest lake in the Antilles, and it hosts three islands: Isla Cabritos, Isla Barbarita and Islita.
The largest of the three, Isla Cabritos, is an exciting eco-tourism destination to see in the Dominican Republic.
It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the largest population of American crocodiles that can be seen from a safe distance.
Better to go early to observe better the animals that tend to hide during the hot weather.
You can also take a walk to La Azufrada, at the entrance to the national park, which is known for its sulphurous waters, attributed to healing properties.
How to visit Cabritos Island: the pier is located 3 km before the village of La Descubierta. Count 50 pesos for the entrance fee + 1,500 pesos by boat (15 min)
It is also possible to take a day trip to Lake Enriquillo with pick-up from your hotel.
It includes a guided tour of Lake Enriquillo, typical lunch and swimming in the natural pools of Neyba.
21. Cayo Levantado
Cayo Levantado is nicknamed Bacardi Island because the brand had shot an advertisement there in the 1970s.
It can reach by water taxi from Samana Bay on Avenida Marina. On the program: fresh fish, lazing on the beach, kayaking and paddleboarding on the turquoise water.
The other side of the island is also the famous Bahia Principe Luxury Cayo Levantado if you want to sleep there.
I recommend this fantastic excursion to Cayo Levantado: It includes pick-up from your hotel, a visit to the El Limon waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Dominican Republic, horseback riding, lunch at a ranch and free time to enjoy Cayo Levantado.
Cayo Levantado in the Dominican Republic
22. Uvero Alto
Uvero Alto has a unique charm because it is a bit wilder than other beaches in Punta Cana, and its sea is rougher. And precisely, this is a great advantage since there are far fewer tourists than among its neighbours.
It is an ideal place for catamarans, kayaking, diving, windsurfing, or simply enjoying the site’s tranquillity.
Uvero Alto. Photo Jaime Walker
23. Cabarete
Cabarete is the water sports capital of the Caribbean! It is considered the best destination in the Dominican Republic for surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing due to its beautiful waves and the wind blowing between 17 and 25 knots.
It also hosts international competitions such as the Kitesurfing World Cup and the Master of the Ocean.
Weather conditions are good all year round, but the wind is stronger from June to August.
It is also possible to go snorkelling, horseback riding, and simply walk around as Cabarete beach stretches for 4km.
Other beaches around Cabarete are also famous:
- El Encuentro beach is a surfers favourite
- Bozo Beach is suitable for kitesurfing and bodyboarding
- Kite Beach for kitesurfing and surfing
- La Boca for wakeboarding
And for an enjoyable cultural visit, I suggest going to the Caves of Cabarete.
It is a 2-hour visit that allows you to explore five caves (Cueva de Cristal, Vudú, Las Ranas, Indios and La Piscine) between stalactites, stalagmites, tunnels and rock art.
24. Cueva de las Maravillas
Located between San Pedro de Macorís and La Romana, this large cave with multiple rooms is aptly named!
Indeed, its numerous limestone formations are a spectacle in themselves. Still, it owes its great wealth to the 500 engravings, petroglyphs and Tainos pictograms that are there and which are very well preserved.
Thanks to a sound lighting system and facilities for easy access, it is straightforward to navigate and thoroughly enjoy what it offers, about 25 meters underground.
And don’t forget to visit its natural pools of sublime blue.
- Entrance: 300 pesos, guide included and compulsory
The Cueva de las Maravillas
25. Pedernales
This region in the country’s southwest is located at the mouth of the river that crosses Haiti.
It is a destination to visit in the Dominican Republic for nature lovers because it combines paradisiacal beaches, green hills, forests and rivers to explore.
To see in Pedernales:
- Hoyo de Pelempito: this reserve is a mixture of red earth formations and cloud forests. Its highest point is 2,600 meters above sea level.
- Bahía de las Águilas: is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic. With its 8 kilometres of fine sand and crystal clear water, it is starting to be known, so I advise you to go there before it gets too crowded. Considering its beauty, it will not belong!
- Jaragua National Park: this Unesco Biosphere Reserve is the largest protected area of Carib Bes! It is the ideal place to observe flora and fauna, and it also brings ancient pre-Columbian archaeological sites.
- Isla Beata and Isla Alto Velo: these two small islands are not inhabited. There are only crabs, lobsters and a few wild goats! It is, therefore, a place to include in your itinerary in the Dominican Republic if you are looking for wild and little tourist places.
- Laguna de Oviedo : this is the ideal place to observe flamingos . You can also see rhinoceros iguanas and Ricord iguanas .
- Sierra de Bahoruco Park: this park is home to many forests (pine, dry, cloud) over 2,000 meters above sea level and some 180 species of orchids! It is also a favourite spot for bird watchers.
If you’d rather not worry about transportation, I recommend this Bahia las Aguilas tour with pickup from your hotel.
It includes: swimming in the crystal clear Los Patos river, a boat ride from Cabo Rojo, free time in Bahía de las Águilas and lunch on the beach!
26. Macao Beach
Located just 30 minutes from Punta Cana, it is one of the favourite beaches of surfers for the quality of its waves and the beauty of the place.
It is also the starting point for buggy and quad rides in the surroundings.
And don’t hesitate to stay there for lunch, because there are freshly caught lobsters on the menu of small restaurants!
Macao Beach in Punta Cana
27. Cayo Arena
For an exceptional experience, it is best to visit Cayo Arena from Puerto Plata, a small island of white sand surrounded by turquoise sea.
It is the ideal place to snorkel and admire tropical fish, corals and sea sponges.
I recommend this excursion with pickup from your hotel, which takes you to Punta Rucia beach to board the boat to Cayo Arena.
It also includes lunch, fresh fruit and drinks on the island, as well as snorkelling equipment.
28. Costa Esmeralda
It is the place to be if you are looking to avoid mass tourism in the Dominican Republic.
Located in front of the Samana peninsula in the southeast of the country, Costa Esmeralda is a virgin beach where you come to enjoy coconut trees and a paradisiacal setting with very, very few tourists.
Here the atmosphere is calm, the sand is fine, and the water is clean. It’s my favourite beach in the region, especially the tip, which is the most beautiful part!
My advice
As there is nothing on site (bar or restaurant), I recommend bringing some snacks and water.
Costa Esmeralda beach
29. Finca la Protectora
Located in Ranchette, 55 km from Puerto Plata airport, Finca La Protector is a privileged place for ecotourism in the Dominican Republic.
It is an ecolodge with bungalows in the middle of nature, banana trees, cocoa trees, avocado trees and coffee trees, and of course, you can taste all these products.
The mirador is my favourite place because it overlooks the valley for miles as far as the eye can see, with a genuinely calming atmosphere.
It is a privileged place to disconnect from the routine and forget the daily stress. In addition, the hosts are amicable.
I loved my experience!
Finca La Protectora
30. The best activities to do with the family
There is a lot to do and see when travelling with your family in the Dominican Republic!
Scape Park
It is a central theme park in Punta Cana focused on nature with waterfalls, caves and animals.
You can explore Iguabonita, a magnificent cave with bats, swim in the Hoyo Azul cenote or launch into the water with a zipline and Tarzan rope.
Friends, you can watch monkeys on Monkey Island, walk among iguanas in Iganaland, and admire colourful parrots on Parrots Island.
You have to plan a specific budget, but it is certainly worth it because there is a lot to do: $130 per person with a buffet lunch included—lockers at $ 5.
Scape Park in Punta Cana
Conquista Park
It is a historical and cultural theme park near La Romana, less than an hour from Punta Cana.
It immerses you in the Dominican Republic in the 15th century, when the Spanish conquistadors discovered the island.
A museum traces the history of the Tainos, the leading ethnic group from the country.
The tour is very informative and dynamic, with 27 different scenes of daily life, rituals, colonization, etc.
There is even an audio guide available in French!
- Admission : $ 12 adult, $ 6 for children under 12, free for children under 4.
Bavaro Adventure Park
It is a park that offers several outdoor activities for the whole family.
You can do 15 different activities there, but the zipline course and the buggy are my favourites!
I suggest taking this package which includes pickup from your hotel, plus 5 Bavaro Park activities to choose from according to your interests:
Ocean Adventure Caribbean Pirates
It is a half-day adventure that takes you into the world of pirates.
The excursion is done aboard a boat and takes us to snorkel to see tropical fish and corals, swim with sharks, and get close to stingrays, all punctuated with animation and staging with pirates!
- Admission: $ 114 for adults and free for children under 12.
Ocean Adventure Caribbean Pirates, Punta Cana
Everything you need to know about the Dominican Republic: practical information
How to have internet in the Dominican Republic?
It is best to buy a local SIM card at 150 pesos because the roaming costs are very high. I always use the Claro company, which has good coverage and can easily be recharged.
You must have your passport in hand to obtain the card. There are several packages available that start at just 25 pesos.
For example, it takes 150 pesos for seven days (500 MB) and 400 pesos for 30 days (1GB). Casually the data goes quickly, so do not hesitate to use the wifi of bars, restaurants and hotels.
Where is the Dominican Republic located?
It is located on the island of Hispaniola, a large Caribbean island that it shares with Haiti.
Does the Dominican Republic depend on the United States?
No, it is an independent country.
But it does have a very close relationship with the United States since its separation from Haiti in 1844.
Is it dangerous to travel to the Dominican Republic?
The Dominican Republic is a safe country.
It would help everywhere if you took basic precautions:
- Do not walk alone at night.
- Do not wear valuable jewellery.
- Never leave your personal effects unattended.
The locals are generally warm and welcoming!
What language do we speak in the Dominican Republic?
The official language is Spanish.
But due to the number of travellers coming to the island, those who work in tourism generally speak English and sometimes even have some knowledge of French.
Do I need a visa for the Dominican Republic?
There is no need for a visa, but your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the territory.
Travellers from the European Union, Canada, Great Britain and the United States must have a tourist card (Tarjeta de Turista at $10) to go to the Dominican Republic.
Since 2018, it is automatically included in the plane ticket. This card is valid for one month. Beyond that, you will have to pay a tax depending on the number of additional days spent in the territory.
When to go to the Dominican Republic?
Temperatures are between 25 and 30 ° all year round. There are two rainy seasons, which are best avoided: May-June and October-November.
In the south, the ideal period is from April to December. In the north, it is from June to September.
Is the water safe to drink?
In the Dominican Republic, tap water is not drinkable. So remember to always have a bottle of water with you or bring water purifiers (tablets or filters).
Watch out for ice cubes when serving drinks. It is best to avoid them, not knowing what water was used to make them. Visit the Dominican Republic: 30 places should not be missed
Money in the Dominican Republic
What currency is used?
The local currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP), and the sign used is $, as is the case in many countries.
However, many places accept the US dollar without a problem.
Even if the rates fluctuate regularly, have for reference that 1 € = 55 DOP. There are banknotes of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 and 2000 pesos and coins of 1, 5, 10 and 25 pesos.
What budget for the Dominican Republic?
Of course, it all depends on your travel style, your consumption habits and the destinations you choose because the prices vary enormously!
Here are some prices, as an example:
- Entrance to a large museum: 150 Dominican pesos
- A cocktail in a tourist bar/club: 450 Dominican pesos
- A beer in a bar: 120-230 pesos depending on the type of place
- A coffee: 125 Dominican pesos
- Restaurant: lunch in a local restaurant 450 pesos per person, dinner for 2 in a good restaurant 2000-2500 pesos
- Fast food combo: 250-300 pesos
- a daily menu of 300 pesos
- 1L of gasoline (unleaded): 60 Dominican pesos
- Local bus: 30-50 Dominican pesos (1 one way ticket)
- Metro: 60 pesos (the return ticket)
- Local taxi: 60 to 180 pesos
So how much does a two week trip to the Dominican Republic cost?
Prices for 2 people:
- Backpacker: 550-600 euros
- Standard traveler ( airbnb , 3-star hotels): 1800-2000 euros
- High-end traveler (all-inclusive hotels or equivalent): 3500-4000 euros
But I insist it is an approximate budget which depends on several parameters!
Bank card or cash?
Better to bring cash.
Outside of the tourist areas of Punta Cana, Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata, it is scarce that debit or credit cards are accepted.
And when they are, there is an 18% fee!
Of course, it is neither necessary nor recommended to walk around with a large amount of cash on you, so I suggest you arrive with $ 100-200 USD and then withdraw from the ATM as you go.
I was going to the Dominican Republic: what if you went through a local agency?
Before organizing your trip to the Dominican Republic, you can request a 100% free quote from a local travel agency.
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How to get around the Dominican Republic
By bus
There are two kinds of buses in the Dominican Republic, called Guaguas:
- Local buses: there are those run by driver unions that don’t have fixed stops and timetables, and there are the state buses (OMSA) which are generally better but cover a range. Much more limited territory.
- Interprovincial buses: they make trips between major cities and tourist areas. The leading companies are Caribe Tours and Metro.
By rental car
More and more travellers visit the Dominican Republic by car, whether with family, couple or friends.
The advantages are indeed numerous: freedom, the flexibility of schedules, speed.
When I am travelling, I always use Rentalcars.com for three reasons:
- The site allows you to compare companies’ prices: it is the fastest and most efficient way to find the best price.
- The cancellation is free most of the time: flexibility handy when organizing a trip!
- The platform offers comprehensive insurance less expensive than companies, which allows instant savings.
Find the best cheap flight to the Dominican Republic.
Punta Cana International Airport is the main airport in the Dominican Republic, but there are eight international airports in the country.
They receive many flights from Canada, United States, Europe and Latin America (ex: Air Canada, Air Transat, Sunwing, WestJet, Delta, American Airlines, Air Europa, Air France, etc.)
To save on plane tickets, I invite you to use our flight comparator for the Dominican Republic, in partnership with Skyscanner: this is the guarantee of paying the best price for your international flight and your domestic flights!
Visit the Dominican Republic places should not be missed
