Top 5 Things You Need to Do in the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is a Caribbean country renowned for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a beach bum, this tropical paradise offers something for everyone.
From exploring the historic streets of Santo Domingo to soaking up the sun in Punta Cana and from hiking through the mountains of Jarabacoa to diving into the blue waters of Bayahibe, the Dominican Republic has a lot to offer. Learn more about a handful of fun things to do in the Dominican Republic to maximize your stay.
1. Visit Punta Cana
Punta Cana is a must-see when visiting the captivating landscapes of the Dominican Republic. This idyllic beach town is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Its sparkling clear blue waters offer an enticing respite from the sun’s warmth, while the white sand beaches make the perfect place to stretch out for an afternoon snooze.
But sunbathing and swimming aren’t the only activities to enjoy on your journey. Soak up the sun’s rays on a catamaran or kayak, or take a look at the hustle and bustle of sea life beneath the water’s surface with a snorkeling adventure.
2. Explore Santo Domingo
The capital city of the Dominican Republic is another must-visit destination, with its rich history, colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. Between fascinating historical sites, national palaces, and delectable cuisine, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this bustling city.
Visit the Zona Colonial, the oldest part of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can wander the cobblestone streets and admire the beautiful colonial architecture, including the Alcazar de Colón, the former home of Christopher Columbus’s son.
Another must-see attraction in Santo Domingo is the National Palace, or the Palacio Nacional, which is the official residence of the President of the Dominican Republic. The palace is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and is open to the public for tours, allowing you to explore its halls and view its remarkable beauty up close.
If you enjoy perusing museums, Santo Domingo has a couple of options. Don’t miss the National Museum of History and Geography, which houses an impressive collection of historical artifacts and exhibits.
Art lovers will not want to miss the Museum of Modern Art, which features works by some of the country’s most famous artists, including Candido Bido and Guillo Perez. The museum is housed in a beautiful building in the heart of the city and is a great place to spend an afternoon.
Finally, no trip to Santo Domingo would be complete without sampling some of the city’s delicious cuisine. The city is known for its fantastic seafood, and there are plenty of excellent restaurants to choose from. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as mofongo, a dish made from mashed plantains, and sancocho, a hearty stew made with meat and vegetables.
3. Go Hiking in Jarabacoa
If you’re an adventure seeker, then Jarabacoa is the perfect place for you. The mountains blanketed in lush green vegetation contain an array of hidden gems, from some of the best hiking trails in the country to captivating, picture-perfect waterfalls.
There are plenty of hiking trails to accommodate different experience levels, from beginner-friendly trails to steep ascents that offer a challenge to seasoned hikers. Between the crisp mountain air, gurgling waterfalls, and sounds of the wildlife frolicking through the vegetation, hiking in Jarabacoa is an experience you won’t want to miss.
4. Visit Samaná
As you travel through the country, take a pit stop in the Samaná peninsula. This peninsula is known for its stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and whale-watching opportunities.
Multiple white sand beaches lined with coconut trees stretch along the coastline, offering a perfect place to kick back, relax, and enjoy the sunshine. Playa Rincón, considered one of the most beautiful beaches, is a great option, but Playa El Valle, Playa Frontón, and Playa Morón are also worth visiting.
If you’re visiting between mid-January and mid-March, be sure to go whale watching! Every year, humpback whales migrate to the waters of the Samaná peninsula to mate and give birth. During this season, there’s plenty of opportunity to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures.
Visit the El Limón waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country, boasting a 52-meter drop that cascades into a natural pool. While you’ll need to hike to the waterfall, which takes about 45 minutes, it’s well worth the effort.
5. Go Scuba Diving in Bayahibe
The waters around Bayahibe are home to some of the best reefs and marine life in the Caribbean. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, you’ll love exploring the underwater world here.
The crystal clear turquoise waters surrounding the town are home to a vast array of marine life, including vibrant tropical fish, eels, rays, and even sharks. Take part in a guided dive through various tour companies for assistance finding great spots.
There are plenty of dive sites to explore, each offering something unique. Among the most popular spots is the St. George Wreck, a sunken cargo ship that now serves as an artificial reef and is home to a variety of colorful sea creatures.
Another favorite is the Atlantic Princess, a sunken ship that is now a playground for marine life, including barracudas, groupers, and lionfish. With over 30 dive sites in the immediate area, there’s always something new to discover in Bayahibe’s underwater world.
Enjoy a Guided Trip to the Dominican Republic With Caravan
The Dominican Republic has much to offer, from its picture-perfect beaches and invigorating hikes to its mouthwatering cuisine. If you’re planning to visit the Dominican Republic but don’t want to worry about the details, a guided tour might be the perfect solution.
With Caravan, you’re along for the ride – you don’t have to plan any of the details, from transportation to lodging. Instead, you can enjoy your vacation and soak up the sunshine worry-free! Ready to book a trip? Call 1-800-CARAVAN or 1-312-321-9800 today!
