If you’re into precious stones, opt for larimar or amber jewelry pieces. Based on folklore characters and tales, as well as syncretic religions, it’s an excellent time to glimpse the country’s diversity. Here you can hire a guide for a boat tour through the different islands to learn about the cacti fauna while bird and iguana watching. Perfect for astrophotographers. Off the coast of Samaná, Cayo Levantado’s beach is a perfect daytime escape, with restaurants on site. This iconic view is probably what you get when you google Monte Cristi. 25 Best Things to Do in the Dominican Republic. Consider adding a visit to El Salto de Socoa as an add on for a full-day tour of fun in the lush province of Monte Plata. It takes you soaring over 2,600 feet above Puerto Plata’s gorgeous Atlantic Ocean and hilly green landscape, from the city towards Mount Isabel. Dominicans are very proud of... Goa has been dazzling travelers for decades with its cultural richness and abundant natural wonders. You can tour the farm, pick cacao, ride horses and more. Consider visiting the top three most beautiful waterfalls on a full-day tour of hiking and swimming. Lined with islets and pristine palm-lined beaches, Samaná Bay is a hotspot for the Dominican Republic’s marine animals. There are also cigar and rum bars around the country. Intentionally not mentioned in this post for 2020: 27 Beautiful Things to Do in the Dominican Republic, Related Resources for Planning Your Dominican Republic Itinerary, Things to do in the Dominican Republic – Barahona Province, Things to do in the Dominican Republic – Pedernales Province, Things to do in the Dominican Republic – Monte Plata Province, Things to do in the Dominican Republic – Bani City Region, Things to do in the Dominican Republic – Azua Province, Things to do in the Dominican Republic – Santo Domingo, Things to do in the Dominican Republic – Cabarete Town, Things to do in the Dominican Republic – Monte Cristi City & Province, Local Tours of Amazing Dominican Republic Attractions, Best Areas to Visit in the Dominican Republic, See all of our Dominican Republic travel guides, Dominican Republic Tours & Excursions Around the Island. One of the best (and most fun) ways to culturally immersive yourself is through food. There are at least three hikes you can do here for beautiful views from above or you can just walk down to the beach to see the views from below. Take a hike to the Pico Duarte peak Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user … You will need a 4×4 SUV to get up to the mining area. Please keep in mind: This is not to encourage poverty tourism but to recommend an experience of learning how locals have created a mining system to extract one of the world’s rarest gemstones. Desserts and salty snacks are popular as well, from yucca empanadas to coconut sweets. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get to Bahia de las Aguilas from Santo Domingo via public transportation. The Dominican Republic is the most visited travel destination in the Caribbean. And I couldn’t believe they actually got me to stand and surf on baby waves not once or twice, but THREE times! Highly recommend! The Dominican Republic is famous for amber and larimar, two beautiful ancient island semi-precious treasures used to produce stunning locally-made jewelry. Samana was featured in our guide last year, 2019 Best Places to Visit in the Dominican Republic. Hire us for your Dominican Republic travel planning services. The Dominican Republic is the most visited travel destination in the Caribbean. As diverse as the landscape are the culture and history — from the Taino days to the Spanish colonial years with the arrival of enslaved Africans, and the influx of immigrants from Europe, Asia, the U.S., and the Middle East. Monte Cristi is home to some of the most impactful colonial history in Latin America– from being one of the first colonial cities in the Americas to having critical ties with Cuba’s independence thanks to Maximo Gomez. A full-body workout in the midst of pristine beauty. This trio of Dominican cave lakes comprise a colorful biosphere of natural life. Please do not use locals, especially their kids as photoshoot props. And please consider tipping your guides for taking the time out of their workday to show you around. The Dominican Republic ranks among the top three largest exporters of cacao in the world. Book now by emailing isabelle@dominicanabroad.com and enjoy one fo the more authentic, local attractions in the Dominican Republic. See all 1003 things to do in Punta Cana #1 Zipline Mega Splash, Buggy Ride and Waterfall Pool Combo Two-hour Off-Road dune buggy tour, no public roads, maximum security, visiting Cabo Engaño, the most oriental point of the island, where the Atlantic Ocean m... 4h 30m+ Free Cancellation Looking for even more amazing places to visit in the Dominican Republic? Also, while you’re admiring the beautiful coastline of Barahona, take a moment to pull over and go shopping! If you can only do one thing while in Santo Domingo, then let it be this. I’ve always found DR to be so interesting. Share on Pinterest. Continue Reading: Jarabacoa Travel Guide: 21 Reasons to Visit the Dominican Alps for more in-depth information on things to see and do in this region. The passion for “play,” as it’s locally called, is just as strong at home. Palo can vary by region around the entire country. Amber is formed when the bark of a prehistoric tree is pierced or broken before it was fossilized. You’ll see kids playing in the natural pools, hear dogs and roosters sing, and smell that nostalgic toasted wood campo aroma, as you fly above schools, homes, lush plains, busy streets, and rivers. In my humble opinion, this is one of the best things to do in Cabarete! There are an endless amount of Dominican Republic things to do. 1. Below is a video of visiting the mines. At the end of your trip don’t forget to ask for the natural mud bath stop! With a stunning coastline stretched for miles together, this place is a paradise for the beach-lovers. Initially made to explore and preserve the natural plants of Santo Domingo, the National Botanical Garden is a beautiful and stunning setting in which you can appreciate the scenery and tropical environment of the Dominican Republic. Consider taking a half-day trip to the rural farms of Monte Plata for some cooking lessons by the town chef: my aunt Ramona. You can reach Isla Cabra’s Playa Paraiso by taking a boat which you can hire at the town fishing dock. It’s about 15 minutes from Cabarete downtown and is a little adventure itself since it requires either an SUV or a proper motorcycle so that you can drive over/around streams of water, puddles, rocks, and sand. However, with so many amazing places to visit in the Dominican Republic, tourism is not so consistently spread around the island. I’d love to visit some day. Related itineraries for your best Dominican Republic trip. You can actually chase waterfalls in Jarabacoa as there are various ones to choose from. . Develop and improve products. This is also the best place for cultural events, social movements, art galleries, museums, nightlife, and trendy restaurants. Then check out Wilson’s in La Boca. Tucked in the heart of the country, Pico Duarte – part of the Jose Armando Bermudez National Park – is the tallest peak in the Caribbean, standing at 10,105 feet. At this beach glamping in Pedernales, you can fall asleep by a bonfire while gazing at the stars and hearing the sounds of the gentle waves. Wherever you end up, you’re sure to find beachfront restaurants with fresh catch (in season), plenty of rum, and music. Part saline, part fresh water, its remarkable features attract the only population of American crocodiles in the DR. This is the perfect experience for both beginners or more experienced rafters. Paragliding is a highlight experience for adventure lovers coming to Jarabacoa and looking for exciting things to do in the Dominican Republic. Surfing lessons average to about $50 for a … Opt for Jarabacoa as your jump off point and relax in this cool mountain town before and after your adventure. Skip the crowds coming out of the big tourist buses and head to the more quaint Salto de Socoa (listed above). So, if you love surfing, then this beach should definitely be one of the Dominican Republic points of interest that you visit. Saona Island is a tropical paradise found just a short distance away from the mainland Dominican Republic. Arts and crafts range from wood-carved decorations to oil paintings and the Dominican “faceless” dolls. Both parts of the hike (La Plaza and La Cueva) are well worth it with several gems along the way. On the very road that leads to Bahia de las Aguilas beach, consider this refreshing detour and Dominican Republic point of interest. The emerald green swimming area also extends to several other beautiful pools. Venture inland for adrenaline-pumping adventure at the Dominican Republic's most spectacular waterfalls: the 27 Charcos de Damajagua, in Puerto Plata. Nightlife in Santo Domingo: Bars, Clubs, & More. One of the most unique activities in the Dominican Republic is Puerto Plata’s cable car ride or Teleférico, the only one operating in the Caribbean. Probably one of the most underrated Dominican Republic tourist attractions, this underrated gem in Monte Plata barely gets any visitors. These influences are reflected today in the people, the cuisine and the music. However, many visitors often skip... Costa Rica is a mélange of soaring mountains, volcanoes, beaches, jungles, waterfalls, hot springs-- you name it. Laguna de Oviedo is a saltwater lake in Jaragua National Park in the Pedernales province of the Dominican Republic. You’ll hike, slide your way down, jump, and wade through beautiful azure and turquoise waters gushing over and around you. Rates begin at $150 per trip. 727 expert & traveler reviews on Dominican Republic … Combined with on site music and food, you’ll get a solid glimpse of the locals’ passion and natural talent for baseball. Palo is Afro-Dominican sacred music with roots from the Congo region/West Africa. This area’s population is around 300 people, so beach and … . Planning a Dominican Republic trip but not sure where to begin or who to contact? You may likely have the entire place to yourself like I have several times. It occupies the eastern five-eighths of the island, which it shares with Haiti, making Hispaniola one of only two Caribbean islands, along with Saint Martin, that are shared by two sovereign states. The Dominican Republic is a top producer of rum and one of the largest exporters of premium cigars to the United States. Find and compare all 25 Dominican Republic tours, cruises, and packages from 22 companies. Playa Encuentro, less than 5 miles from Cabarete downtown, is one of the best beaches for surfing, especially if you’re a beginner. Categories The Dominican Republic 15 Best Things to Do in The Dominican Republic: Roam the Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo; Sample luxury in Punta Cana; Get a feel for the Med in Altos de Chavon; Go full ecotourist in Los Haitises; Enjoy paradise on Playa Rincon; Go off-the-beaten-track to Lake Enriquillo; Spot whales on the Samana Peninsula If you’re already on a boat tour going through the canals and Isla Cabra (#2 above), you may be interested in paying for the full day excursion and head to Cayo 7 Hermanos. Nearby, Parque Duarte is a favorite of the LGBT community. The Dominican Republic is a true dream and nature, people and food make it an absolute paradise. Add Cuevas de las Maravillas (Cave of Wonders) to a New List. This sounds touristy, and indeed it is in some ways. Water Sports in Dominican Republic Boat Hire in Dominican Republic Dolphin & Whale Watching in Dominican Republic Gondola Cruises in Dominican Republic Speed Boats Tours in Dominican Republic Kayaking & Canoeing in Dominican Republic Parasailing & Paragliding in Dominican Republic River Rafting & Tubing in Dominican Republic Scuba & Snorkelling in Dominican Republic Shark Diving in … Dominican Republic is a Caribbean country blessed a plenty with natural beauty. Love how you have broken down the point of attractions by regions. Receive my monthly newsletter with the latestinsights, tips & travel guides. Give her a call (829)988-1038 so she can have everything ready for you upon arrival. Try mangú, a deliciously seasoned mound of mashed green plantains topped with sautéed red onions, for breakfast or sancocho, a hearty stew combining various meats and roots vegetables, served with a side of white rice and avocado slices. Select basic ads. Located just 10 minutes from Laguna de Oviedo is Arroyo Salado natural pool. Want to visit Bahia de las Aguilas independently? You will need a 4×4 SUV to get up to the mining area. Located in the remote southwest, Lake Enriquillo lies 60 feet below sea level, and is the largest lake in the Caribbean region. You are also free to rent surfboards without lessons if you wish. Check out my 2019 guide to see some other amazing places in the Dominican Republic not listed on here! The most well-known is the Cordillera Central range which stretches across the “heart” of the Dominican Republic for hundreds of miles, extending into Haiti – making it easy to plan an incredible 3 days in Haiti. Along with a guided tour, these stunning open water caves also offer deeper insights into the pre-colonial and ancestral origins of the Dominican Republic making this one of the many amazing things to do in Santo Domingo. and to discover all of the top Dominican Republic points of interest. Wine lovers should stop in the province of Azua to visit the gorgeous and luxurious Ocoa Bay Vineyard. There is a lot of things to do in Laguna de Oviedo including unique caves and trying exotic cacti fruits. Larimar’s striking resemblance to the mine’s nearby beaches. Below is a video of visiting the mines. Or join in on one of our tours: Like the graphics of our maps above? Beyond the national dish – la bandera dominicana (a plate of rice and beans with stewed chicken and a side salad) – there are local specialties you should sample. What were your favorite things to do, eat or visit? I’ve traveled to over 45 countries in the world and Bahia de las Aguilas ranks as one of the best beaches in the world for me. So don’t miss out on the lifetime experience to see how a local collective of miners extracts this rare gem. The paths here are rocky so bring proper shoes if you don’t have strong ankles. It was the best way for me to help others visualize it to plan their trips accordingly! Both are stunning. Ask for permission to enter, and take a stroll down the trolley tracks to take in the view of these pink pools surrounded by beautiful mountains and piles of snowy-white salt. It has been preserved through us for hundreds of years despite colonial oppression and various attempts to suppress and repress it. Measure content performance. There are more things to do in the Dominican Republic than relaxing on white sand beaches and diving in the deep blue Thanks! If you’re into water sports, head to Puerto Plata’s surf-rich coastline and beach hop your way from Playa Dorada to Cabarete and Monte Cristi. In Puerto Plata, the Parque Central is one of the most attractive with its surrounding Victorian architecture. Have you been to the Dominican Republic? Depending on the time of the year the rapids can be smoother or a bit stronger. Consider hiring local Dominican artist from San Cristobal: Flori Lorenzo! If you really want to get to know the Dominican Republic, start with its food. That’s why, if you enjoy learning about history, this is definitely one of the best places to visit in the Dominican Republic. Off the coast of Puerto Plata, Cayo Arena is the tiniest offshore caye, its surrounding waters teeming with tropical fish.