Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic: general info for travelers

The Dominican Republic is a Caribbean country known for its beautiful beaches, natural landscapes and vibrant culture. The official language is Spanish and the currency is the Dominican peso. It shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti and is the second largest Caribbean nation. Santo Domingo, the capital city, is known for its historic architecture and museums. Other popular destinations in the country include Punta Cana, known for its all-inclusive resorts and white sand beaches, and Puerto Plata, which offers a mix of cultural and natural attractions. The Dominican Republic is also famous for its music and dance, especially the merengue and bachata. Overall, it's a great destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Dominican Republic, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Dominican Republic: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in the Dominican Republic: 1. Punta Cana – Punta Cana is known for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts. It's a popular destination for tourists looking to relax and soak up the sun.
2. Santo Domingo – The capital city of the Dominican Republic is a must-visit for history buffs. It's the oldest city in the New World and is home to many historic sites and museums.
3. Bavaro – Bavaro is another popular beach destination with crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. It's also close to Punta Cana and offers a range of water sports and other activities.
4. Jarabacoa – Located in the mountains of central Dominican Republic, Jarabacoa is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can go white water rafting, hiking or explore the area's beautiful waterfalls.
5. Samana – Samana is a nature-lover's paradise. Visitors can go whale watching, hike through the lush forests, or explore the turquoise waters of El Limon waterfall.
6. La Romana – This coastal city is known for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, but it's also home to the famous Altos de Chavón, a replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village.
7. Cabarete – Cabarete is a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It has a laid-back vibe and offers visitors a chance to relax on the beach or enjoy some of the local cuisine. The Dominican Republic has much to offer and these are just some of the many beautiful places to visit.
There is more to see and do in Dominican Republic: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Dominican Republic: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Dominican Republic, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
The weather in the Dominican Republic is usually warm and tropical year-round, with an average temperature around 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius). The climate is particularly tropical in the summer, which runs from June to September, with high humidity, occasional showers, and a risk of tropical storms or hurricanes. The winter season, from December to February, is considered the driest and has milder temperatures than the summer.
The ideal time to visit the Dominican Republic is during the winter months when the weather is dry and the temperatures are comfortable. If you prefer hotter temperatures and don't mind a little rainfall, the summer months can also be a great time to visit. However, keep in mind that the risk of tropical storms or hurricanes increases during this time.

Dominican Republic: activities and what to do

There are a lot of activities and sports that you can do on your holiday in the Dominican Republic.
1. Water sports: The Dominican Republic has some of the world's best beaches, and these make it the perfect destination for water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, kiteboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing.
2. Golfing: If you are a golf enthusiast, then you will love the golf courses in the Dominican Republic. There are a lot of world-class golf courses, including Teeth of the Dog, Punta Espada Golf Course, and Corales Golf Club.
3. Hiking: The Dominican Republic has some great hiking trails in its national parks. Some of the best trails include the Cordillera Central Mountains, Isabel de Torres National Park, and the Los Haitises National Park.
4. Cultural visits: Explore the Dominican Republic's unique culture by visiting museums, historical sites, and cultural events.
5. Adventure activities: For those looking for some adrenaline-pumping fun, try zip-lining, bungee jumping, and rafting.
6. Relaxation: Finally, soak up the sun at a luxurious spa or lounge on the beach and watch the world go by.
Overall, the Dominican Republic offers something for everyone, from adventurous thrill-seekers to those who simply want to relax and unwind.

Dominican Republic: few words on history and culture

The Dominican Republic is a beautiful country located in the Caribbean, and it has a rich and fascinating history and culture. The island of Hispaniola, which the Dominican Republic shares with Haiti, was first inhabited by the Taíno people before the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492. The Spanish colonized the island and established a thriving sugar industry with African slaves. The country gained independence from Spain in 1821 but was later occupied by the United States from 1916 to 1924.
Dominican culture is a blend of indigenous Taíno, African and Spanish influences. The country has a vibrant music scene that includes merengue, bachata, and salsa, and traditional dances like the merengue are still popular today. The country is also known for its delicious cuisine, which features dishes like sancocho (a hearty stew), arroz con pollo (rice with chicken) and tostones (fried plantains).
Overall, the history and culture of the Dominican Republic are both unique and fascinating, and there is a lot to learn and explore for travelers interested in learning more about this incredible country.

Dominican Republic: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit the Dominican Republic depend largely on your location and preference. The most common ways to reach the Dominican Republic are by air, sea, or land transport. By air: The Dominican Republic has several international airports, including Punta Cana International Airport, Las Americas International Airport, and Puerto Plata International Airport. These airports serve many airlines from around the world, making it easy to reach the country by air.
By sea: The Dominican Republic has several ports that are popular with cruise ships, including Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and La Romana. There are also numerous ferries that travel between the Dominican Republic and neighboring islands, such as Puerto Rico and Haiti.
By land: If you are traveling from neighboring countries, you may choose to enter the Dominican Republic by bus or car. The country shares borders with Haiti to the west and with the Caribbean Sea to the north, east, and south.
Once you're inside Dominican Republic, there are various options to explore the country, including car rental, public buses, taxis, and private transport. It's important to research these options and choose the one that best suits your travel needs and budget. To hire a car to visit Dominican Republic, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Dominican Republic: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Dominican Republic with a full stomach:D
Here are some typical foods of the Dominican Republic, along with brief descriptions: 1. La Bandera: This is the most popular dish in the Dominican Republic, which means "the flag." It consists of rice, stewed beans, and meat (usually beef, chicken, or pork). It's usually accompanied by a side of salad made up of tomatoes, avocado, and onions.
2. Mangú: This is a mashed plantain dish that's often used as a breakfast food. It's usually served with fried eggs, fried cheese, and fried salami. 3. Sancocho: This is a hearty soup that's made with a variety of meats, such as chicken, beef, and pork. It's typically made with a variety of root vegetables, including yucca, plantains, and ñame.
4. Chimichurri: This is a sandwich that's made with a dense, chewy bread that's filled with a variety of meats, cheese, and vegetables. It's usually served with a side of French fries. 5. Empanadas: These are fried or baked turnovers that are filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meat, cheese, and vegetables. They make a great snack or appetizer.
6. Tostones: These are twice-fried plantain slices that are crispy and delicious. They're usually served as a side dish or snack with a variety of dips and sauces. 7. Pollo Guisado: This is a flavorful stew made with chicken, potatoes, and carrots. It's usually seasoned with garlic, onion, and a variety of spices. 8. Arepas: These are cornmeal cakes that are stuffed with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, meat, and beans. They're usually served as a breakfast food or snack. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Dominican Republic: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

The cost of living and traveling in the Dominican Republic can vary depending on your travel style and budget. Compared to other Caribbean destinations, the Dominican Republic is considered to be relatively affordable for tourists. You can find budget-friendly accommodations, food, and transportation options in many parts of the country, particularly outside of the major tourist hubs.
That being said, popular tourist destinations such as Punta Cana and Santo Domingo can be more costly due to higher demand and competition. Additionally, activities such as water sports, tours, and nightlife can increase your expenses.
Overall, the Dominican Republic can be a budget-friendly destination for tourists, but it's always a good idea to research prices and plan accordingly to make the most of your trip and avoid unexpected expenses.

Dominican Republic: where to find accodation

There are several online platforms where you can search for accommodation options in the Dominican Republic, such as: 1. Booking.com 2. Airbnb 3. Expedia 4. Agoda 5. Tripadvisor You can use filters such as price range, location, amenities, and the number of guests to refine your search. It's always a good idea to read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the quality of the property and its services. Additionally, contacting the host or property owner beforehand can help you obtain more information or special requests.
You can check hotel prices in Dominican Republic here:
Booking.com

Dominican Republic: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
The Dominican Republic is one of the most visited destinations in the Caribbean and receives approximately 6 million international tourists annually. The peak tourist seasons in the Dominican Republic are generally from mid-December to mid-April, and during the summer months of July and August. This is when most visitors arrive, and the hotels and popular attractions can be quite crowded. However, if you are looking to avoid the crowds, you may want to consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall) when prices are generally lower and there are fewer visitors.
The Dominican Republic is generally safe for tourists. However, like any destination, there are areas that have higher crime rates and should be avoided. Some of the areas to avoid include: 1. Some parts of Santo Domingo, the capital city, especially at night. Stick to the tourist-friendly areas like Zona Colonial and Piantini.
2. The border areas with Haiti.
3. Certain neighborhoods in Santiago like Cienfuegos and Pueblo Nuevo.
4. La Romana, which is known for its high crime rate.
5. Certain parts of Punta Cana and Bavaro, especially late at night, when it's best to stay in well-lit, tourist-friendly areas.
It's always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when traveling to any new destination. By following common safety measures, you should be able to enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to the Dominican Republic.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Dominican Republic on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Dominican Republic: events for tourists

There are many interesting events for tourists in the Dominican Republic. Here are some of the top events: 1. Carnival - This is a colorful and lively celebration that takes place throughout the country every year. It is a time when people dress up in costumes, dance, and enjoy live music.
2. Dominican Republic Jazz Festival - This festival takes place in November and features performances from local and international jazz musicians.
3. Merengue Festival - This festival celebrates the national dance of the Dominican Republic and takes place in August.
4. Independence Day - This is a national holiday that takes place on February 27th and includes parades and other patriotic celebrations.
5. Santo Domingo Colonial Fest - This festival is held in the historic district of Santo Domingo and features music, dance, and food from the region.
6. Whale Watching Season - From December to March, tourists can witness humpback whales who migrate from the North Atlantic to breed in the waters off the Dominican Republic.
These events offer a great opportunity for tourists to experience the culture and traditions of the Dominican Republic.

Dominican Republic: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Dominican Republic, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a suggested two-week itinerary for a typical tourist visiting the Dominican Republic: Week 1: - Day 1-3: Start your trip in Santo Domingo, the capital city. Explore the historic colonial zone and visit landmarks such as the Alcazar de Colón and the Catedral Primada de América.
- Day 4-5: Take a taxi or public transportation to Punta Cana, known for its white-sand beaches and all-inclusive resorts.
- Day 6-7: Spend a day exploring the nearby Saona Island, home to pristine beaches and turquoise waters.
- Day 8-9: Take a day trip or rent a car to explore the Samana Peninsula, which boasts lush landscapes and waterfalls.
- Day 10-11: Visit the natural beauty of Jarabacoa, known for its outdoor activities like hiking, tubbing and camping.
- Day 12-14: End your first week in Las Terrenas, a charming coastal town with picturesque beaches, restaurants, and boutique shops.
Week 2: - Day 15-16: Head to the northern region to visit the lively city of Puerto Plata. Admire the picturesque architecture of the Victorian-era homes in the central plaza and take a ride up to the top of the mountain Isabel De Torres.
- Day 17-19: For a more relaxed atmosphere, visit Cabarete known for surfing, wind-surfing, and kite-surfing. Relax on the beautiful beach and enjoy the night life.
- Day 20: If you have some extra time, you can take a day trip to Monte Cristi National Park to see the stunning saltwater lake, Lagoon Oviedo. - Day 21: End your trip by taking a scenic drive from Cabarete back to Santo Domingo along the coast, enjoying the scenic routes through small Dominican localities.
Just make sure to spend ample time in each location to fully experience and appreciate everything it has to offer!

Dominican Republic: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Dominican Republic described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Bayaguana is a municipalty in the Monte Plata province in the central region of the Dominican Republic. It has a population of around 36,000 and it is known for its beautiful landscapes, mountains, ri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bayaguana
- Bayahibe is a small coastal town and tourist destination located in the southeast of the Dominican Republic. It is situated on the Caribbean Sea and surrounded by beautiful beaches and clear waters. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bayahibe
- Boca Chica is a popular beach town located in the Santo Domingo province of the Dominican Republic. It is known for its crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lively nightlife scene. The town ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Boca Chica
- Bonao is a town located in the center of the Dominican Republic, about 75 kilometers northwest of Santo Domingo. It is the capital of the Monseñor Nouel province. Bonao is known for its rich cultural ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bonao
- Bávaro is a resort area located in the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and coral reefs, making it a popular destination for tourist... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bávaro
- Cabarete is a popular tourist destination located on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. It's known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent conditions for ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cabarete
- Cabrera is a small town located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, in the province of María Trinidad Sánchez. It is known for its stunning beaches, nearby waterfalls, and natural parks. Cab... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cabrera
- Constanza is a mountain town located in the central region of the Dominican Republic, about a 2.5 hours drive from Santo Domingo. It has a mild climate throughout the year and is well known for its ag... CONTINUE here for a trip to Constanza
- Higüey is a city located in the eastern part of the Dominican Republic. It is the capital of the La Altagracia province and is famous for its stunning Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia, which is an i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Higüey
- Jarabacoa is a town situated in the mountainous region of the Dominican Republic, located in the central region of the country. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty, with picturesque land... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jarabacoa
- Juan Dolio is a popular tourist destination located on the southern coast of the Dominican Republic, about 45 minutes east of the capital city of Santo Domingo. The area is known for its beautiful bea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Juan Dolio
- La Altagracia is a province located on the eastern part of the Dominican Republic. It is known for having some of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, such as Punta Cana, Bávaro, and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Altagracia
- La Romana is a city and municipality in the southeastern region of the Dominican Republic. It is the seventh-largest city in the country, with a population of approximately 130,000 people. The city is... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Romana
- La Vega is a province located in the central region of the Dominican Republic. It is known for its agricultural production, especially for its coffee, fruits, and vegetables. The city of La Vega is th... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Vega
- Las Galeras is a small fishing village located on the northeastern tip of the Samana Peninsula in the Dominican Republic. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lagoons, and scenic landscapes. The vil... CONTINUE here for a trip to Las Galeras
- Las Matas de Farfán is a municipality located in the southwest region of the Dominican Republic. It is situated within the province of San Juan and bordered by the Sierra de Neiba mountain range. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Las Matas de Farfán
- Las Terrenas is a small town located on the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, in the province of Samaná. It is well-known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical... CONTINUE here for a trip to Las Terrenas
- Moca is a city located in the Espaillat province of the Dominican Republic. It is situated in the Cibao Valley, one of the most fertile regions in the country, and is surrounded by stunning natural at... CONTINUE here for a trip to Moca
- Montecristi is a province located in the northwest coast of the Dominican Republic. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, beaches, and beautiful landscapes. The province is home to the area's la... CONTINUE here for a trip to Montecristi
- Nagua is a city located in the northeast region of the Dominican Republic. It is the capital of the Maria Trinidad Sanchez province and has a population of approximately 70,000 people. Nagua is known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nagua
- Puerto Plata is a city located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and scenic mountain ranges. Some of the popular tourist attrac... CONTINUE here for a trip to Puerto Plata
- Punta Cana is a town located in the easternmost province of the Dominican Republic. It is home to some of the most luxurious resorts and beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Punta Cana has a tropical c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Punta Cana
- Río San Juan is a municipality located in the province of María Trinidad Sánchez in the northeastern region of the Dominican Republic. It is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, stunning na... CONTINUE here for a trip to Río San Juan
- Samaná is a beautiful peninsula located on the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. It is known for its stunning beaches, lush mountain landscapes, exotic wildlife and unique cultural experie... CONTINUE here for a trip to Samaná
- San Cristóbal is a city located in the southwestern region of the Dominican Republic. It is the capital of the province of San Cristóbal and has a population of about 275,000 people. The city is known... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Cristóbal
- San Francisco de Macorís is a city located in the northeastern region of the Dominican Republic. It is the capital of the Duarte Province and has a population of approximately 250,000 people. The city... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Francisco de Macorís
- San José de Ocoa is a small province located in the southern region of the Dominican Republic. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, mountain ranges, and rivers. The province's main town, also cal... CONTINUE here for a trip to San José de Ocoa
- San Juan de la Maguana is a city located in the southwestern part of the Dominican Republic. It is the capital of San Juan province and has a population of approximately 100,000 people. The city is si... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Juan de la Maguana
- San Pedro de Macorís is a province located in the southeastern part of the Dominican Republic. The capital city with the same name is a bustling town with a population of around 200,000 and is known f... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Pedro de Macorís
- San Rafael del Yuma is a town located in the eastern region of the Dominican Republic, specifically in the province of La Altagracia. It is situated between the towns of La Romana to the west and Higu... CONTINUE here for a trip to San Rafael del Yuma
- Santo Domingo is the capital city of the Dominican Republic, located on the southern coast of the island. It is the largest city in the country and has a population of over two million people. Santo D... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santo Domingo
- Sosúa is a beach town located on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Sosúa is also famous for its rich his... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sosúa


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