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Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic Highlights

The Dominican Republic, located in the Caribbean, is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant music and dance, and rich history. Santo Domingo, the capital, boasts the Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage site with Spanish colonial landmarks like the Alcázar de Colón and the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor. Beyond the capital, explore the stunning beaches of Punta Cana, the beautiful Samaná Peninsula, or the vibrant city of Puerto Plata. Don`t miss the stunning landscapes of the Los Haitises National Park, or the towering Pico Duarte, the highest peak in the Caribbean. Dominican cuisine, known for dishes like mangu, sancocho, and la bandera, is hearty and flavorful. Whether you`re dancing merengue at a local festival, exploring a historic fortress, or lounging on a white-sand beach, the Dominican Republic offers a colorful and lively travel experience.

Top 10 Attractions

Alcázar de Colón

Alcázar de Colón, once the residence of Diego Columbus, the son of Christopher Columbus, is the oldest viceregal residence in America. Now a museum, it houses a collection of European late medieval and Renaissance works of art, many of which decorate... more

Alcázar de Colón, once the residence of Diego Columbus, the son of Christopher Columbus, is the oldest viceregal residence in America. Now a museum, it houses a collection of European late medieval and Renaissance works of art, many of which decorated the house during Diego Columbus`s time. The building itself is an excellent example of Spanish colonial architecture. The museum offers a unique glimpse into the lifestyle of the colonial era’s high society, with well-preserved historical artifacts and period furnishings.

Barahona

Barahona, also known as Santa Cruz de Barahona, is the main city in the southwestern region of the Dominican Republic. It`s known for its stunning untouched beaches, turquoise waters, and lush, mountainous landscape. Nearby, visitors can explore Lake... more

Barahona, also known as Santa Cruz de Barahona, is the main city in the southwestern region of the Dominican Republic. It`s known for its stunning untouched beaches, turquoise waters, and lush, mountainous landscape. Nearby, visitors can explore Lake Enriquillo, a saltwater lake home to crocodiles and flamingos. Barahona is also known for its biodiversity, coffee plantations, and the Larimar stone, a rare blue variety of the silicate mineral pectolite, only found in the Dominican Republic.

Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor

The Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor in Santo Domingo is the oldest cathedral in the Americas, completed in 1540. The cathedral combines Gothic and Baroque architectural elements, with a beautiful façade featuring a golden-tinted coral lime... more

The Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor in Santo Domingo is the oldest cathedral in the Americas, completed in 1540. The cathedral combines Gothic and Baroque architectural elements, with a beautiful façade featuring a golden-tinted coral limestone. The interior is just as impressive with its high altar made from silver. The cathedral holds an important place in history and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city outside. This architectural gem is a must-see for history buffs and architecture lovers.

Bayahibe

Bayahibe is a charming fishing village known for its splendid beaches and excellent diving spots. It`s the departure point for trips to Saona and Catalina Islands, both famous for their beauty and abundant marine life. Bayahibe`s relaxed atmosphere,... more

Bayahibe is a charming fishing village known for its splendid beaches and excellent diving spots. It`s the departure point for trips to Saona and Catalina Islands, both famous for their beauty and abundant marine life. Bayahibe`s relaxed atmosphere, combined with its sandy beaches and clear, calm waters, make it an ideal location for relaxation and water sports. The town`s proximity to the East National Park also offers opportunities for eco-tourism and exploration of local wildlife.

Columbus Lighthouse

The Columbus Lighthouse is a monument located in Santo Domingo, erected in honor of Christopher Columbus. Shaped like a cross, the monument houses what are believed to be the remains of Columbus. It features exhibits from various countries and a libr... more

The Columbus Lighthouse is a monument located in Santo Domingo, erected in honor of Christopher Columbus. Shaped like a cross, the monument houses what are believed to be the remains of Columbus. It features exhibits from various countries and a library. At night, the monument`s exterior lights project a gigantic cross shape into the sky, which can reportedly be seen from miles away. Visiting the Columbus Lighthouse provides insight into the historical significance of Christopher Columbus and his discovery.

Cueva de las Maravillas

Cueva de las Maravillas, or Cave of Wonders, is a fascinating cave system located in the southeastern part of the country. It features extensive stalactite and stalagmite formations and an underground river. The highlight of the cave is the 500-meter... more

Cueva de las Maravillas, or Cave of Wonders, is a fascinating cave system located in the southeastern part of the country. It features extensive stalactite and stalagmite formations and an underground river. The highlight of the cave is the 500-meter section open to the public, showcasing pre-Columbian Taino artwork on the walls. This remarkable artwork, combined with the natural beauty of the cave, makes for a captivating visit.

Damajagua Waterfalls

Damajagua Waterfalls, also known as 27 Charcos, is located near Puerto Plata. This series of cascading waterfalls carved out of limestone offers a thrilling adventure to visitors. The full tour takes you through 27 pools, where you can slide, swim, a... more

Damajagua Waterfalls, also known as 27 Charcos, is located near Puerto Plata. This series of cascading waterfalls carved out of limestone offers a thrilling adventure to visitors. The full tour takes you through 27 pools, where you can slide, swim, and jump into clear, cool water. Each waterfall is a different experience, with some offering slides and others featuring jumps of up to 25 feet. The surrounding jungle adds to the exotic atmosphere. A visit to Damajagua Waterfalls offers a unique and exciting way to experience the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic.

El Morro

El Morro is a massive limestone mesa rising 240 meters above sea level in Monte Cristi National Park. The park features subtropical dry forest, mangroves, lagoons, and beautiful beaches. El Morro is a prime spot for bird watching, including frigate b... more

El Morro is a massive limestone mesa rising 240 meters above sea level in Monte Cristi National Park. The park features subtropical dry forest, mangroves, lagoons, and beautiful beaches. El Morro is a prime spot for bird watching, including frigate birds and brown boobies. At the foot of El Morro, you can find the remains of the 18th-century Fort San Fernando. A visit to El Morro offers visitors a combination of stunning views, unique geological formations, and a glimpse into the country`s history.

Isla Cabritos National Park

Isla Cabritos National Park is an island located within Lake Enriquillo, the largest lake in the Caribbean. The park is a key habitat for American crocodiles, flamingos, iguanas, and several endemic bird species. It also has several hiking trails and... more

Isla Cabritos National Park is an island located within Lake Enriquillo, the largest lake in the Caribbean. The park is a key habitat for American crocodiles, flamingos, iguanas, and several endemic bird species. It also has several hiking trails and offers boat tours. The park provides an excellent opportunity for wildlife viewing and bird watching, as well as an understanding of the unique ecology of this saltwater lake and its surroundings.

Jarabacoa

Jarabacoa, known as the "City of Everlasting Spring," is located in the heart of the Dominican Alps. Known for its verdant mountains and fresh, cool climate, it`s a hub for eco-tourism and outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy activities such as whi... more

Jarabacoa, known as the "City of Everlasting Spring," is located in the heart of the Dominican Alps. Known for its verdant mountains and fresh, cool climate, it`s a hub for eco-tourism and outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy activities such as white-water rafting, mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking to waterfalls. Jarabacoa also hosts the Dominican Republic`s only white-water river, the Rio Yaque del Norte, offering a unique outdoor experience.

Los Haitises National Park

Los Haitises National Park is a protected virgin forest with little road access. A boat tour here will take you through mangrove forests, past bird nesting islands and to caves with ancient Taino Indian carvings. Visitors can explore the park`s diver... more

Los Haitises National Park is a protected virgin forest with little road access. A boat tour here will take you through mangrove forests, past bird nesting islands and to caves with ancient Taino Indian carvings. Visitors can explore the park`s diverse ecosystem, home to various species of birds, including the rare Ridgway`s Hawk and Brown Pelican. The park`s picturesque landscape, consisting of limestone karst plateaus, conical hills, and caverns, provides breathtaking views and photo opportunities, making it an unmissable experience for nature lovers.

Museo de las Casas Reales

Museo de las Casas Reales, located in Santo Domingo`s Colonial Zone, is one of the important museums in the city. The building was originally built in the 16th century to house the administrative offices of the Spanish colonies. Today, the museum hou... more

Museo de las Casas Reales, located in Santo Domingo`s Colonial Zone, is one of the important museums in the city. The building was originally built in the 16th century to house the administrative offices of the Spanish colonies. Today, the museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits covering the period from the Taino Indians to the colonial era. The museum`s goal is to promote the historical and cultural heritage of the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean region.

Museo del Ambar

The Museo del Ambar in Puerto Plata is a museum dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of Dominican amber, considered to be among the world’s finest. Housed in a Victorian mansion, it showcases an impressive collection of amber, some pieces con... more

The Museo del Ambar in Puerto Plata is a museum dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of Dominican amber, considered to be among the world’s finest. Housed in a Victorian mansion, it showcases an impressive collection of amber, some pieces containing well-preserved fossils of insects and plants. It`s a great place to learn about amber formation and mining process, and you can even purchase amber jewelry in the gift shop. The museum offers a unique and educational experience, particularly interesting for geology and paleontology enthusiasts.

Museum of the Royal Houses

The Museum of the Royal Houses, located in Santo Domingo, is one of the most important cultural monuments built during the colonial era in the Dominican Republic. It was designed to house the administrative offices of the Spanish colonies in the Amer... more

The Museum of the Royal Houses, located in Santo Domingo, is one of the most important cultural monuments built during the colonial era in the Dominican Republic. It was designed to house the administrative offices of the Spanish colonies in the Americas. Today, the museum exhibits artifacts, artwork, and documents related to the colonial history of the island. The building itself is a striking example of colonial architecture, featuring a beautiful courtyard. This museum offers a fascinating look into the historical background and heritage of the Dominican Republic.

Pico Duarte

Pico Duarte is the highest peak in the Caribbean and a popular destination for mountain climbers and hikers. Located in the Cordillera Central range, the mountain stands over 3,000 meters above sea level. The trek to the summit, which usually takes t... more

Pico Duarte is the highest peak in the Caribbean and a popular destination for mountain climbers and hikers. Located in the Cordillera Central range, the mountain stands over 3,000 meters above sea level. The trek to the summit, which usually takes two to three days, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The mountain`s environment hosts unique plant and animal life, including a variety of endemic bird species. A journey to Pico Duarte offers an unforgettable adventure for experienced hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Punta Cana

Punta Cana, renowned for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, is a resort town located at the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic. The pristine beaches lined with tall palm trees offer plenty of opportunities for relaxation and water sports... more

Punta Cana, renowned for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, is a resort town located at the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic. The pristine beaches lined with tall palm trees offer plenty of opportunities for relaxation and water sports such as snorkeling, windsurfing, and sailing. Its all-inclusive resorts provide world-class accommodation and dining. The nearby Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve is a private protected area offering guided tours through tropical forests, with freshwater lagoons and diverse fauna and flora. Punta Cana provides a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure for all types of travelers.

Samaná Peninsula & Samaná Bay

The Samaná Peninsula is known for its beautiful beaches, coconut plantations, and the quiet, friendly fishing villages. Samaná Bay is famous for its humpback whale watching opportunities. Every year between January and March, thousands of humpback wh... more

The Samaná Peninsula is known for its beautiful beaches, coconut plantations, and the quiet, friendly fishing villages. Samaná Bay is famous for its humpback whale watching opportunities. Every year between January and March, thousands of humpback whales migrate to the warm Caribbean waters in the bay to mate and give birth. Visitors can go on guided boat tours to see these majestic creatures up close, making it an unforgettable experience. The bay is also surrounded by lush forests, providing excellent hiking opportunities.

Santo Domingo’s Zona Colonial

Santo Domingo`s Zona Colonial, or Colonial Zone, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the oldest European-established city in the Americas. Walking through its cobblestone streets takes you back in time, with well-preserved 16th-century buildings incl... more

Santo Domingo`s Zona Colonial, or Colonial Zone, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the oldest European-established city in the Americas. Walking through its cobblestone streets takes you back in time, with well-preserved 16th-century buildings including the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor, the oldest cathedral in the Americas. Alcázar de Colón, the former home of Christopher Columbus`s son, is now a museum displaying medieval and Renaissance art. The district`s vibrant energy, historical significance, and architectural beauty make it a must-visit destination in the Dominican Republic.

Saona Island

Saona Island is a tropical island located off the southeastern tip of the Dominican Republic and is part of the East National Park. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, it`s a popular destination for day trip... more

Saona Island is a tropical island located off the southeastern tip of the Dominican Republic and is part of the East National Park. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, it`s a popular destination for day trips and beach excursions. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as swimming, snorkeling, beach volleyball, and sailing. The island`s untouched natural beauty and the diversity of its marine life make it a paradise for beachgoers and snorkeling enthusiasts.

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