Final Up to date on July 10, 2024
From the historic streets of Santo Domingo to the spearmint seashores of Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic is a paradise with lots to supply. Right here’s our 10-day Dominican Republic itinerary that can assist you profit from your journey.
Point out Dominican Republic and most of the people conjure photographs of picture-perfect seashores and pristine, castaway islands. Sure it’s true, the Dominican Republic has among the greatest seashores on this planet. However who desires to only spend the complete journey laying beneath swaying palm timber? I do know I wouldn’t!
As I found on my journey to the Dominican Republic, this Caribbean island is a lot greater than beautiful strands — it’s additionally residence to a flurry of historic colonial cities, huge rainforests, and pristine waterfalls. I’m sharing our 10-day Dominican Republic itinerary that may present you the opposite sides of the nation permitting you to take pleasure in greater than only a stroll on the seashore.
Dominican Republic Itinerary & Information
Because of the easy Dominican Republic entry necessities, it’s such a breeze to go to the Dominican Republic no matter your nationality. Residents of over 108 nations can enter the Dominican Republic as vacationers for as much as 30 days with out a visa. The record of visa-exempt nations contains the UK, USA, Canada, Mexico, Australia, Japan and the European Union (EU).
Attending to the Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic has six worldwide airports: Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, La Romana, Samaná, and Santiago. About 25 airways fly from the US to the Dominican Republic day-after-day, so planning your journey must be fairly straightforward.
The most affordable flights are from New York to Santo Domingo, which value round US$100 every method. You can too fly cheaply from Miami to Punta Cana, which prices as little as $250 every method. Seek for flights to the Dominican Republic right here.
Getting Across the Dominican Republic
By Automobile
Renting a automotive is undoubtedly the easiest way to discover the Dominican Republic. We spent round two weeks driving everywhere in the Dominican Republic, and made essentially the most of our time by exploring all of the corners we wished to see.
We booked our compact automotive on-line from Uncover Automobile for US$30/day, which was actually inexpensive, however we needed to pay a surcharge of US$60 for returning it at a unique airport, and in addition a compulsory third-party insurance coverage of $9.95/day.
For many who are touring Dominican Republic with children, remember that most of the rental businesses don’t have child seats or booster seats. I mainly carried our daughter in my arms within the automotive. Seek for automotive leases in Punta Cana right here!
By Bus
If you happen to’re uncomfortable driving overseas, I might counsel utilizing the bus to get round Dominican Republic. The preferred bus firm within the nation is Caribe Excursions, which connects each nook of the Dominican Republic. Metro is one other bus firm that’s bit extra high-end and thus barely costlier.
Each corporations have buses that go to Haiti — Caribe Excursions runs the route from Santiago to Cap Haitien (5 hours every method), and Metro goes from Santo Domingo to Port-Au-Prince (10 hours every method). Word that you could’t drive your rental automotive into Haiti. Journey to Haiti will be fairly difficult, however so long as you’re mentally ready and have made changes, you’ll be fantastic.
Dominican Republic Itinerary Map
Dominican Republic is comparatively giant, as in comparison with different Caribbean islands. I counsel spending 10 days in Dominican Republic to expertise completely different sides to it; in any other case you possibly can undoubtedly see it in per week. My Dominican Republic itinerary begins and ends in Punta Cana.
Abstract of this Dominican Republic itinerary:
- Day 1: Punta Cana
- Day 2: Take a Boat Journey to Isla Saona
- Days 3 & 4: Drive to Los Haitises
- Days 5 & 6: Santo Domingo
- Days 7 & 8: Cabarete by way of Jarbacoa
- Day 9: Puerto Plata
- Day 10: Head Again to Santo Domingo
Right here’s a map of my Dominican Republic itinerary. Click on to see it on Google Maps.
Obtain my Dominican Republic itinerary on Google Maps.
The best way to use this map: Click on on the highest left of the map to show the record of places, then click on on the places to show additional info. To open a bigger model in a brand new tab, click on on the highest proper nook of the map. Star the map to reserve it to your individual Google Maps.
10-Day Dominican Republic Itinerary
Itinerary Day 1: Punta Cana
This Dominican Republic itinerary begins in Punta Cana, a world well-known seashore city with a number of direct flights from the US, Canada and Europe. We selected to fly into Punta Cana as an alternative of Santo Domingo as a result of it was quite a bit cheaper for us to fly there.
Situated on the Dominican Republic’s east coast, Punta Cana is a sun-soaked paradise the place turquoise waves kiss miles of powdery white sand. Famend for its all-inclusive resorts, this tropical haven presents an ideal mix of rest and journey. I like to recommend spending your first day chilling on the seashore and admiring the pristine spearmint waters on this coast.
Even when you aren’t staying at any of the beachfront resorts, you possibly can nonetheless hire out seashore chairs and hang around at any of the bars. Most of those bars cost as little as $10 for a seashore chair. Nonetheless, there are areas alongside the seashore the place you possibly can simply lay down a towel and benefit from the solar. Or, for a extra adventurous expertise, e-book this guided tour that features horseback using on the seashore.
The place to Keep in Punta Cana
Funds: Hostal Johnnier Macao Punta Cana
Situated in Uvero Alto, Hostal Johnnier Macao presents a comfortable retreat. This visitor home encompasses a shared lounge the place you possibly can unwind after a day of exploring. Some rooms embrace non-public bogs for added consolation however these promote out rapidly. So, when you see one accessible, don’t hesitate to take it. Take a look at charges right here.
Mid-range: Tanama Resort
Present in Cap Cana, this resort presents a mix of rest and journey with its prime location and top-notch facilities. The resort is inside a 15 km radius of Punta Cana’s leisure space. Rooms listed here are outfitted with fashionable comforts like Wi-Fi, bidets, and walk-in showers. Take a look at charges right here.
Luxurious: Eden Roc Cap Cana
This unique resort blends Spanish colonial model with the class of huge seaside villas discovered on the French and Italian Riviera. Delightfully designed suites and the unique Caletón Seashore Membership set the stage for a peaceable frame of mind and holistic wellness. Solaya Spa presents luxurious therapies impressed by the island’s native traditions, making Eden Roc Cap Cana a sanctuary of indulgence. Test charges right here.
Itinerary Day 2: Take a Boat Journey to Isla Saona
The subsequent day, e-book a day journey out to Isla Saona, a extremely protected island that kinds a part of the Parque Nacional del Este. The island is uninhabited and it’s not allowed to remain in a single day right here. With glowing spearmint waters, powder puff white sand and no person for miles and miles in sight, that is essentially the most stunning island in Dominican Republic and when you’re searching for a castaway island paradise, that is it!
A typical Saona Island day journey features a catamaran trip from Bayahibe to the island, a buffet lunch, and a cease at a shallow sandbank. You’ll have the prospect to snorkel off the reef and sit back on the sandbank. E book your boat journey right here.
Itinerary Days 3 & 4: Drive to Los Haitises
The subsequent day, rise early to drive north for round 3 hours alongside the coast in the direction of Los Haitises Nationwide Park, a wilderness space that feels nearly too magical to be actual. It’s necessary to go to the park with a licensed information and you may rent one on the entrance. The guides are extremely educated and might level out the varied species of vegetation and animals you would possibly miss by yourself. E book this 3-in-1 tour the place you’ll discover Los Haitises Nationwide Park, Yanigua Waterfall, and Montaña Redonda.
One of many first stuff you’ll discover about Los Haitises is its intensive mangrove forests. Mangroves are extremely fascinating timber that may stay in salty, coastal waters. These tangled roots present a secure nursery for fish and different marine life, and so they assist defend the shoreline from erosion. Paddling by means of them in a kayak seems like getting into one other world.
Los Haitises can be a birdwatcher’s paradise. With over 200 species recorded within the park, there’s at all times one thing fascinating to identify. My private favourite is the Hispaniolan woodpecker, with its hanging black and white plumage and brilliant purple head. It’s a pleasure to observe them faucet away on the timber, fully oblivious to human presence.
The place to Keep close to Los Haitises
The closest city to the nationwide park is Sabana de la Mar, the place most individuals base themselves. It presents a relaxed ambiance with a give attention to ecotourism, with fairly just a few ecolodges dotted across the city. Most of them additionally supply boat excursions to discover mangrove forests, caves with historic Taino artwork, and numerous chicken species.
Funds: Rancho La Cueva
Rancho La Cueva presents rustic cabins and rooms surrounded by nature, offering a budget-friendly choice for guests to Los Haitises Nationwide Park. It’s recognized for its pleasant ambiance and proximity to the park’s sights. Test charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Paraiso Caño Hondo
Paraiso Caño Hondo is an enthralling eco-lodge with comfy cabins that overlook the river or gardens. It additionally has a number of swimming swimming pools, on-site restaurant serving native delicacies, and guided excursions to the park and surrounding areas. Test charges right here.
Luxurious: Samana Suites Resort
Situated close to the nationwide park entrance, this upscale resort offers luxurious lodging with beautiful views of Samaná Bay. It has spacious rooms with fashionable facilities, non-public balconies or terraces with sea views. Test charges right here.
Itinerary Days 5 & 6: Santo Domingo
For the subsequent part of this Dominican Republic itinerary, you’ll drive 2.5 hours to the nation’s capital: Santo Domingo. Town pulses with vitality amidst its colonial structure, the place each cobblestone avenue whispers tales of conquest and resilience. The outdated city (Zona Colonial) is the place a lot of the enjoyable is. You’ll want at the least 3 days to see all of it.
Take a Stroll Alongside El Conde
One of the simplest ways to seize the essence of Santo Domingo is to take a stroll alongside El Conde. This historic avenue is over 500 years outdated and one of many first laid by Europeans within the Americas. El Conde is lined with retailers, charming cafes, and vibrant avenue distributors, making it a bustling artery of Santo Domingo.
Alongside the best way, you’ll additionally encounter iconic landmarks equivalent to La Catedral, the Cabildo, Parque Independencia, and the Picota. Every step alongside El Conde is a journey by means of time, mixing colonial heritage with the heartbeat of contemporary Dominican life.
Trip El Teleférico
El Teleférico is a transformative cable automotive that ought to boost your time in Santo Domingo. Working as a mono-cable system with removable cabins, it seamlessly integrates with the Santo Domingo Metro. For round 50 cents USD, you possibly can board the metro after which take El Teleférico.
The cable automotive ascends by means of numerous neighborhoods and extends in the direction of the outskirts of La Victoria. It’s a distinctive strategy to get round Santo Domingo in addition to see the city from above floor.
Test Out Los Tres Ojos Nationwide Park
Situated simply 5 miles east of the historic Zona Colonial, Los Tres Ojos Nationwide Park presents a serene escape into nature. The nationwide park was named “tres ojos” for its three crystal-clear lakes discovered inside limestone caverns. You’ll pay round $2 on the entrance to entry the nationwide park.
Whereas inside, you possibly can discover the caverns both on foot or by boat, marveling on the pure magnificence and historic rock formations that encompass them. If you happen to hate strolling or are brief on time, I like to recommend you are taking the boat trip (it prices solely 50 cents). Whereas swimming isn’t permitted within the lakes, caving is an effective way to immerse in nature.
However I don’t advocate this exercise when you’re claustrophobic or have mobility points. Some components of the cave are very compact whereas the doorway’s staircase can be fairly steep. For an immersive expertise, be a part of this half-day tour.
Test Out the Chinatown Sunday Morning Market
In case your go to falls on a weekend, a must-see in Santo Domingo is the Chinatown Sunday Morning Market. This culinary journey presents a pleasant fusion of Chinese language-Dominican tradition. Each Sunday, the outside market showcases a mix of Chinese language and Dominican distributors promoting regionally grown fruits, greens, and an array of avenue meals.
Past the market stalls, you possibly can discover close by retailers and eating places for an prolonged culinary tour. These supply every thing from genuine Asian delicacies to specialty items, making certain a wealthy and flavorful expertise.
The place to Keep in Santo Domingo
Funds: Whala Boca Chica
If you happen to’re touring with Dominican Republic with children, Whala Boca Chica is definitely the place to remain! This extraordinary all-inclusive resort presents every thing you can need and extra. Plus, you and your loved ones can dive into quite a lot of thrilling actions equivalent to scuba diving, kite browsing, and bike excursions. Test charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Luca Resort by The OXO Home
Staying at Luca Resort is like stepping again in time whereas wrapped in fashionable luxurious. We have been captivated by its structure, which masterfully preserves its unique partitions from the 1400s. The resort effortlessly blends stylish class with cultural Spanish aptitude, creating an ambiance that screams old-school Caribbean vibes. Test charges right here.
Luxurious: Antiguo Resort Europa
Situated within the coronary heart of Santo Domingo’s outdated city, this resort has a fantastic location and delightful structure. We love its hanging exterior and the balconies with the attribute ironwork of the nineteenth century. I actually loved the resort’s Terraza Restaurant, which has panoramic views of the San Francisco Ruins and spectacular sunsets over the colonial metropolis. Test charges right here.
Itinerary Days 7 & 8: Cabarete by way of Jarbacoa
At present, you’ll head north in the direction of Cabarete, making a small detour at Jarbacoa after driving round 2.5 hours from Santo Domingo. Also referred to as the “Dominican Alps,” Jarbacoa is the right spot to take pleasure in stunning surroundings whereas having lunch.
Jamaca de Dios is an elegant restaurant up the hill the place you possibly can seize a fast chew and benefit from the spectacular views. There’s no loop again to the freeway, so that you’ll take the identical path again and proceed in your strategy to Santo Domingo.
Reaching the Surf City
Proceed driving two extra hours to succeed in the small seashore city of Cabarete. The seashore city has constructed a popularity amongst kite surfers resulting from its constant easterly winds. The city continues to be largely off-the-beaten in comparison with different components of Dominican Republic, and provides a very completely different expertise as Punta Cana. A enjoyable factor to do in Caberete is to go tubing down a lazy river. E book this stress-free non-public guided expertise.
Surf at Playa Encuentro
For a style of Cabarete’s burgeoning watersport scene, head to Playa Encuentro and surf the massive swirls that lap in opposition to its shores. The seashore has constructed a popularity for these trying to discover ways to surf. Playa Encuentro is well among the best browsing spots in South America.
Whether or not you’re a novice or a seasoned wave rider, Chino Surf College presents the right setup for everybody. Hire a surfboard, catch some light waves ideally suited for learners or problem your self with greater breaks additional down the seashore.
Head to Kite Seashore for Kitesurfing
I attempted kitesurfing for the primary time in Cabarete and I have to say that it’s a lot tougher than it seems. Fortunately, there are a number of kitesurfing faculties in Cabarete like Kite Level prepared that can assist you grasp the artwork. After you discover ways to trip upwind, it’s a lot simpler to tame the waves and the wind.
Go to the Cabarete Caves
Fifteen minutes away from city, you’ll discover the idyllic Cabarete Caves. These are discovered throughout the sprawling 30-mile El Choco Nationwide Park. The trail to the caves leads by means of espresso and cacao timber, and serene freshwater lagoons.
These historic caves have been formed over tens of millions of years. I like to recommend you are taking this guided tour for the final word expertise. Led by bilingual guides, you’ll discover the caverns whereas studying about their formation and their significance by means of the ages.
The place to Keep in Cabarete
Funds: Natura Cabana Boutique Resort & Spa
It is a charming eco-friendly boutique resort nestled amongst lush tropical gardens and only a brief stroll from the seashore. It presents rustic-chic bungalows and rooms with a give attention to sustainability and rest. Test charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Cabarete Maravilla Eco Lodge
I stayed on the Cabarete Maravilla Eco Lodge. Situated proper on the seashore, this eco-friendly retreat presents charming open-air rooms that allow the ocean breeze lull you to sleep. The small pool is ideal for cooling off after a day of browsing, and the bar & restaurant serves up scrumptious meals. Test charges right here.
Luxurious: Velero Seashore Resort
An expensive beachfront resort positioned within the coronary heart of Cabarete Bay, Velero Seashore Resort presents elegant suites and penthouses with beautiful ocean views, excellent for vacationers looking for consolation and luxurious. Test charges right here.
Itinerary Day 9: Puerto Plata
Simply an hour’s drive from Caberete is Puerto Plata, a vibrant metropolis dotted with historic museums and a fort to counterpoint you concerning the historical past of the nation. I like to recommend spending a day exploring Puerto Plata and visiting its treasure trove of heritage websites.
Discover Fortaleza San Felipe
Perched imposingly on the shoreline of Puerto Plata, Fortaleza San Felipe has a storied previous that echoes by means of its stone partitions. Initially constructed within the sixteenth century to defend in opposition to Dutch, French, and British incursions, this formidable fort is a staple on each Puerto Plata itinerary.
The fort was additionally a jail throughout the tumultuous reign of Trujillo within the nineteenth century. At present, on guided excursions like this, you possibly can discover this well-preserved navy relic, marvel at its strong structure, and soak in panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Puerto Plata.
Go to Amber Museum
Step into the Amber Museum and embark on a journey by means of time, studying concerning the historical past and significance of this fascinating gemstone. As you wander by means of the reveals, you’ll be entranced by beautiful amber items, every telling its personal story. A few of these golden-hued treasures encase historic bugs and plant materials, providing a uncommon glimpse into prehistoric life.
Hike to the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua
The hike to the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua is an journey price each step, as there’s nothing fairly like these refreshing waters. The journey is difficult, with steep climbs and rugged terrain testing your resolve, however perseverance is richly rewarded.
As you attain every waterfall, you’ll be greeted by crystalline currents that supply a rejuvenating dip, making each effort to get there really feel completely worthwhile. Whilst you can deal with the path by yourself, choosing this guided tour ensures you gained’t miss out on the hidden spots.
Stroll Across the Downtown
Strolling by means of downtown Puerto Plata is like stepping right into a vibrant portray dropped at life. Town’s charming structure and colourful homes make it a sexy spot to discover, with every avenue providing a brand new splash of character and historical past.
A stroll down Calle de Las Sombrillas, the well-known umbrella-donned avenue, is a feast for the eyes and the style buds. Ensure you cease for some scrumptious native ice cream at Helados Ivon. My daughter cherished this stunning spot.
Itinerary Day 10: Head Again to Santo Domingo
Sadly, your Dominican Republic journey has come to an finish and it’s time to go residence. It’s only a 3.5 hour drive again to Santo Domingo when you go straight. Alternatively, when you’re capable of finding a flight residence from Puerto Plata Airport, even higher!
We continued our journey from the north coast into Haiti and explored Cap Haitien, which was really eye opening! The distinction between Dominican Republic and Haiti was large; learn my information to Cap Haitien for more information.
Dominican Journey Information
Finest Time to Go to the Dominican Republic
There are two peak seasons for tourism within the Dominican Republic: the summer time months of July and August, and the winter season between December and late February, when the Dominican local weather is at its optimum. Whereas many main resorts have been absolutely booked throughout our journey in August, we nonetheless discovered it fairly straightforward to e-book on Airbnb on the final minute.
Understand that the Dominican Republic is within the centre of the Caribbean hurricane belt, and will get hit with a significant storm each decade or so. August and September is prime hurricane season, although smaller ones can happen within the months earlier than and after. Hurricane Irma hit Dominican Republic only a month after our journey, however it didn’t trigger an excessive amount of injury or lead to any casualties.
Driving within the Dominican Republic
It’s very easy to drive within the Dominican Republic, as roads are clearly marked and signal posts are straightforward to observe. It’s not a giant nation and distances are brief, so you possibly can simply drive from one seashore city to a different in two or three hours. Simply obtain the DR map on Google Maps to entry it offline.
Word that there are tolls everywhere in the Dominican Republic. Many of the tolls are round 60 Pesos (1.29 USD) every — anticipate to spend round 320 Pesos (6.70 USD) to drive from Santiago (west of the nation) to Punta Cana (excessive east). It’s notably costly to drive to the Samana Peninsula within the north; it value nearly US$20 every strategy to get to Las Terrenas.
Is It Protected to Go to the Dominican Republic?
The DR is mostly thought of a secure vacation spot for vacationers, particularly when you stick with the vacationer path. In keeping with world journey security experiences, the nation has a average crime fee, with most incidents occurring in small cities like Cristo Rey. Most vacationers, together with ourselves, expertise a trouble-free keep.
We’ve been to the DR twice, and by no means had something unhealthy occur to us. Training commonsense security measures, equivalent to safeguarding private belongings and being conscious of 1’s environment, contributes to a safe journey expertise in Belize.
Nonetheless, preserve an open eye to keep away from potential hassles. For instance, at gasoline stations, it’s common for attendants to drag tips on vacationers by not zeroing out the pump earlier than filling your tank. To forestall this, merely get out of your automotive and watch the pump to make sure it begins at zero.
How A lot Does this Dominican Republic Itinerary Price?
Spending per week within the Dominican Republic often prices round $1,025 for one particular person and $2,049 for 2 individuals, masking lodging, meals, native transportation, and sightseeing. Flight prices vary from $300 to $800 for a round-trip ticket, relying on the season and your departure location. Lodging can differ from price range inns or hostels beginning at $30 per evening to luxurious inns costing as much as $300 per evening.
Public transportation is inexpensive within the DR. A one-way bus ticket prices round $1 to $10, relying on distance and repair supplier. In the case of meals, price range eating places cost about $10 to $30 per particular person, with mid-range eating places being barely costlier.
Nonetheless, prices can differ considerably relying in your selections and vacation spot throughout the nation. For instance, Punta Cana is understood for its costly lodging in comparison with extra budget-friendly cities like Puerto Plata. Luxurious inns in Punta Cana cost northwards of $800 for an evening. Understand that these figures are approximate, topic to variation based mostly on components just like the time of 12 months.
What to Pack for the Dominican Republic
For this journey to the Dominican Republic, you’ll be spending most of your time strolling, so undoubtedly pack a number of sun-proof gear. KEEN footwear or regular sandals are additionally actually helpful for strolling on seashores strewn with seashells or corals.
Snorkel masks and fins will are available in helpful as you’ll be utilizing them quite a bit right here. Additionally, you’ll want to carry your spinning reels or different gear that you simply may not be capable to discover within the Dominican Republic.
Packing Checklist for the Dominican Republic
Get pleasure from Your Dominican Republic Journey!
Are you able to discover the Dominican Republic? Hope you discovered my Dominican Republic itinerary helpful! Be happy to bookmark this Dominican Republic itinerary in your telephone and refer it to it as you go alongside.
Be sure you depart a remark under when you’ve got any questions. Learn extra of my articles to get concepts on your subsequent weekend journey:
Disclaimer: This put up incorporates affiliate hyperlinks i.e. I’ll get a small fee whenever you e-book something by means of my hyperlinks, at NO further value to you. I solely advocate corporations I’ve personally used and loved.
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