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 loads to supply. Right here’s our 10-day Dominican Republic itinerary that can assist you benefit from your journey.
Point out Dominican Republic and most of the people conjure pictures of picture-perfect seashores and pristine, castaway islands. Sure it’s true, the Dominican Republic has a few of the greatest seashores on this planet. However who desires to simply spend your entire journey laying below swaying palm bushes? I do know I wouldn’t!
As I found on my journey to the Dominican Republic, this Caribbean island is a lot greater than attractive strands — it’s additionally house to a flurry of historic colonial cities, huge rainforests, and pristine waterfalls. I’m sharing our 10-day Dominican Republic itinerary that can present you the opposite sides of the nation permitting you to get pleasure from greater than only a stroll on the seaside.
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 on daily basis, so planning your journey needs to be fairly straightforward.
The most affordable flights are from New York to Santo Domingo, which value round US$100 every approach. You may also fly cheaply from Miami to Punta Cana, which prices as little as $250 every approach. Seek for flights to the Dominican Republic right here.
Getting Across the Dominican Republic
By Automotive
Renting a automobile is undoubtedly one of the simplest ways 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 automobile on-line from Uncover Automotive for US$30/day, which was actually reasonably priced, however we needed to pay a surcharge of US$60 for returning it at a special airport, and in addition a compulsory third-party insurance coverage of $9.95/day.
For many who are touring Dominican Republic with youngsters, remember that most of the rental companies don’t have child seats or booster seats. I principally carried our daughter in my arms within the automobile. Seek for automobile leases in Punta Cana right here!
By Bus
Should you’re uncomfortable driving overseas, I might recommend utilizing the bus to get round Dominican Republic. The most well-liked 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 firms have buses that go to Haiti — Caribe Excursions runs the route from Santiago to Cap Haitien (5 hours every approach), and Metro goes from Santo Domingo to Port-Au-Prince (10 hours every approach). Be aware you can’t drive your rental automobile into Haiti. Journey to Haiti might 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 massive, as in comparison with different Caribbean islands. I recommend spending 10 days in Dominican Republic to expertise completely different sides to it; in any other case you’ll be able to 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 through 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.
Easy methods 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 seaside city with a number of direct flights from the US, Canada and Europe. We selected to fly into Punta Cana as a substitute of Santo Domingo as a result of it was loads 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 provides an ideal mix of rest and journey. I like to recommend spending your first day chilling on the seaside and admiring the pristine spearmint waters on this coast.
Even if you happen to aren’t staying at any of the beachfront resorts, you’ll be able to nonetheless lease out seaside chairs and hang around at any of the bars. Most of those bars cost as little as $10 for a seaside chair. Nevertheless, there are areas alongside the seaside the place you’ll be able to simply lay down a towel and benefit from the solar. Or, for a extra adventurous expertise, ebook this guided tour that features horseback using on the seaside.
The place to Keep in Punta Cana
Price range: Hostal Johnnier Macao Punta Cana
Situated in Uvero Alto, Hostal Johnnier Macao provides a comfortable retreat. This visitor home contains a shared lounge the place you’ll be able to unwind after a day of exploring. Some rooms embrace non-public loos for added consolation however these promote out rapidly. So, if you happen to see one out there, don’t hesitate to take it. Take a look at charges right here.
Mid-range: Tanama Lodge
Present in Cap Cana, this lodge provides a mix of rest and journey with its prime location and top-notch facilities. The lodge is inside a 15 km radius of Punta Cana’s leisure space. Rooms listed below are geared up 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 fashion 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 way of thinking and holistic wellness. Solaya Spa provides luxurious therapies impressed by the island’s native traditions, making Eden Roc Cap Cana a sanctuary of indulgence. Examine charges right here.
Itinerary Day 2: Take a Boat Journey to Isla Saona
The subsequent day, ebook 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 if you happen to’re on the lookout for a castaway island paradise, that is it!
A typical Saona Island day journey features a catamaran experience from Bayahibe to the island, a buffet lunch, and a cease at a shallow sandbank. You’ll have the possibility to snorkel off the reef and relax 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 direction of Los Haitises Nationwide Park, a wilderness space that feels virtually too magical to be actual. It’s necessary to go to the park with a licensed information and you’ll rent one on the entrance. The guides are extremely educated and might level out the assorted species of crops 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 belongings you’ll discover about Los Haitises is its in depth mangrove forests. Mangroves are extremely fascinating bushes that may dwell in salty, coastal waters. These tangled roots present a secure nursery for fish and different marine life, they usually assist shield the shoreline from erosion. Paddling via them in a kayak looks like getting into one other world.
Los Haitises can be a birdwatcher’s paradise. With over 200 species recorded within the park, there’s all the time one thing attention-grabbing to identify. My private favourite is the Hispaniolan woodpecker, with its putting black and white plumage and brilliant purple head. It’s a pleasure to look at them faucet away on the bushes, 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 provides a relaxed ambiance with a deal with ecotourism, with fairly a couple of ecolodges dotted across the city. Most of them additionally provide boat excursions to discover mangrove forests, caves with historical Taino artwork, and numerous fowl species.
Price range: Rancho La Cueva
Rancho La Cueva provides rustic cabins and rooms surrounded by nature, offering a budget-friendly choice for guests to Los Haitises Nationwide Park. It’s identified for its pleasant ambiance and proximity to the park’s points of interest. Examine charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Paraiso Caño Hondo
Paraiso Caño Hondo is a captivating eco-lodge with snug 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. Examine charges right here.
Luxurious: Samana Suites Lodge
Situated close to the nationwide park entrance, this upscale lodge offers luxurious lodging with beautiful views of Samaná Bay. It has spacious rooms with fashionable facilities, non-public balconies or terraces with sea views. Examine charges right here.
Itinerary Days 5 & 6: Santo Domingo
For the following part of this Dominican Republic itinerary, you’ll drive 2.5 hours to the nation’s capital: Santo Domingo. The town pulses with power amidst its colonial structure, the place each cobblestone avenue whispers tales of conquest and resilience. The previous city (Zona Colonial) is the place many of the enjoyable is. You’ll want no less than 3 days to see all of it.
Take a Stroll Alongside El Conde
One of the best ways to seize the essence of Santo Domingo is to take a stroll alongside El Conde. This historic avenue is over 500 years previous and one of many first laid by Europeans within the Americas. El Conde is lined with outlets, 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 via time, mixing colonial heritage with the heart beat of recent Dominican life.
Trip El Teleférico
El Teleférico is a transformative cable automobile 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’ll be able to board the metro after which take El Teleférico.
The cable automobile ascends via numerous neighborhoods and extends in direction of the outskirts of La Victoria. It’s a distinctive option to get round Santo Domingo in addition to see the city from above floor.
Examine Out Los Tres Ojos Nationwide Park
Situated simply 5 miles east of the historic Zona Colonial, Los Tres Ojos Nationwide Park provides 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’ll be able to discover the caverns both on foot or by boat, marveling on the pure magnificence and historical rock formations that encompass them. Should you hate strolling or are brief on time, I like to recommend you are taking the boat experience (it prices solely 50 cents). Whereas swimming isn’t permitted within the lakes, caving is a good way to immerse in nature.
However I don’t suggest this exercise if you happen to’re claustrophobic or have mobility points. Some elements of the cave are very compact whereas the doorway’s staircase can be fairly steep. For an immersive expertise, be part of this half-day tour.
Examine 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 provides 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’ll be able to discover close by outlets and eating places for an prolonged culinary tour. These provide every part from genuine Asian delicacies to specialty items, guaranteeing a wealthy and flavorful expertise.
The place to Keep in Santo Domingo
Price range: Whala Boca Chica
Should you’re touring with Dominican Republic with youngsters, Whala Boca Chica is definitely the place to remain! This extraordinary all-inclusive resort provides every part you might 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. Examine charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Luca Lodge by The OXO Home
Staying at Luca Lodge is like stepping again in time whereas wrapped in fashionable luxurious. We had been captivated by its structure, which masterfully preserves its authentic partitions from the 1400s. The lodge effortlessly blends stylish class with cultural Spanish aptitude, creating an ambiance that screams old-school Caribbean vibes. Examine charges right here.
Luxurious: Antiguo Lodge Europa
Situated within the coronary heart of Santo Domingo’s previous city, this lodge has an ideal location and exquisite structure. We love its putting exterior and the balconies with the attribute ironwork of the nineteenth century. I actually loved the lodge’s Terraza Restaurant, which has panoramic views of the San Francisco Ruins and spectacular sunsets over the colonial metropolis. Examine charges right here.
Itinerary Days 7 & 8: Cabarete through Jarbacoa
Right this moment, you’ll head north in 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 proper spot to get pleasure from stunning surroundings whereas having lunch.
Jamaca de Dios is a classy restaurant up the hill the place you’ll be able to seize a fast chunk 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 option to Santo Domingo.
Reaching the Surf City
Proceed driving two extra hours to succeed in the small seaside city of Cabarete. The seaside city has constructed a repute amongst kite surfers because of its constant easterly winds. The city remains to be largely off-the-beaten in comparison with different elements of Dominican Republic, and offers a totally 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 large swirls that lap in opposition to its shores. The seaside has constructed a repute for these trying to learn to surf. Playa Encuentro is well top-of-the-line browsing spots in South America.
Whether or not you’re a novice or a seasoned wave rider, Chino Surf College provides the proper setup for everybody. Hire a surfboard, catch some light waves splendid for newbies or problem your self with larger breaks additional down the seaside.
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 appears to be like. Fortunately, there are a number of kitesurfing colleges in Cabarete like Kite Level prepared that can assist you grasp the artwork. After you learn to experience 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 inside the sprawling 30-mile El Choco Nationwide Park. The trail to the caves leads via espresso and cacao bushes, and serene freshwater lagoons.
These historical caves had 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 via the ages.
The place to Keep in Cabarete
Price range: Natura Cabana Boutique Lodge & Spa
This can be a charming eco-friendly boutique lodge nestled amongst lush tropical gardens and only a brief stroll from the seaside. It provides rustic-chic bungalows and rooms with a deal with sustainability and rest. Examine charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Cabarete Maravilla Eco Lodge
I stayed on the Cabarete Maravilla Eco Lodge. Situated proper on the seaside, this eco-friendly retreat provides 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. Examine charges right here.
Luxurious: Velero Seashore Resort
An expensive beachfront resort situated within the coronary heart of Cabarete Bay, Velero Seashore Resort provides elegant suites and penthouses with beautiful ocean views, good for vacationers looking for consolation and luxurious. Examine 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 complement 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 via 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 through the tumultuous reign of Trujillo within the nineteenth century. Right this moment, on guided excursions like this, you’ll be able to discover this well-preserved navy relic, marvel at its sturdy 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 via time, studying concerning the historical past and significance of this charming gemstone. As you wander via the reveals, you’ll be entranced by beautiful amber items, every telling its personal story. A few of these golden-hued treasures encase historical 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. When you can sort out the path by yourself, choosing this guided tour ensures you gained’t miss out on the hidden spots.
Stroll Across the Downtown
Strolling via downtown Puerto Plata is like stepping right into a vibrant portray dropped at life. The town’s charming structure and colourful homes make it a lovely 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. Be sure to cease for some scrumptious native ice cream at Helados Ivon. My daughter liked 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 house. It’s only a 3.5 hour drive again to Santo Domingo if you happen to go straight. Alternatively, if you happen to’re capable of finding a flight house 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 enormous; learn my information to Cap Haitien for more information.
Dominican Journey Information
Greatest Time to Go to the Dominican Republic
There are two peak seasons for tourism within the Dominican Republic: the summer season 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 had been absolutely booked throughout our journey in August, we nonetheless discovered it fairly straightforward to ebook on Airbnb on the final minute.
Remember the fact that the Dominican Republic is within the centre of the Caribbean hurricane belt, and will get hit with a serious 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 end in 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 comply with. It’s not an enormous nation and distances are brief, so you’ll be able to simply drive from one seaside city to a different in two or three hours. Simply obtain the DR map on Google Maps to entry it offline.
Be aware 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 virtually US$20 every option to get to Las Terrenas.
Is It Secure to Go to the Dominican Republic?
The DR is mostly thought-about a secure vacation spot for vacationers, particularly if you happen to follow the vacationer path. In keeping with international journey security stories, the nation has a average crime charge, 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 dangerous occur to us. Practising commonsense security measures, equivalent to safeguarding private belongings and being conscious of 1’s environment, contributes to a safe journey expertise in Belize.
Nevertheless, hold 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 stop this, merely get out of your automobile 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 normally prices round $1,025 for one particular person and $2,049 for 2 folks, 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 fluctuate from finances motels or hostels beginning at $30 per evening to luxurious motels costing as much as $300 per evening.
Public transportation is reasonably priced within the DR. A one-way bus ticket prices round $1 to $10, relying on distance and repair supplier. On the subject of meals, finances eating places cost about $10 to $30 per particular person, with mid-range eating places being barely costlier.
Nevertheless, prices can fluctuate considerably relying in your selections and vacation spot inside the nation. For instance, Punta Cana is understood for its costly lodging in comparison with extra budget-friendly cities like Puerto Plata. Luxurious motels in Punta Cana cost northwards of $800 for an evening. Remember the fact 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 loads right here. Additionally, make sure you deliver your spinning reels or different gear that you just won’t have the ability to discover within the Dominican Republic.
Packing Record 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 at liberty to bookmark this Dominican Republic itinerary in your telephone and refer it to it as you go alongside.
Remember to go away a remark under when you have any questions. Learn extra of my articles to get concepts in your subsequent weekend journey:
Disclaimer: This publish comprises affiliate hyperlinks i.e. I’ll get a small fee while you ebook something via my hyperlinks, at NO additional value to you. I solely suggest firms I’ve personally used and loved.
Impressed? Pin it!
