Top 10 Things to Do in Dominican Republic

Curiosities and Facts about Dominican Republic

• The Dominican Republic is the second largest country in the Caribbean, after Cuba.
• It shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti.
• The official language is Spanish, but many locals also speak English.
• The currency is the Dominican peso.
• The Dominican Republic is known for producing some of the best baseball players in the world.
• The country is home to the first cathedral, castle, and monastery in the Americas.
• The highest point in the Caribbean, Pico Duarte, is located in the Dominican Republic.
• The national dish is called La Bandera, which consists of rice, beans, and meat.
• The country is home to the first European settlement in the Americas, Santo Domingo.
• The Dominican Republic is a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons.

1. Visit Punta Cana

If you’re looking for a beach vacation, look no further than Punta Cana. With over 20 miles of white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and plenty of resorts to choose from, Punta Cana is a paradise for sun-seekers.

I personally stayed at the Majestic Colonial Resort during my visit and it was an incredible experience. The staff was friendly, the food was delicious, and the beach was just steps away from my room.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or take part in water activities like snorkeling or parasailing, Punta Cana has it all.

2. Explore Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo is the capital and largest city in the Dominican Republic, and it’s full of history and culture. The city’s Colonial Zone, also known as Zona Colonial, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to many of the country’s oldest buildings and landmarks.

During my visit, I took a walking tour of the Colonial Zone and it was fascinating to learn about the city’s history and see the beautiful architecture. I also visited the Alcazar de Colón, which was the home of Christopher Columbus’ son Diego.

If you’re interested in history and culture, Santo Domingo is a must-visit.

3. Go on a Whale Watching Tour

The Dominican Republic is one of the few places in the world where you can see humpback whales in their natural habitat. From January to March, the whales migrate to the Samaná Bay to mate and give birth.

I went on a whale watching tour during my visit and it was an unforgettable experience. We saw several whales breaching and slapping their tails on the water, and our guide provided us with plenty of information about the whales and their behavior.

If you’re a nature lover, don’t miss the opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close.

4. Visit the 27 Waterfalls

The 27 Waterfalls, also known as Damajagua Waterfalls, are a series of waterfalls and natural pools located in the Northern Corridor mountain range. Visitors can hike up to the waterfalls and then slide and jump down into the pools below.

I did this during my visit and it was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life. The waterfalls are stunning and the adrenaline rush from jumping and sliding down them is unforgettable.

If you’re looking for an adventure, the 27 Waterfalls is a must-do.

5. Try Dominican Food

Dominican cuisine is a mix of Spanish, African, and indigenous influences, and it’s delicious. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Mangu – mashed plantains served with fried cheese, salami, and eggs
• Sancocho – a hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and root vegetables
• Empanadas – fried or baked turnovers filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables
• Chicharrón – fried pork belly or pork rinds
• Tostones – fried plantains served as a side dish or snack

I personally loved trying new foods during my visit to the Dominican Republic, and I highly recommend stepping out of your comfort zone and trying some of the local cuisine.

6. Go on a Safari Tour

A safari tour is a great way to see the countryside and learn about the local way of life. During a safari tour, you’ll ride in the back of a truck and visit a typical Dominican home, a coffee and cocoa plantation, and a local school.

I did a safari tour during my visit and it was a fantastic way to see a different side of the Dominican Republic. I learned about the country’s history and culture, and I also had the opportunity to interact with locals.

If you’re interested in cultural experiences, a safari tour is a must-do.

7. Relax at La Romana

La Romana is a resort town on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. It’s known for its beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts.

I stayed at the Casa de Campo Resort during my visit and it was an incredible experience. The resort has its own private beach, as well as a marina, golf course, and spa.

If you’re looking for a luxurious and relaxing vacation, La Romana is the perfect destination.

8. Visit the National Park of the East

The National Park of the East is a protected area on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. It’s home to several beautiful beaches, as well as a variety of wildlife.

I visited the park during my trip and it was a great way to see some of the country’s natural beauty. I saw several species of birds and reptiles, as well as some of the park’s stunning beaches.

If you’re a nature lover, don’t miss the National Park of the East.

9. Go on a Catamaran Tour

A catamaran tour is a great way to see the Dominican Republic from a different perspective. During a catamaran tour, you’ll sail along the coast and stop at various beaches and snorkeling spots.

I did a catamaran tour during my visit and it was a lot of fun. We stopped at a secluded beach where we had lunch and did some snorkeling.

If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing way to see the coast, a catamaran tour is a great option.

10. Explore the Samaná Peninsula

The Samaná Peninsula is a beautiful and relatively undeveloped area on the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. It’s known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and whale watching opportunities.

I visited the Samaná Peninsula during my trip and it was one of my favorite experiences. We hiked through the El Limón waterfall, visited a local coffee plantation, and went on a whale watching tour.

If you’re looking for a more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path experience, the Samaná Peninsula is a great option.

FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit the Dominican Republic?

The best time to visit the Dominican Republic is between December and April, when the weather is dry and sunny.

Do I need a visa to visit the Dominican Republic?

US citizens do not need a visa to visit the Dominican Republic for stays of up to 90 days.

Is the Dominican Republic safe for tourists?

While the Dominican Republic is generally safe for tourists, it’s important to take precautions like not carrying large amounts of cash and avoiding certain neighborhoods at night.

What is the currency in the Dominican Republic?

The currency in the Dominican Republic is the Dominican peso.

What language do they speak in the Dominican Republic?

The official language of the Dominican Republic is Spanish, but many locals also speak English.