Things To Do
in Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is a vibrant nation located on the island of Hispaniola, in the Caribbean region, sharing the island with Haiti to the west. It is known for its stunning beaches, rugged highlands, including Pico Duarte, the highest peak in the Caribbean, and a rich cultural heritage that blends Taino, African, and Spanish influences, especially evident in its music, cuisine, and annual festivals.
Its capital, Santo Domingo, hosts the Zona Colonial district, showcasing centuries-old architectural landmarks and serving as a testament to the country's history as the site of the first European settlement in the Americas.
- "¿Cómo tú tá?" - How are you?
- "Todo bien" - All good
- "¿Qué lo qué?" - What's up?
- "Ta bien" - It's okay
- "Búscame eso" - Get me that
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Zona Colonial, where you can wander cobblestone streets and admire colonial architecture. Don’t miss the Alcázar de Colón and the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor.
For lunch, head to a local eatery to try some authentic Dominican cuisine. After eating, visit the Museo de Las Casas Reales to learn about the island's history and culture.
Experience the vibrant nightlife by dining at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city. Consider ending your night with a stroll along the Malecón, enjoying the ocean breeze.
Spend your morning lounging on the beautiful Bavaro Beach, known for its white sands and turquoise waters. Engage in activities like paddleboarding or snorkeling to start your day with some fun.
Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a beachside restaurant. Afterward, take a catamaran cruise to explore nearby islands and spots for swimming.
Wind down by attending a beach bonfire or enjoying a dinner show featuring traditional Dominican music and dance. Let the sounds of the waves lull you into a relaxing evening.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and natural landscapes
- Warm tropical climate year-round
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Affordable cost of living compared to many countries
- Variety of outdoor activities including water sports and hiking
- Friendly and hospitable locals
- Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options
- Growing economy with opportunities for tourism and business
- High levels of poverty and inequality in some areas
- Infrastructure challenges, including roads and public services
- Issues with crime and safety in certain regions
- Limited access to quality healthcare outside major cities
- Corruption and bureaucracy can hinder business operations
- Hurricane risk during Atlantic storm season
- Environmental concerns due to deforestation and pollution
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
Best Activities in Dominican Republic
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning beaches of Punta Cana, known for their white sands and crystal-clear waters.
Take a hike through the lush tropical landscape of El Limón National Park, home to waterfalls and diverse wildlife.
Enjoy activities such as windsurfing, kiteboarding, and surfing in the coastal town of Cabarete.
Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the forest canopy in Anamuya, with panoramic views of the countryside.
Tours
Uncover the best of Dominican Republic with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Dominican Republic
Visit one of these nice places.
The highest peak in the Caribbean offers breathtaking panoramic views.
A picturesque island with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, perfect for photo opportunities.
A beautiful artist village with Mediterranean-style architecture, offering stunning views of the Chavón River.
Food in Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Dominican dish consisting of rice, beans, and meat, often accompanied by fried plantains. It is a staple meal served throughout the country.
Must-Try!
A beloved dish made from fried and mashed green plantains, typically served with a flavorful topping of meat or seafood. It is a delightful representation of Dominican culinary artistry.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Dominican Republic better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Santo Domingo, Mercado Modelo is an iconic marketplace showcasing an array of local street food options. Here, visitors can sample delectable treats such as empanadas, pastelitos, and tropical fruits.
Alongside the stunning shoreline in Puerto Plata, the Malecon comes alive with various street food vendors offering an assortment of fresh seafood, grilled meats, and refreshing beverages, providing an incredible dining experience with an ocean view.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In the Dominican Republic, people tend to stand closer to each other during conversations compared to some other cultures. It is important to be mindful of personal space and to not back away when someone stands close to you during a conversation.
It is customary to greet people with a handshake, a kiss on the cheek, or a verbal greeting, depending on the level of familiarity. Greetings are an important part of social interaction in the Dominican Republic.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Dominican culture. It is customary to show deference and respect towards older individuals, addressing them with titles like 'señor' or 'señora'.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Dominican Republic with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Dominican Republic
Ensure a smooth experience
In the Dominican Republic, tipping is commonly practiced in restaurants, hotels, and for various services. It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants, unless a service charge is already included in the bill. For hotel staff, a small tip for good service is appreciated. Tipping is also expected for tour guides, drivers, and other service providers.
Cash is widely used for transactions in the Dominican Republic, especially in smaller establishments. Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and in more rural areas. ATMs are available in major cities for withdrawing local currency. It's important to have some small denominations of Dominican pesos for making purchases and tipping.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Dominican Republic.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The winter season is the best time to visit the Dominican Republic, as the weather is comfortably warm and the humidity is lower. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
Spring is also a great time to visit, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists compared to winter. It's a good time for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the country.
Summer is the wet season in the Dominican Republic, with higher temperatures and increased rainfall. It's a good time for surfing and other water sports, but be prepared for occasional storms.
Fall is the hurricane season in the Caribbean, so there is a higher risk of tropical storms and rain. However, it's also the least crowded time to visit, and you may find good deals on accommodations.
Dominican Republic at Night
Hiking in Dominican Republic
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in the Caribbean, Pico Duarte offers a challenging hike with breathtaking views. The trek can take 2-3 days and passes through beautiful pine forests and montane ecosystems.
A stunning park featuring unique limestone formations, mangroves, and diverse wildlife. There are several trails for hiking that allow exploration of the park's natural beauty and cultural significance.
Located in the northern coast, El Morro offers a moderately challenging hike with rewarding views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes. Popular for its scenic vistas and natural surroundings.
Known as the 'City of Everlasting Spring', Jarabacoa provides various hiking trails suitable for different skill levels. Highlights include waterfalls, lush greenery, and a cooler climate ideal for outdoor activities.
An archaeological and natural site featuring a series of limestone caves and lagoons. Short hikes around the area allow visitors to explore the unique geological formations and enjoy the serene environment.
A remote beach area within Jaragua National Park. Hiking along the cliffs provides stunning views of the coastline and opportunities to explore hidden coves and pristine beaches.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Dominican Republic through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Dominican Republic by plane.
Located in Santo Domingo, it is the principal airport serving the capital of the Dominican Republic.
Located in Puerto Plata, it serves the northern regions of the Dominican Republic.
One of the busiest airports in the Caribbean, located in Punta Cana, catering primarily to tourists.
Located in Santiago, it serves the northern part of the country and is a key point for international travel.
Primarily serving the La Romana area and the tourist destinations nearby, it facilitates international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, found largely in urban areas, representing a mixture of European and Indigenous ancestry.
Primarily descendants of European immigrants, mainly Spanish, with a significant presence in higher socio-economic classes.
Primarily descendants of enslaved Africans, with a rich cultural heritage, mainly concentrated in rural areas and urban settings.
Comprises the Taino and other indigenous groups, although their population is quite small today.
Includes communities of Chinese and other Asian descent, with a smaller population compared to other groups.
The Soul of Dominican Republic
Discover the essence of Dominican Republic through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is the most popular sport in the Dominican Republic, with a rich history and a significant number of players in Major League Baseball (MLB).
Basketball enjoys a strong following in the Dominican Republic, especially among urban youth, and the national team has seen success in international competitions.
Volleyball is widely played both recreationally and professionally in the Dominican Republic, with the women's national team achieving notable accomplishments.
Football is growing in popularity in the Dominican Republic, with increasing participation and viewership of international tournaments.
Boxing has a significant history in the Dominican Republic, producing many world champions and having a strong fan base.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Dominican cuisine often revolves around meat and seafood, many eateries across the country offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look for plant-based options such as tostones (fried green plantains), yuca al mojo (yucca with garlic sauce), and fresh tropical salads for a delightful meat-free experience.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find suitable dining choices in the Dominican Republic. Opt for naturally gluten-free dishes like arroz con coco (coconut rice), grilled fish or seafood, and fruit-based desserts for a delectable and safe culinary indulgence.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Dominican Republic with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dominican Republic.