Things To Do
in Higüey
Higüey is a bustling city located in the eastern region of the Dominican Republic. It is best known for being home to the Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, a famous Roman Catholic cathedral that attracts pilgrims and tourists. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with traditional music, dance, and local artisan crafts celebrated throughout the year.
Higüey also serves as a gateway to the stunning beaches and resorts of Punta Cana, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking both cultural and beach experiences.
- "¿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): $20 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to La Altagracia Basilica, an iconic symbol of the region. Admire the stunning architecture and take a moment for reflection.
Head to the local market to experience the vibrant culture and sample traditional foods. Engage with local artisans and shop for unique crafts.
Enjoy a traditional Dominican dinner at a local restaurant. Relax and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere with music and dance.
Take a short trip to Bavaro Beach for a morning of sun and sand. Enjoy the clear waters and gentle waves as you relax on the beach.
Indulge in water sports such as snorkeling or paddleboarding at the beach. Explore the beautiful coral reefs and vibrant marine life.
Dine at a beachfront restaurant and watch the sunset over the ocean. Savor fresh seafood and tropical cocktails while enjoying the view.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including the famous Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia.
- Beautiful landscapes and proximity to stunning beaches such as Arena Gorda and Bavaro.
- Growing tourism sector, offering a variety of activities and local culinary experiences.
- Warm climate year-round, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Potential for overcrowding during peak tourist seasons.
- Limited public transportation options, making it harder to explore beyond the city.
- High humidity and heat can be uncomfortable for some visitors.
- Infrastructure development may sometimes lag behind tourism growth.
- Economic disparities may be evident in certain areas of the city.
Best Activities in Higüey
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the stunning basilica, an important religious site and a beautiful example of Dominican architecture.
Enjoy the beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports.
Experience the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic with a guided horseback ride through the countryside.
Discover the diverse ecosystems, natural springs, and trails for hiking and wildlife observation.
Tours
Uncover the best of Higüey with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Higüey
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of Higüey and the surrounding area, and is a popular spot for photography
Provides a beautiful backdrop for photos and offers panoramic views of the city
Known for its impressive architecture and offers great views of the city
Food in Higüey
Higüey Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Considered the national dish, La Bandera is a hearty meal featuring rice, beans, meat (often pork or chicken), and salad. Sample this traditional comfort food at local eateries like El Ranchito Higueyano.
Must-Try!
This savory dish consists of fried, mashed green plantains mixed with garlic and pork cracklings (chicharrón). Try Mofongo at La Cueva de Francisco and other authentic Dominican restaurants.
Sancocho, a satisfying stew made with meats, tubers, and vegetables, is a staple in Dominican homes. You can savor this hearty stew at Comedor Familiar Donde Lucy.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Higüey better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant Mercado Modelo to discover an array of fresh produce, herbs, and spices. Indulge in delicious street food like empanadas, tostones, and fresh tropical fruits from the lively stalls.
Take a stroll through Higüey's bustling commercial streets to encounter a variety of street food vendors offering delectable snacks such as chimichurris, yaniqueques (fried dough), and pastelitos.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Higüey, it is important to show respect for elders, such as addressing them with proper titles and showing deference in conversations and interactions.
Greeting others with a handshake, a smile, and maintaining eye contact is a common cultural norm in Higüey as a sign of respect and friendliness.
Wearing modest and conservative clothing is often considered respectful in Higüey, particularly when visiting religious sites or participating in formal gatherings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Higüey with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Higüey
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally expected in Higüey, Dominican Republic, especially in restaurants and for hotel services. A typical tip is around 10-15% of the bill, though some establishments may include a service charge. It's also customary to tip taxi drivers and tour guides.
In Higüey, cash is commonly used for most transactions, although some larger establishments may accept credit cards. It's important to have small denominations of cash for purchases, as change for larger bills may not always be readily available. ATMs are accessible in the city for convenient cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Higüey.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Higüey is during the winter season when temperatures are mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the town and enjoying outdoor activities. The weather is generally dry with little rainfall, and you can expect clear skies and sunny days.
Spring is also a great time to visit Higüey as the weather starts to warm up, and the natural scenery becomes vibrant and colorful with blooming flowers and lush greenery. It's a perfect time for outdoor adventures and enjoying the cultural events and festivals in the region.
Summer in Higüey brings hot and humid weather with occasional tropical showers and thunderstorms. It's the peak tourist season, and you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and water activities. However, be prepared for high humidity and the possibility of hurricanes.
Autumn marks the wet season in Higüey with higher chances of rainfall and occasional tropical storms. While the weather is still warm, it's advisable to be prepared for rain if visiting during this season. The lush landscapes and lower tourist crowds can make it a peaceful time to explore the area.
Higüey at Night
Hiking in Higüey
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A protected area featuring diverse ecosystems, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. This park offers incredible views and opportunities for wildlife observation.
A popular hiking destination near Higüey, known for its challenging trails and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. A great spot for experienced hikers looking for adventure.
Though a bit further away, this park offers stunning hikes through mangroves, limestone cliffs, and unique biodiversity. Ideal for those who enjoy both hiking and exploring coastal ecosystems.
A family-friendly hiking spot that combines nature trails with recreational activities. Perfect for a relaxed hike while enjoying the beauty of tropical flora and fauna.
Beautiful trails along the Chavón River offer picturesque hikes with lush surroundings. A peaceful spot for hiking enthusiasts who appreciate serene landscapes and nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Higüey through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Higüey by plane.
The main international airport serving the Punta Cana region, located approximately 40 km from Higüey. It is the busiest airport in the Dominican Republic, catering to numerous international flights.
An international airport located about 60 km from Higüey, serving various regional and international destinations, primarily catering to tourists visiting La Romana and surrounding areas.
Located approximately 160 km from Higüey, this is the main airport serving the capital city of Santo Domingo and offers a wide range of international flights.
Situated about 200 km from Higüey, this airport serves the Puerto Plata region and operates numerous international flights to and from the Dominican Republic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Higüey, predominantly of mixed European, African, and Indigenous ancestry.
A smaller portion of the population, primarily of Spanish origin due to historical colonization.
Some residents are descendants of enslaved Africans brought to the island, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Lesser in number, with some remaining Taino descendants who retain aspects of their culture.
Includes recent immigrants from various countries, adding to the multicultural make-up of the area.
The Soul of Higüey
Discover the essence of Higüey through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is immensely popular in Higüey, as it is throughout the Dominican Republic. Local and national leagues are followed passionately.
Basketball enjoys a significant following in Higüey, with many young players participating in local leagues and informal games.
While not as dominant as baseball and basketball, soccer is growing in popularity, particularly among the youth, with various clubs and school teams.
Volleyball is played recreationally and competitively in Higüey, especially among women, with local tournaments held throughout the year.
Track and field events are also popular in schools, with many students participating in athletic competitions at various levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Higüey.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While the traditional Dominican diet heavily features meat, many restaurants in Higüey offer vegetarian options such as tostones (fried plantains), rice and beans, and fresh salads. For vegan choices, look for veggie-packed dishes like arroz con vegetales (vegetable rice).
Those with gluten sensitivities can opt for naturally gluten-free Dominican dishes like grilled fish with yuca and ensalada verde (green salad). It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs to restaurant staff for a seamless dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Higüey with these cultural adventures.