Tourism in Dominican Republic

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Americas / Caribbean

Tourist attractions

Colonial Zone Zona Colonial

Region: Santo Domingo

Cultural Heritage

A UNESCO World Heritage cobblestone district featuring the first cathedral and fortresses of the New World.

Punta Cana

Region: Eastern tip of La Altagracia Province

Resort Beach

An international tourist destination with white-sand beaches and all-inclusive hotels.

27 Waterfalls of Damajagua

Region: Near Puerto Plata

Nature

A 27-level limestone canyon explored by sliding and jumping.

Pico Duarte

Region: Central Cordillera

Mountain

The Caribbean's highest peak at 3,175m, reached via 2-3 day trekking.

Bahía de las Águilas

Region: Pedernales Province

Nature

A pristine beach with minimal human development and turquoise waters.

Samaná Bay Whale Watching

Region: Samaná

Nature

Humpback whale breeding waters with thousands migrating annually from January to March.

Altos de Chavón

Region: La Romana

Cultural Facility

A 16th-century-style stone village with an art school and amphitheater.

Lake Enriquillo National Park

Region: Independencia Province

Nature

A saltwater lake at -40m elevation, home to American crocodiles and flamingos.

Las Terrenas

Region: Northern Samaná Peninsula coast

Beach Town

A bohemian seaside town developed by European expats.

Jarabacoa

Region: La Vega Province

Highland Resort

An adventure hub for paragliding, rafting, and more.

Suggested itineraries

Classic 7-Day World Heritage and Beach Tour

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Santo Domingo Colonial City, Punta Cana, Samaná Bay Whales, Altos de Chavón

Explore the historic capital, then travel by highway to eastern resorts. Enjoy ecotourism in Samaná and cultural village visits and golf in La Romana.

5-Day Mountain and Waterfall Outdoor Adventure

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Jarabacoa, Pico Duarte, 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua

Base in Santiago and head to the highlands. Horseback trek to the Caribbean's highest peak and cool down with northern coastal waterfall activities on the return.

3-Day Southwest Wilderness Route

Duration (days): 3

Highlights: Bahía de las Águilas, Lake Enriquillo, Playa Funda

Drive southwest from the capital. Tour the untouristed wilderness and crystal-clear waters by 4WD, experiencing crocodile observation and stargazing camps.

Travel tips

  • English is rarely spoken outside tourist areas, so prepare simple Spanish phrases
  • Tap water is not potable; purchase bottled water
  • Credit cards are widely used in urban areas, but cash (pesos) is essential
  • Avoid conspicuous display of smartphones or jewelry even during daytime
  • METRO and Caribe Tours buses are safe and comfortable for travel
  • Uber is available in major cities but avoid late-night use
  • Hurricane season is June to November; travel insurance is recommended
  • Collecting coral from beaches is subject to fines
  • Tipping is 10% at restaurants, 20 pesos per bag for porters
  • Casual attire is acceptable, but cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches
  • Insect repellent and sunscreen are essential year-round
  • Public Wi-Fi has low security; use a VPN for safety

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