Holidays to Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic travel guide

• Top 5 things to do in the Dominican Republic

  Safari time

  Head inland on a safari to see the best of the Dom Rep countryside. Join a jeep safari or go rogue on your very own quad bike.

  Zip away

  The longest zip line in the Dominican is calling your name! Get your brave pants on because you’ll be zipping 400ft above the lush green hills of El Valle... upside down… but only if you wish. What a rush!

  Springs

  For a dip with a difference, you need to try the spring-fed pools, the turquoise emerald colours will amaze you! There are many but the most famous is the 27 Charcos de Damajagua in Puerto Plata.

  Rum & cigars

  When in the Dominican… rum and cigars are a must! Go tour the top cigar factories (Punta Cana, La Romana, Santiago, or Puerto Plata) or hop on a tour of the Brugal Rum Factory in Puerto Plata.

  Beach life

  What the Dominican Republic is best known for… its beaches! With over 200 beaches, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Whether you choose the white sandy beaches or the rarer black sandy ones, we recommend a trip to Playa Rincón, it’s world ranked!

• Dominican Republic food and drink

  It’s impossible to stick to just three meals a day in the Dominican with the temptation of tropical fruits, fresh produce and locally produced rums, ice creams and macadamia nuts available at every corner. Sample the delicacies of the Dominican and give your taste buds a truly exotic experience with Presidente beer and traditional stewed meat with rice, beans and fritters. With meals influenced by the other Caribbean islands as well as worldwide dishes given a Dominican twist, wherever you decide to dine, whether in your hotel restaurant or beach bar, you’re in for a tropical treat!

• Dominican Republic nightlife

  If the best part of your holiday starts as the sun goes down, you’ll be thrilled with the nightlife the Dominican Republic has to offer. Outdoor terraces and bars allow you to take in the views late into the night, whilst wine bars and clubs in the city host international DJs that will get you on your feet. And for a more cultured experience, share your night with the locals and encounter traditional live music, dancing to bachata and merengue in Montecristi.

• Dominican Republic sports

  Water sports in the Dominican Republic

  With the second-longest coastline in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic offers a combination of picture perfect beaches to soak up the sun, sip rum and enjoy the sounds of the waves, as well as beaches that reach out to the adventurous. The Dominican Republic has a large catalogue of water sports available including surfing, kite boarding, boogie boarding, windsurfing, and not forgetting snorkelling and scuba diving; the perfect activities for the crystal clear waters. Dives take place in a variety of 'out of this world' locations, including coral reefs, caves, and natural shipwrecks. And for those looking for the ultimate diving experience, there’s even the option to get up close and personal with humpback whales off the north coast.

  
  Dominican Republic sports

  This Caribbean island caters to sports lovers with the chance to experience the passion behind the Dominican’s favourite game, Baseball. The season runs from mid-October to February and offers a thrilling experience for visitors to the Dominican, witnessing the electric atmosphere as the team fights for victory.

  Not that you need another reason to visit but the Dominican Republic is ranked as the number 1 destination for golf in the Caribbean. With 25 courses set against idyllic coastlines and striking mountain ranges, 18 holes doesn’t get much better than this!

  
  Adventures in the Dominican Republic

  If you’re looking for adventure, the Dominican will not disappoint. From trips deep into the jungle to see squirrel capuchin monkeys in their natural habitat, to white water rafting up the Yaque del Norte River, and jeep safaris across the Dominican countryside through fruit plantations, rural communities and past waterfalls, your adrenalin levels will be through the roof.

• Dominican Republic lifestyle and culture

  Bursting with history, culture and heritage, and with both Spanish and American influences, there’s plenty to discover in the Dominican Republic.
  

  Take a Colonial City Tour and step back in time to 16th century Dominican Republic. The tour includes a stop at the 500 year old gothic Catedral Primada De América, the chance to explore Fortaleza Ozama, offering stunning views of the river, and plenty more stops to immerse yourself in the history of this captivating country.

  Both cigar and rum factory tours give you an insight into the traditional industries of the Dominican Republic, opening your eyes to the craftsmanship behind these popular products. With the chance to sample the rum and purchase premium varieties of each product, you won’t want to miss these tours!

  Explore the Living Museums of the Sea with a boat trip to Catalina Island, the resting place of Captain William Kidd’s historical shipwreck. Spend the day as a pirate of the Caribbean or simply enjoy Catalina’s secluded beach.

  The history of the Dominican not only lies in the streets and buildings but also the natural surroundings. Trek up the tropical mountains and get lost among the wildlife and greenery, or travel on horseback through coffee and cocoa plants before reaching Samaná Falls where you can truly experience the exotic.

  Another way to immerse yourself in the culture of the Dominican is with one of the many festivals that take place throughout the year, celebrating the art, music and dance that have been an integral part of the Dominican Republic’s history.

• Dominican Republic events - what's on when?

  January

  Whale Watching Season

  From mid-January until the end of March, witness one of nature’s most exciting shows with whale watching in Samaná Bay. Tours are available throughout the season to witness humpback whales in their natural environment as they arrive in the Dominican Republic mammals sanctuary to mate and breed.

  
  February

  Procigar Festival

  Experience the Dominican’s cigar industry in the city of La Romana, with a huge selection of cigars to sample, factory tours, and seminars all about the secrets behind the smoke.

  
  March

  National Carnival Parade

  The beginning of March sees the streets of Santo Domingo bursting with colour as The National Carnival Parade takes place. All the regions of the Dominican come together for a show that will stay with you long after your plane lands back home.

  
  April

  Casa De Campo Spring Shootout

  Amateur golfers dust down your clubs for the annual Casa De Campo Spring Shootout tournament, played over 54 holes including the Teeth of the Dog, The Links and Dye Fore courses.

  
  May

  Wiche García Saleta Water Festival

  Perfect for water sports lovers. The Water Festival Wiche García Saleta involves sailing, kayaking and swimming competitions, and for those that prefer dry land, the festival also includes a 3.2 km marathon.

  
  June

  100km Del Caribe

  For those that prefer a more active holiday, the 100km Del Caribe in Palmar de Ocoa is open to both runners and walkers, with the competition taking place over seven days. There are five stages that cover a variety of terrains including tropical mountain tracks and white, sandy beaches.

  
  July

  Punta Cana Tri Sports Summer Fest

  This Punta Cana event is a must for those who love a challenge. And what better place to tackle a triathlon than in paradise!?

  
  August

  Holi Sun Festival of Colors

  It doesn’t get more colourful than the Holi Sun festival, taking place in the Jardín Botánico. Be prepared for a lot of fun and a lot of mess!

  
  September

  Palito Seco Regatta

  Experience the Palito Seco Regatta in Malecón de Barahona and see sailors compete as the waters become jam packed with boats.

  
  October

  Oktoberfest

  This worldwide beer festival needs no introduction. There are activities for the whole family as Santiago City opens its doors to Oktoberfest.

  Dominicana Moda

  For all things fashion, Dominicana Moda is the place to be. Taking place in Santo Domingo, this event includes five full days of runways, exhibits and designers.

  
  November

  Dr Jazz Festival

  As the oldest jazz event in the Dominican, this festival will not disappoint. With four days of both local and international music, dancing and culture, the DR Jazz Festival has something for everyone.

  Barceló Bávaro Culinary Week

  For a taste of the Dominican, don’t miss Barceló Bávaro Culinary Week in Punta Cana. Full to the brim with food and drink stands, cooking demonstrations, and top chefs, there are plenty of chances to sample the true flavours of this exciting destination.

  
  December

  Santo Domingo de Fiesta

  Every Friday and Saturday throughout the year sees the Santo Domingo de Fiesta taking place at the Plaza España, Colonial City. So what better way to celebrate Christmas than by embracing the traditional festivities of the region.