the Dominican Republic Travel Insights

2 Weeks in the Dominican Republic - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in the Dominican Republic, you can visit at least three regions at a comfortable pace. First-timers can hit the highlights in Santo Domingo, Samaná, and Jarabacoa. Nature lovers and those interested in a mix of outdoor and cultural activities, including snorkeling in Playa Dorada, will enjoy a trip from north to south, while foodies and wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate coffee tasting, bird-watching, and more in Barahona and Bayahibe, and visiting lesser-visited locales.

The Dominican Republic from North to South - 14 Days

Lose yourself in the spectacular beauty and natural wonders of the Dominican Republic. The highlights of this two-week adventure are many, beginning on the north coast with relaxing beach days, waterfall hikes, horseback rides, zipline adventures, and more. Then head south and finish the trip in the capital of Santo Domingo, a bastion of colonial history unrivaled in the Americas.

Explore the Beaches, Mountains & Waterfalls of the Dominican Republic - 14 Days

Get ready for two weeks of adventure and excitement in the Dominican Republic. It starts with tours of the colonial landmarks in Santo Domingo, followed by a trip to the highlands for horseback riding in Jarabacoa. Continue to the north coast and the tropical paradise of Samaná, where you'll laze on white-sand beaches, go snorkeling at offshore islands, and spot humpback whales.

10 Days in the Dominican Republic - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Visiting two to four destinations is ideal for 10 days in the Dominican Republic. For a nature and culture-focused itinerary, you'll want to see the white-sand beaches around Samaná and the highlands of Jarabacoa. Adventurers should head north to the coast to Haitises National Park to do some caving and kayaking, while travelers wanting to beach hop should hit Punta Cana and Bayahibe. To get off the beaten path, opt for hiking excursions from Barahona to the nearby national parks and Lago Enriquillo.

Explore a Different Side of the Dominican Republic - 14 Days

Experience lesser-known gems of the Dominican Republic's stunning southern coast on this two-week holiday. Start with a bike tour around Santo Domingo before you hike around rainforests, organic farms, and caves in and around Barahona. Finish the adventure on the stunning white sand beaches and islands of Bayahibe with snorkeling trips, buggy rides, diving in cenotes, and more.

Nature, Culture & Beaches of the Dominican Republic - 10 Days

Discover paradise on earth in the northern Dominican Republic. Over 10 days, you'll tour highlight locales like the white-sand beaches around Samaná, the towering limestone isles of Los Haitises National Park, and the misty highlands of Jarabacoa. Throughout the trip, you'll enjoy beach time, boat trips, horseback rides, waterfall hikes, and, of course, plenty of famous Dominican cuisine.

Off the Beaten Path in the Dominican Republic - 10 Days

Go beyond Santo Domingo and Punta Cana on a 10-day journey to discover the Dominican Republic's lesser-visited treasures. After touring the colonial landmarks in the nation's capital, you're off to the southwest region around Barahona, where you'll explore hidden coves and hike national parks. More than that, you'll laze on white-sand beaches, stroll cacao (cocoa) fields, swim in freshwater lagoons, go horseback riding, and much more.

Explore the Beaches of the Dominican Republic - 10 Days

You can't do better than the Dominican Republic for an unforgettable beach holiday. This 10-day tour is ideal for families and couples as it covers the highlights, from the white sands of Punta Cana to the turquoise waters of Bayahibe. Along the way, you'll enjoy adventures like off-road buggy trips, horseback rides, island hopping, and more.

The Wild Side of the Dominican Republic - 10 Days

Take a walk on the wild side of the Dominican Republic, where unspoiled national parks, white-sand beaches, and ancient caverns await. You'll arrive in the capital of Santo Domingo, and after a bicycle tour of the colonial landmarks, venture north to the coast and Haitises National Park to do some caving and kayaking. Then continue to the virgin coastline of Samaná for snorkeling, sunbathing, and swimming in lagoons.

1 Week in the Dominican Republic - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Whether you're on a family trip or traveling solo, like beach holidays or mountain excursions, there's the perfect holiday to suit your interests in the Dominican Republic. Seven days is all you need to do it all, from island excursions to snorkeling trips to waterfall hikes and buggy rides on the beach. You can also embark on horseback excursions through tobacco country, river rafting adventures, and walking tours of historic Santo Domingo.

Family Trip to the Dominican Republic - 7 Days

Enjoy the family trip of a lifetime over seven days on the Dominican Republic's south coast. You'll do it all, from snorkeling around offshore islands to visiting mysterious caves to off-roading around some of the most stunning white-sand beaches in the Caribbean. You'll also get active on a bicycle tour of Santo Domingo's historic sights, go starfish spotting in natural pools, and even spend time with playful squirrel monkeys.

Explore the Southwestern Dominican Republic - 7 Days

This packed seven-day itinerary will take you to some of the most beautiful and remote locales in the Dominican. It includes relaxing on white-sand beaches, hiking through national parks, visiting remote farming villages, and experiencing hidden gems most tourists never see. You'll also spot plenty of wildlife throughout the adventure, from iguanas and exotic birds to crocodiles and pink flamingos.

History, Culture & Adventure in the Dominican Republic - 7 Days

Get ready for seven days of highlight tours and off-the-beaten-path adventures in the Dominican Republic. In Santo Domingo, you'll tour the historic streets of the oldest city in the Americas, followed by horseback riding and river rafting in the highlands. Then, after lazing on sun-kissed beaches on the north coast, you'll hike to romantic waterfalls and soar over the treetops on a zip-line ride you'll never forget.

Explore the Northern Dominican Republic - 7 Days

This great escape to the north coast of the Dominican Republic packs a lot of adventure in just seven days. Around the city of Puerto Plata, you'll explore colonial history, laze on white-sand beaches, and hike to romantic waterfalls. Then, on the unspoiled Semaná Peninsula, you'll embark on quad adventures, trips to hidden beaches, and discover the best snorkeling spots along the coast and offshore islands.

5 Days in the Dominican Republic - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Five days in the Dominican Republic is just enough time to explore a couple of different regions of this tropical paradise. Enjoy the best of both worlds when you visit the colonial heart of Santo Domingo (the oldest city in the Americas) and laze on the white-sand beaches of the north coast. Or make the most of your time by exploring one single region, such as the unspoiled wonderland of the Samará Peninsula.

History, Culture & Adventure in the Dominican Republic - 5 Days

Get ready to stroll the streets of the oldest city in the Americas: Santo Domingo. This is just the first first of many adventures you'll enjoy over five action-packed days that include the highlights of the Dominican Republic. You'll see it all, from the Spanish colonial fortresses in the south to the white-sand beaches in the north—plus stops along the way for hikes to romantic waterfalls and to visit national parks.

Explore the Northern Dominican Republic - 5 Days

Take the road less traveled when you explore the Dominican Republic's spectacular north coast. Colonial fortresses, cascading waterfalls, emerald lagoons, and Blue Flag beaches are just some of the highlights you'll experience on this brisk, five-day escape. Throw in some fresh grilled lobster and a chilled adult beverage or two, and you have the ingredients for the trip of a lifetime.

Active Adventure in Samaná - 5 Days

Get ready for nature excursions and beach life in one of the most romantic, unspoiled regions of the Dominican Republic: Samaná. This peninsula has it all, from rainforests and waterfalls to secluded white-sand beaches. Over five days you'll discover the highlights on various hikes that will take you from coast to jungle, where you'll visit laid-back towns, mangrove forests, offshore islands, and everything in between.

Family Fun in the Dominican Republic - 5 Days

Five days is more than enough time to embark on family-friendly adventures in the Dominican Republic. It begins in Punta Cana, with activities around the country's famous white-sand beaches. These include snorkeling at gorgeous Saona Island, diving into the famed Hoya Azul cenote, and heading beneath the water on a "Scuba Doo" adventure that both kids and adults are sure to love.

The Dominican Republic in December: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

December in the Dominican Republic is a magical time when the country celebrates Christmas and the New Year in Caribbean style. Crowds trickle in mid-month to enjoy the festivities, of course, but it's also the first month of the dry season, which means more sun, less rain, and all-around beach bliss.

The Dominican Republic in November: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

You can start to say goodbye (or adiós) to the wet season this month. The Dominican Republic will start to feel sunnier and less humid by the end of November—plus, crowds are still light and the prices low before the incoming holidays in December. Just make sure to purchase travel insurance as this is the tail end of hurricane season.

The Dominican Republic in October: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

October is still low season and a good time to snag travel deals before the holidays arrive. Plus, rain begins to lessen towards the end of the month for even more hours at the beach. Just make sure to purchase travel insurance to be safe (it is still hurricane season, after all).

The Dominican Republic in September: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

With kids back in the classroom, September is a quiet time to stretch out at more than 200 beaches across the Dominican Republic. Keep in mind that this is peak hurricane season, but gutsy travelers will be rewarded with some of the lowest prices of the year (just don't skimp on travel insurance).

Highlights of the Dominican Republic - 5 Days

If you have less than a week to travel to the Dominican Republic, this is your trip. It's a five-day journey around the island that includes a guided bike tour of historic Santo Domingo, visiting the white-sand beaches at Bayahibe, learning about fine cigars at the VegaFina Cigar Factory, and much more. You'll get to know the real Dominican Republic with the help of the best local guides accompanying you on each activity.

The Dominican Republic in August: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

August in the Dominican Republic is low season with discount prices and lots of heat and humidity for kicking back at the spectacular beaches in true summer fashion. Keep in mind that this is hurricane season so you'll want to consider purchasing travel insurance to be on the safe side.

The Dominican Republic in July: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

July in the Dominican Republic is technically wet season with lower prices and—yes—more moisture. That being said, the country's famous beaches still boast long hours of sunshine without any storms, and there’s a fun energy afoot from local music festivals and family gatherings.

The Dominican Republic in June: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

June slows down in the Dominican Republic thanks to the rise of summer heat and humidity (and rain). But don't let that deter you—it's cheaper, less crowded, and chances are still high that you'll find plenty of sunshine at the country's many beaches.

The Dominican Republic in May: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

May is secretly a fantastic month to visit the Dominican Republic—long after the spring break and Easter crowds have departed and before the hurricane season arrives. Though heat and rainfall begin to gradually increase, there is plenty of sunshine to enjoy (and great travel deals to snag).

The Dominican Republic in April: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

Some fantastic deals can be found when visiting the Dominican Republic in April, especially at the end of the month as spring breakers dissipate—and following the Easter holiday. Overall, this is a great time to hit the beach and hiking trails before the heat and humidity of summer arrives.

The Dominican Republic in March: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

March is an extra fun month to visit the Dominican Republic, when sun-starved spring breakers arrive ready to hit the sand. If Easter falls early, it only adds to the festive vibe. This is also dry season so you can count on spectacular weather for enjoying dreamy beaches and outdoor adventures.

The Dominican Republic in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

It doesn't get much better than February in the Dominican Republic. Sure, it's peak busy season—thanks to the dry, glorious beach weather—but there's a peaceful window leading up to the arrival of spring breakers and Carnaval celebrations. Read on to learn more about this exciting Caribbean destination in February.

The Dominican Republic in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

The first month of the year in the Dominican Republic is safely within the dry season, making it one of the best times to visit, especially for those seeking balmy, but not-too-humid temperatures and ample Vitamin D. January is also high season, so expect some company—hola, snowbirds—while enjoying a range of activities from whale watching to hiking in the misty mountains.

Best Time of Year to Visit the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a great destination at any time of year, but the best season to visit depends on your travel priorities. Whether you plan to bask in the year-round warmth of a beach vacation, immerse yourself in the annual four-day jazz festival hosted in Cabarete, Puerto Plata and Sosúa, or trek to the summit of Pico Duarte, you'll want to learn more about the country's seasonal and regional variations before planning your trip.

Dominican Republic Self-Drive Adventure – 12 Days

This relaxed 12-day road trip checks off the best of the Dominican Republic's historic cities, idyllic beaches, and stunning national parks. Cycle through colonial history in Santo Domingo, explore breathtaking dive sites in Sosúa, discover the pristine beaches of the Samaná Peninsula, and kayak through the mangroves and islands of Los Haitises National Park.

Ultimate Dominican Republic: Santo Domingo, Cabarete & Samaná - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary takes you beyond the Dominican Republic's famous beaches to discover an island of diverse landscapes and exciting adventures. Your journey begins in the historic capital of Santo Domingo, where you'll tour America's oldest European settlement. Visit the nearby caverns of Los Tres Ojos, take your pick of watersports in Cabarete, and hike to waterfalls on the Samaná Peninsula.

Dominican Republic Adventure: Santo Domingo to Punta Cana – 15 Days

Escape to a paradise of turquoise waters and white sand beaches on this unforgettable 15-day journey through the Dominican Republic. Tour the oldest colonial city in the Americas at Santo Domingo, explore underwater worlds in Sosúa, and head to the pristine Samana Peninsula to discover towering waterfalls, hidden beaches, and the spectacular Los Haitises National Park. End your trip in the tropical haven of Punta Cana, where you'll unwind at the beach in between adventurous excursions.

How Many Days to Spend in the Dominican Republic

You can have a great getaway in the Dominican Republic in as short as a long weekend if you stick to either Santo Domingo or Punta Cana. However, it's recommended to spend at least a week to discover a more meaningful section of this Caribbean nation. Lucky travelers who have 10 to 14 days can comfortably explore most of the DR's diverse regions, experiencing the best colonial cities, Taíno archeological sites, and even the mist-shrouded Cordillera Central.

Dominican Republic Adventure: Santo Domingo & Samaná - 7 Days

If you are looking for an adventurous trip to the Dominican Republic, this itinerary is for you! Visit Santo Domingo on a bike tour and explore Santiago de los Caballeros. Finish your trip in Las Terrenas with its enchanting white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters.