DOMINICAN REPUBLIC ATTRACTIONS

The sharp contrasts presented by the Dominican Republic alone are sufficient reason to decide visiting it. This tourist paradise has something for everyone and the range of activities is really extensive.

From the adrenaline of extreme sports to the relaxation of calm, clear waters, and from the old colonial cities to the latest resorts, this land of extremes leaves everyone who visits with a craving to return.

Water Sports

When we take into consideration the fact that the Dominican Republic is an island, it should not be a surprise to realize the wide variety of water sports offered by its crystalline waters. Some of the water activities that can be enjoyed in the Dominican Republic include parasailing, snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing on board a catamaran.

Due to its climate and constant winds, the beach of Cabarete is one of the favorite places to practice sailing and windsurfing. However, these sports are not exclusive of this place.

Diving

The Dominican Republic is a perfect destination for underwater tourism, since it has lovely coral reefs, caves, wrecks and a range of visibility beyond 20 meters as well as a wonderfully varied tropical fauna.

Jardin Tropical, Tres Rocas and La Pista are three very well-known reefs in the Sosua Bay. The peninsula of Samana features a very impressive complex of submarine caves surrounding the island of Las Ballenas, and the huge reef system of Punta Cana takes up almost the entire East Coast, going into the sea for over one mile.

Fishing

For sea fishing lovers, the Dominican Republic is a fabulous place. Every year, in April, there is an international fishing tournament for marlin, sailfish and dorado. It is held in the area of Cabeza de Toro and Boca de Yuma, in Higuey.

Outdoor Activities

The wide variety of climates and altitudes that the Dominican Republic features make it an ideal place for outdoor activities. Whether you are into hiking or cycling there is a perfectly suitable terrain inclination for every taste and ability. Those who prefer it can enjoy the outdoors on horseback. The vast cave system boasted by the Island is also a source of never ending fun.

Golf

The ruggedness of the terrain in the Dominican Republic, as well as its tropical weather, combine to make it a great place for golfers. Some of the main golf courses are: Diente de Perro in Casa de Campo, La Romana, where world tournaments are held, Cayacoa Country Club in Santo Domingo, La Altagracia in Punta Cana and Playa Dorada in Puerto Plata.

Ecotourism

One of the tours really worthwhile taking when in the island is the whale sighting expedition. Every year, between January and March, more than 3000 humpback whales arrive to these shores to reproduce. Other whales that visit these waters are killer whales, pilot whales, Cuvier’s beaked whale, Sei whales, Bryde’s whale and Minke whales.

Dominican flora is rich and varied. There are more than 5 thousand species of plants that range from conifers to tropical orchids, many of which are endemic to the island.

As a result of its rather broken terrain, the fauna of the Dominican Republic is also varied. Some of the sea birds than can be found here are: pelicans, seagulls, swallow tailed kites, and brown noddies. Other noteworthy birds are flamingos, which can be found in Enriquillo Lake and the Oviedo Lagoon. Also abundant are different kinds of parrots, and broad-billed todies.

There are several national parks and natural reserves where the true diversification of climates, flora and fauna can be appreciated. Some of these are: Enriquillo Lake, Cabritos Island National Park, Los Haitises National Park, Jaragua National Park. Oviedo Lagoon, Armando Bermudez National Park and Salto de Aguas Blancas (White Waters Fall).

Colonial Cities

Santo Domingo, capital city of the Dominican Republic, has kept the charm of a more than 500 year old colonial city. UNESCO has recognized this metropolis as a Cultural Heritage of Humanity and cradle of European Civilization in America since it was the first settlement of the Spaniards on their arrival to the “New World”. Its colonial quarter, fully restored, is full of houses and churches and holds within its boundaries the first cathedral of the continent as well as the first university and first hospital built by the Spaniards.

The Dominican Man Museum, the Modern Art Museum, the National History and Geography Museum and the Natural History Museum are all located in the Plaza de la Cultura, a big square where visitors can easily walk from one museum to another; these are some of the sights you shouldn’t miss while in Santo Domingo.

During the day, you can also visit the Aquarium, the Botanical Garden, the Zoo and Los Tres Ojos (the three eyes) a 15-meter-deep cave with 3 amazing lagoons where you can admire the stalagmites and the exuberant vegetation.

For those who rather go shopping, Santo Domingo is also a pleasure. It would seem that every single international brand wants to have its representation in the city. An extensive range of beautiful tropical attires and bathing suits can be found, as well as the breathtaking Dominican jewelry pieces of amber, larimar and bone.

Handcrafts

A distinctive trait of Dominican handcrafts is the heavy use of strong colors and natural elements which are abundant in the island. Materials such as coconuts, clay, metal and mahogany are used and transformed into a number of sculptures, chests, furniture and decorative articles.

Amber is the Dominican Republic’s national stone, It can be acquired in different locations throughout the country, but the largest concentration is in Costambar in Puerto Plata, where they have a museum dedicated to amber.

Larimar is a blue precious stone that can only be found in the Dominican Republic. It can be bought at the Modelo market in Santo Domingo, at the tourist shops or jewelries. It can be purchased loose (just the stone) or in a setting.

Hand rolled cigars are another tradition of the Dominican Republic that is currently very appreciated around the globe. These can be acquired at the different cigar clubs, tourist shops, hotels, airports or in several supermarkets. The northern zone is the biggest tobacco producer and there is a museum dedicated to cigars in Santiago.

Holidays

The Carnival is the most popular festivity in the Dominican Republic. It has been held since the time of the colony on the eve of the Christian lent and the entire population takes part in it. They go out in the streets to enjoy, share and cheerfully celebrate. The attires and costumes are particularly noteworthy.