The Dominican Republic is a spectacular Caribbean island, a worthy destination to add to your bucket list! The DR is located in the Caribbean Sea and was founded by Christopher Columbus. The island shares one border with Haiti to the west of the island.

The DR is a tropical paradise, and it has it all; from beautiful sunshine and palm trees to wide white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. The island has a gorgeous and diverse landscape ranging from the rainforest to lagoons to mountains. You can enjoy wildlife encounters, scenic hiking trails, and oh so much to do and see!

This post contains affiliate links to trusted partners I think you’ll like.

Travel Tips For First-Timers

Vaccinations: Travellers are advised to have vaccinations against Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and Tetanus done before traveling to the DR. In some areas of the island malaria, pills are also advised. Check with your doctor about what is recommended for your needs specifically depending on the length of time in which you plan to stay and where.

Visa: Check the visa list to see whether you need a tourist visa, this visa is issued for 60 days upon arrival at the airport.

Currency: The official currency on the island is Dominican pesos; US dollars are used almost everywhere on the island however, using the local currency might be more economical and a better deal for you.

Do not drink tap water!

Pro Tip!

A Packing Guide For Your Next Trip!

Practical Information You Need To Know Before Booking Your Trip To The DR

When to visit

The island has a dry and rainy season; the rainy season is between April through to October and the dry season is between December and April, making it the best time to travel.

Where to stay

Punta Cana is legendary and for good reason! It is breathtaking and luxurious, basically the definition of what most of us look for when booking a trip to a Caribbean island. The location is ideal, from here you can easily take day trips to the rest of the island.

We stayed at the exclusive all-included resort "Secrets Excellence" Punta Cana. This resort was beyond amazing!

More hotel options to inspire you!

PRO TIP! I recommend going to an all-inclusive resort for a complete island luxurious vacation. When it comes to price, it will be cheaper and way more convenient for you to choose an all-inclusive resort. It will cost you more if you'll have to go outside of your accommodations for all your meals, drinks, and snacks for your children.
Speaking with other tourists on the island, I've learned that their food and drink expense during their stay was higher than mine.

Grand Sirenis Punta Cana Resort & Aquagames - All Inclusive

Majestic Mirage Punta Cana, All Suites – All Inclusive

Catalonia Punta Cana - All Inclusive

7 X Things To See And Do In The DR

Explore the beaches: There is no shortage of stunning beaches to go here so check a new beach every day. The most popular ones are Playa Rincon, Macao Beach, Boca Chica, Bavaro, and any beach you choose along the southern coast of La Romana and Bayahibe. 

Go on the water: There are endless options to choose; from diving and snorkeling trips to fishing trips to sunset cruises. One of the best is probably whale watching on the Samana Peninsula.

Fun fact: This is one of the breeding places of the humpback whale.

Visit Constanza: This is a wonderful and charming example of a La Espanola village. This village is surrounded by mountains, strawberry fields, and apple orchards; it is vibrant, colorful, inviting, and it will give you a glimpse of how the La Espanola villages operate. For the adventure seekers-sporty types, there are many cycling trails to enjoy in this area as well as hiking.

Visit Santo Domingo: This is the capital of the Dominican Republic and one of the Caribbean's oldest as well as the biggest city. When visiting this vibrant and buzzing city you’ll discover 500-year-old history while walking through the old center and the cobblestoned streets, it features beautiful Colonial architecture dating back to the 15 century, there is a big selection of museums, and don’t miss a visit to the Alcázar de Colón palace.

Visit the Damajaqua Cascades: Breathtaking nature awaits you! This is a complex of 27 waterfalls, hiking, and swimming in natural pools to name a few activities to do here.

Visit Los Haitises: This is a national park established back in 1976 located on the Northern coast of the island. The stunning rugged landscape will take your breath away! Limestone rock formations, caverns, and mangroves.

Hoyo Azul is beautiful, adventurous, and fun! This stunning blue hole/natural swimming pool filled with the bluest of water can be found at the foot of the El Farallon cliff. You will need to hike for a bit and cross an eco-friendly bridge or you can zipline to get to it, it will be however worth it! Unique flora and fauna can be found in the area of the DR so go and explore!.

Are you looking for another tropical paradise? This post is for you!

My Favorite Islands From Around The World!

I do hope you all stay safe and healthy and hopefully, we can resume normal life & travel soon!

Before we say goodbye, don’t forget to follow me on social for more travel content ~ Let’s connect on social ~ @mytrendytrail

Yours,

Diti