{"id":2192,"date":"2020-07-23T23:45:22","date_gmt":"2020-07-23T17:45:22","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/?page_id=2192"},"modified":"2020-09-23T16:54:48","modified_gmt":"2020-09-23T10:54:48","slug":"activities-and-sightseeing","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/?page_id=2192&lang=en","title":{"rendered":"Activities and sightseeing"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Known as the cradle of the Americas, the Dominican Republic is full of legendary landmarks scattered throughout the cities and regions of the country. See the first European buildings and monuments on the American continent along the streets of the Colonial City of Santo Domingo. Walk through the ruins of La Isabela in Puerto Plata province, where Columbus built his first and only home in America on a rocky cliff overlooking the sea. Go on a walking tour of the Dominican Republic&#8217;s only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the southwest of the country, where the region&#8217;s biodiversity is represented. Visit world famous beaches such as Playa Rincon on the Samana Peninsula. Learn the history of merengue in a small village near Puerto Plata, which is considered the birthplace of this dance. Visit the main cathedrals and religious sites of the Dominican people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can easily reach many of the legendary sights from the main tourist centers of the country &#8211; they operate all year round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-inline-spoilers-block\"><div class=\"spoiler-wrap\"><div class=\"spoiler-head collapsed\" title=\"Expand\">Santo Domingo<\/div><div class=\"spoiler-body\" style=\"display:none\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Calle-Arzobispo-Meri%C3%B1o-Santo-Domingo.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>ALC\u00c1ZAR DE COL\u00d3N<br\/><\/strong>One of the most popular museums in the Colonial City. Completed around 1512, this Gothic and Renaissance style palace was the home of Diego Columbus, son of Christopher Columbus, and his wife Mar\u00eda de Toledo, niece of King Ferdinand of Spain.<br\/><br\/><strong>CATEDRAL PRIMADA DE AM\u00c9RICA<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>Built between 1510 and 1540, the first cathedral of the Americas continues to stand tall in all of its glory over the heart of the Colonial City. The remains of Christopher Columbus were found here in the 19th century.<br\/><br\/><strong>CIUDAD COLONIAL<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>Stroll the romantic streets of the first European settlement in the Americas.<br\/><br\/><strong>FARO A COL\u00d3N<br\/><\/strong>Built in the shape of a cross, the Columbus Lighthouse stands over the eastern end of Santo Domingo. The remains of Christopher Columbus were located at this site, which doubles as a mausoleum and museum.<br\/><br\/><strong>MUSEO DEL MUNDO \u00c1MBAR<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>Set in one of the most beautifully restored 17th century colonial buildings, the Amber World Museum boasts a small but comprehensive display on this precious stone.<\/div><noscript><div class=\"spoiler-body\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Calle-Arzobispo-Meri%C3%B1o-Santo-Domingo.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>ALC\u00c1ZAR DE COL\u00d3N<br\/><\/strong>One of the most popular museums in the Colonial City. Completed around 1512, this Gothic and Renaissance style palace was the home of Diego Columbus, son of Christopher Columbus, and his wife Mar\u00eda de Toledo, niece of King Ferdinand of Spain.<br\/><br\/><strong>CATEDRAL PRIMADA DE AM\u00c9RICA<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>Built between 1510 and 1540, the first cathedral of the Americas continues to stand tall in all of its glory over the heart of the Colonial City. The remains of Christopher Columbus were found here in the 19th century.<br\/><br\/><strong>CIUDAD COLONIAL<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>Stroll the romantic streets of the first European settlement in the Americas.<br\/><br\/><strong>FARO A COL\u00d3N<br\/><\/strong>Built in the shape of a cross, the Columbus Lighthouse stands over the eastern end of Santo Domingo. The remains of Christopher Columbus were located at this site, which doubles as a mausoleum and museum.<br\/><br\/><strong>MUSEO DEL MUNDO \u00c1MBAR<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>Set in one of the most beautifully restored 17th century colonial buildings, the Amber World Museum boasts a small but comprehensive display on this precious stone.<\/div><\/noscript><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-inline-spoilers-block\"><div class=\"spoiler-wrap\"><div class=\"spoiler-head collapsed\" title=\"Expand\">La Romana<\/div><div class=\"spoiler-body\" style=\"display:none\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Altos-de-Chav%C3%B3n_13.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>ALTOS DE CHAV\u00d3N<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>Sculpted entirely of stone, Altos de Chav\u00f3n \u2014a model 16th century Mediterranean village\u2014is a delightful place to tour for its charming medieval feel, including plenty of shopping, fine dining, and bars.<br\/><br\/><strong>BAYAH\u00cdBE<br\/><\/strong>The scenic fishing town of Bayah\u00edbe is an attraction in and of itself; Bayah\u00edbe retains its Dominican pulse, from its local restaurants and bars to its street side arts and crafts stalls, and fishermen who bring catch daily.<br\/><br\/><strong>CASA DE CAMPO<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>It is one of the most exclusive and largest resorts in the Caribbean, spread over 30 square kilometers. Villas, restaurants and health and beauty centers abound along the coast, offering a true paradise of relaxation and tranquility on their private beaches. The resort also houses a private Marina located at the beautiful estuary of the Chavon River, where the river flows into the Caribbean Sea. The marina is equipped to provide anchorage for 350 yachts, which she successfully accomplishes, impressing tourists with the fabulous views of these luxury vehicles.<br\/><br\/><strong>ISLA CATALINA<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>Catalina is popular for water sports, particularly diving and snorkeling. Portions of the beach welcome cruise ship excursions, but the entire stretch is open for the public to enjoy.<br\/><br\/><strong>BAYAH\u00cdBE ROSE GARDEN<br\/><\/strong>Walk through a garden filled with the DR\u2019s pink-hued national flower: the Bayah\u00edbe Rose.<br\/><strong><br\/>ST. STANISLAUS CHURCH<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>Straight out of a medieval postcard, St. Stanislaus Church\u2014sitting in the heart of Altos de Chav\u00f3n and overlooking the Chav\u00f3n River\u2014was consecrated in 1979, and is one of the most beautiful churches in the DR.<\/div><noscript><div class=\"spoiler-body\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Altos-de-Chav%C3%B3n_13.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>ALTOS DE CHAV\u00d3N<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>Sculpted entirely of stone, Altos de Chav\u00f3n \u2014a model 16th century Mediterranean village\u2014is a delightful place to tour for its charming medieval feel, including plenty of shopping, fine dining, and bars.<br\/><br\/><strong>BAYAH\u00cdBE<br\/><\/strong>The scenic fishing town of Bayah\u00edbe is an attraction in and of itself; Bayah\u00edbe retains its Dominican pulse, from its local restaurants and bars to its street side arts and crafts stalls, and fishermen who bring catch daily.<br\/><br\/><strong>CASA DE CAMPO<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>It is one of the most exclusive and largest resorts in the Caribbean, spread over 30 square kilometers. Villas, restaurants and health and beauty centers abound along the coast, offering a true paradise of relaxation and tranquility on their private beaches. The resort also houses a private Marina located at the beautiful estuary of the Chavon River, where the river flows into the Caribbean Sea. The marina is equipped to provide anchorage for 350 yachts, which she successfully accomplishes, impressing tourists with the fabulous views of these luxury vehicles.<br\/><br\/><strong>ISLA CATALINA<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>Catalina is popular for water sports, particularly diving and snorkeling. Portions of the beach welcome cruise ship excursions, but the entire stretch is open for the public to enjoy.<br\/><br\/><strong>BAYAH\u00cdBE ROSE GARDEN<br\/><\/strong>Walk through a garden filled with the DR\u2019s pink-hued national flower: the Bayah\u00edbe Rose.<br\/><strong><br\/>ST. STANISLAUS CHURCH<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>Straight out of a medieval postcard, St. Stanislaus Church\u2014sitting in the heart of Altos de Chav\u00f3n and overlooking the Chav\u00f3n River\u2014was consecrated in 1979, and is one of the most beautiful churches in the DR.<\/div><\/noscript><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-inline-spoilers-block\"><div class=\"spoiler-wrap\"><div class=\"spoiler-head collapsed\" title=\"Expand\">Samana<\/div><div class=\"spoiler-body\" style=\"display:none\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/INS06-CHICA-CASCADA-Salto-el-Limon.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>AVENIDA DE LA MARINA<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>The scenic Saman\u00e1 Bay wins over every photographer\u2019s eye. This seaside promenade is the heart and pulse of the town of Santa B\u00e1rbara de Saman\u00e1. Residents and visitors relax on shaded benches facing the bay waters to take in views of anchored boats, ready to whisk visitors and fishers.<br\/><br\/><strong>SALTO EL LIM\u00d3N<\/strong><em><br\/><\/em>Reaching El Lim\u00f3n waterfall is an adventure that takes you on a 2.5-kilometer (1.5-mile) journey through thick forest, on horseback or on foot down lush hilly terrain, while spotting flora and fauna along the way. You can also go canyoning through El Lim\u00f3n river to reach the falls.<br\/><br\/><strong>LAS TERRENAS<\/strong><br\/>Las Terrenas is the perfect blend of a dreamy beach village and a cosmopolitan town. Its waterfront boasts multiple stunning beaches, as well as a variety of small hotels, bistros, apparel and arts and crafts boutiques, and lively bars.<br\/><br\/><strong>HUMPBACK WHALE WATCHING<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>More than 50,000 people visit Saman\u00e1 each year to watch the humpback whales during their mating season between 15 January and 30 March.<br\/>Thousands of visitors flock to Saman\u00e1 every year for its chief seasonal attraction: the equally large number of humpback whales that return to court, mate, and birth in the Atlantic waters off Saman\u00e1 Bay\u2013an area officially declared a Marine Mammal Sanctuary in 1986.<br\/><br\/><strong>LOS HAITISES NATIONAL PARK<\/strong><br\/>Los Haitises National Park is one of the crown jewels of the Dominican Republic\u2019s national park system. Los Haitises attracts numerous visitors who come here by boat to see its magnificent series of high rock formations; also, it boasts extensive mangroves along its bay, dotted with keys and caves.<br\/><br\/><strong>CAYO LEVANTADO<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>The small, picturesque island of Cayo Levantado sits just five kilometers (three miles) from Saman\u00e1 Bay, and boasts brilliant white sand and palm-fringed beaches. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, kayaking or paddle boarding, and enjoying fresh fish.<br\/><br\/><strong>SANTA B\u00c1RBARA DE SAMAN\u00c1<br\/><\/strong>Hugging a breathtaking bay dotted with sailboats and flanked by verdant bluffs, this small waterfront hub retains its fishing traditions, but it\u2019s also an eco-tourism destination thanks to the yearly visit of humpback whales. History and culture are also reflected in the diverse population, cuisine, and architecture.<\/div><noscript><div class=\"spoiler-body\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/INS06-CHICA-CASCADA-Salto-el-Limon.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>AVENIDA DE LA MARINA<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>The scenic Saman\u00e1 Bay wins over every photographer\u2019s eye. This seaside promenade is the heart and pulse of the town of Santa B\u00e1rbara de Saman\u00e1. Residents and visitors relax on shaded benches facing the bay waters to take in views of anchored boats, ready to whisk visitors and fishers.<br\/><br\/><strong>SALTO EL LIM\u00d3N<\/strong><em><br\/><\/em>Reaching El Lim\u00f3n waterfall is an adventure that takes you on a 2.5-kilometer (1.5-mile) journey through thick forest, on horseback or on foot down lush hilly terrain, while spotting flora and fauna along the way. You can also go canyoning through El Lim\u00f3n river to reach the falls.<br\/><br\/><strong>LAS TERRENAS<\/strong><br\/>Las Terrenas is the perfect blend of a dreamy beach village and a cosmopolitan town. Its waterfront boasts multiple stunning beaches, as well as a variety of small hotels, bistros, apparel and arts and crafts boutiques, and lively bars.<br\/><br\/><strong>HUMPBACK WHALE WATCHING<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>More than 50,000 people visit Saman\u00e1 each year to watch the humpback whales during their mating season between 15 January and 30 March.<br\/>Thousands of visitors flock to Saman\u00e1 every year for its chief seasonal attraction: the equally large number of humpback whales that return to court, mate, and birth in the Atlantic waters off Saman\u00e1 Bay\u2013an area officially declared a Marine Mammal Sanctuary in 1986.<br\/><br\/><strong>LOS HAITISES NATIONAL PARK<\/strong><br\/>Los Haitises National Park is one of the crown jewels of the Dominican Republic\u2019s national park system. Los Haitises attracts numerous visitors who come here by boat to see its magnificent series of high rock formations; also, it boasts extensive mangroves along its bay, dotted with keys and caves.<br\/><br\/><strong>CAYO LEVANTADO<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>The small, picturesque island of Cayo Levantado sits just five kilometers (three miles) from Saman\u00e1 Bay, and boasts brilliant white sand and palm-fringed beaches. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, kayaking or paddle boarding, and enjoying fresh fish.<br\/><br\/><strong>SANTA B\u00c1RBARA DE SAMAN\u00c1<br\/><\/strong>Hugging a breathtaking bay dotted with sailboats and flanked by verdant bluffs, this small waterfront hub retains its fishing traditions, but it\u2019s also an eco-tourism destination thanks to the yearly visit of humpback whales. History and culture are also reflected in the diverse population, cuisine, and architecture.<\/div><\/noscript><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-inline-spoilers-block\"><div class=\"spoiler-wrap\"><div class=\"spoiler-head collapsed\" title=\"Expand\">Barahona<\/div><div class=\"spoiler-body\" style=\"display:none\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/PLA5-PLAYA-SAN-RAFAEL-BARAHONA.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>BARAHONA CITY<br\/><\/strong>The city of Barahona is ideally located near beaches, cold rivers for swims, and is less than an hour away from an array of biodiverse parks, lakes, and mountains.<br\/><br\/><strong>LARIMAR MINES<br\/><\/strong>In the heart of Bahoruco\u2019s mountains, these mines are the only place in the world where larimar is found\u2013a semi-precious, turquoise-colored stone. Explore the mining area and witness workers climbing back out of holes\u2013running as deep as 40 meters (150 feet)\u2013with raw larimar stones.<br\/><br\/><strong>BARAHONA ENRIQUILLO COASTAL HIGHWAY<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>The drive down the Barahona Enriquillo Coastal Highway shows off a sparkling turquoise Caribbean Sea on your left, while the mountains of Barahona tower on the not-so-distant right.<\/div><noscript><div class=\"spoiler-body\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/PLA5-PLAYA-SAN-RAFAEL-BARAHONA.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>BARAHONA CITY<br\/><\/strong>The city of Barahona is ideally located near beaches, cold rivers for swims, and is less than an hour away from an array of biodiverse parks, lakes, and mountains.<br\/><br\/><strong>LARIMAR MINES<br\/><\/strong>In the heart of Bahoruco\u2019s mountains, these mines are the only place in the world where larimar is found\u2013a semi-precious, turquoise-colored stone. Explore the mining area and witness workers climbing back out of holes\u2013running as deep as 40 meters (150 feet)\u2013with raw larimar stones.<br\/><br\/><strong>BARAHONA ENRIQUILLO COASTAL HIGHWAY<\/strong><em><strong><br\/><\/strong><\/em>The drive down the Barahona Enriquillo Coastal Highway shows off a sparkling turquoise Caribbean Sea on your left, while the mountains of Barahona tower on the not-so-distant right.<\/div><\/noscript><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-inline-spoilers-block\"><div class=\"spoiler-wrap\"><div class=\"spoiler-head collapsed\" title=\"Expand\">Juan Dolio<\/div><div class=\"spoiler-body\" style=\"display:none\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/029-Playa-Juan-Dolio-Juan-Dolio.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>BARCEL\u00d3 RUM HISTORICAL CENTER<br\/><\/strong>Visit the historical center of one of the top rum brands in the country. Know the history of rum making in DR, its role in the culture, Barcel\u00f3\u2019s manufacturing process, tour the rum barrel storage areas, get to taste the various Barcel\u00f3 varieties of rum.<br\/><br\/><strong>CUEVA DE LAS MARAVILLAS<\/strong><br\/>This cave houses hundreds of well-preserved Taino pictographs and petroglyphs dating back thousands of years, and impressive samples of stalactites and stalagmites.<\/div><noscript><div class=\"spoiler-body\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/029-Playa-Juan-Dolio-Juan-Dolio.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>BARCEL\u00d3 RUM HISTORICAL CENTER<br\/><\/strong>Visit the historical center of one of the top rum brands in the country. Know the history of rum making in DR, its role in the culture, Barcel\u00f3\u2019s manufacturing process, tour the rum barrel storage areas, get to taste the various Barcel\u00f3 varieties of rum.<br\/><br\/><strong>CUEVA DE LAS MARAVILLAS<\/strong><br\/>This cave houses hundreds of well-preserved Taino pictographs and petroglyphs dating back thousands of years, and impressive samples of stalactites and stalagmites.<\/div><\/noscript><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-inline-spoilers-block\"><div class=\"spoiler-wrap\"><div class=\"spoiler-head collapsed\" title=\"Expand\">Puerto Plata<\/div><div class=\"spoiler-body\" style=\"display:none\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Cable-Car_005.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>MALEC\u00d3N DE PUERTO PLATA<\/strong><em><br\/><\/em>One of the most beautiful seafront boulevards in the DR, with multiple white sand beaches that line the city\u2019s main avenue. Catch a breeze, get a sunset drink, or walk the Malec\u00f3n\u2019s length all the way from town to Long Beach.<br\/><br\/><strong>MUSEO DEL \u00c1MBAR<\/strong><em><br\/><\/em>Some of the DR\u2019s stunning amber stones are displayed here. View closeups of stones containing a near 43-centimeter (17-inch) lizard, a scorpion, a centipede, wasp\u2019s nests, and two beetles mating, all of which date back to 15 to 20 million years<br\/><br\/><strong>MOUNT ISABEL DE TORRES<br\/><\/strong>Hike your way up or hop on the only cable car in the Caribbean to reach Mount Isabel de Torres, flanked by a giant statue of Christ the Redeemer\u2013one of the province\u2019s iconic landmarks\u2013and standing 793 meters (2,600 feet) above Puerto Plata.<br\/><br\/><strong>FORTALEZA SAN FELIPE<br\/><\/strong>One of the most important colonial military structures in the Caribbean turned museum, built by Spaniards in the 16th century to defend the DR\u2019s north coast from pirates. Touring the fort reveals the original canons facing the Atlantic, ancient weapons, and numerous hidden chambers.<br\/><br\/><strong>OCEAN WORLD ADVENTURE PARK<br\/><\/strong>Aside from dolphins, children and adults can enjoy a multitude of marine experiences, from shows with sea lions and nurse sharks to an exotic bird area, and snorkeling in an artificial coral reef aquarium.<br\/><br\/><strong>LA ISABELA RUINS<br\/><\/strong>Christopher Columbus built the first European settlement in the New World; the settlement\u2019s archeological ruins are still standing in this bay area, including Columbus\u2019s first home perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and nearby, the first church.<br\/><br\/><strong>BRUGAL RUM DISTILLERY<br\/><\/strong>The largest producer of traditionally made rum in the DR since 1888 offers tours of the distillery, including rum tasting and the chance of purchasing well-priced premium rums.<\/div><noscript><div class=\"spoiler-body\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Cable-Car_005.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>MALEC\u00d3N DE PUERTO PLATA<\/strong><em><br\/><\/em>One of the most beautiful seafront boulevards in the DR, with multiple white sand beaches that line the city\u2019s main avenue. Catch a breeze, get a sunset drink, or walk the Malec\u00f3n\u2019s length all the way from town to Long Beach.<br\/><br\/><strong>MUSEO DEL \u00c1MBAR<\/strong><em><br\/><\/em>Some of the DR\u2019s stunning amber stones are displayed here. View closeups of stones containing a near 43-centimeter (17-inch) lizard, a scorpion, a centipede, wasp\u2019s nests, and two beetles mating, all of which date back to 15 to 20 million years<br\/><br\/><strong>MOUNT ISABEL DE TORRES<br\/><\/strong>Hike your way up or hop on the only cable car in the Caribbean to reach Mount Isabel de Torres, flanked by a giant statue of Christ the Redeemer\u2013one of the province\u2019s iconic landmarks\u2013and standing 793 meters (2,600 feet) above Puerto Plata.<br\/><br\/><strong>FORTALEZA SAN FELIPE<br\/><\/strong>One of the most important colonial military structures in the Caribbean turned museum, built by Spaniards in the 16th century to defend the DR\u2019s north coast from pirates. Touring the fort reveals the original canons facing the Atlantic, ancient weapons, and numerous hidden chambers.<br\/><br\/><strong>OCEAN WORLD ADVENTURE PARK<br\/><\/strong>Aside from dolphins, children and adults can enjoy a multitude of marine experiences, from shows with sea lions and nurse sharks to an exotic bird area, and snorkeling in an artificial coral reef aquarium.<br\/><br\/><strong>LA ISABELA RUINS<br\/><\/strong>Christopher Columbus built the first European settlement in the New World; the settlement\u2019s archeological ruins are still standing in this bay area, including Columbus\u2019s first home perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and nearby, the first church.<br\/><br\/><strong>BRUGAL RUM DISTILLERY<br\/><\/strong>The largest producer of traditionally made rum in the DR since 1888 offers tours of the distillery, including rum tasting and the chance of purchasing well-priced premium rums.<\/div><\/noscript><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-inline-spoilers-block\"><div class=\"spoiler-wrap\"><div class=\"spoiler-head collapsed\" title=\"Expand\">Jarabacoa<\/div><div class=\"spoiler-body\" style=\"display:none\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Carnaval-La-Vega-2.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>LA VEGA<br\/><\/strong>Famous for hosting the largest, oldest, and most colorful carnival celebration in the country, and home to the two popular mountain destinations of Jarabacoa and Constanza. But La Vega is also home to one of Columbus\u2019 first gold settlements in the Americas.<br\/><br\/><strong>PICO DUARTE<\/strong><br\/>The highest mountain peak in the Caribbean, rising at 3,087 meters (10,125 feet), Pico Duarte is tucked amid two national parks, and is reachable in two or three-day excursions depending on the chosen route. Hiking to Pico Duarte is definitely one for the Caribbean traveler\u2019s bucket list!<\/div><noscript><div class=\"spoiler-body\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Carnaval-La-Vega-2.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>LA VEGA<br\/><\/strong>Famous for hosting the largest, oldest, and most colorful carnival celebration in the country, and home to the two popular mountain destinations of Jarabacoa and Constanza. But La Vega is also home to one of Columbus\u2019 first gold settlements in the Americas.<br\/><br\/><strong>PICO DUARTE<\/strong><br\/>The highest mountain peak in the Caribbean, rising at 3,087 meters (10,125 feet), Pico Duarte is tucked amid two national parks, and is reachable in two or three-day excursions depending on the chosen route. Hiking to Pico Duarte is definitely one for the Caribbean traveler\u2019s bucket list!<\/div><\/noscript><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-inline-spoilers-block\"><div class=\"spoiler-wrap\"><div class=\"spoiler-head collapsed\" title=\"Expand\">Punta Cana<\/div><div class=\"spoiler-body\" style=\"display:none\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Excursion-Isla-Saona_3.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>ISLA SAONA<\/strong><br\/>Located 19 kilometers (12 miles) south of the mainland, Saona Island\u2019s picture-perfect beaches attract more visitors than all of the country\u2019s national parks combined. A protected site spanning 110km<sup>2<\/sup>\u00a0(42-square mile) and part of Cotubanam\u00e1 National Park, Saona is a dream tropical escape, where long stretches of brilliant white sand and their giant coconut trees seem to melt into iridescent turquoise waters. Visitors can take day trips to enjoy the beaches, through a myriad of options ranging from speedboat to catamaran. Riding along Saona\u2019s stunning coastline scenery alone is worthwhile. Most trips leave out of Bayah\u00edbe village, from its small waterfront area. Stops in Saona include a swim at Palmilla, a white stretch with a wide natural pool, and at Mano Juan, the only inhabited portion of the island. Saona Island is also the DR\u2019s most important turtle-nesting site.<br\/><br\/><strong>CUEVA FUN FUN<\/strong><br\/>Aptly translating as the \u201cdouble fun\u201d cave, Cueva Fun Fun is located northwest of Punta Cana and offers a hiking and caving expedition that promises adrenaline pumping entertainment. A one-hour hike precedes arrival at the cave\u2019s entrance, on foot or horseback, after which you\u2019ll rappel into the cave, ready with your harness, helmet, and a rope. The adventures continue with a hike through this enormous cavern, filled with stalactites, stalagmites, water in parts and bats. It\u2019s the ultimate cave challenge to add to your bucket list<br\/><br\/><strong>SCAPE PARK<br\/><\/strong>Families find their bliss here\u2013whether swimming in the Hoyo Azul turquoise cenote, hiking the botanical gardens on site and learning about orchids, ziplining past thick canopy, horseback riding, or driving buggies through the wilderness.<\/div><noscript><div class=\"spoiler-body\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Excursion-Isla-Saona_3.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>ISLA SAONA<\/strong><br\/>Located 19 kilometers (12 miles) south of the mainland, Saona Island\u2019s picture-perfect beaches attract more visitors than all of the country\u2019s national parks combined. A protected site spanning 110km<sup>2<\/sup>\u00a0(42-square mile) and part of Cotubanam\u00e1 National Park, Saona is a dream tropical escape, where long stretches of brilliant white sand and their giant coconut trees seem to melt into iridescent turquoise waters. Visitors can take day trips to enjoy the beaches, through a myriad of options ranging from speedboat to catamaran. Riding along Saona\u2019s stunning coastline scenery alone is worthwhile. Most trips leave out of Bayah\u00edbe village, from its small waterfront area. Stops in Saona include a swim at Palmilla, a white stretch with a wide natural pool, and at Mano Juan, the only inhabited portion of the island. Saona Island is also the DR\u2019s most important turtle-nesting site.<br\/><br\/><strong>CUEVA FUN FUN<\/strong><br\/>Aptly translating as the \u201cdouble fun\u201d cave, Cueva Fun Fun is located northwest of Punta Cana and offers a hiking and caving expedition that promises adrenaline pumping entertainment. A one-hour hike precedes arrival at the cave\u2019s entrance, on foot or horseback, after which you\u2019ll rappel into the cave, ready with your harness, helmet, and a rope. The adventures continue with a hike through this enormous cavern, filled with stalactites, stalagmites, water in parts and bats. It\u2019s the ultimate cave challenge to add to your bucket list<br\/><br\/><strong>SCAPE PARK<br\/><\/strong>Families find their bliss here\u2013whether swimming in the Hoyo Azul turquoise cenote, hiking the botanical gardens on site and learning about orchids, ziplining past thick canopy, horseback riding, or driving buggies through the wilderness.<\/div><\/noscript><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-inline-spoilers-block\"><div class=\"spoiler-wrap\"><div class=\"spoiler-head collapsed\" title=\"Expand\">Santiago<\/div><div class=\"spoiler-body\" style=\"display:none\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Tabacco_2.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>CIGAR CAPITAL OF THE WORLD<br\/><\/strong>Santiago is the cigar capital of the world, with the largest production of smokes at the many factories. In February every year, the ProCigar Festival is held with organized visits to cigar factories and tobacco field tours to companies operations such as General Cigar, Davidoff, Matasa, La Aurora, Corporaci\u00f3n Cigar Export, Tabacalera La Alianza, La Flor Dominicana and the Fuente Foundation. Cigars can be sampled and purchased. Premium cigar smoking is guaranteed<\/div><noscript><div class=\"spoiler-body\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/08\/Tabacco_2.png\" style=\"width: 300px;\"\/><strong>CIGAR CAPITAL OF THE WORLD<br\/><\/strong>Santiago is the cigar capital of the world, with the largest production of smokes at the many factories. In February every year, the ProCigar Festival is held with organized visits to cigar factories and tobacco field tours to companies operations such as General Cigar, Davidoff, Matasa, La Aurora, Corporaci\u00f3n Cigar Export, Tabacalera La Alianza, La Flor Dominicana and the Fuente Foundation. Cigars can be sampled and purchased. Premium cigar smoking is guaranteed<\/div><\/noscript><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Known as the cradle of the Americas, the Dominican Republic is full of legendary landmarks scattered throughout the cities and<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":2183,"menu_order":3,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"ngg_post_thumbnail":0,"footnotes":""},"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2192"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2192"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2192\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4505,"href":"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2192\/revisions\/4505"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2183"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/dominicanatourism.info\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2192"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}