18 Best Things To Do In Punta Cana In The Dominican Republic
18 Best Things To Do In Punta Cana In The Dominican Republic
In May 2015 we headed happily and a little stressed to Munich Airport, because this was our first trip outside Europe and we were going to fly 8 hours. To our satisfaction, the flight went smoothly and when we arrived at the airport near Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic we were deeply impressed. The airport seemed covered with straw and there were open spaces, we already had the beauty of Caribbean buildings.
Table of Contents
Dominican Republic Map
Food Prices: Cheap Restaurant 6 USD/person, Mid-range Restaurant 2 persons 36 USD
Visa: we filled out the visa forms on arrival on the plane and had to pay the $ 10 fee at the airport.
Informations
The Dominican Republic is a country located on the island of Hispaniola in the Greater Antilles archipelago of the Caribbean region. It occupies the eastern five-eighths of the island, which it shares with Haiti, making Hispaniola one of only two Caribbean islands, along with Saint Martin, that are shared by two sovereign states.
Temperature: The high season lasts from mid-December to mid-April. The weather remains pleasant and perfect for beach activities. You may also find a few cloudy days with cool breeze flowing. However, these periods often don’t last long. April is the most idyllic month to be spent on Dominican Republic.
Language: the main language is Spanish. English is also spoken because there are many tourists everywhere. There are also many tourists from Brazil. So you will hear a lot of Portuguese.
Currency: The currency of Dominican Republic is Dominican Peso.1€ Euro you can get aprox 69 DOP, $1 USD = 57 DOP. We did not changed our money, we had dollars and we could used them everywhere, we paid everything with dollars without problems.
Things to do
We stayed in Dominican Republic 11 days and we really enjoyed or time there. The only thing you would know from the first day is that, if you will leave the hotel ground you will assume the consequences.
It is assumed that if you leave the hotel area of Punta Cana you may be in danger. We decided to listen to these tips and all the trips we made we had transport from the hotel and back. When we went to the club, we chose to take a taxi.
We didn’t think we could be really in danger, but when we returned from the trip on the islands we passed the town of the inhabitants and unfortunately, we saw a completely different world than the luxurious one in the hotels. They lived in great poverty and that made us very sad.
We chose the tour to Isla Saona, Isla Catalina, Buggies Tour ,Santo Domingo and we also bought a ticket for Imagine Punta Cana ,a club in a cave-it was very nice and they had good music. These are our memories from this amazing vacation:
Isla Saona
The approximately 110 km² large island of Isla Saona is located in the province of La Altagracia in the east of the Dominican Republic. The island is also called Adamanay by the natives, the Taíno. It belongs to the Parque Nacional del Este and is a protected area. It is one of the largest national parks in the country and is known for its abundance of birds, especially rare bird species. The originally tropical vegetation was increasingly replaced by palm forests and sandy beaches. Saona has two settlements, the fishing village of Mano Juan on the south and Catuano on the western tip, which also has a naval base.
Isla Catalina
The approximately 9 km² large island of Isla Catalina, also called Toeya by the indigenous population, is located in the east of the Dominican Republic about 3 km southwest of the mainland and two kilometers south of the coastal town of La Romana. It has an approximately triangular floor plan. However, it is part of the province of La Altagracia further east and belongs there to the Bayahibe district of the municipality of San Rafael del Yuma. The island is uninhabited. On its west coast there are bathing beaches, which are often visited by tourist boats.
Imagine Punta Cana
“Imagine Punta Cana, which is known as the “The Cave”, is the nighttime reference of Punta Cana, meaning “The Spot”, because it is the only nightclub inside a cave where music, people and good vibes come together.
Buggies Tour & Playa Macao
Playa Macao has a huge wide beach WITHOUT “sea of plastic beach chairs”!! Beach ideal for swimming, but beginners will also find what they are looking for here! Within the short area with “small bars” and souvenir vendors, it was a bit overcrowded at times. If you ask for a menu card , you will be led straight to the freezer under the trees.
Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic
Altos de Chavón
Altos de Chavón is a replica of a 16th-century style village and a tourist attraction in the La Romana province of the Dominican Republic.Construction began in 1976 when a path was blasted for a road and a bridge over the Rio Chavón, so plenty of stone was on hand. The village was completed in the early 1980s. The Church of St. Stanislaus is often booked for weddings.
An archaeological museum shows finds of pre-Columbian cultures from the area.
Santo Domingo Cathedral
The Santo Domingo Cathedral or Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of the Annunciation, Primarica Cathedral of the Americas is a Roman Catholic church in Santo Domingo, capital of the Dominican Republic. It is the Cathedral of the Archdiocese of Santo Domingo with the Patronage of the Annunciation. It was the first church in the New World and, as part of the colonial city of Santo Domingo, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990.
Scape Park
Do the zipline first, when it’s not too hot then enjoy the water activities after. A lot of people bought water shoes but trainers were fine as you can leave them to the side for the water attractions. The site was beautiful! A shame one of the caves was shut but still felt worth the money! It was easy to fill up the whole day. If you want good pics buy a waterproof phone case when you’re there (they mainly deal in dollars) and the lockers were handy ($5) to keep everything safe during the day.
Alcázar de Colón
The Alcázar de Colón is a palace built under Diego Columbus from 1510 to 1514 in Santo Domingo for the then viceroy. This was the seat of Spanish colonial government in the New World for six decades. Today it houses the Viceroyal Museum.
Museo de las Casas Reales
You will get very much information about the whole island and visual history of the Dominican Republic and Haiti which were together “Española” in those times. We recommend to take the guided tour for a better experience at the museum.
Playa Boca Chica
Beautiful beach, but be cautious, tons of scammers, large crowds, parking can be difficult, and getting your own spot on the beach can be a challenge. Just be smart and careful and we would suggest staying close to the hotels.
Columbus Park
Beautiful iconic place to enjoy with the family. Historic place of the Dominican Republic and the pigeons make the experience even better. Many characters and talented people around. This place is recommended for tourists, locals, couples, and families with children.
Fortaleza de San Felipe
Great place to visit for historic site of Puerto Plata and see the strength of this country and its development through centuries.Entrance is only 2$ and they give you free audio guide that’s included.
Cave of Wonders
The Cave of Wonders really is an absolute highlight in the La Romana area. Beautiful color spectacles and really beautiful stalagmites and stalactites really amaze you. The Aboriginal paintings are also fascinating.
Basilica of Higuey
The Basilica of Higüey, officially called Basilica Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia, is a modern Catholic national shrine in the city of Salvaleón de Higüey in the Dominican Republic. It is the cathedral of the Diocese of Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia en Higüey in Higüey and one of the most visited sanctuaries in the Caribbean.
Fortaleza Ozama
Beautiful fort at the heart of the colonial area. The tickets were about 140 pesos per person. We did not take any guides but they were available for extra charges. You can spend about 30 minutes here and YES you can climb the fort. The fortress is pretty small and empty but you can see some great views of the Ozama river from the top. You can get some beautiful pictures here.
Dudú Lagoon
There is something for everyone. Swimming with the fish in the clear water, picnic and relaxing, site seeing and zip line water jump. We enjoyed it all and you will never get bored of this place guaranteed. There is a small bar serving juices and drinks by the water and they play music as well which was nice vibe to it. Very safe and nice
Plaza de la Hispanidad
A must visit while you are in the Santo Domingo. Beautiful old streets. Many restaurants with affordable prices and delicious food. Even Coca-Cola Christmas tree looks good) You can spend many hours just walking around.
National Palace
The Palacio Nacional is a building in Santo Domingo that houses the offices of the President and Vice President of the Dominican Republic.
Where to stay
A oogd night’s sleep is particularly important when you are travelling. Dominican Republic offers its guests a host of luxurious, charming and also out-of-the-ordinary accommodation.
Whether in the heart of the city, near the lake or surrounded by nature – Dominican Republic‘s hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses guarantee a relaxing and invigorating stay.
We managed to find the best three companies that offer hotels, holiday homes and transportation. These are: Booking.com, Trip.com and Vrbo. We have already tested these companies and we warmly recommend them. As a result this will just bring you good deals for your next vacation.
We chose the Bahia Principe Luxury Ambar and we were very satisfied. I can just recommend it!
Top hotels we recommend Dominican Republic: Majestic Colonial Punta Cana,Majestic Elegance Punta Cana , Majestic Mirage Punta Cana, Bahia Principe Luxury Ambar
When we think of beautiful landscapes and wonderful islands, the first travel option that comes to mind is a cruise. So, if instead of flying and staying on one island, you prefer to explore several beautiful islands, this is the best option. On a cruise you can also relax on the days when the ship is only on the sea/ocean, but you also have the advantage of exploring more places if you are an adventurer. We collaborate with the best companies in the world and you can choose the perfect cruise:
Traditional Food
- Mangú con Salami, Huevo y Queso Frito – Mashed Green Plantain, Cheese, Dominican Salami and Fried Eggs
- Harina de Maíz -Cornmeal Porridge
- The national dish, is la bandera dominicana (the Dominican flag). To the three basic ingredients—white rice, red beans and stewed meat (chicken or beef) are added : avocado, tostones (flattened fried plantain), green salad with tomato, or cooked eggplant stew
- Guineo Verde con Longaniza – Green Bananas with Dominican Longanizas
- Chivo Guisado Picante -Spicy Goat Meat Stew
- Mangú is simply mashed green plantains
- Mofongo – is made by mashing fried plantain, garlic and pork rind in a mortar, forming a dough that is then shaped into small balls, like ice cream, and served in a bowl.
- Mondongo is a delicious stew (or soup) made with chopped beef or pork belly.
- El Sancocho -Dominican Traditional Stew
- Pescado con Coco (Fish in Coconut Sauce)
- Habichuelas Con Dulce – Sweet Cream Of Beans
- Arroz con Leche -Rice Pudding
- Dulce de Leche Cortada – Curdled Milk Dessert
- Dulce de Coco Tierno – Coconut and Milk fudge
- Majarete – Corn Pudding
Restaurants
- La Bruja Chupadora – Barbecued meats are a highlight here – try the grilled octopus or the short ribs.
- La Cava‘s diverse menu offers something for almost everyone, from sushi to colorful grilled seafood to rich soups and fresh salads
- Wacamole – Lively music and a Mexican vibe
- Little John – seafood “surf” selections, including ceviche, but there are plenty of local and “turf” tastes to try like its goat risotto and a variety of sandwiches, burgers, pasta and pizza.
- La Yola – The menu features Mediterranean and local cuisines, with a wide array of fresh seafood choices
- Playa Blanca’s menu offers a good selection of seafood, as well as grilled meats, burgers, and tasty local dishes like chivo guisado (goat stew).
- Citrus Restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Punta Cana, where you’ll find a big menu with a diverse range of dishes from the Caribbean, Italy and Asia.
Saving Tips
- Haggling is expected almost everywhere except supermarkets and banks.
- (High Season is December-January and June-August). Flight prices can also drop dramatically during these off-periods.
- Don’t Exchange Money at the Airport
- Going to the clubs is easy because you have the bus included in your ticket price
- Book your tours directly with licensed tour providers rather than through your hotel; this will save you money.
- Save money when you buy your tours – is better to wait and compare the prices
If you do not go by car and need to know more informations about the tours, things to see and do, we recommend this two companies that are offering tours for any kind of activity you want to do and where you can buy trips much cheaper than if you buy them when you arrive at your destination. It is always good to be able to save some money!
Viator and Get Your Guide : the best activities in town!
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Shopping
- Cap Cana are excellent upscale stores selling art, books, music, designer beach gear, and locally made Dominican’s gifts such as cigars and rum. At the Cap Cana Marina, you can shop for larimar gemstones, unique to the Dominican Republic.
- Plaza Uvero Alto – colorful stalls full of crafts, ceramics, regional paintings, beautifully designed jewellery made with larimar, and other locally made novelties and souvenirs.
- Downtown Mall Punta Cana is a modern shopping mall in the heart of Bávaro-Punta Cana.
- Blue Mall Punta Cana is an upmarket shopping mall conveniently located just 2 km from Punta Cana International Airport.
- San Juan Shopping Centre is a great spot offering a wide range of goods near Downtown Punta Cana. You’ll find over 60 stores, including a pharmacy, supermarket, designer shops, and national and international brands.
- Plaza Bávaro is a shopping center in Bávaro. You can find stores selling clothing, jewellery and locally made handicrafts, cigars and other island souvenirs.
- Sambil Santo Domingo is a modern shopping mall in the city’s Colonial Zone. Opened in 2012, the complex has over 350 different shops and boutiques of well-known retailers like Victoria’s Secret and Aldo.
- BlueMall – It includes retailers like Armani Exchange, Louis Vuitton, Carolina Herrera, Cartier, Longchamp, and many famous global brands.
- Downtown Center is a modern 3-level shopping center with the largest movie theatre in the Caribbean.
- Agora Mall has over 180 different shops, including internationally known brands like Levi’s, Tommy Hilfiger, Timberland, Guess, Zara, Brooksfield and more.
- Avenida Duarte Chinatown Street Market – Immerse yourself in a unique Chinese-Caribbean atmosphere
- Mercado Modelo is the largest market in Santo Domingo. You can find here Cuban cigars and spiced liquors to jewellery, colourful carnival masks, and unique items like amber necklaces.
Getting Around
The Dominican Republic’s bus companies provide an excellent, inexpensive service over much of the country.
Santo Domingo and Santiago are the major hubs for bus travel and some companies do little more than shuttle between the two. You generally have to buy your ticket the day you travel, though Caribe Tours allows you to reserve online, provided you confirm two hours before departure. All Dominican buses have toilets in the back and on trips of more than two hours, a rest stop will be taken at a roadside restaurant or service station.
Metro Santo Domingo operates two lines, mostly used by residents commuting to work. But there are a couple of stops convenient to sights.
Motorcycles can also be rented at many local firms, for around US$40 per day. Be warned, though: motorbike thefts are extremely common, especially in resort areas, so you’ll have to keep it locked up when you’re not riding it.
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Getting Here
The Dominican Republic is well connected to the outside world and you’ll find a plethora of flight options from North America and Europe. The primary points of entry into the country by air are Santo Domingo, Puerto Plata and Punta Cana, with additional international airports at Santiago and Samaná.
There are flights to the Dominican Republic from most major Canadian and US cities (some west-coast connections require an overnight stay in Miami or New York), but the cheapest and most frequent depart from the “gateway” cities of Miami, New York, Montréal and Toronto.
The Caribbean is not a bargain destination from Australia or New Zealand. Because there are no direct flights to the Dominican Republic, you’ll need to travel first to the US or Europe. It’s a day-long slog whichever way you go
Delta and JetBlue offer the most flights (especially on the popular JFK to Santo Domingo route) and are your best bet for cheap flights to the Dominican Republic. Iberia, TIU Airways, Condor, Air Europa, Air France, British Airways, SWISS and Eurowings all fly to the Dominican Republic.
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