Ecotourism

Ecotourism is “ ... to travel into natural areas, understand the culture and the history of the environment, making efforts not to alter the ecosystems and producing economic opportunities and converting conservation of natural resources into direct benefit for local inhabitants.”  World Society on Ecotourism.

First Ecotourism Events of the Antilles

The Dominican Republic has hosted a number of first ever ecotourism events, since it is the island of the Antilles with the greatest potential. Some of the testimonials collected from the delegates who attended mentioned:

1. The D.R. is first in bio-diversity in the Antilles and third in the world as an island, based on territorial proportionality.
2. The highest point of the Antilles, Duarte Peak, with 3,175 metres above sea level.
3. The deepest tectonic depression of the Antilles, Hoya del Lago Enriquillo, 40 metres under sea level.
4. The largest hyper-saline lake of the Antilles, Enriquillo Lake, from 180 to 260 km2;
5. The highest free water falls of the Antilles, Aguas Blancas from Constanza, with to cascades of approximately 83 metres.
6. The largest number of caves in the Antilles.
7. The cave with the greatest number of pictographs located in one single room, more than 1,700, at the Cave of José María located in Parque Nacional del Este (National Park of the East).
8. The largest number of rupestral works of art in the Antilles.
9. The lowest temperatures of the Antilles have been registered in the country, 8 °C below zero in the Duarte Peak Zone and in the intra-mountain valley of Bao.
10. The only place were glaciations occurred in the Antilles: Valle Nuevo (New Valley) and the Valleys of Bao and Macutico.

We invite all those who love nature and fresh air to discover and enjoy our beautiful National Parks and beaches...

National Parks

Parque Nacional del Este - 430 Km²

The quadrilateral peninsula located at the extreme southeast of the country forms the East National Park. This main extension of 25 kilometres joins the villages of Boca de Yuma and Bayahibe. The park also includes the island of Saona, which is separated from the mainland by the canal of Catuano.

The peninsula is composed of a raised surface of various terraces structured by the waves of the Caribbean Sea over a fairly recent period (approx. one million years ago...) The territory is generally flat and formed of marine rocks with small spaces where the organic material was deposited. Small salt-water wells rise in some of these spaces while others fill with rainwater. The high porosity of the marine subsoil is responsible for the lack of rivers and brooks. The average annual temperature is 26.5°C and the average yearly rainfall is 1,300 millimetres.

The park contains three life zones, subtropical humid, dry forest and the transitional forest. In general, the area is well covered with trees, a large number of which are endemic. The park with its adjacent marine habitat is one of the most important of the country thanks of its fauna. 112 bird species have been registered, 8 of which are endemic to the island, and 11 endemic to the Caribbean, e.g. White-crowned Pigeon, which is an officially recognised endangered species. The mammal fauna is reduced on Hispaniola but the majority of them are represented at the park, like the endemic terrestrial mammals Soledonon and Hutia.

Endangered marine mammals such as the West Indian Manatee and the Bottlenose Dolphin can be seen. Apart from a number of amphibians and reptiles, the lizard and the snakes, two species of sea turtles and the large Rhinoceros Iguana are the most interesting.

A number of caves still exist, containing important pre-Columbian pictographs (drawings) and petrography (rock carvings), especially in the eastern sector of Guaraguao. This area near Bayahibe and the island of Saona with the white sandy beaches are the two most visited areas of the park.

Lagunas Redonda and Limón National Park /107.7 Km²

The two lagoons, Redonda and Limón, are located in the northeast of the country, 27 kilometres from the village of Miches. The average depth of the lagoons is 1,43 metres, with a maximum depth of 2,10 metres. The sediment is composed of mud caused by organic decomposition of mangroves close to the shore. The Redonda lagoon is adjacent to the sea by Caño Celedonio.

Species of birds living on and around the lagoons are Piedbille Grebe, Common Gallinula, Great Egret, Black-crowned Night Heron, Roseate Spoonbill, and Northern Pintail.

Crabs, Róbalo fish and Tilapia represent the marine fauna.

Los Haitises National Park, 1375 Km²

The National Park is part of the 1,200 km² region of Los Haitises in the northeast of the country, south of Samaná Bay.

It is assumed, that this area was formed during the Miocene (40 million years ago). The submerged territory, formed from a voluminous mass of rocks and marine deposits like coral, emerged later through earth movements.

The topography is very irregular and is primarily composed of small hills of 200-300 levels. The soil of the small valleys is scarce and made of a thin reddish and yellowish-white layer. The coral rock with is rapid absorption or rainwater is largely responsible for the lack of surface fresh water.

The average annual rainfall is between 1,900 and 2,000 millimetres and the average temperature between 24 to 26 °C. Frequent rainfall and high humidity levels have created a variety of typical subtropical vegetation, in spite of the poor quality of the soil. Latifoliate (broad-leafed plants), a large variety of ferns, bromeliads and lianas are predominant. Several birds’ species are found in the park, such as the Hispanolian Parakeet or Brown Pelican, among others. The mammals are represented by the Hutia and Solenodon.

The extended cave system with the caves of La Arena, San Gabriel and La Linea represent a very important from an historical and cultural point of view.They contain pre-Columbian pictographs and petrography. Other points of interest besides the caves can be found in Caño Hondo, Punta Arena, Caño Salado, San Lorenzo Bay and the Los Pájaros Keys.

Traditionally, access to the park is made by boat from Samaná Bay since no roads exist within the park. Before embarking, make sure the boat is equipped with lifejackets and paddles in addition to the motor.

Banco de la Plata Sanctuary / 3748 km²

The “Banco de la Plata” (silver bank) is located about 140 kilometres to the north of the Puerto Plata province and has an average depth of 20 metres but going as deep as 1800 metres in some parts. In the northeast of the area, there is a reef, witch protects the bank and which is close to where the Humpback Whales gather.

Since this zone is quite dangerous for ships and boats, the area is seldom used for navigation.

In these quiet waters the whales find a perfect environment for their mating season (in Winter). After a short stay off the bank shores, the whales return with their calves to the cold waters of the North Atlantic. According to estimates, around 3,000 whales come to the bank from November to April; which is 80% of the total whale population of this species in the North Atlantic. The Banco de la Plata is a very important area and has to be protected in order to guarantee the survival of this endangered sea mammal. The Humpback Whale is the second rarest of the large whales. It prefers relatively shallow water close to islands.

The protected area also offers an ideal habitat for a multitude of fish and coral formation. Various species of sea turtles also find a relatively safe refuge from human persecution in these waters.

National Park Isabel de Torres / 15 km²

This park is located south of the town of Puerto Plata, about 800 metres above sea level. Geologically most of the peak is formed of limestone. Almost all of the 15 rivers and brooks rising on the hill are subterraneous. The average annual temperature is 25°C along the coast at the foot of the hill. 17°C on the peak, cool winds and fog are quite frequent at this altitude during the winter months. The average yearly rainfall is 1,800 millimetres.

The vegetation corresponds to the humid subtropical low mountain forest. The peak of the reserve has been converted into an artificial park. The most characteristic plants on top of the hill, outside this park, are the Sierra Palm, Aguacatillo, Wild Tamarind, Satinleaf, and at the lower zones, you will find Jamaica Nectandra, Hispaniolan Mahogany, Copey, Catalpa, and Mara.

32 species of birds have been reported, including 5 endemic species to the island, e.g. Palm Chat, Hispaniolan Woodpecker, and Honeycreeper.

Monte Cristi National Park / 560 Km²

The Monte Cristi National Park is located in the extreme northwest of the country and borders partly with Haiti. It includes large marine areas, coastal lagoons and the Siete Hermanos Keys.

The terrain is generally quite flat with only small hills no more than 300 metres high, headed by the “Morro of Monte Cristi”.

The water system is composed of lagoons close to the mouth of the Dajabón River and includes the lagoon of Saladillo. The average yearly rainfall is only 600 millimetres and the average temperature is 28,5°C. The vegetation of the park is classified as subtropical dry forest.

The fauna of the park is represented by 11 reptile species, e.g. American Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus), as well as 3 amphibian species, 107 species of molluscs and 163 bird species.

The Monte Cristi National Park is not only worth a visit because of its distinct flora and fauna, but also because of its great scenic beauty with mangrove coves and the nearby keys.

Armando Bermudez National Park /766 Km²

Officially classified as a protected area in 1956, the Armando Bermúdez National Park is part of the northern Cordillera Central. This region, together with José del Carmen Ramirez National Park contains the highest peaks in the Antilles, e.g. Pico Duarte (3,175 metres), La Pelona (3,070 metres), La Rusilla (3,035 metres) and Pico Yaque (2,760 metres).

The area started more than 60 million years ago during the Cretaceous period and was formed by molten components of volcanoes and the hot earth’s crust. Almost all rocks, which surged from the earth’s crust are igneous, e.g. diorites, volcanic limestone, slate and marble.

The average temperatures vary between 12 and 21°C during normal times, but during the wintertime (December and January), they may drop to minus eight °C at dawn. The lowest temperatures have been measured in the valleys of Bao and Macutico. The Armando Bermúdez National Park is a zone with yearly rainfall of between 1,000 and 4,000 millimetres.

The predominant life zones are subtropical mountainous humid forest and subtropical mountainous rain forest. The Armando Bermúdez National Park has a diverse fauna and birds are of particular interest. The mammals Hutia and Wild Boar (introduced mammals), are mostly concentrated in inaccessible parts of the park. Most of the 47 amphibians and reptiles reported in the Cordillera Central can be seen within the Armando Bermúdez National Park.

José del Carmen Ramírez National Park / 764 Km²

A large part of the southern Cordillera Central was classified as a protected area in 1958. This area, now called the José del Carmen Ramírez National Park, borders on the Armando Bermúdez National Park. Within the two parks lay the highest peaks of the Antilles, e.g. Pico Duarte (3,175 metres), La Pelona and La Rusilla.

The José del Carmen Ramírez National Park host the rivers Yaque del Sur, San Juan and Mijo, all of which are important to agriculture and the villages of San Juan valley.

The average temperature of the regions varies between 12 and 18 °C but in some areas, like the Tetero valley, frost occurs and temperatures may drop to 5 °C below zero. In large parts of the area the yearly rainfall may exceed 2,500 millimetres. The vegetation can therefore be classified as subtropical humid mountain forest. The flora is mostly composed of coniferous and mixed coniferous-latifoliate forest, predominantly Creolean Pine.

The terrestrial fauna is represented by a diversity of reptiles, birds and mammals, e.g. Hutia, which is only to be found in inaccessible areas and the Wild Boar (introduced species), lives in the deepest parts of the forest.

The José del Carmen Ramírez National Park is also of cultural and historical interest because of pre-Columbian expressions and rock-carvings at the Tetero valley.

Sierra de Baoruco National Park / 800 km²

This park is located in the southwest of the country and has a maximum altitude of 2,367 metres, close to the Haitian border. The geological formation of the Sierra de Baoruco took place approximately 50 million years ago in the medium Eocene. It is mainly composed of crystallised limestone, some of which contains important species of algae. The landscape of most of the sierra is very abrupt.

This vegetation is varied, from large areas of pine and forest of broad-leafed plants to zones of mixed forest. The territory is an example of climatic stability in contrast with the arid southwest of the country. This is reflected in a variety of life zones, which change from dry forest on sea level to mountain humid and rain forest within the park. Within the Sierra de Baoruco National Park, 166 (55% of the country) orchid species grow in this part of the island, 32 of which (10%) are endemic to the sierra.

49 species of bird live in the sierra, 28 of which are residents, 2 migratory and 19 endemic, e.g. White-necked Crow, which is extinct in Puerto Rico and can only be seen on Hispaniola.

Baoruco, in addition to being the name of a sierra and a National Park, is also part of Dominican history. It was the site chosen by the Indian chief Enriquillo to fight for the freedom of this tribe against Spanish domination in 1532.

This chief declared a small free republic on top of the sierra de Baoruco. He is considered to be first fighter for independence on the American continent.

Laguna Rincón or Cabral National Park / 240.54 Km²

The lagoon Rincón or de Cabral is located in the southwest of the country, in the Neiba valley. It is the second largest lagoon and the largest fresh water lagoon of the Dominican Republic.

The water flora is composed of yellow Nelumbo, Water lily, and others. The marine fauna is primarily composed of fresh water shrimps as well as various endemic species of fish, e.g. Limia and Gambusia. This is the ideal habitat in which you will find the largest population of Hispaniolan Fresh Water Slider Turtles, which are endemic to the island.

The following bird species have been reported on and around the lagoon: Masked Duck, Ruddy Duck, Flamingo, Blue-winged Tea, Sora Crake, and Nothern Jacana.

Isla Cabritos National park /25 Km ²

The island of Cabritos is located in the southwest of the country, within the lake Enriquillo. It is 12 kilometres long and 2 to 2,5 kilometres wide.

Lake Enriquillo is what remains of an ancient channel, which connected the Bay of Neiba, in the Dominican Republic, to the Bay of Port-au-Prince in Haiti. The emergence of terrain and the accumulation of sediments deposited by the Yaque del Sur at the river mouth isolated the lake, which is now an inland “small” sea (200 Km²). The formation of this geological phenomenon dates back to one million years ago.

The altitude of isla Cabritos National Park varies from 40 to 4 metres below sea level. The island is basically flat with coastal beaches without traces of reefs. The soil is composed of marine deposits (mostly limestone), but also large quantities of seashells and coral rocks, which can be found on the beaches as well on the mainland of the island. There are no fresh water currents on the island. The average yearly temperature is 28°C, but sometimes temperatures rise to 50°C. Average yearly rainfall is only 642 millimetres.

Among the 106 species of flora of the island, some endemic species like Neoabottia Tree-cactus and Harrisia are quite common. The fauna of this park is mostly composed of birds and reptiles, eight of the latter are endemic, including the American Crocodile (one of the largest wildlife crocodile populations in the world). The Rhinoceros iguana and Ricord iguana are also an important member of the local fauna. Both the crocodiles and the iguanas are endangered species. The area also harbours a variety of birds, 62 species have been identified, among which you can find the Flamingo, the Great Blue Heron and the West Indian Nighthawk, etc.

The Cabritos Island, called Guarizacca by the Indians was the refuge of the Indian chief Enriquillo and his main source of provisions. Their diet consisted mostly of dried fish.

Between the years 1822 and 1844, during the Haitian occupation, the island and some surrounding land was legally ceded to a French family by the Haitian Government. The island was classified as National Park in 1974.

Jaragua National Park / 1374 km²

The Jaragua National Park is located in the southwest and is the largest protected area of the country. It includes an extensive marine area and the islands of Beata and Alto Velo.

The geological formation of this region took place in the Oligocene, approximately 50 million years ago, when masses of land surged from the sea. The adjacent areas of the Oviedo lagoons as well as the islands Beata and Alto Velo emerged in recent time, approximately one million years ago. The substratum is composed of marine limestone with abundant and widely developed fractures filled with a reddish coloured ferric oxide.

The whole region is deprived of surface currents, but there does exist a flow of subterranean waters towards the east and west coast with fluctuating courses, depending largely on the topography. The average yearly temperature is 27°C and the average annual rainfall varies between 500-700 millimetres.

Vegetation consists mainly of a variety of species typical of a subtropical dry-and thorn forest. Constant high temperatures and low rainfall favour growth of cacti and other slow growing plants. The Jaragua National Park contains a diverse fauna with a large percentage of endemic species. 130 (60% of the country’s birds) have been reported, half of which live in an aquatic environment. The country’s largest population of Flamingos can be seen here, and especially at Oviedo lagoon. Among the terrestrial fauna, the most interesting for both scientists and visitors alike will undoubtedly be the Ricord Iguana and Rhinoceros Iguana (both species are endemic to Hispaniola). The mammals Solenodon and Plutia find an ideal habitat at Jaragua National Park. Of the 18 species of bats catalogued in the country, 11 were reported in the area. The four marine turtles are also present: Hawksbill, Leatherback, Loggerhead and Green.

The park is rich in pre-Columbian archaeological finds. The most ancient of these sites shows a progressive indigenous settlement dated 2,590 B.C. The Taínos, a highly expressive tribe, who lived from agriculture and forestry, were predominant at the time of Columbus’s arrival. The Taínos established a number of territorial divisions, each with their chief, e.g. the chief of Xaragua in the southwest. A number of caves exist within the parks, e.g. Guannal, La Cueva La Poza and Cueva Mongó. These caves contain pictographs and petrography of this period.

La Caleta Submarine National Park / 10,1 km²

With a maximum depth of 180 meters, this park is an absolute paradise for submarine life adventurers who will indulge in exploring the bottom of the sea, contemplate the beauty of the coral reef, the multicoloured fish species or just search for sunken shipwrecks. The Hickory, a salvage ship located at a depth of 10 metres, makes the park an ideal learning ground for beginning scuba divers.

Location: 22 km to the East of Santo Domingo.

Attractions: diving, coral reefs, Ethnological and Archaeological Park of La Caleta.

We may find blue and tranquil waters in the beaches of the Caribbean Sea, such as Boca Chica, Juan Dolio and Guayacanes.

Sports - Excursions and Adventure

Baseball

The national sport and passion of the Dominican Republic is baseball or "Beisbol" as the Dominicans call it. No matter where you go on the island you will find a baseball stadium/park, even in the poorest of towns. Today more than one in six players in the American league is from Latin America, the majority of them come from the towns located on the south-eastern coast of the Dominican Republic.

The sugar mill towns (San Pedro de Macoris, La Romana) have long been associated with Dominican Baseball. The history of baseball in these towns can be traced back as far as the Cuban immigration to the Dominican Republic. Dominican and American Mill owners approved of the sport and encouraged their workers to play it. The six months dead season when sugar cane requires the least maintenance and the workers were unemployed helped contribute to the development of baseball in this area. Soon, championships were set up to pit one sugar mill against the other. Baseball was not just a sport to these people but was bred into each born child.

The recruiting of young baseball players has become a year round job here. More than 20 major league teams now have baseball-training camps for prospective players. Scouts from these teams are sent out to hold try-outs throughout the island. Those who are lucky enough to make the team are usually young boys between the ages of 17 and 18.

GOLF

Being able to play golf all year round is another advantage to visiting or living in the Dominican Republic. Golf packages or facilities to play golf at courses located in resort areas are a definite option. Most golf clubs provide clinics, lessons and host several annual tournaments. Golf packages of all kinds for both the serious and the recreational player are available in resorts around the island.

Golf is one of the Dominican Republic's top attractions, bringing thousands of tourists in droves to this destination. It is the combination of outstanding year-round summer weather and the varied terrain, which makes golf so popular. Caribbean weather allows for play even during rainy days, when brief showers quickly give way to clear skies. Course architects have incorporated hills and coastline into the design to doubly challenge the golfers.

Residents in Santo Domingo have the option of playing in the resorts or to join nearby clubs. The Dominican Golf Association is active and organises tournaments all year round. To contact them, call Tel. + 1 809 476 4898

Golf Courses around the country:

Bavaro and Punta Cana

La Romana

Boca Chica - Juan Dolio

• San Andres Caribe Golf Club
• Los Marlins Golf Course
• Guavaberry Golf & Country Club

Santo Domingo

• Isabel Villas Country Club
• Cayacoa C. Club

InLand

• Bonao Golf Club
• Jarabacoa Golf Club
• Las Aromas Golf Club

North Coast

• Los Mangos Golf Course -costambar
• Playa Dorada Golf Course
• Costa Azul Golf -sosua/cabarete
• Playa Grande
• Golf Course

Samana

• Loma de Chivo Country Club

Most Popular Excursions

Near Santo Domingo

Colonial City

The Colonial City is the perfect starting point for visitors to discover Santo Domingo. Here, between Independence Park and the Ozama River, you will find the first city built in the New World by European settlers, including Columbus's brother, Bartholomew, and his son, Diego Columbus

Los Tres Ojos & National Aquarium

When visiting the Columbus Lighthouse, make a stop at Los Tres Ojos and then the National Aquarium. Los Tres Ojos is an impressive 50-foot deep cave with three lagoons surrounded by stalagmites and lush vegetation, five minutes from the Lighthouse. The National Aquarium, also five minutes away, is a medium-sized aquarium where the main attraction is the huge fish tank with a Plexiglas tunnel passing through it. Tamaury, a giant manatee, is the star of the park. 

Botanical Gardens & Parks

With about 2 million square metres, the Santo Domingo Botanical Gardens are the largest in the Caribbean and can also be visited on a small train. The Park contains exhibits of the natural flora of the island and areas dedicated to palm trees, orchids and exotic plants. You will also discover what was once the largest floral clock in the world.
Those who have visited Japan will agree that the Japanese Garden here is one of the loveliest in the world. 
The well-kept Santo Domingo Botanical Gardens are well worth a visit if you are a nature lover. 
Other city parks worth a visit are the Mirador del Sur Park and the Mirador del Norte Park (for cycling, skating, jogging and kite-flying).

Near Puerto Plata

City Tour

Puerto Plata City Tour (Amber Museum, Cable Car Ride up to Botanical Gardens, Rum Factory tour, shopping).

Ocean World Park

Ocean World Park is located15 minutes west from Puerto Plata city. This zoo and marine ark were built into a spectacular location, which was formed by the multi-tonal blues of the Atlantic Ocean. The park features the world's largest custom-made dolphin lagoon (an aquarium in which the dolphins can actually swim), sea lions, shark interaction pool, tiger feeding area and birds’ area, in addition to a large man-made beach and marina.

Columbus Water Park

Columbus Water Park An aquatic park featuring slides and pools, less than 10 minutes away from Playa Dorada.

Fun City Park

Fun City Action Park (Go Kart and Bumper Car Park) also 10 minutes away. Because it is an open air attraction, Fun City is open in the late afternoons and evenings.

Charcos de Damajagua

Located half an hour from Puerto Plata, between the Altamira tunnel and the town of Imbert, this is an ecotourism attraction, which combines soft and hard waterfalls. This is an excursion for the physically fit. Guides are a must as they know which areas should be avoided or tackled in a different manner due to heavy rains or lack of rains. There is the option of hiking one hour up the mountain to the 27th fall and then begin the three-hour descent. The shorter half-day version, mostly sold by tour operators, calls for climbing up and down only the first seven falls with the assistance of the acrobatic guides.

La Isabela National Park

Located about a two-hour drive from Puerto Plata and 14 kms west of Luperon, this park was constructed on the site where Columbus built the first settlement in the New World in the 15th century. Remains are still standing of what is believed to have been the church where the first mass in the New World was given. A small museum area houses relics from the days of the discovery.

Safari Trips

Monster truck, jeep safari trips, four-wheel drive and quad-biking adventures are offered by several companies. See the rural countryside and the lifestyle of its people. Visit undeveloped beach areas, springs and rivers in their entire lush tropical splendour, far from the touristy areas.

Golf

Golf Guests have the option of playing golf at the Playa Dorada 18-hole Robert Trent Jones golf course or the Los Mangos nine-hole golf course. Serious golfers should also look into playing at the Playa Grande Golf Course, considered to be one of the best in the Caribbean. Playa Grande is about an hour and a half drive from Puerto Plata.

Scuba Divers

Scuba Divers of all levels can enjoy shallow reefs, shipwrecks, freshwater cave diving, deep water diving and possible encounters with humpback whales and other large creatures. Summer air temperatures can hit the mid 30s, while winter temperatures drop to the 20s. Water temperatures range from the high 25s to low 20s, and visibility ranges from 70 to 100 feet. Serious divers should look into dives in the Monte Cristi area, to the west.

Fishing

Fishing The hotel staff or tour representatives can help book a deep sea fishing excursion.

Horse Riding

Horse Riding Ranches are plentiful on the North Coast. Again, your hotel or tour rep can provide information on the options in your area.

Near Sosua

Snorkelling

Snorkelling Reasonable amount of fish near the coral reef makes for good underwater photo opportunities. You can see flounder, parrot fish, grouper, porcupine and dozens of other varieties.  You can easily snorkel from the beach to the reefs. Taking a tour allows you to reach reefs further out and to focus on having a good time in the water. Snorkellers can swim about 150 feet from the shore and find coral reefs and delightful opportunities for feeding fish and taking underwater photos. There are usually several dive boats in the same vicinity, so everyone is aware of the presence of divers and snorkellers. The water is very calm in most areas, with only a couple of tricky currents, and it is crystal clear on most days.

Scuba Diving

The best scuba diving opportunities are to the West and the East of Sosua. Several dive shops offer a variety of excursions. Divers of all levels can enjoy shallow reefs, shipwrecks, freshwater cave diving, deep water diving and possible encounters with humpback whales and other large creatures. Summer air temperatures can hit the mid 30s, while winter temperatures drop to the 20s. Water temperatures range from the high 25s to low 20s, and visibility ranges from 70 to 100 feet.

Fishing

Plenty of small boat fishing trips can be booked in Sosua.

Near Cabarete

Beaches

In Cabarete the beach is the main attraction, with body boarding, kite surfing and windsurfing. But tour companies also offer activities for other tastes and affinities. Visitors should take advantage of organised horse ranch tours, cave tours in El Choco National Park (Laguna Cabarete and Laguna Goleta), and mountain biking in the neighbourhood. There is waterskiing in Yasica River and safari-type excursions. These same companies will help you climb the highest mountain in the Caribbean or take you river rafting in the Central Mountain Range. Visitors to this area should also check out the Puerto Plata, Sosua and Playa Grande sections of DR1 Travel Pages for more on what to do in the area.

Near Rio San Juan

Beaches

Playa Grande Beach is one of the most spectacular beaches in the Dominican Republic – Playa Grande beach itself is 1,600 metres of soft white sand. But the high surf is not child-friendly. Playa Grande is a beach for trained swimmers. It can be lots of fun for teenagers and adults though. It is gorgeous for romantic walks on the beach at any time of the day. It is a good choice for a rest and relaxation holiday, for a honeymoon, even for a spring break. For outings with young children, there are many alternative beaches in the area, such as Diamante and Caleton with shallow, pool-like waters.

Excursions

Excursions to Laguna Gri Gri and Caletón beach and jeep safaris can be booked at the hotels.

Golf

Golf at the Playa Grande Golf Course is considered to be one of the best in the Caribbean.

Near Samaná

Cayo Levantado Island

Cayo Levantado is an island of about one square kilometre, made of a protruding coral reef, which protects Samaná bay from the Atlantic waves. With its lovely white sand beaches flanked by tall coconut trees, this island is a popular day outing with boatloads of visitors arriving daily. 

El Limon Waterfall

The waterfall is about 300 metres above sea level and has a 50 metre drop, which ends in a very deep but swimable pool of crystal clear waters. 

Whale-watching

Samaná offers some of the best whale-watching in the world. Every year, the excursions depart to catch the frolicking giant creatures from 15 January to 15 March. Thousands of humpback whales from the North Atlantic migrate to the waters of the Dominican Republic each winter to mate and give birth. Their most popular winter rendezvous is Silver Bank, the 3,000-square-kilometre reef system approximately 70 miles north east of Puerto Plata. But from there, many move to other popular areas (just like humans do at singles bars!) One of these gathering places is Samaná Bay. More than 1,500 humpbacks visit the bay, with as many as 300 present at any given time during the mating season.

The World Wildlife Fund considers Samaná Bay as one of the best places in the world to watch whales. It offers something for everyone—the outer bay is where you might find aggressive males competing for the favours of willing females, and the sheltered inner bay is one of the most important humpback nurseries in the world.

From Mid-January to the end of March, the usual whale-watching season takes place in Samaná Bay. However, the excursions continue as long as there are enough whales. The rest of the year, the whales feed in the cold, fish-rich waters of the North Atlantic between Massachusetts Bay, Iceland and Greenland. Summer whale-watching excursions are offered in those areas, but there is no better time than the winter mating season when the male humpbacks, eager to impress the females, are most animated, and when newborn calves can be seen swimming alongside their mothers.

Humpback whales have been wintering near Samaná for centuries. Cave drawings made by the aboriginal inhabitants of Los Haitises National Park long before Columbus arrived depict the spouting whales. And Columbus saw them too, as stated in the log of his travels along the north coast in 1493.

Samaná Bay is a marine sanctuary by decree of the Dominican Government. Whale watching tours must, by law, protect the whales within this sanctuary. Among the rules, there are limits on the number of vessels, which are allowed to observe a whale at the same time; there is a minimum distance to be respected between vessels and whales (unless a curious whale approaches the boat); there is a limited speed of travel through the whale area; and a limit in time, which a vessel may spend watching an individual whale. Additionally, no vessel may authorise passengers to swim with the whales. Because captains sometimes violate the regulations, thinking their clients will be happier to get a closer look at the whales, passengers are asked to insist on respecting these regulations. They are important and the support of everyone is needed, not only to protect the whales, but also to ensure their return to Samaná Bay in future years.

Los Haitises National Park.

Easily reached by a short boat ride across the Bay is Los Haitises National Park. This area is known for having one of the most important rainforests and mangrove reserves in the entire Caribbean, complete with keys and caves. You can only enter the park with a certified guide. Day excursions can be booked from most hotels.

Scuba and Snorkelling

Samaná features the best adventure diving of the north coast of the Dominican Republic. This rocky coastline with high cliffs leads to an exciting underwater world of sheer drop-offs and pinnacles, which rise from 55 metres to within 5 metres of the surface. Underwater visibility in this region can range from 30 to 50 metres. During the winter season (January 15-March 15), humpback whales can be seen and heard underwater as they migrate towards Silver Bank. For experienced divers, there is the site known as The Tower. This underwater pinnacle rises from 55 metres. Down below at 12 metres, views are serene and majestic. The El Portillo-Las Terrenas area also offers attractive dives in a mixture of shallow and deeper coral reefs and caverns, as well as coral gardens for snorkelling.

Near Boca Chica - Juan Dolio

Guided tours

Guided tours are an excellent way of experiencing this region, since there are relatively few attractions within walking or bus distance. Some of the excursions available are: Jeep Safaris, Santo Domingo City Tour and Half Day Tour, Santo Domingo Night Tour, Altos De Chavon artists village/River boat ride, Cueva Fun (and its seven-kilometer long underground river), Los Haitises and the mangroves park, Saona and Catalina Island.

Golf

Golf The best golf in the Boca Chica-Juan Dolio area is Los Marlins Golf and Country Club, on the coastal motorway, not far from the Costa Caribe Resort: 18-holes, club house, restaurant, bar, carts and equipment rentals.

Scuba Diving

Scuba Nearly every large hotel here has a dive shop that offers PADI certification courses and open water dives. Juan Dolio is about an hour away from some of the country's best diving off Catalina Island. Or you can just get your feet wet with a free introductory lesson in the pool. If you enjoy snorkelling, you can do so right off the beach in front of your hotel. You may have noticed the long reef breaking the waves just off the shore. It creates a home for the fish and keeps strong waves off the beach. Your hotel should be able to loan you snorkel gear. Dives to visit the Tanya V sunken wreck can be booked with the dive shops.

La Caleta Submarine National Park

created in 1984, features protected coral reefs and numerous colourful fishes. The Hickory, a salvage ship located at a depth of 10 metres, makes the park an ideal learning ground for beginning scuba diving, but waters can reach a depth of 180 metres. Of all the national parks, this is the smallest with 10 square kilometres.

Deep sea Fishing

Fishing trips can be arranged at hotels. Marlin, Dorado, Barracuda and others.

Horse Riding Jungle/beach rides

Guavaberry Equestrian Centre for trail rides, horse riding lessons for the entire family, or to watch a polo match. Or Rancho Cumayasa on the way to La Romana for a combined horse riding, river trekking and day visits to Catalina island.

Near La Romana

Altos de Chavon

Artists Village is a vibrant cultural community perched above the Chavon River. Cobblestone paths, coral stone fountains and terra cotta buildings create a magical effect in this village designed by Robert Coppa, an Italian architect who at the time was a Paramount movie set designer.

Saona Island

Palm-studded Tropical Island which offers its visitors unbelievable turquoise, green and blue waters with endless visibility, powder white sand; the Caribbean at its best. Mano Juan is the fishermen village where you can purchase handicraft. You can arrange for a stopover in "la piscina" a natural swimming pool in the Caribbean Sea, in Palmilla, north of the island. There are many ways to get to the Saona Island, some of the most popular are the speed boat or catamaran.

Isla Catalina

Isla Catalina, a 15 square metre uninhabited off shore wildlife reserve located five miles south of La Romana. The island can be seen from La Romana. If you book a small boat with a captain in Bayahibe or at Rancho Cumayasa, he can include this little island in your day tour. Catalina has coral reefs close to the island for snorkelling. Many dive excursions come to Catalina for the reefs and tropical fish.

Bayahibe town

People come to this beach (and once fishing town) to take excursions to Saona Island. Indeed, the fishermen are now the men who take the visitors to Saona and surroundings. The beach is a Caribbean dream and the town itself is worth visiting.

Fun Fun Cave in Hato Mayor

Adventure lovers may book an underground excursion to Rancho Capote and its Cueva Fun Fun, the largest cave in the Caribbean, running seven kilometres underground. Experience the darkness of this under world, the giant corridors, the cave art, and the magic whisper of the subterranean rivers. This thrilling excursion begins with a ride on horseback, then a walk through "the jungle" and the cave, and then ends with lunch. A day of caving, repelling, horse riding and lots of adrenaline.

The Cueva de las Maravillas

The Cueva de las Maravillas (Cave of Wonders) is located midway on the motorway from San Pedro de Macoris to La Romana. The cave's 240-metre footpath takes visitors through a majestic journey, almost 9 metres underground, where stalagmites and stalactites appear like the notes of an orchestra playing on the grand stage of an enormous theatre hall. The cave boasts a collection of approximately 500 rupestral paintings by the inhabitants who lived on the island at the arrival of Columbus. Many impressive drawings can be seen on the underground tour of Cueva de las Maravillas. You should allow three hours for this activity, as the tour will take an hour and it is a half hour drive from either La Romana or Juan Dolio hotels.

Plantación Tropical

A lovely botanical garden, north of Hato Mayor on the way to Sabana de la Mar.

The National Park of the East

420 square kilometre flora and fauna reserve that is also a major archaeological centre. Botanists have counted 539 species of flora. There are also 144 types of birds. Jeep safaris available for the resident guests and are offered  to La Romana area.

Near Punta Cana

Beaches

Cap Cana, Punta Cana, Cabeza de Toro, Bavaro, El Cortecito, Arena Gorda, Macao and Uvero Alto. The beach is the No. 1 attraction in the East Coast area, stretching an amazing 50 kilometres. With few exceptions, most hotels and developments only limit land access and whereas Dominican law states that beaches are public. You can freely stroll the beach strip going from one hotel's beach front to another, especially in the Cortecito, Bavaro and Cabeza de Toro areas. There are public beach entries at El Cortecito and Cabeza de Toro. Macao, to the north, is yet undeveloped, and therefore gives unrestricted beach access.

 Marinarium

This marine park on the sea offers snorkelling with sharks and rays.

Dolphin Island

Short boat ride takes you to the artificial island created where visitors can have a swim with trained dolphins right in the sea. The package includes a 15-minute free time with the dolphins, where these will choose their new friends.

Manatí Park Bavaro

130,000 square metres preservation with permanent exhibits of birds, reptiles, and fish. A show with parrots, dolphins and dancing horses is included in the admission fee. Free shuttle bus to and from principal hotels in the area.

 

Punta Cana Ecological Reserve

Short guided tour through tropical flora with an optional refreshing bath in a cool spring at the end. You will be walking through a real jungle. Located 15 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport.

Rancho Jonathan

Rancho Jonathan has caving excursions to Boca de Diablo, a large cave system south of Los Haitises.

Golf

There are six golf courses in operation in the area,: El Golf de Bavaro 18 holes par 72 (Barcelo hotels), Cocotal 27 holes par 72 (Melia hotels), Punta Cana Golf (Club Med, Punta Cana Resort & Club, Cabeza de Toro Golf (Catalonia Resort), White Sands Golf (Blue Ocean resort), Punta Espada Golf opening first 9 holes summer 2005 (Cap Cana).

Snorkelling Punta Cana

Snorkelling Punta Cana features the longest coral reef in the whole island - about 30 kilometres long. Snorkelling is common and immediately available from shore at selected areas near the reef.

Deep Sea Fishing

Annual competitions of blue Marlins are held in Cabeza de Toro and in Punta Cana Resort and Club during the months of April and May.