Dominican Republic Guide
Know Before You Go...®
Savvy travelers who are looking for an affordable Caribbean vacation have made a wise choice in the Dominican Republic. Renting a villa here will put you in the middle of paradise, complete with miles of beaches, rainforests, lakes, mountains, and more. Outdoor activities combined with shopping and entertainment make for a great vacation, and you’ll find all the information you need to know about the Dominican Republic here.
Why Dominican Republic?
- Lake Enriquillo
- Jimenoa River Rafting
- Jardin Botanico Nacional - Caribbean's largest botanical garden, 445 acres
- Altos de Chavón - artist community and shops
- Beaches
Dominican Republic Weather/Climate
Average Temperatures
Average Rainfall
News and Notable
Frequent visitors include Drake, Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez.
Go back in time at Altos de Chavón
It is said that in 1976 Altos de Chavón was built as a gift for the daughter of the late Charles Bludorn. He was a wealthy Gulf & Western President who wanted this Mediterranean Village erected as a monumentally extravagant birthday present. It is now one of Dominican Republic's best known tourist attractions. Perched high on a bluff, above the La Romana Resort overlooking the Chavón River, this impressive hillside village looks a bit out of place in the Dominican Republic. Visitors are transported back in time to 1500's old Europe. Dominican stonecutters, woodworkers, and iron-smiths combined their crafts to create the rich architectural landscape. Plan to spend a day or so browsing through the Altos de Chavon archaelogy museum, walking gobble-stone paths to the shops and the art galleries. Stop at one of the many restaurants and relax while taking in the incredible view. In the evening you can hit the dance floor at one of the discos, or watch as world-class performers take the stage in the amphitheatre.
Whale-Watching -- Get your camera ready!
The Dominican Republic is one of the best places in the world to whale-watch. Thousands of humpbacks migrate here during mating season, which runs mid-January through mid-March. Catch a boat to Samana Bay and you may see as many as 300 whales frolicking just a few yards away. Whales race underwater, then launch into the air, and crash back into the water. It's a site you'll never forget. Cheering for more you may also see whales roll onto their backs and sides raising their tail and flippers high into the air and then slapping down on the water. Bring your camera. It's fun for the whole family!
Exploring D.R's Many Waterfalls
Hike through Dominican Republic's lush, tropical jungles to one of its many waterfall oasis. Swim in the crystal-clear lagoon pools and bathe in the cascading water falling overhead. The highest waterfall in the Caribbean is the Salto Aqua Blanca at 492 feet. Tours and hikes to this stunning site are offered in the city of Constanza. The Salto de Jimenoa, located in Jarabacoa National Park, is 131-foot. To get there you'll take a hiking trail through the jungle and over a narrow suspension bridge. There is a snack bar that's open on the weekends. El Limon is picturesque waterfall accessible only by horseback. Rides are around $15 and take 2 ½ hours round-trip. Bring a little extra cash for lunch. Near Puerto Plata, Damajagua Falls, also known as Cascades of Imbert and Seven Fallas, is a series of 27 waterfalls. Visitors climb up limestone boulders then jump or slide into the grottoes. The water can be swift so this excursion isn't for weak or young swimmers and water shoes are recommended.
Transportation on Dominican Republic
Getting to Dominican Republic and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.
Entry Documents
A passport is required for U.S. visitors as well as other countries.
Airlines Flying Here
American, Continental, Delta, Jet Blue, LAN Airlines, Northwest, Spirit Airlines, Sun Country, US Airways
Airport
Punta Cana Intl near Higuey, PUJ
La Romana Intl near La Romana, LRM
Gregorio Luperon Intl near Puerto Plata, POP
Cibao Intl, near Santiago City, STI
Herrera Intl, Santo Domingo, HEX
Las Americas Intl, Santo Domingo, SDQ
Departure Tax
As of April 1, 2018, arrival/departure tax is rolled into airline tickets.
Driving
On the right
Dominican Republic Weddings and Honeymoons
Vacationers don’t just stay in Dominican Republic villas - they come to paradise to get married and celebrate their honeymoons! Permission from the American Consulate in Santo Domingo must first be obtained, then proof of citizenship documents (including original birth certificates and passports) must be presented to the Dominican Consulate for approval. Divorce and death certificates must also be presented, if applicable. Notarized documents must be submitted two weeks before the wedding and translated into Spanish. Cost varies.
Know Before You Go...® - Dominican Republic Travel Tips
Before making their way to Dominican Republic villas, vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Dominican Republic even more relaxing.