Exploring the Dominican Republic

Written By Lori Stephens - Owner & Travel Advisor

Sandwiched between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, the Dominican Republic accounts for the eastern two-thirds of the Island of Hispaniola and is neighbor to Haiti. Today, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, the Dominican Republic is the most visited Caribbean destination with good reasons why. This beautiful Caribbean country offers you breathtaking landscapes, numerous unique flora and fauna, and adventure for all types of travelers.

The country is quite unique with its variety of landscapes worth exploring. In addition to the all-inclusive resorts along the beautiful beaches of Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic proudly boasts 29 national parks, five mountain ranges, numerous rivers, desert-like dunes, lagoons, and cenotes. And there is no shortage of activities from which to choose.

Here are six activities to consider for your next vacation to the Dominican Republic.

Whale Watching - From January to March, near the area of Samana, you can take a boat excursion to watch for migrating humpback whales. Round out your trip to the Marine Mammal Sanctuary area with a visit to the Museo de las Ballenas located in Santa Barbara de Samana to learn more about the whales and their migration patterns.

Golf - With over 25 beautiful courses from which to choose, golf is a top activity of choice for visitors. Try one of the Pete Dye courses like top-ranked Teeth of the Dog in La Romana with almost half of its holes along the coral formations of the coast of the Caribbean Sea. Maybe you want to try to golf your way through mangroves at the Bavaro Resort Lake Course. The Corales Golf Club has gained popularity after it was the first course in the Dominican Republic to host a PGA tour event.

Scuba Diving - Divers will enjoy a vacation in the summer months between June and September with waters that are calm and good visibility. And they will also enjoy mild temperatures that average between 75º and 84º Fahrenheit. Enjoy colorful marine life, explore shipwrecks, and even try wall dives along coral reefs near Saona and Catalina islands.

Water Sports - For those that like sports above the water, there are a variety of options. You can try your hand at wind surfing or kitesurfing with steady winds to help as you learn the techniques. Many resorts will also offer paddleboarding, kayaks or banana boats.

Damajagua Falls - For the nature lover, consider an adventure to one of the many waterfalls in Puerto Plata like Damajagua Falls otherwise known as the 27 waterfalls. Discovered in the 1990s, the area has grown to be a fun off-the-beaten-path experience. Spend the day jumping and sliding off the falls and relaxing in the natural pools.

Santo Domingo - Explore the history of the capital city through its beautiful architecture and see where the “new world” be- gan with its discovery by Christopher Columbus. See why it is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as you visit the first customs house, cathedrals and museums or just wander down the first paved roads. It is a must-see for even the most discerning traveler.

Are you an all-inclusive goer who sticks to the beach, pools and water activities? Or would you venture to some of these unique off-property sites? No matter the type of travel experiences you’re looking for, we can help build a trip perfect for you!

Contact your Sojourney Travel advisor for more assistance.

Lori Stephens - Owner & Travel Advisor

Lori is a lover of all things travel and has been involved in the travel industry since 1998. After helping Sojourners as a travel advisor for years, Lori opened her own agency in 2021 so that she could still create a community of like-minded travel lovers that also helps others find their passion and dream in a new and exciting career.

Yes, she still sells travel! She LOVES helping her clients make memories! But she also loves helping her team learn, grow, and change their lives by serving others through travel.

Lori is a wife to an amazing man (our IT guy) and is the mother to 6 brilliant and beautiful children.