Last Updated on July 10, 2024
From the historic streets of Santo Domingo to the spearmint beaches of Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic is a paradise with plenty to offer. Here’s our 10-day Dominican Republic itinerary to help you make the most of your trip.
Mention Dominican Republic and most people conjure images of picture-perfect beaches and pristine, castaway islands. Yes it’s true, the Dominican Republic has some of the best beaches in the world. But who wants to just spend the entire trip laying under swaying palm trees? I know I wouldn’t!
As I discovered on my trip to the Dominican Republic, this Caribbean island is so much more than gorgeous strands — it’s also home to a flurry of historical colonial cities, vast rainforests, and pristine waterfalls. I’m sharing our 10-day Dominican Republic itinerary that will show you the other sides of the country allowing you to enjoy more than just a stroll on the beach.
Dominican Republic Itinerary & Guide
Thanks to the simple Dominican Republic entry requirements, it’s such a breeze to visit the Dominican Republic regardless of your nationality. Citizens of over 108 countries can enter the Dominican Republic as tourists for up to 30 days without a visa. The list of visa-exempt countries includes the UK, USA, Canada, Mexico, Australia, Japan and the European Union (EU).
Getting to the Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic has six international airports: Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, La Romana, Samaná, and Santiago. About 25 airlines fly from the US to the Dominican Republic every day, so planning your journey should be quite easy.
The cheapest flights are from New York to Santo Domingo, which cost around US$100 each way. You can also fly cheaply from Miami to Punta Cana, which costs as low as $250 each way. Search for flights to the Dominican Republic here.
Getting Around the Dominican Republic
By Car
Renting a car is undoubtedly the best way to explore the Dominican Republic. We spent around two weeks driving all over the Dominican Republic, and made the most of our time by exploring all the corners we wanted to see.
We booked our compact car online from Discover Car for US$30/day, which was really affordable, but we had to pay a surcharge of US$60 for returning it at a different airport, and also a mandatory third-party insurance of $9.95/day.
For those who are traveling Dominican Republic with kids, be aware that many of the rental agencies don’t have baby seats or booster seats. I basically carried our daughter in my arms in the car. Search for car rentals in Punta Cana here!
By Bus
If you’re uncomfortable driving abroad, I would suggest using the bus to get around Dominican Republic. The most popular bus company in the country is Caribe Tours, which connects every corner of the Dominican Republic. Metro is another bus company that is bit more high-end and thus slightly more expensive.
Both companies have buses that go to Haiti — Caribe Tours runs the route from Santiago to Cap Haitien (5 hours each way), and Metro goes from Santo Domingo to Port-Au-Prince (10 hours each way). Note that you can’t drive your rental car into Haiti. Travel to Haiti can be quite challenging, but as long as you’re mentally prepared and have made adjustments, you’ll be fine.
Dominican Republic Itinerary Map
Dominican Republic is relatively large, as compared to other Caribbean islands. I suggest spending 10 days in Dominican Republic to experience different sides to it; otherwise you can definitely see it in a week. My Dominican Republic itinerary starts and ends in Punta Cana.
Summary of this Dominican Republic itinerary:
- Day 1: Punta Cana
- Day 2: Take a Boat Trip to Isla Saona
- Days 3 & 4: Drive to Los Haitises
- Days 5 & 6: Santo Domingo
- Days 7 & 8: Cabarete via Jarbacoa
- Day 9: Puerto Plata
- Day 10: Head Back to Santo Domingo
Here’s a map of my Dominican Republic itinerary. Click to see it on Google Maps.
Download my Dominican Republic itinerary on Google Maps.
How to use this map: Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations, then click on the locations to display further information. To open a larger version in a new tab, click on the top right corner of the map. Star the map to save it to your own Google Maps.
10-Day Dominican Republic Itinerary
Itinerary Day 1: Punta Cana
This Dominican Republic itinerary starts in Punta Cana, a world famous beach town with lots of direct flights from the US, Canada and Europe. We chose to fly into Punta Cana instead of Santo Domingo because it was a lot cheaper for us to fly there.
Located on the Dominican Republic’s east coast, Punta Cana is a sun-soaked paradise where turquoise waves kiss miles of powdery white sand. Renowned for its all-inclusive resorts, this tropical haven offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. I recommend spending your first day chilling on the beach and admiring the pristine spearmint waters in this coast.
Even if you aren’t staying at any of the beachfront resorts, you can still rent out beach chairs and hang out at any of the bars. Most of these bars charge as low as $10 for a beach chair. However, there are areas along the beach where you can just lay down a towel and enjoy the sun. Or, for a more adventurous experience, book this guided tour that includes horseback riding on the beach.
Where to Stay in Punta Cana
Budget: Hostal Johnnier Macao Punta Cana
Located in Uvero Alto, Hostal Johnnier Macao offers a cozy retreat. This guest house features a shared lounge where you can unwind after a day of exploring. Some rooms include private bathrooms for added comfort but these sell out quickly. So, if you see one available, do not hesitate to take it. Check out rates here.
Mid-range: Tanama Hotel
Found in Cap Cana, this hotel offers a blend of relaxation and adventure with its prime location and top-notch amenities. The hotel is within a 15 km radius of Punta Cana’s entertainment area. Rooms here are equipped with modern comforts like Wi-Fi, bidets, and walk-in showers. Check out rates here.
Luxury: Eden Roc Cap Cana
This exclusive resort blends Spanish colonial style with the elegance of large seaside villas found on the French and Italian Riviera. Delightfully designed suites and the exclusive Caletón Beach Club set the stage for a peaceful state of mind and holistic wellness. Solaya Spa offers luxury treatments inspired by the island’s native traditions, making Eden Roc Cap Cana a sanctuary of indulgence. Check rates here.
Itinerary Day 2: Take a Boat Trip to Isla Saona
The next day, book a day trip out to Isla Saona, a highly protected island that forms part of the Parque Nacional del Este. The island is uninhabited and it’s not allowed to stay overnight here. With sparkling spearmint waters, powder puff white sand and nobody for miles and miles in sight, this is the most beautiful island in Dominican Republic and if you’re looking for a castaway island paradise, this is it!
A typical Saona Island day trip includes a catamaran ride from Bayahibe to the island, a buffet lunch, and a stop at a shallow sandbank. You’ll have the chance to snorkel off the reef and chill out on the sandbank. Book your boat trip here.
Itinerary Days 3 & 4: Drive to Los Haitises
The next day, rise early to drive north for around 3 hours along the coast towards Los Haitises National Park, a wilderness area that feels almost too magical to be real. It’s mandatory to visit the park with a certified guide and you can hire one at the entrance. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and can point out the various species of plants and animals you might miss on your own. Book this 3-in-1 tour where you will explore Los Haitises National Park, Yanigua Waterfall, and Montaña Redonda.
One of the first things you’ll notice about Los Haitises is its extensive mangrove forests. Mangroves are incredibly fascinating trees that can live in salty, coastal waters. These tangled roots provide a safe nursery for fish and other marine life, and they help protect the coastline from erosion. Paddling through them in a kayak feels like entering another world.
Los Haitises is also a birdwatcher’s paradise. With over 200 species recorded in the park, there’s always something interesting to spot. My personal favorite is the Hispaniolan woodpecker, with its striking black and white plumage and bright red head. It’s a joy to watch them tap away at the trees, completely oblivious to human presence.
Where to Stay near Los Haitises
The nearest town to the national park is Sabana de la Mar, where most people base themselves. It offers a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on ecotourism, with quite a few ecolodges dotted around the town. Most of them also offer boat tours to explore mangrove forests, caves with ancient Taino art, and diverse bird species.
Budget: Rancho La Cueva
Rancho La Cueva offers rustic cabins and rooms surrounded by nature, providing a budget-friendly option for visitors to Los Haitises National Park. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere and proximity to the park’s attractions. Check rates here.
Mid-Range: Paraiso Caño Hondo
Paraiso Caño Hondo is a charming eco-lodge with comfortable cabins that overlook the river or gardens. It also has several swimming pools, on-site restaurant serving local cuisine, and guided tours to the park and surrounding areas. Check rates here.
Luxury: Samana Suites Hotel
Located near the national park entrance, this upscale hotel provides luxurious accommodations with stunning views of Samaná Bay. It has spacious rooms with modern amenities, private balconies or terraces with sea views. Check rates here.
Itinerary Days 5 & 6: Santo Domingo
For the next section of this Dominican Republic itinerary, you’ll drive 2.5 hours to the country’s capital: Santo Domingo. The city pulses with energy amidst its colonial architecture, where every cobblestone street whispers tales of conquest and resilience. The old town (Zona Colonial) is where most of the fun is. You’ll need at least 3 days to see it all.
Take a Stroll Along El Conde
The best way to capture the essence of Santo Domingo is to take a stroll along El Conde. This historic street is over 500 years old and one of the first laid by Europeans in the Americas. El Conde is lined with shops, charming cafes, and vibrant street vendors, making it a bustling artery of Santo Domingo.
Along the way, you’ll also encounter iconic landmarks such as La Catedral, the Cabildo, Parque Independencia, and the Picota. Each step along El Conde is a journey through time, blending colonial heritage with the pulse of modern Dominican life.
Ride El Teleférico
El Teleférico is a transformative cable car that should spice up your time in Santo Domingo. Operating as a mono-cable system with detachable cabins, it seamlessly integrates with the Santo Domingo Metro. For around 50 cents USD, you can board the metro and then take El Teleférico.
The cable car ascends through various neighborhoods and extends towards the outskirts of La Victoria. It is a unique way to get around Santo Domingo as well as see the town from above ground.
Check Out Los Tres Ojos National Park
Located just 5 miles east of the historic Zona Colonial, Los Tres Ojos National Park offers a serene escape into nature. The national park was named “tres ojos” for its three crystal-clear lakes found within limestone caverns. You’ll pay around $2 at the entrance to access the national park.
While inside, you can explore the caverns either on foot or by boat, marveling at the natural beauty and ancient rock formations that surround them. If you hate walking or are short on time, I recommend you take the boat ride (it costs only 50 cents). While swimming isn’t permitted in the lakes, caving is a great way to immerse in nature.
But I don’t recommend this activity if you’re claustrophobic or have mobility issues. Some parts of the cave are very compact while the entrance’s staircase is also quite steep. For an immersive experience, join this half-day tour.
Check Out the Chinatown Sunday Morning Market
If your visit falls on a weekend, a must-see in Santo Domingo is the Chinatown Sunday Morning Market. This culinary journey offers a delightful fusion of Chinese-Dominican culture. Every Sunday, the outdoor market showcases a blend of Chinese and Dominican vendors selling locally grown fruits, vegetables, and an array of street food.
Beyond the market stalls, you can explore nearby shops and restaurants for an extended culinary excursion. These offer everything from authentic Asian cuisine to specialty goods, ensuring a rich and flavorful experience.
Where to Stay in Santo Domingo
Budget: Whala Boca Chica
If you’re traveling with Dominican Republic with kids, Whala Boca Chica is unquestionably the place to stay! This extraordinary all-inclusive resort offers everything you could want and more. Plus, you and your family can dive into a variety of exciting activities such as scuba diving, kite surfing, and bike tours. Check rates here.
Mid-Range: Luca Hotel by The OXO House
Staying at Luca Hotel is like stepping back in time while wrapped in modern luxury. We were captivated by its architecture, which masterfully preserves its original walls from the 1400s. The hotel effortlessly blends chic elegance with cultural Spanish flair, creating an ambiance that screams old-school Caribbean vibes. Check rates here.
Luxury: Antiguo Hotel Europa
Located in the heart of Santo Domingo’s old town, this hotel has a great location and beautiful architecture. We love its striking exterior and the balconies with the characteristic ironwork of the 19th century. I really enjoyed the hotel’s Terraza Restaurant, which has panoramic views of the San Francisco Ruins and spectacular sunsets over the colonial city. Check rates here.
Itinerary Days 7 & 8: Cabarete via Jarbacoa
Today, you’ll head north towards Cabarete, making a small detour at Jarbacoa after driving around 2.5 hours from Santo Domingo. Also known as the “Dominican Alps,” Jarbacoa is the perfect spot to enjoy beautiful scenery while having lunch.
Jamaca de Dios is a chic restaurant up the hill where you can grab a quick bite and enjoy the spectacular views. There’s no loop back to the highway, so you’ll take the same path back and continue on your way to Santo Domingo.
Reaching the Surf Town
Continue driving two more hours to reach the small beach town of Cabarete. The beach town has built a reputation among kite surfers due to its consistent easterly winds. The town is still largely off-the-beaten compared to other parts of Dominican Republic, and gives a completely different experience as Punta Cana. A fun thing to do in Caberete is to go tubing down a lazy river. Book this relaxing private guided experience.
Surf at Playa Encuentro
For a taste of Cabarete’s burgeoning watersport scene, head to Playa Encuentro and surf the huge swirls that lap against its shores. The beach has built a reputation for those looking to learn how to surf. Playa Encuentro is easily one of the best surfing spots in South America.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned wave rider, Chino Surf School offers the perfect setup for everyone. Rent a surfboard, catch some gentle waves ideal for beginners or challenge yourself with bigger breaks further down the beach.
Head to Kite Beach for Kitesurfing
I tried kitesurfing for the first time in Cabarete and I must say that it’s much harder than it looks. Luckily, there are several kitesurfing schools in Cabarete like Kite Point ready to help you master the art. After you learn how to ride upwind, it’s much easier to tame the waves and the wind.
Visit the Cabarete Caves
Fifteen minutes away from town, you’ll find the idyllic Cabarete Caves. These are found within the sprawling 30-mile El Choco National Park. The path to the caves leads through coffee and cacao trees, and serene freshwater lagoons.
These ancient caves were shaped over millions of years. I recommend you take this guided tour for the ultimate experience. Led by bilingual guides, you’ll explore the caverns while learning about their formation and their significance through the ages.
Where to Stay in Cabarete
Budget: Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & Spa
This is a charming eco-friendly boutique hotel nestled among lush tropical gardens and just a short walk from the beach. It offers rustic-chic bungalows and rooms with a focus on sustainability and relaxation. Check rates here.
Mid-Range: Cabarete Maravilla Eco Lodge
I stayed at the Cabarete Maravilla Eco Lodge. Located right on the beach, this eco-friendly retreat offers charming open-air rooms that let the ocean breeze lull you to sleep. The small pool is perfect for cooling off after a day of surfing, and the bar & restaurant serves up delicious meals. Check rates here.
Luxury: Velero Beach Resort
A luxurious beachfront resort located in the heart of Cabarete Bay, Velero Beach Resort offers elegant suites and penthouses with stunning ocean views, perfect for travelers seeking comfort and luxury. Check rates here.
Itinerary Day 9: Puerto Plata
Just an hour’s drive from Caberete is Puerto Plata, a vibrant city dotted with historical museums and a fort to enrich you about the history of the country. I recommend spending a day exploring Puerto Plata and visiting its treasure trove of heritage sites.
Explore Fortaleza San Felipe
Perched imposingly on the coastline of Puerto Plata, Fortaleza San Felipe has a storied past that echoes through its stone walls. Originally constructed in the 16th century to defend against Dutch, French, and British incursions, this formidable fort is a staple on every Puerto Plata itinerary.
The fort was also a prison during the tumultuous reign of Trujillo in the 19th century. Today, on guided tours like this, you can explore this well-preserved military relic, marvel at its robust architecture, and soak in panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Puerto Plata.
Visit Amber Museum
Step into the Amber Museum and embark on a journey through time, learning about the history and significance of this captivating gemstone. As you wander through the exhibits, you’ll be entranced by stunning amber pieces, each telling its own story. Some of these golden-hued treasures encase ancient insects and plant material, offering a rare glimpse into prehistoric life.
Hike to the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua
The hike to the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua is an adventure worth every step, as there’s nothing quite like these refreshing waters. The journey is challenging, with steep climbs and rugged terrain testing your resolve, but perseverance is richly rewarded.
As you reach each waterfall, you’ll be greeted by crystalline currents that offer a rejuvenating dip, making every effort to get there feel absolutely worthwhile. While you can tackle the trail on your own, opting for this guided tour ensures you won’t miss out on the hidden spots.
Walk Around the Downtown
Walking through downtown Puerto Plata is like stepping into a vibrant painting brought to life. The city’s charming architecture and colorful houses make it an attractive spot to explore, with each street offering a new splash of character and history.
A stroll down Calle de Las Sombrillas, the famous umbrella-donned street, is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Make sure you stop for some delicious local ice cream at Helados Ivon. My daughter loved this beautiful spot.
Itinerary Day 10: Head Back to Santo Domingo
Sadly, your Dominican Republic trip has come to an end and it’s time to go home. It’s just a 3.5 hour drive back to Santo Domingo if you go straight. Alternatively, if you’re able to find a flight home from Puerto Plata Airport, even better!
We continued our journey from the north coast into Haiti and explored Cap Haitien, which was truly eye opening! The contrast between Dominican Republic and Haiti was huge; read my guide to Cap Haitien for more info.
Dominican Travel Guide
Best Time to Go to the Dominican Republic
There are two peak seasons for tourism in the Dominican Republic: the summer months of July and August, and the winter season between December and late February, when the Dominican climate is at its optimum. While many major resorts were fully booked during our trip in August, we still found it quite easy to book on Airbnb at the last minute.
Keep in mind that the Dominican Republic is in the centre of the Caribbean hurricane belt, and gets hit with a major storm every decade or so. August and September is prime hurricane season, though smaller ones can occur in the months before and after. Hurricane Irma hit Dominican Republic just a month after our trip, but it didn’t cause too much damage or result in any casualties.
Driving in the Dominican Republic
It’s really easy to drive in the Dominican Republic, as roads are clearly marked and sign posts are easy to follow. It’s not a big country and distances are short, so you can easily drive from one beach town to another in two or three hours. Just download the DR map on Google Maps to access it offline.
Note that there are tolls all over the Dominican Republic. Most of the tolls are around 60 Pesos (1.29 USD) each — expect to spend around 320 Pesos (6.70 USD) to drive from Santiago (west of the country) to Punta Cana (extreme east). It is particularly expensive to drive to the Samana Peninsula in the north; it cost almost US$20 each way to get to Las Terrenas.
Is It Safe to Visit the Dominican Republic?
The DR is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, especially if you stick to the tourist trail. According to global travel safety reports, the country has a moderate crime rate, with most incidents occurring in small towns like Cristo Rey. Most travelers, including ourselves, experience a trouble-free stay.
We’ve been to the DR twice, and never had anything bad happen to us. Practicing common-sense safety measures, such as safeguarding personal belongings and being aware of one’s surroundings, contributes to a secure travel experience in Belize.
However, keep an open eye to avoid potential hassles. For example, at gas stations, it’s not unusual for attendants to pull tricks on tourists by not zeroing out the pump before filling your tank. To prevent this, simply get out of your car and watch the pump to ensure it starts at zero.
How Much Does this Dominican Republic Itinerary Cost?
Spending a week in the Dominican Republic usually costs around $1,025 for one person and $2,049 for two people, covering accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing. Flight costs range from $300 to $800 for a round-trip ticket, depending on the season and your departure location. Accommodation can vary from budget hotels or hostels starting at $30 per night to luxury hotels costing up to $300 per night.
Public transportation is affordable in the DR. A one-way bus ticket costs around $1 to $10, depending on distance and service provider. When it comes to food, budget restaurants charge about $10 to $30 per person, with mid-range restaurants being slightly more expensive.
However, costs can vary significantly depending on your choices and destination within the country. For example, Punta Cana is known for its expensive accommodations compared to more budget-friendly towns like Puerto Plata. Luxury hotels in Punta Cana charge northwards of $800 for a night. Keep in mind that these figures are approximate, subject to variation based on factors like the time of year.
What to Pack for the Dominican Republic
For this trip to the Dominican Republic, you’ll be spending most of your time walking, so definitely pack lots of sun-proof gear. KEEN footwear or normal sandals are also really useful for walking on beaches strewn with seashells or corals.
Snorkel mask and fins will come in useful as you’ll be using them a lot here. Also, be sure to bring your spinning reels or other gear that you might not be able to find in the Dominican Republic.
Packing List for the Dominican Republic
Enjoy Your Dominican Republic Trip!
Are you ready to explore the Dominican Republic? Hope you found my Dominican Republic itinerary useful! Feel free to bookmark this Dominican Republic itinerary on your phone and refer it to it as you go along.
Be sure to leave a comment below if you have any questions. Read more of my articles to get ideas for your next weekend trip:
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. I’ll get a small commission when you book anything through my links, at NO extra cost to you. I only recommend companies I have personally used and enjoyed.
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