Dominican Republic 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Exploring the Dominican Republic (Markdown Format)

Day 1: Arrival & Santo Domingo

  • Arrive at Las Americas International Airport (SDQ)
  • Transfer to your hotel in Santo Domingo, check-in and freshen up.
  • Visit Zona Colonial, the oldest city in the New World, filled with colonial architecture, museums, and restaurants.
  • Explore Alcázar de Colón, the first European building built in the Americas.
  • Enjoy a traditional Dominican meal at one of Santo Domingo’s many restaurants.

Day 2: Santo Domingo & San Pedro de Macorís

  • Morning visit to National Botanical Garden, home to over 1,000 species of plants.
  • Head to San Pedro de Macorís to explore the factories of famous Dominican baseball teams like the Águilas and Leones.
  • Visit the Catedral San Pedro Apóstol, a beautiful church with intricate carvings.
  • Return to Santo Domingo for dinner and leisure.

Day 3: Cabarete & Puerto Plata

  • Transfer to Cabarete, famous for its beaches, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.
  • Spend the day at Kite Beach, taking lessons if desired.
  • In the evening, explore the town of Cabarete.
  • Transfer to Puerto Plata and check-in at your hotel.

Day 4: Damajaqua (El Limón) & Amber Museum

  • Day trip to Damajaqua, also known as “27 Charcos” (27 Waterfalls).
  • Explore the lush countryside, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a picnic lunch.
  • In the afternoon, visit the Amber Museum to learn about the Dominican Republic’s rich amber history.
  • Return to Puerto Plata for dinner and leisure.

Day 5: Santiago & Monte Cristi

  • Transfer to Santiago, the second largest city in the Dominican Republic.
  • Visit the Monumento a los Héroes de la Restauración, honoring the heroes of the Dominican Restoration War.
  • Explore the vibrant Mercado Modelo for local crafts and food.
  • In the afternoon, head to Monte Cristi to see the largest lighthouse in the Caribbean at Cabo Frances Viejo.
  • Return to Santiago for dinner and leisure.

Day 6: Samaná & Cayo Levantado

  • Early morning transfer to Samaná.
  • Take a boat tour to the beautiful island of Cayo Levantado (Bahía de Las Águilas), known for its turquoise waters and white sand beaches.
  • Spend the day relaxing, swimming, and snorkeling.
  • Return to Samaná in the evening and have dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 7: Departure

  • Spend your last morning at leisure, perhaps exploring more of Samaná or doing some souvenir shopping.
  • Transfer back to Las Americas International Airport (SDQ) for your departure flight.

Things to Know:

  • The Dominican Republic uses the Dominican Peso (DOP). US Dollars are widely accepted.
  • Spanish is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
  • The electrical power is 110V and uses type A plugs.
  • Tap water is not safe to drink; bottled water is readily available.
  • Crime can be an issue in some areas, especially at night. Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
  • A tourist card (US$10) must be obtained upon arrival. Check your visa requirements before traveling.