📍 Dominican Republic

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: BEACHES AND PEAKS JOURNEY QUEST

Turquoise bays shimmer in tropical light, waterfalls plunge through mountain green, whale songs echo across the sea. The Dominican Republic is the Caribbean alive.

≈ 8
Days
854
Km
5
Stops
📖 4 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Colonial Santo Domingo, Punta Cana beaches, Samaná whales, Jarabacoa waterfalls and Barahona's secret beaches. The Dominican Republic offers much more than beaches.

Your day-by-day itinerary

1
Day

Santo Domingo

colonial soul city

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8 photos
Day 1
🔍

Discover

1
Visit to the colonial zone (Ciudad Colonial), UNESCO-listed, with the Cathedral of Santa María La Menor and the Alcázar de Colón.
2
Walk along the Malecón to admire the sunset and views of the Caribbean Sea.
🎯

Activities

→
Discovery of Dominican gastronomy: mangu, bandera dominicana and tropical fruits in a local restaurant.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 210 km
Travel time: 4h12
2
Day

Punta Cana

turquoise paradise beach

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6 photos
Day 2
🔍

Discover

1
Stop in Bayahibe, charming coastal village and departure point for Saona Island.
2
Excursion to Saona Island, renowned for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters.
3
Excursion to Montaña Redonda, panoramic hill near Miches offering 360° views.
4
Visit to Hoyo Claro cenote, a natural pool of clear water in the jungle.
🎯

Activities

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Swimming and relaxation at Playa Bavaro and Playa Macao, among the most beautiful beaches in the country.
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Snorkeling or scuba diving to observe the tropical seabeds.
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Walk at Cap Cana Marina port and strolling among the shops and restaurants.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 156 km
Travel time: 3h07
3
Day

Samana

whale watching wonder

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6 photos
Day 3
🔍

Discover

1
Scenic route to Samaná via Miches and Sabana de la Mar, through the northeast coast.
2
Humpback whale watching in Samaná Bay (from January to March).
3
Hiking or horseback riding to El Limón waterfall, a 50-meter waterfall in the heart of the jungle.
4
Exploration of Los Haitises National Park by boat to discover its caves and mangroves.
🎯

Activities

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Free time on the tranquil beaches of Las Terrenas.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 177 km
Travel time: 3h33
4
Day

Jarabacoa

waterfall mountain valley

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6 photos
Day 4
🔍

Discover

1
Journey to Jarabacoa through the Cordillera Central, offering spectacular mountain landscapes.
2
Visit to Jimenoa and Baiguate waterfalls, accessible by hiking trails.
🎯

Activities

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Rafting on the Yaque del Norte river or horseback riding in the surroundings.
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Next stop
Distance: 146 km
Travel time: 2h55
5
Day

Barahona

hidden gem coast

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4 photos
Day 5
🔍

Discover

1
Discovery of Lake Enriquillo, the largest salt lake in the Caribbean, habitat of iguanas and flamingos.
2
Swimming at Playa San Rafael, between mountains and rivers.
3
4x4 or boat excursion to Bahía de las Águilas, isolated beach with crystal-clear waters.
🎯

Activities

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Panoramic route of the southwest coast, considered one of the most beautiful in the country.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 165 km
Travel time: 3h19
6
Day

Santo Domingo

colonial soul city

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8 photos
Day 6
🔍

Discover

1
Return to Santo Domingo (approximately 3 hours drive).
2
Free stroll in downtown and shopping in craft markets.
🎯

Activities

→
Visit to the Museum of Dominican Man for a final cultural immersion.

🗺️ Itinerary map

🗺️ Nearby itineraries

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC — FROM THE COAST TO THE PEAKS: PANORAMIC ROAD TRIP

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PARADISIACAL ROAD TRIP THROUGH THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

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FROM SANTO DOMINGO TO THE NORTHERN BEACHES: THE GREAT DOMINICAN CROSSING

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❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Peak Season (December-April): Perfect weather, minimal rainfall, ideal beach conditions, highest prices, most crowded, advance booking essential.

Shoulder Season (May-June, November): Good weather with occasional showers, fewer crowds, moderate prices, excellent value.

Hurricane Season (July-October): Higher humidity, potential storms, lowest prices, lush landscapes, September-October peak risk.

Baseball Season (October-February): Winter baseball league, cultural experience, passionate fans, authentic Dominican atmosphere.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 6 and 10 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in Dominican Republic?

Caribbean's most diverse destination with pristine beaches, merengue music, and colonial heritage. Experience Santo Domingo's history, Punta Cana resorts, and authentic Dominican culture. The country offers excellent value with diverse landscapes and warm hospitality. Dominican Republic provides complete Caribbean experiences with cultural authenticity and beach paradise.