4 nature-inspired getaways in the Dominican Republic
With its warm turquoise waters, lush tropical landscapes and magnificent beaches, the Dominican Republic is a haven for eco-adventurers. From chasing waterfalls to whale-watching, we’ve put together four nature-inspired getaways in the Dominican Republic that every eco-explorer will love.
Chase waterfalls through the jungle
The Dominican Republic is home to diverse landscapes, with beaches, lush mountain ranges and rivers. This unique geography has made the Dominican Republic one of the top destinations in the Caribbean to see stunning waterfalls nestled in breathtaking vistas. When you visit Puerto Plata, you can hike through the jungle to one of the island’s best kept secrets, Damajagua Waterfalls with Sunwing Experiences. Climb and slide down the 27 tumbling cascades before swimming in the waterfall’s natural pools.
Where to stay: Those looking to visit the Damajagua Waterfalls can stay at the family-friendly Iberostar Costa Dorada, named after the golden-sand beach it’s found on along Puerto Plata’s stunning coast. Less than an hour away from the falls, this resort offers vacationers the opportunity to unwind with indulgent spa treatments, rounds of golf and sparkling pools or explore the warm ocean waters with a host of resort-offered water sports.
Uncover an underwater utopia
While there’s plenty to explore on land, many of the Dominican Republic’s most exciting natural wonders can be found beneath the waters. Those looking for a unique diving experience can snuba through stunning coral reefs just off the shores of the famous Bavaro Beach. Snuba combines the freedom of snorkelling with the extended dive time of traditional scuba diving – without having to be certified. Swim alongside schools of tropical marine life like clownfish, lionfish, sea turtles and even dolphins!
Where to stay: Kids – and kids at heart – will love Royalton Splash Punta Cana, located a short walk away from the famous sands of Bavaro Beach. This resort offers snorkelling and an introductory scuba diving lesson so guests can easily dive below the surface and discover a colourful underwater world. When they aren’t exploring the depths, guests can zoom down exciting water slides at one of the Caribbean’s largest water parks.
Explore a protected wildlife paradise
Located on the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic, intrepid explorers will find Los Haitises National Park. Los Haitises – which translates to ‘hilly land’ in Taino – are a series of 30-metre high rock formations that jut out of the ocean. Home to a variety of endangered species and local birds, it’s a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. Cruise along dense mangroves, hike through tropical flora, visit beautiful waterfalls and more in this eco-adventure sanctuary.
Where to stay: Nestled on the white-sand shores of Bavaro Beach, Barcelo Bavaro Palace in Punta Cana offers endless entertainment, convenient amenities and well-appointed accommodations for all travel styles. Groups and families will enjoy spacious rooms and suites, large enough to fit five guests comfortably, featuring rain showers, a balcony or terrace equipped with a hydromassage tub and more. Mini-vacationers can make a splash at the on-site water park while parents and adults test their luck at the casino or hit the links at The Lakes Barcelo Golf Course.
Discover a whale watching sanctuary
Between the months of January and March, humpback whales travel from the deep waters of the ocean to the shallower waters off the coast of the Samana Peninsula to breed. These majestic animals can be seen not far from Puerto Plata on a guided excursion. With incredible views of the Samana Peninsula’s green mountains setting the scene for whale watching, this is an experience nature lovers will remember for a lifetime.
Where to stay: Emotions by Hodelpa Playa Dorada, set on a golden beach, offers travellers luxurious accommodations and entertainment for all ages. Guests can spend their days exploring all the exciting activities this resort offers, from a climbing wall and archery lessons for younger vacationers to stunning golf courses and indulgent spa treatments for adults.
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