Between Colonial Heritage & Wild Beaches of the North Coast
From the colonial area of Santo Domingo to the golden beaches of the north, a journey between history and wild nature.
Duration
8 days
From
€3,290/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Nov, Dec
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
Discover the north coast of the République Dominicaine during this 8-day stay combining culture, nature and carefully selected accommodations. From the historic streets of Saint to the golden beaches of Puerto Plata and Cabarete, experience a unique journey through the country.
This itinerary offers a perfect blend between all-inclusive hotels and luxury glamping in Cabarete, with full half-board (only three meals are left free to allow you to discover local cuisine at your own pace). This trip is designed for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path stay, combining comfort, discoveries and diverse landscapes.
This itinerary is not recommended between September and November due to risks associated with the rainy season on the north coast.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to the Dominican Republic!
Upon your arrival at Santo Domingo airport, you will be welcomed by your driver, who will take you directly to your hotel, located in the colonial zone, the historic heart of the capital.
You will stay in one of the most beautiful establishments in the area, combining colonial elegance and modern comfort. A true invitation to step back in time, in a peaceful and refined setting.
In the evening, enjoy an included dinner directly at the hotel, in a warm and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for starting your stay gently.
Check-in and overnight at the hotel. Tomorrow, time to discover!
Discovery of Santo Domingo: Nature, History and Panoramas
After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, a private driver will pick you up and take you to the Cueva de los 3 Ojos, where you will meet your English-speaking guide for a full day of private sightseeing in the Dominican capital.
The morning begins with exploring this open-air cave, famous for its three freshwater lagoons surrounded by spectacular rock formations and abundant tropical vegetation — a fascinating place combining nature and mystery.
The day continues in the colonial zone, a historic site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Accompanied by your guide, you will stroll through the cobbled streets discovering must-see monuments such as the cathedral, the national pantheon, and many other witnesses to the rich historical past of Santo Domingo.
Lunch is included at a typical restaurant in the colonial zone, where you can taste local flavors in an authentic setting.
In the afternoon, a change of perspective: you will take the cable car to admire the city from above, an original and panoramic experience of urban life in Santo Domingo.
The end of the day leaves you with free time in the colonial zone, ideal for browsing shops, picking up some souvenirs or simply enjoying the atmosphere.
Dinner is on your own in the colonial zone.
From the Capital to the Plantations: An Immersion on the Road North
After breakfast, you leave the colonial area of Saint-Domingue heading towards the North of the island. A change of atmosphere and landscapes begins, between lush mountains, agricultural valleys and charming small villages.
Mid-morning, you will stop near Santiago de los Caballeros for an exclusive Tropical Évasion experience: visiting a family banana plantation, in the heart of the Dominican countryside. You will discover the complete cycle of this essential crop for the country: from planting to harvesting, including sorting, processing and distribution techniques. An instructive and lively immersion in an agricultural world that is often little known.
A homemade lunch is organized on site, in the heart of the plantation, in a simple and warm atmosphere.
Early afternoon, you will head back towards Puerto Plata, a seaside resort in the North with Caribbean charm. You will settle into your all-inclusive hotel, ideally located.
The rest of the day is free: you can enjoy the hotel facilities, relax by the pool, enjoy a cocktail or take a stroll on the beach at sunset.
Night in Puerto Plata in an all-inclusive hotel.
Turquoise Lagoon & Northern Mangroves
Early wake-up today for an exceptional day.
From 7am, your private driver will take you to one of the most beautiful natural gems in the north of the island: Cayo Arena, a sandbank lost in the middle of the ocean, accessible from the village of Punta Rucia.
On site, your private boat and its captain are waiting for you for an unforgettable crossing. Upon arrival at Cayo Arena, you will discover a setting worthy of a tropical dream: translucent waters, colorful corals, immaculate sandbank… Masks and snorkels will be at your disposal for magical snorkeling in the heart of a natural aquarium.
Around 11:30am, boat departure for a ride through the mangroves, a peaceful moment between green channels and wild silence.
Return to Punta Rucia around 1pm, where a fresh fish lunch by the sea will be served to you in a local and relaxed atmosphere.
The afternoon is free to enjoy the beach, swim or simply savor the tranquility of the place.
At the end of the day, return to your all-inclusive hotel in Puerto Plata, where you will find all the comfort of your accommodation.
Zip-lining and Damajagua Waterfalls
After your check-out and breakfast, departure at 8am for a day of adventure at the 27 charcos de Damajagua.
Arrival around 9am, where you will start with a zip line offering breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle.
Next, you will embark on the descent of the 7 waterfalls, a thrilling course combining hiking, jumps and natural slides in crystal-clear waters. An unforgettable moment, both refreshing and accessible, with a moderate level of difficulty.
After this aquatic experience, a traditional lunch awaits you on site to regain your strength.
In the afternoon, you will head towards Cabarete, a popular beach resort on the north coast, renowned for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
You will stay at a unique hotel located in the heart of nature, offering unusual accommodations in transparent bubbles, for an immersive experience under the stars. This place allows you to sleep under the open sky while being protected in a comfortable and modern space.
Dinner is organized with the establishment, allowing you to enjoy a typical meal in an original and peaceful setting.
Night in Cabarete in an enchanting setting.
Exploration of lagoons and natural swimming pools
After breakfast in the bubbles, you will be picked up by your local driver/guide for a day of adventure. You will start your excursion by driving for approximately 1 hour to reach the Laguna Grigri.
Once there, you will board a typical boat for a ride through the mangroves, a peaceful place where you can admire the local wildlife and unique natural landscapes. You will continue your exploration to the natural pool of Rio San Juan, a true haven of freshness, perfect for swimming in the middle of the tropical jungle.
Next, head to the Dudù Lagoon, famous for its caves and cenotes. This unique site will allow you to swim in crystal-clear waters while exploring rock formations and mysterious caves.
Lunch is planned at Playa Grande, where you can enjoy a seafood-based meal while enjoying the sea and beach views.
After this day of adventure, you will drive back to your accommodation in the bubbles, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Dinner is included and will be served directly at your hotel, to end the day in complete peace.
Free Day in Cabarete: Relaxation and Caribbean Atmosphere
Wake up gently in your unusual accommodation, nestled in the heart of nature. You will enjoy a breakfast included, served on site, in this peaceful and original setting.
This day is free, giving you time to discover Cabarete at your own pace : strolling through the village, relaxing on the beach, water sports or craft shopping… it's up to you to choose according to your desires.
Lunch is free, allowing you to explore the many local addresses and taste the specialties of the region, whether by the sea or in the lively town center.
At the end of the day, return to your cocoon for a quiet evening. Dinner is included at the hotel, an opportunity to savor a good meal in an intimate atmosphere, before spending one last magical night in your transparent bubble.
See you soon in República Dominicana!
After your last breakfast at your accommodation, you will depart for your return to the airport. The journey will take approximately 3 hours, depending on traffic.
A free lunch is scheduled at the airport, allowing you to have a meal before your flight.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights
- Insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips
Included
- Airport transfer Saint Domingue round trip
- 2 nights in contemporary room Hotel colonial zone
- 2 nights in 4* all-inclusive Hotel in Puerto Plata
- 3 nights in luxury Glamping in Cabarete
- All meals are included (except dinner free on D2 / Lunch free on D7 / and lunch on the way to the airport on D8)
- 4 private activities + 1 group activity
- Our 7-day/week assistance
- A travel journal
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below applies to travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to the Dominican Republic for tourism purposes. Entry requirements may change, so we recommend verifying information with official authorities before departure.
Passport
To enter the Dominican Republic, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay and must have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages). However, it is recommended that your passport remain valid for at least six months after your entry date into the country.
Tourist stay without visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada benefit from visa exemption for tourist stays in the Dominican Republic.
This exemption allows a stay of up to 30 days upon entry into the territory. An extension can be requested on site from the Dominican General Directorate of Migration, for a period of up to 60 additional days.
Authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or connecting flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
an accommodation address in the country.
Tourist Card (E-Ticket)
Before your arrival, you must complete the online form E-Ticket República Dominicana, established by Dominican authorities. This digital document combines both immigration and customs procedures.
The form must be completed before departure and allows you to provide immigration services with the following information:
passport information
flight details
address of your first accommodation in the Dominican Republic
customs declaration
A QR code is generated upon completion and must be presented, in digital or printed format, when passing through immigration upon arrival and departure.
Health
No vaccines are mandatory to enter the Dominican Republic. However, certain vaccinations are recommended depending on the areas visited and the traveler's profile:
vaccination against typhoid fever and hepatitis A is commonly advised,
an antimalarial treatment may be recommended for stays in rural or isolated areas.
It is advised to consult a doctor or international vaccination center before departure.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
When a minor travels without one or both parents, a parental authorization for exit from the territory, accompanied by a copy of the absent parent(s)' passport, may be required by Dominican authorities.
In certain European countries, an exit authorization may also be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Concerned travelers should inquire with the embassy or consulate of the Dominican Republic in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation and repatriation assistance insurance and foreign medical expense coverage.
Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits your needs:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and the procedures for filing a claim are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the procedures for reporting any claim. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
To stay in the Dominican Republic, you must have a valid passport. A tourist card is now often included in your airline ticket; if not, it can be obtained upon arrival for approximately USD 10. Before booking your trip, check the entry requirements applicable to your nationality with the consular authorities of the Dominican Republic.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 170 and 290 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (600-1000 euros round-trip) are additional. The country offers a wide range, from boutique hotels to all-inclusive resorts.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each itinerary to match travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, educational and fun activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your entire trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Santo Domingo Surroundings
Dominican escape creator, based in Bayahibe
I discovered the Dominican Republic from the sea, then fell in love with it through its lands, villages and people. It's this complete island that I love to share with others.
— Joy
