Sun-soaked Eastern Caribbean
Caribbean
- 9 days
- 8 nights
- 22 meals
Departure: Oct 30, 2026
Price from $3,779
Dominican Republic Travel Guide
Under the warm Caribbean sun, the Dominican Republic enchants visitors with white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters. Between all-inclusive resorts, nature excursions, tropical forests, and idyllic islands, relaxation meets adventure. From Playa Bávaro to Santo Domingo, every moment feels unforgettable.
Top cities to visit
Punta Cana
Punta Cana is renowned for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and wide selection of resorts. Beyond all-inclusive stays, the destination invites travellers to explore the lagoons of Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, embark on an excursion to Saona Island, or enjoy its spectacular golf courses.
Puerto Plata
On the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata charms visitors with its authenticity, golden-sand beaches, and laid-back local vibe. Relax in Sosúa or Cabarete, explore the 27 waterfalls of Damajagua, and take in sweeping views from Mount Isabel de Torres—where culture and nature meet under the warm Caribbean sun.
Samaná
Both a beach destination and a stunning cruise port, Samaná reveals lush landscapes, wild beaches, and turquoise seas. Top experiences include visiting El Limón Waterfall, relaxing at Playa Rincón, and embarking on a winter whale-watching tour to see humpback whales.
Santo Domingo
In Santo Domingo, stroll through the historic landmarks of the colonial district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Savour local dishes such as sancocho or mangú, paired with a glass of Dominican rum, dive into the Dominican culture and soak up the vibrant energy of this colourful city.
La Romana
In La Romana, discover the stunning white-sand beaches of Bayahibe and the calm of the Caribbean coast. Set off for Saona Island, a tropical paradise of turquoise waters; explore Altos de Chavón, an artistic village with sweeping views; or venture underground into the spectacular Cueva de las Maravillas.Punta Cana
Punta Cana is renowned for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and wide selection of resorts. Beyond all-inclusive stays, the destination invites travellers to explore the lagoons of Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, embark on an excursion to Saona Island, or enjoy its spectacular golf courses.Puerto Plata
On the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata charms visitors with its authenticity, golden-sand beaches, and laid-back local vibe. Relax in Sosúa or Cabarete, explore the 27 waterfalls of Damajagua, and take in sweeping views from Mount Isabel de Torres—where culture and nature meet under the warm Caribbean sun.Samaná
Both a beach destination and a stunning cruise port, Samaná reveals lush landscapes, wild beaches, and turquoise seas. Top experiences include visiting El Limón Waterfall, relaxing at Playa Rincón, and embarking on a winter whale-watching tour to see humpback whales.Santo Domingo
In Santo Domingo, stroll through the historic landmarks of the colonial district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Savour local dishes such as sancocho or mangú, paired with a glass of Dominican rum, dive into the Dominican culture and soak up the vibrant energy of this colourful city.La Romana
In La Romana, discover the stunning white-sand beaches of Bayahibe and the calm of the Caribbean coast. Set off for Saona Island, a tropical paradise of turquoise waters; explore Altos de Chavón, an artistic village with sweeping views; or venture underground into the spectacular Cueva de las Maravillas.
Useful information
Official language(s)
Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic.
English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Flight duration
Direct flight: 4h30
Connecting flight: 7h to 12h (depending on connection times)
Time zone difference
Dominican Republic time zone: UTC-4
1h ahead of Quebec (EST)
0h ahead of Quebec (EDT)
Currency
Dominican peso (DOP)
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas. The US dollar is often accepted, but the Dominican peso is recommended for small purchases, taxis, local markets, and rural areas. Canadian dollars can be exchanged, or pesos withdrawn, at hotel exchange counters.
Tips
A 10% service charge is often added to restaurant bills, but an extra tip is always appreciated. In hotels, tipping USD $1–$2 (around 100 pesos) for porters or staff is customary. For drivers and tour guides, a 5%–10% tip is appreciated. Rounding up the fare is common when paying for taxis.
Safety
Travellers should remain vigilant in the Dominican Republic, as tourists can be targets for petty theft. Avoid displaying valuables, and use the hotel safe. It is recommended to not walk alone at night, to use official taxis, and to never leave drinks unattended in bars or nightclubs.
Zika virus and dengue fever are present. Using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing in high-risk areas is advised. Pregnant women should take extra precautions.
Before any foreign trip, visit the Government of Canada’s Dominican Republic Travel Advice page to find out about the current situation in the country.
Top things to do and see
Take a boat excursion to Saona Island.
Play golf on spectacular courses in La Romana or Punta Cana.
Ride the cable car to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres in Puerto Plata.
Hike to El Limón Waterfall on the Samaná Peninsula.
Visit the Rum and Sugar Cane Museum in Santo Domingo.
Hidden gems to discover
Bahía de las Águilas
Considered the most beautiful beach in the Dominican Republic, Bahía de las Águilas stretches for eight kilometres of pristine white sand beside dazzling turquoise waters. Preserved in its wild state and accessible only by boat or 4x4, it offers peaceful escapes, snorkelling, and encounters with marine life.
Constanza
Nestled at 1200 metres in the Cordillera Central mountain range, Constanza stands out for its refreshing climate and lush, mountainous landscapes. An important agricultural hub for the country, the village invites visitors to enjoy scenic hikes, discover cascading waterfalls, and explore vibrant local farmers markets.
Monte Cristi
Bordering Haiti, the coastal region of Monte Cristi charms travellers with its unique landscapes and dry climate. Preserved and striking, its scenery ranges from golden-sand beaches to cliffs and mangroves of El Morro National Park. History lovers will enjoy the town centre and its historic landmarks.
Los Haitises National Park
Located on the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic, Los Haitises National Park invites nature lovers on a boat excursion to discover its mangroves, caves adorned with petroglyphs, tropical forests, and spectacular limestone islets. A refuge for seabirds, this natural jewel never fails to impress.
Bahía de las Águilas
Considered the most beautiful beach in the Dominican Republic, Bahía de las Águilas stretches for eight kilometres of pristine white sand beside dazzling turquoise waters. Preserved in its wild state and accessible only by boat or 4x4, it offers peaceful escapes, snorkelling, and encounters with marine life.
Constanza
Nestled at 1200 metres in the Cordillera Central mountain range, Constanza stands out for its refreshing climate and lush, mountainous landscapes. An important agricultural hub for the country, the village invites visitors to enjoy scenic hikes, discover cascading waterfalls, and explore vibrant local farmers markets.
Monte Cristi
Bordering Haiti, the coastal region of Monte Cristi charms travellers with its unique landscapes and dry climate. Preserved and striking, its scenery ranges from golden-sand beaches to cliffs and mangroves of El Morro National Park. History lovers will enjoy the town centre and its historic landmarks.
Los Haitises National Park
Located on the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic, Los Haitises National Park invites nature lovers on a boat excursion to discover its mangroves, caves adorned with petroglyphs, tropical forests, and spectacular limestone islets. A refuge for seabirds, this natural jewel never fails to impress.
Highlights
Stunning white-sand beaches and turquoise waters.
Flavourful cuisine with tropical influences.
Warm, hospitable nature of the Dominican people.
Spectacular golf courses between sea and mountains.
Keep in mind
The sand on Puerto Plata’s beaches is brown rather than white, and seaweed is often present.
Road conditions can be poor; booking a guided excursion with a driver is recommended over renting a car.
Top pick
“The Damajagua Waterfalls, located about an hour from Puerto Plata, are a true natural wonder. This excursion includes 27 waterfalls and natural pools where visitors can slide, swim, and even jump from cliffs—an adrenaline-filled experience in the heart of nature.”
Michel LétourneauTravel Counsellor, Québec Travel Centre (Lebourgneuf)
Local food and gastronomy
Bandera Dominicana
La bandera Dominicana, meaning “the Dominican flag,” is the country’s national dish. It features fluffy white rice; stewed red beans; and tender, seasoned chicken. Simple, balanced, and flavourful, it is enjoyed daily throughout the Dominican Republic.
Sancocho
Dominican sancocho is a hearty stew made with a variety of meats (chicken, beef, pork, etc.) simmered in a thick, golden broth of root vegetables such as cassava and sweet potato. Corn and plantains are often added, then the stew is seasoned with coriander, garlic, and lime.
Mangú
Mangú is the star of the Dominican breakfast. This rich, creamy mashed green plantain dish is served with pickled onions, fried cheese, sunny-side-up eggs, and salami. This mix of local flavours beautifully captures the warmth and generosity of the island’s cuisine.
Tostones
A staple of Dominican cuisine, tostones are slices of green plantain that are smashed and fried twice to achieve a crispy exterior and a tender interior. Lightly salted, they pair perfectly with fish, meats, and local sauces.
Bizcocho dominicano
The bizcocho dominicano is traditional Dominican cake that has a light, soft texture and a rich golden colour. Filled with pineapple or guava jam or dulce de leche and topped with airy meringue, it practically melts in your mouth. It’s a must at Caribbean celebrations.
Bandera Dominicana
La bandera Dominicana, meaning “the Dominican flag,” is the country’s national dish. It features fluffy white rice; stewed red beans; and tender, seasoned chicken. Simple, balanced, and flavourful, it is enjoyed daily throughout the Dominican Republic.
Sancocho
Dominican sancocho is a hearty stew made with a variety of meats (chicken, beef, pork, etc.) simmered in a thick, golden broth of root vegetables such as cassava and sweet potato. Corn and plantains are often added, then the stew is seasoned with coriander, garlic, and lime.
Mangú
Mangú is the star of the Dominican breakfast. This rich, creamy mashed green plantain dish is served with pickled onions, fried cheese, sunny-side-up eggs, and salami. This mix of local flavours beautifully captures the warmth and generosity of the island’s cuisine.
Tostones
A staple of Dominican cuisine, tostones are slices of green plantain that are smashed and fried twice to achieve a crispy exterior and a tender interior. Lightly salted, they pair perfectly with fish, meats, and local sauces.
Bizcocho dominicano
The bizcocho dominicano is traditional Dominican cake that has a light, soft texture and a rich golden colour. Filled with pineapple or guava jam or dulce de leche and topped with airy meringue, it practically melts in your mouth. It’s a must at Caribbean celebrations.
Good to know
- All-inclusive resort packages are affordable and very popular.
- Bus transfers between the airport and hotel are included in all-inclusive packages.
- Entry and exit taxes apply. Check with your travel counsellor to confirm whether they are included in your package.
- Drink bottled water only.
- It is best to leave your beach bag near the door of your room rather than on the bed to avoid sand fleas getting inside.
What to bring back?
Larimar jewellery, a blue Dominican gemstone
Mamajuana
A faceless doll called Muñeca Sin Rostro
Hand-painted local artwork
Dominican rum
Frequently asked questions
For warm, sunny weather, the best time to visit the Dominican Republic is from December to April, during the dry season. Temperatures are warm without being overwhelming, making it ideal for beach time and excursions.
From May to October, the weather remains pleasant, but rainfall is more frequent as it is the wet season.
The hurricane season, from September to October, is best avoided, as is early January, which is often rainy.
The easiest way to get around in the Dominican Republic is by booking organized excursions. This allows you to explore the country with peace of mind. Renting a car is not recommended because of fast driving habits and variable road conditions. Guaguas—small vans running fixed routes—offer inexpensive transportation. However, they are popular with locals and are often crowded.
10 to 14 days.
This time frame is ideal for exploring beaches, the mountains of Jarabacoa, colonial towns, tropical forests, and the island’s major cities at a relaxed pace.
- Carnaval Vegano: Held every Sunday in February in La Vega, the country’s largest carnival celebrates Dominican culture with colourful parades, dancing, and lively music. The iconic lechones, in extravagant costumes, put on a vibrant show.
- Festival del Merengue: In July, Santo Domingo comes alive to the rhythm of merengue, the national dance. Concerts, dancing, and local cuisine take over the Malecón.
- Dominican Republic Jazz Festival: In November, from Cabarete to Puerto Plata on the north coast, renowned jazz artists perform in a festive Caribbean atmosphere.
Getting ready for your trip
Travel Insurance
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Passport photos
Fast, compliant and guaranteed service.
International Driving Permit
Useful for driving abroad.
Visa
Online application service.
Country entry requirements
Double-check the rules before you travel.
Travel items
Suitcases, anti-theft bags, and more!
TripTik Travel Planner
Create your personalized travel itinerary.
Tourist documentation
Road guides and road maps.
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