Known as Quisqueya- ‘the mother of all lands’ in the native Taíno language- the Dominican Republic overflows with natural riches. Whether you’re exploring lush tropical forests, sipping juice from a coconut on a wild beach or soaking up the buzz of the vibrant capital, the island boasts a breathtaking diversity of landscapes to suit any adventure.
Off shore, thousands of migrating humpback whales congregate in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean between the months of December and March. Spot them during a stay in Samaná, a natural haven of pristine beaches, waterfalls and forested islands that rise dreamlike out of the ocean.
The turquoise waters of Punta Cana are a busy hub for adventure sports and family-friendly beach resorts. Meanwhile, the bustling metropolis of Santo Domingo offers a vibrant nightlife and excellent restaurants, as well as cobbled streets steeped in history in the Zona Colonial. As the first European settlement in the Americas, the UNESCO world heritage site is home to 16th Century churches and monasteries, imposing fortresses and leafy plazas.
Dotted along the north coast of the Dominican Republic are quaint towns and buzzing oceanfront cities. Dramatic beaches with rolling waves offer some of the best conditions for adventure sports like kite surfing and windsurfing. Beneath the water’s surface, colourful corals and sunken ships await exploration. While coconut palms fringe some beaches, others are lined with towering rocks and tangled mangroves sheltering rare birds and hidden caves.
