Are you planning an island getaway to the lovely Dominican Republic? If so, you’ll need plenty of ideas for what to do when you’re there. Lying on the beaches and soaking up the sun is only fun for a while, but there are plenty of other fun and interesting activities to help you explore the culture and the islands.
- Dominican RepublicLife as I Pictured. / Foter / CC BY-NC-ND
Here are just a few of the things you should try on your trip.
For History Buffs
The history buffs will want to take a trip to Santo Domingo’s Zona Colonia. It is the heart of Santo Domingo and features old colonial buildings and cobblestone streets. It is the place where Spanish conquistadors first began their conquest of Latin America. You can take a step back in history while still enjoying the dozens of shops, restaurants and cafes in the district. Next, visit La Isabela Bay, the site of the first permanent colonial settlement in the Americas. In 1493, Christopher Columbus established a town at this location in honor of the Spanish Queen Isabela. The terrain is remote, but it is worth the trek to see the excavated ruins of that first settlement.
For Outdoor Adventurers
People who enjoy the outdoors will love Constanza and the Dominican Alps. The Cordillera Central mountain range takes you away from the tropical heat and toward the interior of the island where temperatures are cooler and the landscape is dotted with streams, valleys, parks and forests. Go back to the beaches for an exciting scuba diving adventure in the warm Caribbean waters. Learn about the coral reefs and the marine life local to the area. You can snorkel in some of the shallow waters, too. If swiftly moving waters are more your style, go on a tour of the Damajagua Cascades. Climb a few falls or all 27 of them to see, feel and taste some of the most refreshing mountain water you’ll ever experience.
For Animal Lovers
Visit the National Aquarium – an open-air aquarium with a fantastic view overlooking the Caribbean. The sea turtle display and manatees are must-see animals for those who love animals. There are also many differently species of fish, so you could easily spend the entire day here. The Plexiglas tunnel makes you feel like you’re right there with the sea animals, including the sharks and manta rays. Manati Park also offers a great experience with animals ranging from toucans and flamingos to iguanas and crocodiles. The large park also houses displays of artifacts from the aboriginal people of the island and put on ceremonial dance presentations now and then.
For Extreme Adventurers
If horseback riding and sunbathing are a little too ordinary for you, find Dominican Republic resorts and explore the island for opportunities for parasailing. It’s a great way to see the coastline and the beautiful, sparkling blue waters the Caribbean is famous for.
As you can see, whether you’re a sun worshipper, a history buff, an outdoor adventurer or an animal lover, there’s plenty to do in the gorgeous Dominican Republic. There’s never a dull minute when you’re on island time!
