5 Can’t-Miss Attractions to Hit in the Dominican Republic

Can you think of something that beats the warm and sunny Caribbean weather?

Well, actually there is! But, you must dig deeper into the Caribbean to find it.

If you’re planning to pack your bags and jet off to the Caribbean, don’t fly beyond the Dominican Republic!

Sandwiched between Haiti and Puerto Rico, DR is a hot destination for tourists from around the globe. Every year, about 5 million tourists land in the county, ready to stay in Dominican Republic villas and begin sampling top attractions.

5 Can’t-Miss Attractions to Hit in the Dominican Republic Photo Gallery




In this post, we’re sharing the best attractions you can’t miss to hit in the Dominican Republic.

Let’s roll!

#1. Santo Domingo

When you visit a new country, among the first things you should do is to get in touch with its past. Know its roots and culture.

In the Dominican Republic, no place makes you connect with the country’s colonial past more than Santo Domingo, which is also the nation’s capital.

While in the city, be sure to visit the First Cathedral of America — the oldest cathedral in the Americas. Even if you aren’t into art, you will appreciate the ancient furnishings and woodcarving, jewelry and funerary mountains in the cathedral’s treasury.

Also, check out the Museum of Royal Houses, UNESCO World Heritage Center, and the Plaza de la Cultura.

#2. Punta Cana

About 198 kilometers east of Santo Domingo is Punta Cana, a beach city that’s an overwhelming favorite for many visitors.

Home to beaches such as Playa Juanillo (stunning), Punta Cana Beach, Cabeza de Toro and Bavaro Beach, your appetite for sand, cool waters, quaint fishing and stunning scenarios will be satisfied to the brim!

And if you’re a golfing enthusiast, you can play your shots on world-class courses such as Cocotal Golf and Country Club or Iberostar Golf course.

#3. Jarabocoa

Are you a waterfall hunter? If so, you’re in for a treat!

Jarabocoa is the ultimate destination for people who love stunning waterfalls. Salto de Jimenoa Uno is a perfect spot to enjoy a picturesque waterfall, especially if you’ve watched the movie Jurassic Park!

Other notable attractions in this mountain town include Jamaca de Dios (a mountain-top restaurant) and El Mogote (perfect for hikers).

Oh! And if you don’t fancy the warm weather in the coastal towns, Jarabocoa is all you need to cool off.

#4. Lake Enriquillo

Sure, oceans are beautiful, but that doesn’t mean lakes can’t measure up.

If you’d love to change your scenery from sandy beaches and blue waters to beautiful flamingos, Lake Enriquillo is your spot.

It’s the largest lake in the Caribbean and also marks the lowest point in terms of altitude.

In the lake, there is an island called Isla Cabritos, which is home to Parque Nacional Isla Cabritos, a park that has one of the largest population of crocodiles in the world.

#5. Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia 

You don’t have to be a Roman Catholic to realize that the Basilica of Our Lady is a modern architectural wonder with a rich history.

Located in Salvaleon de Higuey, the structure is surrounded by royal palms that’re arranged in a geometric pattern around it.

This is one place you don’t want to visit without your camera!

Summing Things Up

Dominican Republic is a prime tourist destination.

However, if you’ve never been here, it’s quite easy to get mixed up and start touring locations without a proper plan.

Hopefully, this guide sheds some light on the attractions that should be top on your hit list.

Have you been to any of these locations? What was your experience? Share with us in the comments section!

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