If you find yourself in the northern part of the Dominican Republic, here are my top recommendations. Check out my other blog posts covering different parts of the country.
Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata offers breathtaking views from the mountains to the bay below. Don’t miss the ride on the Teleférico (cable car) up to the mountain top. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children 5-10, and free for kids under 5. If you’re arriving from the cruise port, a taxi will cost around $30 each way.
27 Charcos de Damajagua
Take a guided tour of the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua for a chance to swim and jump into the beautiful lagoons beneath the falls! Tours can be booked through agencies or purchased on-site. To get there, catch a guagua for a 40-minute drive from Puerto Plata or 50 minutes from Santiago.
Sosúa
Sosúa beach was my favorite weekend spot when I lived in the DR. Catch a Metro or Caribe Tours bus from Santiago ($4 tickets) and spend a day lounging on the beach. There are beach chairs, restaurants, and shops selling artwork and souvenirs.
Cabarete
Cabarete offers a vibrant beach town atmosphere. Enjoy the stunning beaches and turquoise waters, perfect for windsurfing. It’s a short cab ride from Sosúa or Puerto Plata.
Santiago
Santiago de los Caballeros, nestled near the mountains, is the DR’s second-largest city and rich with historical architecture. Don’t miss the Monumento de los Héroes de la Restauración in the city center. Grab a pizza empanada from a food truck and indulge in Helado Bon ice cream. Santiago hosts colorful Carnaval festivals in February and March.
La Vega
If you’re here during February or March, La Vega’s Carnaval celebrations are a must-see. It’s the largest pre-Lent festival in the DR, featuring elaborate costumes and the traditional vejigazo (whipping with dried cow’s bladder)!
Comments