A new year brings a new opportunity to expand your horizons—and to break out of your 2020 rut.
Travelers looking for bucket list-worthy adventures can find endless inspiration in Dominican Republic. From paragliding over lush green valleys to whale watching in the Silver Bank, the country is teeming with opportunities to find your next thrill and make memories that will last a lifetime.
From adrenaline-pumping action to colorful culture, here are six adventures you don’t want to miss in Dominican Republic this year!
1. Embark on a whale watching adventure in the Samaná Peninsula.
Kick off the year with a journey to the northeast corner of Dominican Republic. Every year from January through March, thousands of humpback whales arrive to the Samaná Peninsula for mating season. Boat tours take tourists on the water to catch a glimpse of the majestic mammals, and specialized tour operators give animal lovers a chance to swing alongside the whales in a safe environment. You can also catch a glimpse of the 40-ton whales from land at Punta Balandra.
2. Go rafting on the longest river in the Country.
Dominican Republic is home to the Yaque Del Norte River—the longest river in the country. Starting in Jarabacoa, set off on a rafting adventure that features level-two rapids. Book a day trip with local outfitters that provide certified guides, training and safety equipment as they lead you along the most thrilling sections of the rushing river.
3. Paraglide through central Dominican Republic.
If you’ve always dreamed of flying, take to the skies over the mountains and valleys of Jarabacoa and Constanza on a paragliding tour. You’ll strap in alongside a certified professional instructor then glide over the waterfalls, villages and fields below. Time your session around sunset to catch a birds-eye view of the countryside at golden hour.
4. Slide down waterfalls in Puerto Plata.
Dominican Republic is a prime destination for canyoning and rappelling, with rugged rainforests and waterfalls that naturally lend themselves to active adventures. The 27 Charcos de Damajagua waterfalls near Puerto Plata is one of the country’s most popular spots for canyoning. You’ll start your journey by hiking through dense forest, then descend by sliding down a series of waterfalls into the turquoise pools below.
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5. ATV through the countryside.
Get behind the wheel of an ATV or a quad as you embark on an inland safari. Tours are offered from Puerto Plata to Punta Cana, taking riders through unspoiled nature and local villages. The trip is the perfect opportunity to literally veer off the beaten path and get to know locals along the way.
6. Go island hopping from coast to coast.
Ever dream of visiting multiple islands on the same vacation? In Dominican Republic, you’re in luck!
In addition to the mainland’s sparkling beaches, the DR boasts multiple offshore cayes with an even more stunning sea and sand environment. Hop on a catamaran sail to breathtaking Saona or Catalina islands, not only the perfect diving and snorkeling location but home to the Caribbean’s longest natural pool, and beaches stretching as far as the eye can see against iridescent turquoise waters. Cayo Arena, off the coast of Puerto Plata, is ideal for a snorkeling trip. Off the coast of Samaná, Cayo Levantado is a perfect lunch and swim escape—often included in tours of Los Haitises, but you can also overnight at the on—site, luxury resort. Off the coast of Montecristi are the most off-the-beaten track cays of the Siete Hermanos.
Which Dominican Republic adventure is at the top of your 2021 bucket list? Share by posting to social media and tagging @godomrep.
