Cheap Dominican Republic Holidays

The peaceful country of the Dominican Republic is located on the East of the second largest island in the Caribbean, with Cuba being the largest. On the West of the island, you can find beautiful Haiti, and this idyllic country is home to the thriving capital - Santo Domingo, the oldest city in the whole of the Americas.

Dominican Republic holiday makers can discover wondrous, ancient architecture throughout Santo Domingo, with the option to learn all about the fascinating local history, dating back to the colonial area when Christopher Columbus was here.

On Dominican Republic holidays, travellers can experience glorious, tropical temperatures all year round. Paired with swaying palm trees and sandy white beaches, this destination is a sublime spot for sun-seeking holidaymakers.

As well as pristine beaches, you will also find tropical rainforests, mangroves, lakes, lagoons and four towering mountain ranges to explore. You can also hike, snorkel and sail around the remote paradise of the Dominican Republic, while taking in the surrounding natural beauty of its landscapes.

Culturally, this island has a blend of European, African and native Taíno influences, creating a vibrant atmosphere where you can dance the night away to fast-paced merengue music. A Caribbean country that offers it all, there is every reason to book blissful holidays to the Dominican Republic.

Good to know

Flight time

London: 9-10 hrs

(from London)

Currency

Dominican Peso

Language

Spanish

Time difference

GMT -4

Cost of a beer

100 RD$

3-course meal

900 RD$

Breathtaking bodies of water

There are magical lagoons, cascading waterfalls, idyllic lakes and plenty of gorgeous beaches for you to visit on Dominican Republic holidays. Within Scape Park, you can find Hoyo Azul - a pearly freshwater blue lagoon, situated at the bottom of a remarkably tall cliff. Lake Enriquillo sits near to the Haiti border, and at this vast 13-mile river you can spot some enchanting crocodiles, iguanas and birds.

Alluring local cuisine

You can find plenty of delicious local cuisine on Dominican Republic holidays. Try a host of different dishes, tastes, cuisines and flavours, all housed within diverse and inviting local eateries. Down the bustling streets of Santo Domingo, you can find Buche Perico, serving Caribbean, Latin and local food in their candlelit courtyard, perfect for a romantic evening.

Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo

The colonial inner city of Santo Domingo is now a UNESCO world heritage site, serving to protect the oldest city in the whole of the Americas and founded by Western settlers. This enchanting area in the Dominican is steeped in beautiful architecture and history, from the National Pantheon to the Museum of the Royal Houses.

Activities

There are so many activities to get stuck into on holidays to the Dominican Republic. River horseback riding is a great place to start, before zip-lining through the lush canopies, or wading through the trees in one of many adventure parks here. Try paragliding, surfing and snorkelling, or hire a guide to discover exciting shark sightings, alongside the colourful marine life.

Beaches

The whole of the Dominican Republic is fringed with beautiful, balmy beaches, perfect for relaxing, soaking up the sun and trying freshly prepared food from local street vendors. Macao beach has an authentic Dominican feel; many guides can take you to this secluded spot, which is incredibly popular for surfing. Or, if you’re looking to explore idyllic, remote beach locations untouched by tourism, venture over to the scenic Bávaro, or Rincón beach.

Food and Drink

In the Dominican Republic, you can try and taste a host of diverse foods. Choose from a range of rice dishes, as well as meals with plantain, beans, coconut flavours and traditionally-delicious meat dishes.

Expect to find a beautiful blend of Taíno, Spanish and African cuisine on this tropical island, with plenty of restaurants serving sumptuous local cuisine, too. Treat your tastebuds to a host of flavours; try casabe, guanimos, creme caramel or mangu and much much more.

Sights

There are many miraculous sights to discover on Dominican Republic holidays. Whale watch on the Samana Peninsula, go inland to the 3 Eyes National Park with its turquoise lagoon, formed atop limestone caves, or experience paradise by venturing to the 27 Waterfalls. In the Zona Colonial, overlook the crumbling Monasterio de San Francisco - the first cathedral in the Americas, while taking in the old colonial architecture and eating al fresco.