The Dominican Republic: More Than Just Resorts
When many people think of the Caribbean, they think of beautiful tropical resorts, white sand beaches, Jamaica, and Cuba. What they don't realize is that the most popular destination in the Caribbean is actually the Dominican Republic.
The Dominican Republic is on an island that is shared with Hispaniola and Haiti, and it sees over 6 million visitors a year. This results in 2 million more than Cuba! This Caribbean destination has a lot more to offer visitors than your run-of-the-mill resort. Here are some scenic locations and national parks that you will want to check out while you’re exploring the Dominican Republic.
Lake Enriquillo
Lake Enriquillo is the largest and deepest water-reserve in the Dominican Republic and is the only saltwater lake throughout the Antilles. Its waters are twice as salty as the seas! It is located in the centre of Isla Cabritos National Park (Parque Nacional Isla Cabritos) and is a haven for wildlife. There are a variety of birds, including Flamingos, Florida Ducks, Muscovy Ducks, and Great Egrets. It is also one of the largest natural reserves for the American crocodile. Other reptiles that you’ll spot are the Rhinoceros iguana and Ricord’s iguana.
National Park of the East
This World Heritage Site is one of the largest marine parks in the Caribbean. Rhinoceros iguanas, bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees are just some of the fantastic wildlife that visitors will get to experience when they visit National Park of the East. Sandy beaches, tropical forests, over 400 caves, and limestone landscapes come together to create an amazing tropical wilderness. Birdwatchers will be in heaven as they hike through the rainforest, as there are hundreds of species of birds. The coral reefs along the shore provide a great place for snorkelers and scuba-divers to explore the Caribbean’s underwater treasures.
This park is also a place of historical significance featuring an archaeological site that has human remains, cave art, and historical artifacts of the Taino Indigenous People. There are educational seminars to educate visitors about the Taino people, how they lived, the practices and beliefs, and some myths associated with the people.
Bahia de las Aguilas in Jaragua National Park
Located in the extreme southwest, Jaragua National Park is one of the most significant natural reserves in the country; part of the first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Dominican Republic. Found within the park are the picturesque turquoise waters of Bahia de las Aguilas, recognized as the most beautiful beach in the Dominican Republic. The diamond-white stretch that lines this 5-mile beach is best accessed by boat from the small village of La Cueva. Its marine life and incredible views will make for memories that you couldn't possibly forget anytime soon. Don’t forget the sunscreen as you won’t find any shade here!
Jarabacoa
Jarabacoa is best known as an area ripe for ecotourism and the location of the Dominican Republic's only whitewater river, the Rio Yaque del Norte. The terrain, rivers, and waterfalls make it perfect for adventurous activities like hiking, horseback riding, river rafting, mountain biking, rappelling, canyoning, paragliding and mountain trekking adventures. Canyoning is practiced alongside the impressive Salto de Jimenoa and Baiguate waterfalls.
Samana Peninsula and Bay
This spectacular peninsula and bay are lined with beautiful mangroves, caves, rock formations, and one of the most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic. It is also home to Los Haitises National Park (Parque Nacional Los Haitises). The town of Santa Bárbara de Samaná on its southern end is the primary jump off point for its daily boat excursions, and renowned whale watching expeditions that run from mid-January through March every year, when at least 1,500 humpback whales return to Samaná Bay to court, mate, and give birth in its warm waters. Serving as a marine sanctuary, with a well-protected location and deep waters, the bay includes small mangrove cayes, seagrass beds, and corals, all of which provide nutrients to the visiting humpback whales, turtles, and manatees.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully this will encourage you to venture out from the resort if you decide to make the Dominican Republic your next tropical vacation! As you can see there are plenty of national parks to explore, adventure activities to experience, and wildlife viewing opportunities. If you would like to have your next getaway planned for you, consider joining Wander and Soul’s Travel & Lifestyle Club, where we will craft the perfect one-of-a-kind vacation for you, even if you don’t know exactly what it is that you want yet! Remember, how you travel matters. It’s not just where you go, but how the journey shapes you! Learn more about all the amazing perks of becoming a member of our Travel & Lifestyle Club here.