Dominican Republic Offers a New Take on Spring Break

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – In a recent Booking.com survey, 45 percent of global travelers said they want to be more adventurous in their choice of destinations in 2019 and prioritize new and unique experiences. Adventure travel is one of the fastest growing travel segments and Dominican Republic’s diverse terrain creates a stunning backdrop for a wide range of adrenaline-pumping excursions to add a little excitement into any spring break.

“A vacation in Dominican Republic is so much more than a week along one of our world-class beaches,” said Magaly Toribio, Marketing Advisor for the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism. “There are unique excursions and destinations for all types of travelers; from those who prefer guided and structured tours to adventurers looking to chart their own course, we welcome all to our diverse country.”

From Puerto Plata to Jarabacoa, some of the most magnificent features take travelers away from the coasts and in to the country’s underexplored inland regions, where abundant rivers lead to breathtaking waterfalls. Whether you prefer to admire picturesque cascades from afar, jump right in to the rushing water, or embark on an excursion, Dominican Republic offers a unique experience for every type of traveler.

Conquer the 27 Charcos de Damajagua

In Puerto Plata on the north coast, the 27 Charcos de Damajagua are the crown jewel of waterfall adventures in Dominican Republic. This series of cascades is best explored with a hiking excursion through thick forests across footbridges that lead to a rocky hilltop. Here, you’ll begin your downward journey by jumping or sliding down a series of naturally formed “water slides”.

Local guides and outfitters provide all the equipment and safety gear so that you can slide down water- cushioned chutes and jump into crystal-clear turquoise pools. Most excursions only feature seven of the falls, but visitors who are conditioned for the physical challenge may choose to pursue all 27.

Soak in the Scenery at Salto el Limón

In the northeast region of Samaná, Salto El Limón, salto meaning waterfalls in Spanish, is a picture-perfect cascade tumbling down 130 feet from the top of Sierra de Samaná. To reach the waterfall, you’ll embark on a 1.5-mile trek through verdant hills and trees. Take the journey by foot or on horseback and admire the lush, hilly terrain while en route—you’re sure to spot unique flora and fauna along the way, like the royal palm tree, pineapples, or the palmchat, the country’s national bird.

For a more active journey to the falls, try your hand at canyoning through the El Limón river to reach El Limón. When you arrive, marvel at the power of the cascade, cool off in the freshwater pool at the base, and enjoy the relaxing sounds of the rushing water as it provides a natural soundtrack to this truly unique experience.

Channel your Inner Zen in Juan Dolio

Juan Dolio is a wonderful option for travelers looking to experience both Santo Domingo’s rich history and vibrant nightlife as well as La Romana’s luxurious and sunny attractions, both accessible in under an hour.

Juan Dolio’s 10-kilometer (six-mile) long, spacious and sparkling white sand beach is the perfect destination for a day of scuba diving and swimming, plus it’s dotted with hotels, dive shops, restaurants, and bars.

For a thrill nearby, Cueva de las Maravillas offers a stunning natural excursion while the Barceló Rum Historical Center gives guests a taste of one of Dominican Republic’s beloved products. Golf aficionados are able to play two of the country’s 28 courses here–Los Marlins and Guavaberry–with La Romana’s designer golf courses just a drive away.

Explore Jarabacoa’s Magnificent Waterways

The mountain resort of Jarabacoa has long been popular among Dominicans for its cool temperatures, fresh rivers and breathtaking views of sweeping green landscapes flanked by dense pine forests and coffee- producing mountains. This ecotourism hot spot is also home to some of the country’s most gorgeous cascades, including Salto de Baiguate. The waterfall tumbles down 82 feet into a freshwater pool that goes from shallow to deep as you approach the falls. The pool is a popular spot for a midday swim and although it’s tucked below a deep canyon, it’s easily accessible via a series of wooden steps that lead directly to the water. For the brave, book a canyoning excursion that concludes with a thrilling rappel down the waterfall.

Just 20 minutes outside of Jarabacoa, waterfall chasers flock to Salto de Jimenoa Dos. Well known as the waterfall that appears in the beginning of the movie Jurassic Park, this is one adventure lovers shouldn’t miss. Allow ample time to walk the three suspended footbridges that surround this powerful waterfall and take in the unspoiled views. The water chute tumbles 131 feet to incredible depths and strong currents at the base—you can swim in the lower portions of the river along the shallow banks, but not the main waterfall area’s pools. While you’re in the area, plan to visit a second, smaller waterfall known as Salto de Jimenoa Uno. Tucked inside a ravine, this waterfall is worth the steep downhill hike to admire its magnificent 246-foot drop and jump in the pool for a revitalizing swim.

Adventure off the Beach in Punta Cana

Spend a day away from the sand and you’ll find a myriad of inland adventures. Cool off in freshwater cenotes and lagoons tucked inside forests at Ojos Indígenas. To explore the landscape, spend an afternoon with a zipline or caving expedition. For those with a need for speed, select from a half- or full-day off-road safari. Explore the authentic Dominican countryside via an ATV or 4×4 buggy, tumbling past roadside meat shops and sugar cane plantations.

If daytime activities are abundant, nights are no less vibrant. The young at heart can dance the evening away until their feet tire at Punta Cana’s modern nightclubs, for a slower pace head to Cap Cana marina to relax under the stars at seaside lounges, with cocktails, bites, and hand-rolled cigars.

To learn more about how to book your spring break extravaganza in Dominican Republic, visit www.GoDominicanRepublic.com.