Dominican Republic Tops the Bucket List for Adventure Travelers

Long known as an ideal destination for rest and relaxation, Dominican Republic is now moving to the top of bucket list for adventure-seeking travels as well. Home to 32 national parks, record-peaking mountain ranges, inland rivers and over 1,000 miles of coastline, Dominican Republic’s varied landscape is making it a must-experience destination for those looking to stay active while on vacation.

“While Dominican Republic is well known for its tranquil tropical setting, the country also offers endless amount of thrilling opportunities for travelers in search of their next great adventure,” said Magaly Toribio, marketing advisor for the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism. “Professional athletes to beginners come to experience our diverse offerings from water sports, scenic cycling, river rafting and hiking and stay for our incredible people and world-class hospitality – Dominican Republic truly has it all.”

If you’re perpetually in pursuit of your next adrenaline rush, mix and match the activities below to create the perfect Dominican Republic thrill-seeking experience.

Tackle Adventure on Two-Wheels

The mountainous central regions of Jarabacoa and Constanza have earned the nickname of the Dominican Alps—you’d be forgiven for mistaking the breathtaking vistas in the center of the island for being in the countryside of Switzerland or Austria. Take in the views and the crisp mountain air from the back of your bicycle by following a local path through Constanza. The route stays on mostly-flat terrain throughout the town, famous for agriculture and its annual festival of flowers.

Further north in Puerto Plata, cyclists can book a bespoke biking experience with local outfitters, tailored to their interests and activity levels. Some excursions cater to families with relaxed, all-ages rides, and others appeal to extreme athletes, with opportunities for off-roading and pushing the limits of your endurance.

Those looking for a competitive experience, Punta Cana will be hosting its first Grand Fund New York cycling event in 2019. This leading international bike race is expected to attract more than 4,000 participants from across the globe for two different races: A 150-kilometer route reaching an altitude of 973 meters, and a shorter route spanning 94 kilometers at 398 meters of altitude. The event is scheduled for April 7 and is open to riders of all levels who are eager to take on a challenge in an idyllic seaside setting.

Catch Waves Across the Country

Dominican Republic’s north coast has long been a mecca for surfers and kitesurfers. The world’s most skillful kitesurfers flock to Kite Beach in Cabarete. Even if you aren’t an expert yourself, you can enjoy the exhilarating spectacle alongside other admirers on the beach. Other popular kitesurf destinations include Punta Popy in Las Terrenas in the Samaná Peninsula and Playa Blanca in Punta Cana.

Novice surfers can book lessons on the north coast in Playa Encuentro and train with award-winning instructors, or head further east to Playa Bonita in Samaná. On the east coast, Macao in Punta Cana is one of the most popular surfing destinations on the Caribbean Sea.

River Raft through the Caribbean

Dominican Republic is often overlooked as a river rafting destination, but fresh rivers flow vigorously through the country’s high-altitude mountain towns. Take on a rafting excursion along the Yaque del Norte River— the longest river in the country. Excursions depart from Jarabacoa and offer thrills for expert and novice rafters alike, with level-2 rapids that move past lush riverbanks and canyons while conquering cascades that are guaranteed to get your heart racing. Certified guides lead the excursions, which also include basic technique and safety instructions.

If you’re not feeling a need for speed, no problem. Request an oversized inner tube and float along the river’s calmer side for a more relaxed pace.

Explore by Foot During Day Hikes or Longer Journeys

The Ébano Verde Scientific Reserve in Constanza is a natural piece of art come to life, offering hikers an up-close view of vibrant flora in the well-preserved ebony forest, as well as fauna including native birds. Choose between two different hiking loops and reward yourself with a dip in the lagoon near the Fernando Dominguez Visitors Center at the end of your hike.

For the ultimate challenge, take a hike to Pico Duarte, the highest point in the Caribbean, in which stands over 10,000 feet of breathtaking views overlooking the summit. This two to four-day excursion is available through various routes which being the most popular, departs from Jarabacoa. Though the hike is demanding, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of tropical, pine, mountain broadleaf and cloud forests throughout your journey.

Harness Your Competitive Spirit on Land or Sea

Known for having the most diverse terrain within the Caribbean region, Dominican Republic offers a variety of scenic landscapes for a wide range of activities, attracting athletes worldwide at any level. For example, XTERRA, one of the leading competitions in the world for extreme athletes, regularly host its trial runs and off-road duathlons in some of the most scenic and rugged regions of Dominican Republic. Challenge yourself to a full or sprint duathlon or even a trail run of either 5, 10 or 21 kilometers.

Those looking to experience the island’s magnificent coastline, sailing aficionados from around the world will also gather at the end of October for Regata Palito Seco, a sailing competition that brings together nearly 70 athletes from across the world to compete at the start of the Fiesta del Mar celebration in Barahona on the country’s southwest coast. The competition kicks off a full weekend of activities, including painting and a photography contest.

To learn more and to begin planning your next active adventure in Dominican Republic, visit www.GoDominicanRepublic.com.

About Dominican Republic

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the north and the Caribbean Sea on the south, our lush tropical and paradisiacal country boasts nearly 1,000 miles of coastline, magnificent resorts and hotels, and a variety of sports, recreation and entertainment options. Here you can dance to the pulse pounding thrill of the merengue, renew in our luxurious and diverse accommodations, explore ancient relics of centuries past, delight in delicious Dominican gastronomy or enjoy ecotourism adventures in our magnificent national parks, mountain ranges, rivers and beaches.

Known for our warm and hospitable people, Dominican Republic is a destination like no other, featuring astounding nature, intriguing history and rich cultural experiences like music, art and festivals, plus uniquely Dominican specialties such as cigars, rum, chocolate, coffee, merengue, amber and larimar.

Dominican Republic features the best beaches, fascinating history and culture, and is a chosen escape for celebrities, couples and families alike. Visit Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism’s official website at www.godominicanrepublic.com.