12-Day Travel Itinerary for Santiago de los Caballeros, DR

  • Day 1: Catedral de Santiago de los Caballeros
    10 minutes (2.2 miles) from Cibao International Airport

    Begin your trip exploring the city's history at the Catedral de Santiago de los Caballeros. The main cathedral was built in 1504 and was the seat of the first bishop of the New World. Its baroque architecture and ornate interior are impressive.

  • Day 2: Centro León
    15 minutes (4 miles) from Catedral de Santiago de los Caballeros

    The Centro León is a museum located in the heart of the city. It features a collection of contemporary Dominican art, pre-Columbian artifacts, and exhibits on the cultural history of the island. The museum also has a theater, a gift shop, and a café.

  • Day 3: La Aurora Cigar Factory
    10 minutes (2.5 miles) from Centro León

    Visit the famous La Aurora Cigar Factory, where you can learn about the process of cigar making, check out tobacco fields, and purchase cigars. The factory is one of the oldest in the country, and its products are exported all over the world.

  • Day 4: Jarabacoa
    1 hour 40 minutes (40 miles) from La Aurora Cigar Factory

Escape the city and spend a day in the mountain town of Jarabacoa. This charming town is known for its waterfalls, rivers, and coffee plantations. You can go river rafting, horseback riding, or hiking to the Salto de Jimenoa waterfall.

  • Day 5: Pico Duarte
    3 hours (70 miles) from Jarabacoa

    For those who are up for an adventure, take a trip to Pico Duarte, the tallest peak in the Caribbean. The climb to the top takes about two days, and you'll need a guide and camping gear. The view from the summit is well worth the effort.

  • Day 6: Jardín Botánico Nacional
    1 hour (16 miles) from Catedral de Santiago de los Caballeros

    The National Botanical Garden is home to over 300 species of plants and is spread over 18 hectares. The garden also has a lake, a Japanese garden, and an orchidarium. Take a walk around the park, enjoy the flora and fauna on display and soak up the sights and sounds.

  • Day 7: Fort San Luis
    20 minutes (5 miles) from Jardín Botánico Nacional

    This little-known fort is a hidden gem and played a crucial role in the defense of the city during the 17th century. Built on a hill in the southeast corner of town, it offers picturesque views of the valley and the city. The fort's museum has an interesting collection of weapons, maps and is a great way to learn more about the city's history.

  • Day 8: Mercado Modelo
    15 minutes (4 miles) from Fort San Luis

    Visit the bustling Mercado Modelo, the largest open-air market in the Dominican Republic. This marketplace sells everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. Try some local street food, barter for a great deal, and take in the vibrant atmosphere.

  • Day 9: Monumento a los Héroes de la Restauración
    8 minutes (2 miles) from Mercado Modelo

    The Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration was designed to celebrate the country's heroes and their struggle for independence. The monument is located on top of a hill and offers stunning views of the city. The museum inside provides a historic overview of the restoration of the Dominican Republic.

  • Day 10: Saltos de la Damajagua
    1 hour 20 minutes (34 miles) from Monumento a los Héroes de la Restauración

    Visit the Damajagua Waterfalls, a series of 27 waterfalls that are a natural wonder. The waterfalls are located in a tropical forest and are only accessible via a guided tour. You'll go down one-by-one via platforms, swim through caves, and be surrounded by lush greenery.

  • Day 11: Casa de Arte
    5 minutes (1.2 miles) from Saltos de la Damajagua

    The Casa de Arte is a cultural center and art gallery that showcases works by local artists. The gallery is small, but it has some exceptional pieces, including paintings, sculptures, and installations. The center also offers workshops and classes for visitors looking to get more involved.

  • Day 12: La Sirena Market
    10 minutes (2 miles) from Casa de Arte

    End your trip with some shopping at La Sirena Market. This department store is a one-stop-shop for everything you need or might have forgotten on your trip such as groceries, electronics, clothing, home goods, and more. Browse through the aisles and pick up some souvenirs to take back home.

  • Time and Costs Estimates

    • Catedral de Santiago de los Caballeros (1-2 hours, free)
    • Centro León (2-3 hours, $15)
    • La Aurora Cigar Factory (2-3 hours, $20-$50)
    • Jarabacoa (8-10 hours, $60-$100)
    • Pico Duarte (2-3 days, $300-$500)
    • Jardín Botánico Nacional (1-2 hours, $2)
    • Fort San Luis (1-2 hours, free)
    • Mercado Modelo (1-2 hours, varies based on purchases)
    • Monumento a los Héroes de la Restauración (1-2 hours, free)
    • Saltos de la Damajagua (4-5 hours, $80-$100)
    • Casa de Arte (2-3 hours, free)
    • La Sirena Market (1-2 hours, varies based on purchases)
    • Total Estimated Costs: $480-$800/person

    Transportation

    Most attractions in Santiago are easily accessible via public transportation such as buses and taxis. Taxis are the easiest option since they are widely available and inexpensive. The average taxi fare ranges from $3-$10 per ride. Renting a car for day trips outside the city is recommended. The average car rental is approximately $50-$100/day.

    Useful Tips

    For those with fewer than 12 days, we recommend prioritizing your top must-visit locations first. For those with more time, consider spending extra days relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Punta Cana or exploring Santo Domingo, the oldest city in the New World.

    Airports

    Cibao International Airport (STI) is the closest to Santiago de los Caballeros, located about 10 minutes from the city center. Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is the other main airport in the Dominican Republic, located about 3.5 hours away from Santiago de los Caballeros.

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