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Dominican Republic 7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary

  • Day 1: Santo Domingo Colonial Zone
    30 minutes (15.5 miles) from Las Americas International Airport, 20 minutes (7.1 miles) from downtown Santo Domingo

    Start your trip in the heart of the Dominican Republic, in the beautiful city of Santo Domingo. Begin exploring the charming Colonial Zone where you can see the impressive Alcazar de Colón and take in the scenic views from the top of the Puerta del Conde. Stroll the streets to discover historic landmarks, art galleries, and street vendors selling local crafts.

  • Day 2: Jarabacoa 'The City of Eternal Spring'
    2 hours 20 minutes (71.1 miles) from Santo Domingo, 1 hour (30.8 miles) from Santiago Airport

    Escape the heat to the mountains of Jarabacoa, known as “The City of Eternal Spring” for its year-round perfect weather. Enjoy the lush greenery and beautiful waterfalls of the surrounding area on a hike or horseback ride in the stunning Jarabacoa National Park. Take a refreshing dip in Salto de Jimenoa, a beautiful waterfall in the outskirts of the town.

  • Day 3: Cabarete Beach
    5 hours 15 minutes (189 miles) from Jarabacoa, 25 minutes (11.5 miles) from Puerto Plata Airport

    Head to Cabarete Beach, known as the best kiteboarding beach in the world! Whether you're interested in kitesurfing or just relaxing on the pristine sandy beaches, you'll find plenty to do. If you’re adventurous, try one of the many water activities like windsurfing, paddleboarding or parasailing.

  • Day 4: Las Galeras Beach
    4 hours 30 minutes (140 miles) from Cabarete, 11 minutes (5.5 miles) from Samaná El Catey International Airport

    Travel to the dreamy, palm-packed and uncrowded beach of Laz Galeras, located in the remote Samaná Peninsula. This is a perfect spot to relax in the sun, unwind and take a break from the bustling pace of city life. Enjoy the crystal-clear blue water, fine sand and lush surrounding hills.

  • Day 5: Whale Watching Tour
    35 minutes (20.5 miles) from Las Galeras

    Take a tour on the Samana Peninsula to witness an awe-inspiring experience watching the humpback whales migrating from the northern Atlantic to the Caribbean Sea. Take a boat tour and get a chance to see the immense mammals up-close within their natural habitat. It’s perfect for nature lovers, families and anyone looking for a magnificent ocean adventure.

  • Day 6: Punta Cana Beach
    3 hours 30 minutes (146 miles) from Laz Galeras, 30 minutes (18.7 miles) from Punta Cana International Airport

    Punta Cana is known for its lively beaches, wild nightlife and endless shopping opportunities. Soak up the sun and enjoy the beautiful palm-lined white-sand beaches, then get a taste of the unique Dominican Republic drink experience with a local rum cocktail.

  • Day 7: Hoyo Azul
    1 hour 20 minutes (54.5 miles) from Punta Cana, 25 minutes (13.3 miles) from La Romana International Airport

    Spend your final day at the awe-inspiring Hoyo Azul cenote, a natural lagoon crystal clear freshwater surrounded by lush fauna and flora. Take a swim in the refreshing water, cliff jump or zipline, and take a peek at fascinating natural aquatic wildlife. End your trip with an unforgettable experience of nature and tranquillity.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Santo Domingo Colonial Zone (3 hours, free)
  • Jarabacoa 'The City of Eternal Spring' (4-6 hours, $20-30 for horseback riding)
  • Cabarete Beach (5-6 hours, free)
  • Las Galeras Beach (5 hours, free)
  • Whale Watching Tour (3-5 hours, $45-75 per person)
  • Punta Cana Beach (6-7 hours, free)
  • Hoyo Azul (3-4 hours, $45-70 for zipline and entrance fee)

  • Total Estimated Costs: $110-$200

Transportation

Public buses, known as guaguas, are a very budget-friendly way to travel between cities in the Dominican Republic. Taxis or ride-hailing apps can also be an affordable option for shorter rides or if you prefer more convenience. Motorcycle rentals and car rentals are relatively cheap, but keep in mind the different road conditions and rigorous driving style.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, visit Isla Saona, a two-hour boat ride from Punta Cana, and explore the national park to see magnificent wildlife, rainforests and white-sand beaches. Consider Las Terrenas for another quiet beach escape on the north coast. If short on time, skip Jarabacoa and replace it with another beach day at Bahía de las Águilas, an undeveloped spot without any resorts or crowds.

Airports

Las Americas International Airport (SDQ) is located approximately 20 minutes from Santo Domingo, the capital city of the Dominican Republic. La Romana International Airport (LRM) is located on the eastern side of the country, near Punta Cana. Puerto Plata Airport (POP) is located on the north coast, roughly halfway between Cabarete and Las Galeras. Samaná El Catey International Airport (AZS) is located on the Samaná Peninsula in the northeast of the country, approximately 40 minutes from Las Terrenas.

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