DK Travel : Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a country of surprising contrasts and extraordinary variety. From the chilly peak of the Caribbean’s highest mountain to some of the region’s most delightful beaches, the country boasts lush valleys, spectacular waterfalls, and sun-baked deserts. The past and present also blend in a fascinating mix of colonial buildings and modern hotels, sleepy rural villages and lively tourist resorts. The people, too, reflect a kaleidoscope of influences — Spanish, African, indigenous — creating a culture that emphasizes both creativity and fun in the fields of music, sport, and art.

Hispaniolan Royal Palm

The elegant royal palm is found throughout the island. Measuring up to 60 ft (18 m), its graceful appearance is matched by its usefulness. It provides coconuts as well as wood for house building and its leaves can be used for waterproof thatches.
Hispaniolan Trogon

A multicolored little bird, with gray breast, red belly, green back, and a black-and-white tail.
Hispaniolan Woodpecker

Known as the carpintero , this handsome yellow and brown bird is unique to the island.
Hodelpa Gran Almirante Hotel & Casino, Santiago de los Caballeros

It’s popular with business travelers and rooms have a mini bar and Internet access. There’s also a pool and two Spanish restaurants.
Holy Week

As in all Latin countries, Semana Santa is the year’s most important religious period, and all activity grinds to a halt as Dominicans go to church or parties or both. The Catholic celebrations are paralleled by African-influenced vodu (voodoo) ceremonies near the border and in the sugar plantations where Haitian migrants live.
Horse Racing

Dominicans like to bet, especially on cockfighting, but horses also have their fans, particularly at Santo Domingo’s V Centenario racetrack. Here, gambling alternates with drinking.
Horse-drawn Carriages

Small horse-drawn carts clip-clop up and down Santo Domingo’s scenic Malecón as well as around the atmospheric Zona Colonial. Similarly relaxed and child-friendly sightseeing takes place in Santiago, where the focal point is the central Parque Duarte. Prices for a fixed time should be negotiated before you set off on that exciting ride.
Horseback Riding

Almost every all-inclusive beach resort will either offer or be able to recommend horseback riding facilities. The small, normally patient Dominican horses are a good way to introduce kids to riding, especially on soft sand. More ambitious excursions in mountain terrain are available for experienced riders through specialist companies.
Horseback Riding

The beaches of the Costa del Coco are an ideal place for horseback riding against a scenic background of sea and coconut trees. Hotels and tour operators can easily make arrangements.
Horseback Riding

The region is well equipped for riding enthusiasts, with several outfits such as Rancho Baiguate offering top-class facilities.

Jump to top

Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $30
- $30–$50
- $50–$100
- $100–$150
- over $150