Dominican Republic

The Must-sees of the trip

1. Saona IslandSaona Island is a tropical island off the south-east coast of the Dominican Republic in the province of La Altagracia. It is part of the Cotubanamá National Park and is protected by the government. The island is famous for its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters, making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Saona is also known for its extraordinary biodiversity. Here you will find mangrove forests, coral reefs and a wide variety of marine life, including starfish and tropical fish. The island is home to two small permanent communities: the fishing village of Mano Juan and a naval base in Catuano. The island was named “Saona” by Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to America in 1494 in honour of the Italian city of Savona. Today it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Dominican Republic and offers an unforgettable experience of the natural beauty of the Caribbean.
2. MonkeylandMonkeyland is located in the lush countryside near Punta Cana and is a natural sanctuary that is home to families of squirrel monkeys. The five-hectare park allows visitors to meet these adorable creatures in their natural habitat. The well-trained monkeys climb down from the trees to interact with visitors, pose for photos and willingly accept food handed to them. The excursion to Monkeyland often includes a safari through the Dominican countryside with stops at local organic coffee and cocoa plantations. The tour guides share fascinating information about the local culture and the production processes of these products. In addition to the monkeys, the park is also home to botanical gardens where you can learn about the native flora of the region. This experience is ideal for families and nature lovers. It offers a unique opportunity to get closer to the local wildlife while learning about the ecosystem and agricultural traditions of the Dominican Republic. Transfers from the hotels in Punta Cana and Bavaro are usually included, making the excursion convenient and accessible.
3. Marinarium Snorkeling CruiseThe Marinarium Snorkeling Cruise is a popular excursion to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic that offers a unique snorkelling experience. On this excursion, you will have the opportunity to swim with rays and nurse sharks in a 40,000 square metre marine park. The boat is a double-decker catamaran with a glass bottom, so you can observe the marine life as you sail past the Cabeza de Toro nature reserve. In addition to snorkelling, the excursion also includes a panoramic trip along the coast of Bávaro and a relaxing break in a shallow natural pool, where you can enjoy drinks at a floating bar. Refreshments and snacks are served on board, and transport from the hotels in Punta Cana and back is usually included, making this adventure both practical and unforgettable.