Faro a Colón, (Columbus Museum)

It is monumental. Probably the largest museum building in the Caribbean. Dedicated to the discovery trips of Columbus. The tomb of Columbus is located inside the building and has a fascinating story to tell.

There are contributions to the museum from many countries of the world, except of Africa, of course..

Botanic Garden

Probably the most relaxing part of the excursion. Fresh air, little noise, green plants explained (in Spanish) and no, you won't have to walk in the sun if you don't want to. A "train" ride is a fun to old and young, have a look at the pictures. You will hava a chance to learn all the flora of the island as well as some plants and trees donated by other countries.

And sometimes, but only if we are lucky, we might come across a culebra, a green, graceful, non-venomous snake. They have chosen this habitat probably due to abundance of water.

China Town

Not really an exciting, vibrant Chinatown yoo may know from other countries. Just a dozen of shops and restaurants, great if you want a Chinese meal though. Nevertheless, there is a wide demand from our customers for this part (hungry?) You will find a famous Confucius phrase at the entry gate 天下為公 . If you are interested I'd be glad to explain it to you on the way.

Boat Excursion on Ozama River

We will pass under at least five bridges and under a cable car. No, we don't suggest a bath in the water. Instead, you will get an interested insight into the dwellings of the people who live practically with one foot in the water.

The river banks are currently renovated for the benefit of the population and the fishermen.

Shopping Mall

Shopping in Santo Domingo is astonishingly similar to shopping in other countries. Dominican made clothes are usually more expensive than imports. Global brands would also probably be more expensive than in your country.

It is up to you whether shopping is going to be stressy or relaxing. Bringing enough money and time always helps.

Resistance Memorial Los Palmeros, 1972

Four against 2500! On January 12, 1972 took place the last combat of the anti-imperialist resistance in the Dominican Republic.

Trained in Cuba, they arrived to the island in the attempt to abolish the oppressive government. In the final combat the four patriots have confronted the army of 2500 soldiers. The exact location of the last battle remains well-preserved 300 meters from the park.

Theatre

Teatro Nacional, an impressive piece of architecture and the flagship of the dominican art scene. International performers are visiting the main stage frequently when ticket prices easily reach RD$ 10 000 range.

Drama plays are staged in smaller (500 seats) Sala Ravelo in the same building, tickets around RD$ 1 000.

Wait! Did you say a full drama performance would be too much? There is a 15-minute theatre, combined with a restaurant. To be booked with Zona Colonial where many smaller groups offer their creations in more informal venues

Drink in a trendy bar

See how Dominicans enjoy the Friday evenings.

Have a walk and a drink in a decent area of the city. Music is not so loud here, the prices tailored to those who don't ask "how much" and plenty of young beautiful women around. But be cautioned: middle-class dominican women tend to treat the tourists with reservation.

Funicular (hanging cable car)

Experiencing Santo Domingo from bird's view. Fun and education at the same time. This is a daily transport system for hundreds of thousands workers, not a tourist attraction sensu stricto.

There are three stations on the route, each section of the trip would last about 15-20 minutes each.

Zona Colonial (historic old town)

A stroll through the historic Santo Domingo. The Cathedral and Altar de la Patria (altar to the homeland) are considered a must-see.

Plenty of food, drink & souvenir opportunities. On weekends a healthy mix of locals and tourists. Best time to start: 90 minutes before sunset.

National Park Tres Ojos (cave)

A cave in the city of Santo Domingo? Yes, and counts as a major tourist attraction. A pleasant underground encounter with nature. To be expected: a few underground lakes, a raft ride, turtles and fish.

A minimum of physical fitness is required. Imagine you would climb a 4-storey staircase 3 times. Guaranteed no sunburn :-). But swimming in underground lakes is prohibited.

SUP Surfing Paradise in Boca Chica

Stand-up paddle surf is fun for all age groups, but you won't get it on the beaches of Punta Cana! Because of the waves.

This is why the tourists who book the Santo Domingo Tour make a SUP-stop in Boca Chica.
Boca Chica has a reputation to be a SUP Surfers' Paradies because its waters are protected from the waves ba a natural reefs. No waves to spoil your fun.

This is how it works: you must book a beach hotel in Boca Chica (we can help) and arrive from Punta Cana in the afternoon/evening.

The best surfing hours are early in the morning because on some days the morning breeze may become a bit challenging for SUP'ers after 9:30 am. No special physical fitness required. You'll learn fast if this is your first time. Don't forget the sunscreen.
Curious? Check the instruction video on the right.