White sand beaches, fantastic year-round climate, excellent snorkelling and well-preserved colonial towns combine to make the Dominican Republic one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean. Every year, travellers from the UK flock from Dominican Republic flights to enjoy the glorious beaches. The DR shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, occupying the eastern half. Its coastline is rich with perfect Caribbean beaches – white sand and palm trees. The interior has a diverse landscape, including rainforests, 27 waterfalls, mangrove swamps, mountain ranges and savannas.
But the DR is not just a natural paradise: the country is proud of having one of the more illustrious histories of the Caribbean islands. Take some time on the flight to the Dominican Republic to read up on its fascinating history. Records of the island date back to the Taino inhabitants – whose marks can still be seen on caves and whose dances are a staple after-dinner entertainment at many of the inclusive resorts. Hispaniola was also the first island on which Christopher Columbus landed in 1492. The DR’s capital city, Santo Domingo, was settled by Columbus’s brother Bartholomew and was the first seat of Spanish colonial rule. It is the oldest inhabited European settlement in the Americas. Today, monuments to Columbus and the city’s history abound but the city is also a vibrant, modern, thriving town – the most populated in the Caribbean.
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The climate in the Dominican Republic remains standard throughout the year. The country enjoys warm tropical weather with temperatures averaging 30 degrees Celsius. In the mountains, however, the nights can become very cool, regardless of the heat of the day.
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Peak season:
Thanks to the great weather, most of the year is peak season. Rainy season hits the north coast between October and May and the south coast from May to October, meaning that there are always dry beaches to be found. The rains can last half a day when they arrive, however, so be prepared. As with the rest of the Caribbean, the country is most visited by tourists during the “winter” months of December-April as holidaymakers escape the bad weather of their own countries.
Off season:
Prices fall after the Easter holidays and the country is less invaded by tourists. It's likely to be the best time to find cheap flights to the Dominican Republic. The hurricane season, between June and November, is the least popular time to visit.
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There are seven international airports in the country and domestic Dominican Republic flights between the main tourist regions are readily available from Air Santo Domingo. Flights are cheap and reliable.
There is no train service in the DR, but buses are frequent, inexpensive and often air-conditioned. There is an extensive network that covers most of the country. However, be aware that services stop at 9pm, so travel throughout the night is not possible.
Tourist taxis are available in most towns, and from airports. Prices are not cheap and often more than double those of the “city taxis” which tend to be less modern cars.
Car rental is expensive and not available to under-25s. Roads are not very safe and littered with accident. Transport police are often corrupt, so if you are driving expect to pay some bribes.
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- There are more than 1,000 miles of coastline surrounding the country, nearly all with golden sand, palm trees and warm clear waters, so finding the perfect beach isn’t difficult. The western region is generally less-explored so if you’re after solitude head out to the beaches on the southwest coast.
- One of the world’s largest populations of American crocodiles can be found at National Park Isla Cabritos – an island in the middle of Lake Enriguillo. The best time to get a sighting of the crocs is early morning or evening, when they warm themselves in the sun. To get the best view, take a boat trip into the lake, which will cost about $60 per boat.
- The Punta Cana region is the most visited by tourists. Beaches are made up of white sand, there is a bustling nightlife and many of the all-inclusive resorts are based in the area. A popular day trip for children is to Manati Park, to see wildlife, including the much-loved dolphin, and displays of Taino dancing.
- The largest of the DR’s national parks is Jaragua: more than 1450 square kilometres. It’s home to more than 130 species of bird, including a large population of pink flamingos.
- The country is often listed as one of the best in the Caribbean for diving. The waters on the south are warm and protected, those on the north boast centuries-old shipwrecks. Also on the north coast is Cayo Arena, a circular sand island with stunning coral reef.
- Santo Domingo is the capital and one of the most vibrant cities in the country. It is the oldest continually inhabited European city in the Caribbean and was founded by Bartholomew Columbus, Christopher’s brother.
- The DR produces the most cigars in the world and claims to make superior varieties even to Cuba. Its most famous brand is Romeo y Julieta. If you’re planning on bringing some back, however, make sure you check the customs limits permitted.
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Major airports include:
Gregorio Luperon Intl (Puerto Plato)
Cibao Intl (Santiago City)
Punta Cana International
Las Americas International (Santo Domingo)
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Tourist cards can be issued on arrival for US$10. A return or onward ticket is required by all visitors.
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British nationals require a passport, but no visa is required for a stay of up to 30 days, provided they hold a Tourist Card (issued on arrival).
Irish nationals must have a passport. No visa is required for stays of up to 30 days, provided travellers hold a Tourist Card (issued on arrival).
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