Category: Puerto Plata

EAT, DRINK AND DANCE DOMINICAN FIESTA

Get to know traditional Dominican dishes and dances during this approximately four-and-a-half-hour excursion. The itinerary includes a cooking class and dance lesson after a visit to some of Puerto Plata’s key sights.

The Dominican Republic has a vibrant culture influenced by its Spanish, Taíno and African heritage. This approximately four-and-a-half-hour excursion is the perfect way to get a taste of Dominican life through its cuisine and customs.

A short drive transports guests from the port to Parque Central (also known as Independence Park), a large public square in the historic centre of Puerto Plata. Spend around 30 minutes here, admiring the manicured park and its pavilion, the Cathedral of St Philip the Apostle (which overlooks the square) and the Victorian-style architecture of the surrounding buildings.

Then make brief visits to nearby Umbrella Street (crowned with numerous colourful umbrellas) and Paseo de Doña Blanca (known locally as Pink Alley because of its coating of bright pink paint). This is followed by approximately 15 minutes to browse and shop for souvenirs.

Board a bus for an approximately 30-minute drive to Rancho La Catalina in El Cupey. Following a short welcome, sample some local fruits for around 15 minutes before spending approximately 30 minutes learning traditional Dominican dances, such as the merengue, bachata and mangulina. Drinks are also included during your time at Rancho La Catalina.

By now you’ll have worked up an appetite, so it’s time to learn about a Dominican stew known as sancocho. Over the course of around 20 minutes, you’ll be shown which ingredients are required to make this dish and receive an explanation as to how it is prepared before tasting some for yourself during lunch, which lasts around 40 minutes, followed by 15 minutes for coffee.

After 15 minutes or so for taking photos of this special experience, a journey of approximately 30 minutes returns to the port.

Important Information: Guests must be at least 8 years old to participate

OVER THE OCEAN ZIPLINE WITH BEACH and LUNCH

Take your visit to the Dominican Republic to new heights during this approximately five-hour ziplining excursion. The itinerary also includes lunch and time at the beach.

See the Dominican Republic from land, sea and sky during this approximately five-hour excursion. Begin with a drive to Ocean Outpost in Coconut Cove, lasting around an hour. This beachside setting offers all kinds of thrilling activities and experiences, as you’ll be discovering.

After a complimentary welcome drink and time to secure your belongings in a locker, there’s around 15 minutes to have your harness fitted, followed by a safety briefing and demonstration, also lasting about 15 minutes. Then get ready to glide and zoom along the zipline circuit (measuring around 1,200 feet) with the Atlantic Ocean below you. The experience lasts around one hour.

After the ride, you’ll have around one hour to eat lunch of local dishes and relax on the beach. While on the beach, take in the coastal scenery surrounding you.

Finally, spend around 15 minutes browsing for souvenirs in the gift shop (time permitting) before an approximately hour-long bus transfer returns to the port.

Important Information: Please note: Guests must be at least 8 years old to participate. Lockers and watersports are available to rent. It is recommended to bring swimwear, sunscreen and a beach towel. Knee length shorts are required for zipline. Closed toe and secure footwear must be worn.

It is recommended to bring cash or credit cards for extra menu items, photos & souvenirs. Maximum Weight 265 lbs/120 kg. This tour is not available for pregnant women persons with neck or back conditions. Guests will be required to sign a waiver which may only be available in English. The transfer to and from Coconut Cove takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes each way, depending on traffic, and may take place on an open-air truck

DAMAJAGUA WATERFALLS

Go hiking up to the renowned Damajagua waterfalls and earn your joyful descent down its natural waterslides on this approximately four-hour excursion. As you hike, you’ll also be learning about the flora and fauna of the area from your guide.

Embark on an approximately four-hour adventure that includes a guided hike and the chance to jump, splash and slide down multiple waterfalls. A bus transfer of around 40 minutes transports guests from the port to the Damajagua waterfalls, a series of differently sized cascades in luscious surroundings.

Once arrived, you’ll be able to place any belongings into a locker before a short safety briefing. Following this, you’ll be given a helmet and life jacket, so gear up and follow your guide to begin the hike.

Over the next two hours or so, you’ll trek through the tropical scenery to make your way to the seventh waterfall. As you walk, your guide will tell you all about the varied wildlife and nature around you. Once arrived at the seventh fall, the adventure doesn’t stop, as you’ll be making the return journey back to base camp by jumping and sliding down the various waterfalls you’ve just ascended past.

A guide will be on-hand to make sure everything stays safe, so simply enjoy being in the water and having fun as you descend by making a splash. Once returned to base camp, you’ll have around 20 minutes to dry off and change before an approximately 40-minute return drive to the port.

Important Information: It is recommended that guests bring their bathing suit, towel, sunscreen, comfortable shoes and a change of clothes.

The minimum age to participate is 8 years. Guests with back or neck conditions and pregnant women cannot take part to this tour. Maximum weight to participate is 250 lbs. Guests will be required to sign a waiver which may only be available in English. Lockers and shoes are available for rent at an additional cost. Guests should be physically fit to participate on this tour. Guests will be required to hike approx. 45 minutes to reach the 7th waterfall. The hike to reach the 7th waterfall is approximately 1 km and is on uneven and inclined terrain

EXPLORING ISABEL DE TORRES MOUNTAIN and PUERTO PLATA CITY

Take a drive up to Puerto Plata’s highest point – the summit of Natural Monument Mount Isabel de Torres – to view a replica of Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Christ the Redeemer statue on this approximately four-hour experience. Afterwards, get to know the city on a sightseeing tour of key historical attractions, including Fortaleza San Felipe panoramic view.

Glimpse Puerto Plata from above on Mount Isabel de Torres before experiencing it up-close during this approximately four-hour experience. A transfer of around 30 minutes transports guests from the port to the top of the Natural Monument Mount Isabel de Torres – measuring over 790 metres high – where you’ll find a smaller replica of Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer statue and botanical garden to enjoy a walk around the protected park nest for endemic tropical flora & fauna. Spend approximately one hour and 30 minutes here admiring the statue, views over the city, hills and Atlantic Ocean, before taking a stroll through the diverse plants and flowers in the botanical gardens.

Next, it’s time for some sightseeing in the historic centre of Puerto Plata. After an approximately 30-minute drive, embark on a tour of city landmarks such as Parque Central (also known as Independence Park) and the colourful Victorian-style houses surrounding it, the Cathedral of St Philip the Apostle and the 16th-century, Spanish-built fortress, Fortaleza San Felipe. After the tour, which lasts around one hour and 15 minutes, the experience concludes with a short drive back to the port.

Important Information: Please note: Minimum age required to participate is 6 years old. It is recommended that guests wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen and insect repellent and cash or credit cards for additional purchases.

The tour may operate either on an open truck or on a bus. Guests must be able to manage a ladder to access the open-air truck. This tour involves walking up and down several steps at the Botanical Garden. Guests will walk approximately 200 meters at the Botanical Garden. Tour Order may vary

SEA LION ENCOUNTER and OCEAN WORLD ADVENTURE

From interacting with sea lions to dancing the merengue, this excursion to Ocean World, lasting five-and-a-half hours, is a chance to experience some of the Dominican Republic’s wildlife and culture. There’s also the opportunity to sample local chocolate and coffee.

Home to everything from a tropical reef aquarium and waterslides to a rainforest, Ocean World in Puerto Plata is one of the Dominican Republic’s most popular attractions. On this packed excursion of around five-and-a-half hours, experience Ocean World’s highlights, including a sea-lion encounter, while also learning more about the Dominican Republic’s favourite food, drink and music.

The day starts with a journey of around 30 minutes from the port to Ocean World. Then, before the aquatic fun begins, enjoy a Dominican cultural experience. You’ll be able to try locally produced chocolate, coffee and mamajuana (a spiced, sweet alcoholic liquor), as well as observing woodcarving and cigar rolling. There’s even traditional music and dancing, for those who want to take their first steps in bachata or merengue – the latter is the Dominican Republic’s official dance and plays a part in many cultural and social occasions.

Then it’s time for a close encounter with a sea lion. Move over to an interaction pool, where you can pet and play with these remarkable creatures over approximately 30 minutes.

Afterwards, enjoy around three hours of free time to explore the rest of Ocean World. Consider making use of unlimited free access to waterslides, watching some of the animal exhibits (time permitting) or snorkelling in the aquarium. Finally, you’ll have about 30 minutes to shop for souvenirs (time permitting) before the return journey back to the port, lasting around 30 minutes.

Important Information: Please note: Guests will be required to wash their hands before and after the animal interaction. It is recommended that guests bring their bathing suit, towel, sunscreen, and additional money for pictures & souvenirs.

No cameras or glasses are allowed in the water. Pregnant women are not allowed to participate. An 18-year-old adult in the water must accompany children under 11 years old. The minimum age to participate is 6 years old and guests must be at least 115 cm / 45 in tall. Participants must remove jewelry from hands, neck, and ears to avoid harming the animals.

Participants must have the physical ability and skills which may be required to participate in the program. Wheelchairs and electric mobility equipment is not allowed inside the premises. Cameras are not allowed when interacting with the animals. Photos and videos of the Sea Lion Encounter will be available for purchasing at the venue.

Minimum height for the water park and slides is 48 inches. The transfer to and from Ocean World takes approximately 30 minutes each way. The sea lion encounter portion will last approximately 30 minutes. Total time spent at the park: 4 hours and 30 minutes.

It is up to the guest’s discretion to participate in the additional activities available onsite at the park. Ocean World is cashless, therefore, it is recommended that guests bring credit/debit cards for any additional purchases

PUERTO PLATA WALKING TOUR

Plunge into Puerto Plata’s landmarks and local life on this walking tour, lasting approximately three and a half hours. Wander through local neighbourhoods, past colourful murals and landmarks, including Parque Central, the Cathedral of St Philip the Apostle and the Amber Museum. You’ll even get to watch a cigar-making demonstration.

Your Puerto Plata discovery on foot, lasting around three and a half hours, begins with a short transfer to Parque Central, a popular gathering spot in the heart of the historical centre. This is where your walking tour – lasting around two hours and 20 minutes – begins. While in Parque Central, look out for the twin bell towers of the distinctive Cathedral of St Philip the Apostle (also known simply as San Felipe Cathedral) as a backdrop.

Next, stroll along Calle Imbert, a road lined with Victorian buildings, and pause at a local souvenir shop, where you can watch Dominican cigars being crafted by hand.

Your exploration continues along Paseo de Doña Blanca, also known as Pink Alley due to its brightly painted floors, walls and buildings. Then make your way to Calle Separación (a street that houses Puerto Plata’s town hall) to arrive at the Logia Masónica Restauración. Admire the pillared facade of this historic masonic lodge, before moving on to view the murals adorning nearby Calle Sánchez, a road nestled behind part of Puerto Plata’s long, seafront boulevard.

Take a brief pause to sip a refreshing coconut, then wander past more Victorian-style buildings on your way to the Amber Museum for a short external viewing. The excursion then concludes with a short transfer back to the port.

Important Information: Please note: This tour involves a considerable amount of walking. It is recommended that guests wear comfortable walking shoes, wear sunscreen, and bring cash or credit cards for any additional purchases. The minimum age to participate is 8 years old. Entrance to the Amber Museum is not included in the price of this tour. Guests will walk approximately 450 meters. Some of the walking may take place on uneven terrain.

PLAYA DORADA BEACH ESCAPE

Relax and rejuvenate at the beach on this approximately five-hour excursion, which transports guests to a beach in the popular Playa Dorada region. As well as plenty of free time to enjoy the beach, a buffet lunch is also included.

Swim, sunbathe or lounge the day away on this beach-based excursion, lasting approximately five hours. Arrive at the hotel after a 15-minute transfer from the port to the buzzy Playa Dorada coastal area, where El Puebilito is located, your setting for the day. Then, simply enjoy around three and a half hours of free time on the beach, to use however you like.

You’ll have your own beach chair (included in the excursion price), making it easy to sunbathe or dry off after a swim in the ocean. After all that free time, you’ll probably have worked up an appetite – thankfully, the next hour or so provides a buffet lunch, allowing guests to sample some typical Dominican dishes.

After this nourishing end to the excursion, the transfer back to the port takes approximately 15 minutes.

Important Information: Please note: It is recommended that guests bring a swimsuit, hat, towel, and sunscreen

EL SONADOR RIVER EXPERIENCE WITH LUNCH

Set out for the Sonador River at Finca Papirucho – one of the Dominican Republic’s tucked-away natural wonders – on this experience of approximately six hours. You’ll be immersing yourself in refreshing water in Sonador’s river admiring the tropical exuberant nature setting, before enjoying a well-earned traditional lunch.

Excursion Details

Found near Yásica Arriba – a rural, inland town a short way south-east of Puerto Plata – the Sonador River at Finca Papirucho is a beautiful and peaceful site hidden among jungle landscapes.

Enjoy the river in the best way possible – by plunging into its waters – on this experience, lasting approximately six hours.
Begin with a drive from the port to Finca Papirucho located in Yasica Arriba, lasting around 75 minutes. Once arrived, there’s an approximately 20-minute briefing on safety and equipment preparation, before walking close to river side.
Then get ready to make a splash. Spend around two hours moving between different sections of the river, wading through the waters and plunging, relaxing or refreshing in various natural pools, all while admiring the tropical scenery surrounding you.

Afterwards, move to the onsite typical restaurant with beautiful river view where you’ll enjoy a well-deserved buffet lunch and some free time over approximately 50 minutes. Finally, the drive back to the port lasts around 75 minutes.
Important Information: Guests must be at least 6 years old to participate. Guests are required to wear provided life jackets & helmet at the river. It is recommended that guests bring a swimsuit, towel, waterproof shoes with strong grip, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Guests will be required to walk on uneven terrain. The drive to and from the river takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes each way and may take place on an open-air truck with a backside ladder to board. Guests will walk approximately 150 meters to reach the river. Credit Cards or cash accepted, lockers available for rent for USD$3.00/ USD$5.00.

SOSUA BAY CATAMARAN AND SNORKELING EXPERIENCE

Take to the water on this approximately five hours experience exploring watersports hotspot Sosúa Beach. Cruise the Atlantic waters in a catamaran, go snorkelling to see marine wildlife and enjoy light lunch aboard your boat.

Dive into a snorkelling and sailing experience at popular coastal spot Sosúa Beach on this approximately five-hour experience. After a transfer drive from the port of around 50 mins, you’ll arrive at Sosúa. Following a short safety briefing, board your catamaran, sit back and enjoy cruising around the bay for approximately two hours and 40 minutes.

As you sail, take time to admire Sosúa’s shoreline. A light lunch and soft drink will be served onboard. Your first snorkelling experience will take place at the popular Three Rocks, a site known for its snorkelling conditions, navigation continue towards Atabey snorkelling site, take a dip to admire the unique underwater Taino statue. Spend approximately 30 minutes snorkelling and gazing at marine biodiversity life.

After your snorkelling time is over, reboard your catamaran and sail back to Sosúa Beach over approximately 20 minutes. The return drive to the port then takes around 50 minutes.

Important Information: Please note: It is recommended that guests wear a bathing suit under comfortable clothes, and bring a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and sunglasses. It is recommended guest hold onto snorkelling gear provided until end of activity. Guests must be at least 6 years old to participate and know how to swim. Alcohol will only be served after the snorkelling portion of the tour

PUERTO PLATA SIGHTSEEING AND ECOLODGE

Go green with a visit to El Gallo Eco-sustainable Project out the countryside Puerto Plata. This excursion of approximately four and a half hours takes guests to El Gallo Ecolodge to find out more about its ethical approach to gardening and farming, while also visiting Puerto Plata’s historic city sights.

Offering a glimpse into Puerto Plata’s storied past and exciting future, this experience of about four and a half hours will combine city and rural sights to learn about sustainable farming.

Begin with a short drive to Puerto Plata’s historic centre where – over approximately 50 minutes – you can take in views of Parque Central (also known as Independence Park and home to a statue of the Dominican Republic’s former president, Gregorio Luperón), the Cathedral of St Philip the Apostle and pastel-coloured Victorian houses.

Then, drive for approximately 35 minutes to El Gallo Ecolodge. Set among thick greenery in the Loma del Gallo countryside, this eco-project has a holistic approach to gardening and farming and offers views of the surrounding mountains. It focuses on a more sustainable tourism model, which includes generating jobs for locals and working with residents to lower the environmental impact of tourism in the area.

Spend approximately one hour exploring the garden, which features more than 200 types of fruit tree and multiple orchid varieties. Afterwards, sit down for a farm-to-table lunch lasting about 50 minutes.

Next is a drive of about 35 minutes back to the port via boulevard to Fortaleza San Felipe. Take beautiful photos at this 16th-century fortress during a stop of about 20 minutes before a short drive back to the port.

Important Information: Guests must be at least 6 years old to participate. It is recommended that guests wear comfortable clothes, shoes, and bring cash or credit card for additional purchases. It is also recommended that guests bring bug spray. Guests may be required to walk on uneven terrain and be able to manage stairs and steps at El Gallo. Entrance to the San Felipe Fortress is not included in the price of this tour. This tour may take place on an open-air truck with backside ladder to access