After settling into your boutique heritage hotel, take some time to explore vibrant Santo Domingo, a mini-Havana renowned for its live music, excellent restaurants and buzzing cobbled streets. Your special welcome dinner will take place at a unique local restaurant that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Santo Domingo's culinary renaissance. Expect traditional Dominican dishes with a modern twist, such as sancocho (a hearty meat stew served with rice and avocado), and bocachica-style snapper fish accompanied by fried sweet potato and plantain.

Discover the historic highlights of Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone this morning, including the Ozama Fortress, Alcázar de Colón, the ruins of the San Nicolás de Bari Hospital and the Sundial of Santo Domingo. Admire the awe-inspiring Gothic and Renaissance architecture of the Cathedral, and gain insights into the country's colorful history at the Memorial Museum of Dominican Resistance. Then learn about the island’s rum-making traditions at the Museum of Rum and Sugar Cane.

In the afternoon head to Los Tres Ojos National Park, home to a network of underground freshwater turquoise lakes surrounded by lush vegetation. Take a guided boat tour across one of the lakes, to truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the park. A memorable dinner awaits you tonight: delicious local cuisine served up in an atmospheric, one-of-a-kind limestone cave.

Today you’ll set off for Jarabacoa, known as "the land of eternal spring" due to its temperate climate and fertile landscapes. Visit one of the pretty mountain villages in the area, meet and chat with locals, and enjoy an authentic lunch that reflects their culinary heritage. Head back to your eco lodge hotel for dinner and stargazing.

Head into Jarabacoa town today, where you’ll visit the stunning Baiguate Waterfall, and go for a refreshing swim under its cascade of jade-colored water. Have lunch in town, and enjoy dessert at the ever-popular Helados Yvonne ice-cream shop, before wandering around the town on a short walking tour. Your evening is free to explore, and enjoy dinner at one of the town’s many restaurants. The hotel’s shuttle service will be at your disposal, ensuring convenient transportation between Jarabacoa and your hotel.

Today you’ll head to the north coast, an area known for its exquisite beaches. Stop for a refreshing dip at 27 Charcos, a collection of waterfalls that you can jump, slide, and rappel down. Have lunch near the waterfalls before continuing your journey to the honey-hued beach town of Cabarete - the windsurfing capital of the island. Settle into your eco lodge located right on the beach where you’ll enjoy dinner in a beach hut-style open-air restaurant, overlooking the lapping waves of the Caribbean.

Embark on a full day breezy catamaran excursion around the stunning coastline of the Dominican Republic. Enjoy a delicious beachside lunch and then take the opportunity to snorkel in the afternoon. See colorful reef fish, rays, eels, nurse sharks and more as you wade through crystal clear turquoise waters. After a full day of fun in the sun, return to your hotel for a night at leisure.

Today you’ll explore Puerto Plata, home to the first European settlement in the Americas, founded by Christopher Columbus. Check out the Amber Museum, where a captivating collection of fossilized tree resin unveils the geological significance of amber in the region. In the afternoon, head to Castillo Mundo King, a unique castle-turned-museum showcasing the creative, alien-themed, works of German artist Rolf Schulz. It is often featured in lists of the most bizarre visitor attractions on the planet. Celebrate your last night with a special farewell dinner at a beautiful restaurant located directly on the beach in Cabarete.

Your Dominican Republic adventure comes to an end today. Take a private transfer to the airport, or stay on and enjoy more sun-soaked fun. Check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to the Dominican Republic for further itinerary inspiration. Until our next adventure!