Dominican Republic Road Trip Itinerary
Experience the beauty of the Dominican Republic with a 10 day road trip! Starting in the city of Santo Domingo, this route takes you through the stunning towns of Las Galeras, Puerto Plata, San José de Ocoa, Pedernales, and Jimaní, covering a total distance of 1621km. Along the way, you'll be able to explore the many breathtaking landscapes and beaches, as well as visit UNESCO Heritage Monuments. The roads are generally in good condition, though some are more curvy or narrow than others, and border crossings are necessary. Best of all, this road trip provides a high level of adventure and memories, and can be managed on a budget. Whether you're a seasoned driver or just starting out, the Dominican Republic Road Trip is the perfect way to explore the country.
10
number of days
1,569 km
route length
low
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Santo Domingo
Distance 1,569 km
Driving time 36.5 h
Pace: slow
361.0 kWh
Airports
SDQ
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Santo Domingo, the capital of Dominican Republic, is the perfect starting point for the Dominican Republic Road Trip. It is a lively city with a lot to offer, from historical sites to vibrant nightlife. The city is home to the oldest cathedral in the Americas, the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, which dates back to 1512. Visitors can also explore the ruins of the first city in the New World, Ciudad Colonial.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Las Américas International Airport (SDQ). There are car rentals available at the airport for visitors who want to explore Santo Domingo and the rest of the Dominican Republic on their own.
The city is full of interesting attractions, from the Malecón and the Plaza de España to the Fortaleza Ozama and the Alcázar de Colón. There are also street markets, museums, and plenty of cultural activities. There are also plenty of restaurants to explore, from traditional Dominican cuisine to international food.
Santo Domingo is the perfect place to start your journey through the Dominican Republic. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse activities, it is the perfect place to explore and enjoy. Whether you're looking to explore the sights or take advantage of the city's nightlife, Santo Domingo has something for everyone.
1
Santo Domingo
- Las Galeras
Distance 189 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: modest
49.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip starting in Santo Domingo and leading through Los Haitises National Park to Las Galeras? This 189 km journey should take you less than three hours, but you will want to take your time and explore the many attractions along the way.
Start your journey in the oldest city in the New World, Santo Domingo, and explore its UNESCO World Heritage sites. Then, drive through Los Haitises National Park, where you can take in the stunning scenery, witness the amazing wildlife, and visit historical sites.
Continue your journey to Las Galeras, where you can find some of the most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic. Here, you can swim, relax on the beach, or explore the nearby caves.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey today!
Las Galeras - Dominican Republic - Middle America - Road Trip - www.pikist.com
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2
Las Galeras
- Cabrera
Distance 135 km
Driving time 3.2 h
Pace: modest
35.0 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Las Galeras in the Dominican Republic to Cabrera! This 135km stretch of road will take you fewer than 3 hours to complete, but it will be well worth it. You will pass through the beautiful Playa Rincon and cross the state border during your journey. As you drive, be sure to take in the stunning scenery and keep an eye out for any interesting attractions.
Playa Rincon is a must-see destination along this road trip, with its white sand beaches and crystal-clear water. There are plenty of activities to enjoy here, from swimming to snorkeling and more. When you reach Cabrera, you can explore the town's colonial architecture and its vibrant culture.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Get ready to experience the beauty of the Dominican Republic on this unforgettable road trip!
Cabrera - Dominican Republic - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Cabrera
- Puerto Plata
Distance 115 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: modest
29.9 kWh
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Embark on a 115km road trip from Cabrera to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, and enjoy a drive of fewer than 3 hours! Along the way, you will pass through the small towns of Rio San Juan, El Macao, and La Entrada. This is a great opportunity to explore the local culture and take in some breathtaking scenery.
The road is mostly in good condition, but in some sections it is narrow and winding. Be sure to drive with caution and keep an eye out for any pedestrians or animals along the way.
Your first stop is Rio San Juan, a small fishing village located on the banks of the river. Here, you can visit the nearby beach and take a boat tour to explore the mangroves.
Next, you will reach El Macao, a small town known for its colonial-style architecture and vibrant nightlife. Here, you can take a stroll through the cobblestone streets and visit the local shops.
Your final stop is La Entrada, a charming town with a beautiful beach. Here, you can relax on the beach, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy some delicious local cuisine.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Puerto Plata - Dominican Republic - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Puerto Plata
- Santiago de los Caballeros
Distance 183 km
Driving time 5.5 h
Pace: slow
42.0 kWh
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Embark on a 196 km journey from Puerto Plata to Santiago de los Caballeros and explore the best of Dominican Republic. The drive will take you less than 5 hours, so make sure to keep your eyes open to admire the beautiful Dominican landscapes. You will drive along narrow roads in some sections, so make sure to pay attention to the road. Along the way, you will get to explore some of the most interesting places such as the Puerto Plata Cable Car, the San Felipe Fortress, the Monumento a los Heroes de la Restauración and the San Luis Fort Museum. Make sure to take pictures of these amazing places! When you reach Santiago de los Caballeros, you will be amazed by its colonial architecture, the Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia and the Monumento a los Héroes de la Restauración. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable road trip!
Santiago de los Caballeros - Dominican Republic - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Santiago de los Caballeros
- San José de Ocoa
Distance 172 km
Driving time 5.6 h
Pace: slow
39.6 kWh
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Embark on a road trip adventure from Santiago de los Caballeros to San José de Ocoa. This drive is 179 km long and will take you less than 7 hours. You will be surrounded by beautiful scenery, with winding roads in some sections and narrow roads in others. Make sure to keep your eyes open for interesting sights along the way.
The first stop is Santiago de los Caballeros, a vibrant city with plenty of attractions. Take a stroll through the historic city center and admire the colonial architecture, or enjoy a day at the beach. As you travel to San José de Ocoa, you will pass through rural villages and lush mountain landscapes.
San José de Ocoa is a charming town with a variety of outdoor activities. Visit the local waterfalls, take a hike in the nearby mountains, or go bird-watching. Enjoy the local cuisine and explore the cultural heritage of the area.
This route is part of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, get ready to explore and have a great time!
San José de Ocoa - Dominican Republic - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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6
San José de Ocoa
- Pedernales
Distance 263 km
Driving time 5.2 h
Pace: modest
68.3 kWh
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Embark on a road trip through the Dominican Republic and discover the beauty of San José de Ocoa, Villa Jaragua, and Pedernales. Drive along 262 km of picturesque landscapes and scenic roads in fewer than 5 hours. Take in the breathtaking views of the country's lush countryside and enjoy the winding roads. In some sections, the road will be narrow, so pay attention to the road. As you travel, you'll pass through the towns of San José de Ocoa, Villa Jaragua, and Pedernales. Each of these locations offers unique attractions and experiences. In San José de Ocoa, visit the quaint church and the local market. In Villa Jaragua, explore the nearby beaches and national parks. Finally, in Pedernales, take a tour of the historic city center and the nearby mountains. This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip through the Dominican Republic.
Pedernales - Dominican Republic - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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7
Pedernales
- Jimaní
Distance 219 km
Driving time 4.9 h
Pace: modest
56.9 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip? Get ready to explore the Dominican Republic, starting in Pedernales and ending in Jimaní, a 223 km drive that will take you fewer than 6 hours. On your way, you will discover Bahia Las Aguilas, a paradise with white sand beaches and crystal clear blue waters. Make sure to take in the beautiful scenery, as the road winds through narrow sections with stunning views. Don't forget to take a break in the middle of the journey and enjoy the peacefulness of the countryside. Be sure to check the Itinerary for more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route. Have a great time exploring the Dominican Republic!
Jimaní - Dominican Republic - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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8
Jimaní
- Santo Domingo
Distance 295 km
Driving time 6.2 h
Pace: modest
76.6 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Jimaní in the Dominican Republic to Santo Domingo! This 322 km drive will take you less than 6 hours and you can expect to see some incredible sites along the way. Start with a visit to the beautiful architecture of the Jimaní Church, and then make your way to the nearby Lago Enriquillo National Park. As you drive, take in the gorgeous views of the Caribbean Sea. You'll also pass through some incredible UNESCO Heritage sites, including the Colonial City of Santo Domingo, the first European settlement in the Americas. Continue your journey to the nearby town of Boca Chica, where you can explore the stunning beaches and enjoy the fresh seafood of the local restaurants. Finally, make your way to the capital city of Santo Domingo. Here, you'll find some of the most impressive historical sites in the country, including the Alcazar de Colon, the oldest fortress in the New World. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage of your road trip!
Santo Domingo
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Santo Domingo, the capital of Dominican Republic, is the perfect ending point for the Dominican Republic Road Trip. Located on the Caribbean coast, this city has many attractions to offer. A must-see is the Colonial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas. There, visitors can explore the ancient cobblestone streets and marvel at the 16th century architecture. The Alcazar de Colon, the palace of the first governor of the New World, is also worth a visit.
The city also has plenty of entertaining activities to enjoy. For example, a visit to the National Aquarium is a great way to learn about the marine life in the Dominican Republic. Other activities include a beach day at Boca Chica, a visit to the Museum of Dominican Man, or a tour of the National Botanical Garden.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Las Americas International Airport (SDQ), located just 15 minutes away from the city.
So, the Dominican Republic Road Trip comes to a close in Santo Domingo, a city full of culture, activities and entertainment. Whether it’s a short stay or a longer one, this city will offer something for everyone.
Dominican Republic Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Santo Domingo
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End:
Santo Domingo
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Distance:
1,569 km
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Stay:
10 days
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Getting there:
Las Américas International Airport (SDQ)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Set out on an unforgettable 10-day Road Trip through the Dominican Republic, taking you on a scenic and cultural 1621 km exploration from the bustling streets of Santo Domingo to the serene beauty of Jimaní. Delve into the rich history, immerse yourself in vibrant local cultures, and be captivated by the country's diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches to rugged mountains.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Santo Domingo: Wander through the cobblestone streets of the Zona Colonial, the oldest European settlement in the Americas, where you can visit historic landmarks including the first cathedral of the New World, Catedral Primada de América.
- Las Galeras: Bask in the serene beauty of Playa Rincón, often listed among the world's top beaches, or take a boat Trip to the secluded Playa Frontón for snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters.
- Puerto Plata: Experience the thrill of the 27 Waterfalls (Damajagua), a series of cascading waterfalls and natural slides, or delve into history at the well-preserved San Felipe Fortress overlooking the Atlantic.
- San José de Ocoa: Admire the breathtaking vistas and lush greenery of the Central Mountains, a paradise for nature lovers and hikers.
- Pedernales: Discover the untouched beauty of Jaragua National Park, home to diverse wildlife and the pristine Bahía de las Águilas, often touted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
- Jimaní: Be in awe of the largest lake in the Caribbean, Lake Enriquillo, a hypersaline body of water that lies below sea level and is home to American crocodiles and a large population of flamingos.
Best Time to Go:
Embark on your Road Trip during the Dominican Republic's dry season from December to April to enjoy sunny skies and pleasant temperatures, ideal for outdoor adventures and uninterrupted beach days.
Potential Risks:
- Some Roads may be challenging with steep inclines and sharp turns, requiring drivers to be attentive and cautious.
- International travelers should stay informed about border protocols, ensuring all travel documents are valid and in order.
- Monitor weather forecasts, especially during hurricane season (June to November), and plan accordingly to avoid disruptions.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, making it one of two Caribbean islands split by two sovereign nations.
- The country is known for producing some of the world's finest amber, and it's also the site where the oldest amber fossils have been found.
- Dominican music and dance are integral to the country's cultural identity, with Merengue being the national dance.
- Dominican cuisine is a blend of Taino, Spanish, and African influences, with dishes like sancocho, a hearty stew, showcasing the island's flavors.
- With an extensive network of protected areas, the Dominican Republic is committed to preserving its natural wonders, which include 32 national parks, 9 natural monuments, and 18 wildlife refuges.
A good choice for:
The Dominican Republic Road Trip is more than just a journey—it's a comprehensive cultural and natural experience. With options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury accommodations, this adventure promises a rich tapestry of memories for every type of traveler, from the history buff and the nature enthusiast to those seeking leisure and relaxation.
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