Landmarks of the Dominican Republic. Diving in the Dominican Republic. Dominican Republic - the sights of a bright pearl on the Caribbean coast

An island with ideal conditions for unforgettable holiday in the midst of splendid nature and picturesque beaches- This Dominican Republic. Sights attract with their originality, and numerous resorts with the opportunity to spend time surrounded by silence and solitude, among the exotic and pleasant weather.

Dominican Republic on the map

Even being a small island state with a modest size, it does not cease to be an actual place for recreation.

Where is?

The Dominican Republic is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and you can meet it in the vast caribbean. It is on the second large island of this reservoir Hispaniola, adjoining the state of Haiti and occupying eastern part sushi.

The Dominican Republic also owns the territories of several nearby islands.

Geographically, the Dominican Republic is located between North and South America, and next to it are less popular resorts:

Cuba;
Jamaica.

Thanks to this, the tourist flow does not dry out all year round, therefore main source of income countries - services, recreation and entertainment.

Main tourist areas

The Dominican Republic is an island with an abundance of a wide variety of places and resorts. The most famous and popular of them are located in eastern part- on the coast of the Atlantic. Many travelers - fans of the beach and active rest known names are:

Santo Domingo;
Punta Cana;
Boca Chica;
Puerto Plata.

Santo Domingo is capital Dominican Republic and the oldest settlement in South America. The city attracts tourists in the first place, because it has a rich cultural, historical and artistic heritage.

Once Santo Domingo was major city New World, and Christopher Columbus walked along its streets.

Many unique sights and interesting places can be found in other tourist areas Dominican Republic. Vacationers in Punta Cana, La Romana, Cabarete and Boca Chica attract excellent beaches, amazingly beautiful nature, sunken ships and historical buildings of colonial times.

Attractions - photo with description

Despite the fact that the Dominican Republic and its resorts are more beach direction, in its open spaces there are Amazing places introducing the life of this country, its history and culture.

architectural structures

Treasury of architectural monuments - Santo Domingo- a city with a rich and ancient history. It has cathedrals, palaces, the remains of ancient buildings, historical areas with buildings from the times of colonization. Walking through these places will allow you to travel back in time - to the 16th-17th centuries, when Spain had claims to these territories.

In the center of Santo Domingo, many New World structures remain, and you can find them in colonial zone:

castle Alcazar de Don Diego Colon- the construction of 1510, for the construction of which not a single nail was used;
Puerta del Conde- an ancient gate, symbolizing protection from intrusion.

Acquaintance with architectural monuments The colonial zone is best carried out on its own. In this part of the city, all objects are preserved in the form in which they were built. special atmosphere present on Las Damas street- on the oldest cobbled street in the world. It is decorated with pastel-colored mansions, with flower baskets hanging playfully from the walls.

One of the most prominent sights of the Dominican Republic and its capital - Osama fortress- first fortification in America. It was built in 1508 to protect against pirates. For four centuries, this bastion served as a military base, and after that it was a prison.

Tourists will be interested National Palace - imposing and beautiful building where the President of the Republic works. Serious issues are resolved within its walls and important meetings are held. The construction of this building ended in 1947, and a colossal sum was spent on its construction. The house attracts with the fact that it was built in an eclectic style.

In appearance there is a cultural, linguistic and racial difference between representatives of the Caribbean.

For a long time, Santo Domingo was the capital of all Spanish colonies in America. Therefore, on its territory there are important historical objects. One of them - royal shipyards- a complex of warehouses, which became the first and only structure of its kind with such a purpose. The building was a kind of customs, through which all goods entering the territory of the New World passed.

There is an opportunity to plunge into the colonial past of the Dominican Republic in almost every resort. Puerto Plata has a whole historic district with Victorian buildings - exquisite mansions, reminiscent of the wealth of the former inhabitants of the slave traders and merchants. The houses are two-story attics with Moorish arches.

In Puerto Plata there is an ancient bastion - Fort San Felipe- a structure that served to protect Spanish ships from pirates and corsairs. It was built by order of the Spanish King Philip II in 1577.

Later, the fort was turned into a prison, and now it houses museum with interesting historical military artifacts. If you climb one of the towers, it will open great view to the Atlantic Ocean.

In such resorts as La Romana, Boca Chica, Punta Cana, architectural objects are also worth noting. old houses , which were once inhabited by colonists or merchants. But still these places are more famous for their nature and coast.

religious buildings

In colonial times, the first temples of America appeared on the territory of the Dominican Republic, and many of them have survived to this day. America's First Cathedral located in Santo Domingo. The son of Christopher Columbus, Diego, had a hand in the construction, and the English pirate Francis Drake contributed to the ruin.

Santo Domingo was the capital of the New World, so it was decided that the first religious building. The cathedral was built in 1544 from golden coral limestone, and completed in the style gothic and baroque. Inside the temple there are many different treasures - collections of statues, precious jewelry, dishes and furniture.

National Pantheon- a religious building in the Dominican Republic with an interesting and unusual story. Initially, the building served as a church at the Jesuit monastery, but later prominent personalities of the republic began to be buried within its walls.

The bodies are kept in sarcophagi– the founders of the monastery are buried here, as well as the woman who embroidered the flag of the country by hand, and many other people. The entrance to the premises is guarded by a guard of honor.

You can get inside the Pantheon on weekends, but it is very important to follow the dress code (no T-shirts, shorts or short skirts).

Churches and temples The Dominicans are also found in other resorts of the country:

Cathedral San Felipe in Puerto Plata;
Church of Saint Raphael in Boca Chica;
Basilica Higway in the town of the same name.

On the coast of the Dominican Republic there are authentic chapels with a rich past. Many of them are so charming and romantic that they attract those who want to get married.

Museums

In Santa Domingo there is a famous museum - Columbus lighthouse. This building is not at all like a signal tower and is not even located on the seashore.

An imposing building white marble resembles in shape cross, and inside it is priceless collection exhibits dedicated to the discovery of America, the life and travels of Columbus, as well as various artifacts of the indigenous population.

According to legend, it is in this museum that remains great navigator. But it is also known that they can be found in Genoa and Seville. Nobody knows the real burial place, but the inhabitants of the Dominican Republic believe that it was on their land that Christopher Columbus decided to stay.

Going on a long journey, it is worth knowing that the human body can react negatively to a change in its familiar environment. Read about the symptoms of acclimatization.

Of the significant museums of the Dominican Republic, it is worth noting those that are located in Santo Domingo:

Palace Museum;
Amber Museum;
House Tostado;
House of Five Medallions;
Museum of Man.

The museum is especially attractive open sky – Altos de Chavon in the resort of La Romana. The exposition is a copy of a medieval village with houses and narrow cobbled streets, temples, cafes, shops and craft workshops.

It originated in 1980, thanks to the American tycoon Charles Bladorn- one of the owners of Paramount Pictures. According to one version, Charles was inspired by this island and its beauty, so he decided to recreate the architecture of the 16th century here so that the people of America could get acquainted with the traditions and culture of the country.

Altos de Chavon is one of the most attractive places in the Dominican Republic. Medieval village in different times inspired directors, actors and rulers with its beauty.

In the local church of St. Stanislaus, the Duke of Anjou and the heiress of a Venezuelan noble family got married, and Michael Jackson and Lisa Presley also got married.

In Altos de Chavon is located amphitheater for 5,000 seats, where Julio Iglesias, Carlos Santana, Frank Sinatra and other world stars gave concerts. Near these places, some scenes from the movie "Apocalypse Now" were filmed.

What else can a tourist see and where to go?

Dominican Republic, its sights and interesting places varied. Not only the beaches are beautiful here, but also the architecture, nature and hiking trails. During the tours, tourists also have the opportunity to get acquainted with national cuisine , taste cocoa, tobacco products and purchase local .

The nature of the Dominican Republic true pride countries. rivers, lakes, protected areas and parks, lagoons, fancy flowers, mangroves, secluded islands and mysterious caves ideal for ecotourism.

most attractive to hiking trails Armando Bermudez National Park. It is famous for having three high peak- La Pelona, La Rusilla, Duarte. The height of the last of them is 3098 meters. This feature attracts fans of outdoor activities and extreme sports enthusiasts.

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The park is valuable for its rich and unusual flora and fauna. In its expanse meet endemics impressive in their diversity. Rare species of parrots, woodpeckers, nightingales, trogons, quails and siskins live in the forests. Among mammals, it is worth noting wild pigs and rodents, and lizards and snakes come across from reptiles.

Not inferior in their beauty and fullness other parks:

Los Aitises;
Jaragua;
El Choco;
Jarabacoa;
Los Tres Ojos.

Fans of ecotourism have the opportunity to visit small islands- Catalinita, Catalina, Saona - secluded and quiet areas of land, descended from tourist booklets.

Excursions and entertainment

It is impossible to imagine getting to know the Dominican Republic without visiting the capital of the island - Santa Domingo. In this city, the tour starts from the Colonial City and continues through places such as the Cathedral, the Tobacco Museum and the National Pantheon.

Almost all excursion places You can visit Santo Domingo on your own.

One of the most memorable excursions "on the path of Columbus". During the walk you can meet beautiful places, architectural monuments, colonies that were founded by the great navigator.

Most popular objects:

ruins of Fort La Navidad;
Archaeological Park of La Isabela;
architecture of santo domingo;
borough of Luperon.

Popular tours run through Punta Cana and Cap Cana. The walk takes 5-6 hours, and during it you can see beautiful places near resort area Bavaro, take bright photos with coastal rocks, admire the local architecture and swim in one of the two lagoons.

If standard entertainment, such as restaurants, clubs and discos, are already bored, then in the Dominican Republic there will definitely be occupation to your liking:

buggy safari in Punta Cana;
journey through cable car bungee in Punta Cana;
visiting an amusement park in Samana, decorated in the style of the most popular movie "Pirates of the Caribbean";
excursion to National underwater park La Caleta in Boca Chica;
dive to the sunken dry cargo ship "St. George" in La Romana;
travel on Dolphin Island in Punta Cana;
observation of humpback whales on the Samana Peninsula;
rafting on the Yaque del Norte River in Puerto Plata.

Look in this video an overview of the most popular attractions in the Dominican Republic:

The sights of the Dominican Republic can actually amaze the imagination of any, even the most experienced, traveler.

What are the must-sees in this country?

Sightseeing or beach vacation

In general, going on vacation, we are constantly faced with the question of what, in fact, to give preference to: a sun lounger under a palm tree and the sea, or exploring local attractions and getting to know the country.

If we talk about such exotic country like the Dominican Republic, then you need to learn how to combine. Why? Yes, because it is here that the beaches of incredible beauty are located, but at the same time, the sights are such that even seasoned travelers are breathtaking.

A bit about the history and features of architecture

The Dominican Republic was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492. In general, it must be said that he did it quite on time. Why? The thing is that it was then that most of the historical cities were founded, the most famous of which is Santo Domingo. This city with its amazing ancient architecture preserved to this day. It is considered one of the most beautiful.

In many cities, in good condition, preserved

unique churches;
ancient palaces;
majestic cathedrals;
mysterious castles.

From some buildings, only ruins now remain, which are covered with a veil of mystery and silence.

In the Dominican Republic, you can see not only man-made sights, but also natural beauty. National parks, rainforests, mountains, groves, caves, waterfalls - all the pristine beauty of the Dominican nature cannot be expressed in words.

In each city and its environs you can see many interesting sights. Although newcomers can be given very practical advice: having come to rest in this republic, you should not immediately rush to inspect some caves or some churches. Take a look around and you will see something more than the well-known Punta Cana. Agree, because its views can already be simply seen in the photographs of friends and buddies. But other places, their ancient architecture, exotic nature, white sand beaches, you need to try to capture, both in memory and in pictures.

If this is your first time in the Dominican Republic, visit all nearby attractions first, and then move on to explore more distant ones.

Where can I buy a tour

Well, in principle, anywhere, there are actually enough such places. To see the sights, you can book excursions with a tour operator, at a hotel or in local travel companies. However, try to prepare for such a trip in advance, search the Internet for all the information you can, work it out, rent a car and go on your travels and adventures!

The role of religion in the development of the country: cathedrals and temples

The first thing to see in the capital of the Dominican Republic is the cathedrals and temples. This city was built one of the first, so it has many architectural structures of historical value. Preserved in Santo Domingo a large number of ancient churches and cathedrals, which is not surprising, because the Dominicans are a very religious people. Christianity has been developing here since the discovery of the island by Columbus. Perhaps the most famous religious landmark is the Cathedral, built in gothic style in the 16th century. Big interest represent the churches: San Nicolas and Rekhina Angelorum and the chapel of St. Andrew. You can also see very beautiful monasteries.

In the footsteps of the greats!

At first glance, it may seem that there is nothing to see here except churches, but this is far from the case. Palaces and castles built in honor of Columbus and his descendants amaze with their grandeur. The Alcazar de Colon was built by Diego Columbus, son of Christopher. The palace has 22 rooms and a huge number of unique items.

The palaces of Casa Borghella and Casa del Duarte are popular with lovers of antiquity.

In good condition, the Osama Fortress and the Torre del Omenahe tower, which once served as a prison, have survived to this day. Today, having bought a tour, you can easily get inside.

Downtown Santo Domingo is one big monument architecture of the 16th century. It will be interesting to see: the first hospital, the mint, the very first stone house on the island, the mausoleum, forts and fortresses.

We visit the lighthouse of the main navigator of the world

At the end of the 20th century, the Columbus lighthouse was completed, which is considered the main attraction of the Dominican Republic. In the lighthouse building itself there is a museum of countries that have made a financial contribution to the construction of the lighthouse. By the way, there is a hall of Russia with nesting dolls and a balalaika.

Well, what about without nature? - Capital parks and squares

In many parks and museums in Santo Domingo, you can get acquainted with the life of the discoverers, including Christopher Columbus. Although with a lack of time, try to see the main thing - Las Casas Reales. This is perhaps the most interesting museum not only the city, but the whole country.

The nature of the Dominican Republic is its main attraction. In the park "Three Eyes" you can see not only terrestrial, but underground secrets. It is also recommended to visit Botanical Garden and Columbus Park.

Perhaps this is the place to go for those who love to spend time on fresh air and quickly gets tired of various kinds of museums, cathedrals, castles and modern municipal buildings.

Prove that you dare! - Cableway

From this resort there is a cable car that leads to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres. There is a botanical garden with amazing, virgin beauty of nature. It is noteworthy that a statue of Jesus, a copy of a Brazilian statue, was erected on the mountain.

What to see in Santiago

Spiers soaring into the sky

Like other cities in the Dominican Republic, Santiago is rich in cathedrals and temples that amaze with their spirituality. The most interesting is the Cathedral of Santiago.

You've never been to a place like this: the tobacco factories of Santiago

Local excursions may invite you to visit tobacco factories, which are the national pride of the Dominicans. In the suburbs of Santiago, you can visit coffee plantations. Dominican coffee is one of the best in the world.

Do you want to take a walk? Do you want to combine the process of getting a first-class tan, swimming and sightseeing? Then you need to first of all visit the world-famous Saman Peninsula. There is everything here to conquer even the most experienced and capricious traveler!

So, let's begin.

Let's walk through the tropical grove first.

IN mountain part peninsula organized tours on horseback. During excursions, tourists are brought to admire high waterfalls and tropical groves.

Let's take a look at the unique cave park

Also here is the National Park of Gaitises, on the territory of which there are a large number of caves.

Watching whales play

The main attraction of this peninsula is its nature. Mostly tourists come here to watch the games of huge whales in marine reserve Banco de la Plata. These games take place from mid-January to mid-March.

And finally, we will rest on a beach island

Of great interest to tourists is the island of Cayo Levantado. It attracts tourists with magnificent, clean beaches.

Dominican Republic is the most favorite place for honeymoon trips. Newlyweds prefer this republic due to exotic landscapes, the cleanest beaches, caves and architectural monuments. The Dominican Republic is located on the island of Haiti on the east side. Asking the question: "What to see in the Dominican Republic?", tourists will receive an answer that to start exploring, you should choose Santo Domingo - a center with a long history.

Santo Domingo - the historical center of the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic. The city has received the name "Gateway to the Caribbean" common among tourists. Santo Domingo is filled with museums and architectural monuments. Every tourist must visit the following interesting places.

Museums

Amber Museum

On El Condo Street, in a small friendly house, there is the Amber Museum. His work began in 1996, when the flow of tourists increased and everyone started talking about the Dominican Republic travel companies. The owner of the museum is local- the owner of a factory for the production of jewelry from amber. A big plus is the presence in the museum of a store with products made from amber and larimar.

Despite the small size of the "house", inside the museum is quite modern: stands with information are highlighted, there are magnifying glasses and a cooling system.

"Interesting! Only in the Dominican Republic you can find blue larimar - a semi-precious stone, and in the Amber Museum there is an opportunity to admire it live.

religious buildings

St. Mary's Cathedral

Dominican Republic was conquered by the Spanish colonialists, who brought with them religious movements - Catholicism. The Cathedral of Saint Mary (Santa Maria la Minor) was built by the Spaniards over 500 years ago (in 1512). However, until now the walls of this sacred temple admit thousands of tourists. The location of the Cathedral can be easily found on the map: Isabel la Católica street in the city of Santo Domingo. The peculiarity of the Cathedral lies in the rather rough masonry and the minimum number of murals inside, which greatly distinguishes it from Russian churches.

A distinctive feature of the Cathedral is the presence of a treasury of coral golden limestone. Also, according to unconfirmed information, the remains of the discoverer Christopher Columbus were kept in the temple.

"Interesting! The cathedral included several different styles Baroque, Plateresque and Gothic. The altar is made of pure silver.

architectural structures

national pantheon

Almost all tours begin with an overview of the National Pantheon, located on Las Damas Street in Santo Domingo. Tourists are attracted by watching the changing of the guard before entering the architectural structure. Inside there is a mausoleum with the buried bodies of personalities known to the inhabitants of the Dominican Republic. Initially, the National Pantheon was built as a church, but since the 1900s it has been used as a mausoleum.

"Interesting! Entrance to the pantheon is absolutely free. Any tourist can admire the interior decoration and sarcophagi. A meticulous tourist may notice the symbolism of the swastika on the window bars. Such a "gift" was given to Santo Domingo by Adolf Hitler."

Natural attractions of the Dominican Republic

The natural attractions of the Dominican Republic have an exotic flavor. Among them are the presence natural parks, waterfalls and lakes.

natural parks

Manati Park

Manati Natural Park is located on famous resort Punta Cana. Represents absolutely natural area rest with incredible amount tropical plants and wild animals. Holidays with children are recommended in Manati, as there is an opportunity to try the entertainment of the Dominican Republic and swim with dolphins, enjoy their company.

The park is filled with different animals, among which tourists fell in love with: sea lions, flamingos, iguanas, caimans, parrots and rare species of snakes.

"Interesting! In Manati, you can visit the Taino Village, where events are held that showcase life, culture and rituals. ancient tribe Taino Indians.

waterfalls

Damajagua waterfall

The advantage of the Dominican Republic is the Damahagua waterfalls, located near the city of Puerto Plato. The waterfall is a series of depressions and pools. When ordering an excursion, tourists have the opportunity to choose the desired length of the route, since the full journey can take about 10 hours and meet 27 waterfalls along the way.

"Interesting! Average depth the pool is about 7 meters, the height of the water fall reaches 13 meters.

lakes

Lake Enriquillo

by the most big lake The Dominican Republic is Lake Enriquillo, located near the Neiba and Baoruco mountain ranges. The area of the lake is at least 265 square meters. The peculiarity lies in the salt concentration in the lake of at least 33%, even in the rainy season. The lake has 3 small islands– Barbarita, Islita, Karbitos and created national park Isla Carbitos, where you can find cacti over 3 meters high. Karbitos Island is inhabited by crocodiles, rhinoceros iguanas, red flamingos, ibises and other wild birds. Tours for tourists are organized on the island , where you can take photos and videos.

"Interesting! In the caves located next to the beach of Lake Enriquillo, you can see cave drawings left behind by the Taino Indians.

Columbus Lighthouse - the main attraction of the Dominican Republic

Description

The monument of the Dominican Republic - Columbus Lighthouse was placed in Santo Domingo - the capital of the Dominican Republic between Mirador del Este and Estados Unitos avenues.

The lighthouse was erected in honor of the famous navigator who discovered the Dominican Republic for European residents - Christopher Columbus.

architectural features

On the side, the Columbus lighthouse is architectural pyramid, similar to the buildings erected by the tribes of the Taino Indians. From above, the monument is made in the form of a cross, symbolizing the Christianization of America.

Construction history

The erection of the monument began in 1986 based on the drawings of the great Scottish architect John Gleave. The full completion of the construction of the Lighthouse was carried out in 1992, just in time for the 500th anniversary of the discovery of America. The cost of the monument was $70,000,000.

The structure of the monument and its heritage

The roof of the Columbus Lighthouse contains 157 spotlights that, when turned on, form the shape of a cross. Rays of light are visible from neighboring city Puerto Rico. The Columbus Lighthouse is 210 meters long and 59 meters high.

Inside the monument you can find a museum with exhibits from different corners America (for example, Colombian products or jewelry from Cuba).

Controversy regarding the remains of Columbus

Inside the lighthouse are the remains of Christopher Columbus. However, this statement has a controversial connotation. For many years, the dispute between Seville (Spain) and Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic) has not subsided. According to one version, the remains of the discoverer were buried in Spanish city Seville. Another version claims that Columbus was buried in the Cathedral of St. Mary in Santo Domingo, and later transported to the mausoleum at the Columbus Lighthouse monument.

The Republic is rich not only in architectural monuments, cathedrals, museums, but also natural features. A visit to Santo Domingo will leave a positive impression on both adults and children.

The Dominican Republic is a country located on eastern territory islands of Haiti.

It controls many adjacent islands. Of these, the largest and most visited are the islands of Beata and Saona.

Do you want to know what interesting things you can see while in the Dominican Republic?

In the article you will find a list of five the best places, which every tourist must visit in the capital of the republic - Santo Domingo. In a city with a population of over 10 million people.

How to get to the island?

If you prefer to fly on your own for recreation, then you should use flights from a capital or regional airport to Europe or the USA, with a subsequent flight to the Dominican Republic.

It is also possible: from Russian capital or St. Petersburg, fly by planes belonging to the French airline Air France, transfer to Paris and then to Punta Cana.

Or like this: from the airport take an Iberia airliner to Madrid, then fly to Santo Domingo.

Finally in the Dominican Republic

You will be met by friendly, unhurried and at the same time very expressive people.

Don't be surprised by their manners and please try to be lenient with their customs.. They will answer you the same.

Dominicans love:

carnivals;
recreational activities;
dress up in Carnival masks and costumes.

However, you will see everything for yourself, and, perhaps, take part in their turbulent life.

And in gratitude, the Dominicans will tell you what interesting things you can see in the Dominican Republic.

Five Great Places in Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo is an open-air museum city.

Lighthouse Faro Colon. The building was erected to replace the old lighthouse built during the time of Columbus. The remains of the famous navigator are kept here.
On the territory of the lighthouse there is a museum dedicated to the development of the Dominican Republic.
Columbus Palace "Alcazar de Colon". It was erected in 1514 by the son of the navigator Diego Columbus.
The uniqueness of the building is that its walls were lined with coral reef fragments.
The palace has 22 rooms containing:
- utensil,
- manuscripts,
- interior items,
- works of art of the era of the great traveler.
Osama fortress. The building was built at the beginning of the 16th century.
In the courtyard of the fortress rises a tower called "Torre del Omenahe". She is truly a direct participant in the historical formation of the Dominican Republic.
Cathedral of Santo Domingo. Built in the first half of the 16th century, it was dedicated to the Holy Virgin.
In the design of the temple, Gothic notes are observed in combination with baroque. Within its walls there is a huge collection of antiques. A monument to Columbus himself was erected on the square of the cathedral.
Los Tres Ojos Park located in the vicinity of the capital. There is already something to see.
On its territory are located:
- zoo;
- huge aquarium;
- caves with mineral growths - stalactites and stalagmites;
- grottoes with sulfide lakes with dark blue water.

The sights of the capital do not end there.

If you have at least some free time left for excursions, then:

Get to know the history of the Republic at the Dominican Museum or at the House Museum of Juan Pabolo Duarte, who was directly involved in the founding of the Dominican Republic.
Stop by Calle des las Damas if you've never seen a sundial.
See the first hospital built back in 1505.
Explore the ancient 17th century fort of Concepción

In addition, while exploring the sights, you will find many more wonderful places, which are no less famous in the capital.

What to see in Punta Cana

Manati Park. This is a beautiful botanical garden, containing a zoo with rare animals on its territory. With the participation of these animals, colorful performances are held daily.
Indian Folk Village which will introduce you to the life of the indigenous people.
Here you can buy souvenirs that the craftsmen will make in front of you. Get to know the original Indian cuisine.
Marinarium where daredevils can swim with a shark or a stingray.
What is a marinarium? This is a section of the sea, specially fenced with a strong net, behind which are its inhabitants.

Puerto Plata

It's boring to just idly spend holiday days.

And yet, in this village there are places that you want to look again during the season. This:

the colonial part of the city with the historic fortress of San Felipe;
Victorian-style Independence Park;
Cathedral of Saint Philip;
Lighthouse of Fortaleza;
chocolate Factory;

Take the cable car up Monte Isabel de Toros.
From its top you can see well scenic surroundings and a bronze 16-meter statue of Christ the Savior - a gift to the Diminicans from the Brazilians.

Visit the botanical garden located there.

Santiago

It was in this city that merengue music was born.

The Cathedral of Santiago is located in Duarte Park. Be sure to visit it, you will learn a lot of new things for yourself.

It will be interesting to see the Museum of Thomas Moray.

You can learn how tobacco is produced by visiting the Tobacco Museum. Plus, you can visit the factories themselves. There are three of them in the city:

Tobacalera factory,
Leon Hemez,
Jean Clement.

And not far from Santiago, in the town of Moca, you can see how coffee is processed. Visit local churches. They amaze with their architecture!

La Vega

The city is located west of Santiago.

Once La Vega served as a summer residence for the Spanish Viceroy.

Here, in the lowlands of the Santo Sierro mountains, the Church of Our Lady of Las Mercedes was built, which local population reveres as a national shrine.

Around locality see the sites with archaeological excavations.

What can be seen in the Dominican Republic for ecotourists

Amazing in the Dominican Republic beautiful nature and rich flora and fauna, which makes it possible for lovers of ecotourism to turn around.

Pedernales Peninsula. This place contains three beautiful national parks:
- Yaragua Park, which has 130 species of birds;
- Sierra de Baoruca is a park located in highlands, famous for thickets of fabulous orchids;
- Isla Cabritos is a national island park. The reserve is remarkable in that a record number of rare animals roam its territory.
On the peninsula there is a base for diving enthusiasts. water world crowded with manatees, groupers and a variety of baleen sharks.
Samana Peninsula. Here you will be given:
- Gaitises National Park.
  On its territory there are Linea, San Gabriel, Arena and Angel caves, which you can go down to, but preferably only as part of an excursion.
- marine reserve, which winter period you can watch whales.

Visit others national reserves Story by: Armando Bermundez, Del Este.

Let's go on an excursion

Upon arrival in the Dominican Republic, you can buy sightseeing tour. These are tours where you can see places of interest, parks, grottoes, as well as thematic excursions and boat trips on the sea with participation in a colorful show.

You can take diving courses and dive into the sea with an instructor.

There are many excursion programs.

Here is an example of just a few programs with a specified price:

Santo Domingo. The cost of a full-day excursion for an adult is $ 85, for a child - $ 45.
The journey begins with an acquaintance with the grottoes of Los Tres Ojos. There, at a depth of 15 m, there are three lakes with different water composition.
And further, the tour runs according to a busy schedule, which barely fits into the framework of the day.
Saona and Altos de Chavon. approximate price- $99 for an adult and $55 for a child.
First you take a bus to Altos de Chavon Park. The town has a rich history. It is most often attended by celebrities and public figures of our time.
After active and interesting program in the town you will be transferred by boat to the island of Saon, where the national reserve is located.
The program of the day is rich and interesting.. This city will not let you get bored!
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It is better to start acquaintance with the Dominican Republic from the colonial quarter of Santo Domingo. Most of the buildings here were built in the 16th century. Historians believe that this place is the oldest European settlement in the New World. On the territory of about 5 km 2 there are the most significant architectural objects of the national scale, and the entire area is included in the list world heritage UNESCO.

One of the first historical buildings on the island - Osama fortress, which has witnessed all the important stages in the history of the country. Today, fragments of the fortress wall, a tower, an old arsenal and the house of Rodrigo de Bastidas adjacent to the fortress are available for tourists.

The Cathedral of Santo Domingo - Santa Maria la Menor, was erected in the first half of the 16th century and is the oldest in America. You should definitely go inside and see with your own eyes its beautiful and unusual decoration.

The central public place is Parque Colon, Columbus Square, where a monument to Christopher Columbus is erected.

Huge memorial Complex Columbus, Faro Colon, acts as a lighthouse. In the center of the building is a sarcophagus with the remains of a famous navigator. The complex is surrounded by a park, where Domakians and guests of the capital like to walk.

Panoramas of natural attractions of the Dominican Republic from Airpano.com

Natural attractions of the Dominican Republic

Natural beauty is the main wealth of the hot island state. And you can start your acquaintance with heavenly places from the most accessible attractions - Dominican beaches with white sand washed by warm sea. Here you can succumb to a relaxing holiday, capture the best shots of beach scenery or risk seeing more - go diving to be able to capture stunning coral gardens and underwater caves.