How to Get From Santo Domingo to Las Galeras
Las Galeras is a historic fishing village at the end of the Samana peninsula.
This amazing village has evolved over the years to include some of the most stunning beaches and resorts in the world. The small town only has a few thousand residents but welcomes visitors from around the globe.
If you're in the Dominican Republic, you can get from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras in a few different ways. Each choice comes with its pros and cons. This is why it's so important to look up the various options so that you can find the best solution for you.
Are you interested in learning more about Las Galeras? Here's a closer look at this fantastic village and your transport options from Santo Domingo
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Las Galeras
Las Galeras is the perfect destination for couples, newlyweds, and families. The picturesque town has activities and resorts catering to your every need. Whether you love spending time in the spa or want to explore the ocean, Las Galeras offers you the world.
Las Galeras is also the perfect place to embrace nature. The resorts and activities are all based on the natural landscape, giving you a unique experience that's hard to find anywhere else. When you arrive in Las Galeras, you will notice how the spirit has been adopted and incorporated into every aspect of life.
There are a few dozen resorts to choose from, all with stunning views of the surrounding nature. The resorts in Las Galeras are one of the top attractions. Almost all the resorts in Las Galeras offer pristine white sand beaches lined with coconut trees and daily activities.
These activities are designed for the entire family to enjoy. However, some also love relaxing and enjoying the views with a cocktail. Some fantastic locations along the coast let you sit back, relax, and watch the whales in the distance.
Where Is Las Galeras?
Las Galeras is a small fishing village that has evolved incredibly rapidly over the last decade. As mentioned above, the town is located at the end of the Samana peninsula. This means you will have to arrange some kind of transport to get to Las Galeras from the international airport in Santo Domingo.
Las Galeras is around 206 kilometers from Santo Domingo. This translates to about 128 miles. Most visitors drive to Las Galeras from Santo Domingo since the airport in Santo Domingo is the nearest major airport.
International travelers can land and quickly transfer to local transportation. This will help take you directly from the airport to your resort in Las Galeras.
Even if you have yet to book a hotel in the area, transportation options are available to take you to your rental apartment, beachfront villa, or Airbnb. Since you don't have to worry about directions, you can spend your time looking out the window and taking in the nature around you. This makes your life a lot easier and offers you a great experience on the road.
Depending on your transportation, your trip from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras can range from around two to five hours. This is also dependent on traffic along your route.
To be safe, set aside at least five hours. This will give you enough time to get to your hotel, check-in, and familiarize yourself with the surroundings.
From Santo Domingo to Las Galeras
If you're coming to Las Galeras from outside the Dominican Republic, you'll most likely arrive at Santo Domingo airport. There are flights from all around the world, making it easy to plan your trip. Once you come, there are several ways to get from the airport to Las Galeras.
The trip is around 206 kilometers or 128 miles. As mentioned above, the travel time depends on your chosen option and the traffic along the way. You should set aside a few hours from the airport to your resort or accommodation.
Here's a complete guide on the various options available from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras.
Shuttles, Taxis, and Buses
Public transport is the ideal choice if you want the most affordable way to get from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras. These buses go from the airport to Las Galeras regularly. However, you may still have to wait a while for the next bus.
Shuttles are also available from the airport to your accommodation. However, this service is only offered at some resorts and will only take you to and from the resort. This isn't the same as private transfers that happily take you anywhere.
The airport taxis are also available to book outside of Santo Domingo airport. Be ready to cough up at least 200 USD for your trip to Las Galeras.
Many, however, will try to get the most money from you. This is why it's always a good idea to negotiate with them and agree on a price before you get into the taxi.
Hiring a Car
Hiring a car is one of the most scenic ways to get from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras. The airport has a few car hire companies, allowing you to find the perfect vehicle for your family. You can hire a smaller car if it's just you and your partner or a larger SUV for the entire family.
Hiring a car is an economical option if many people travel with you. This is because the cost of the trip gets divided by the people traveling in the car. However, this means you have to spend a few hours finding your way across the Dominican Republic.
Benefits of Hiring a Car
A few benefits come with hiring your own car when you arrive in the Dominican Republic. The first benefit is booking your car hire online and in advance. This means your vehicle will be ready and waiting for you as soon as you arrive.
The second benefit of hiring a car is that you don't have to rush for anyone or anything. Since you are driving yourself to Las Galeras, you can take your time and even stop whenever you feel like it. This allows you to enjoy your 128-mile trip to Las Galeras.
While there are benefits, there are also downsides to hiring your car. If you're staying for a week, you're hiring a car for that entire week. This means you have to pay for the car for the whole week, even though it's just standing in the parking lot while you're at the resort.
This makes it incredibly expensive compared to other transport options.
If it's your first time in the Dominican Republic, you may find it challenging to figure out where to go. Also, hiring a car means you have to make the 128-mile drive yourself. This adds unnecessary stress and pressure to your vacation.
Private Transfers
If you're planning a trip to Las Galeras, you should consider booking a private transfer from the airport to your hotel. Private transfers are entirely different from shuttles or taxis as they offer a unique experience at an affordable price. This is a great way to start your vacation stress-free.
You don't have to worry about negotiating prices and running for a taxi at the airport. Instead, your private driver will wait to fetch you when you arrive. They will help you with your bags and get you comfortable in the car.
A private transfer from the SDQ airport to Las Galeras is 175 USD for up to 6 people. Of course, if you need a larger vehicle, you can book so too.
Private transfers are available to fetch you from the airport and take you to whatever hotel you're staying in. These transfers can connect you from the airport to private accommodation as well. This makes them better off than shuttle services that are limited in where they can take you.
Benefits of Private Transfers
Booking a private transfer is as easy as ordering an Uber. However, it's even better since you don't have to wait for an Uber to arrive. Instead, you can book your transfer in advance so that your driver is waiting for you as soon as you get off the plane.
Your private driver will be there waiting for you with a clear sign. This helps you locate them quickly, even if the airport is busy. Once you meet your driver, they will help you with your bags and take you directly to the car.
When you book a private transfer, you should understand that you're also booking a local expert. This means they will be able to get you from the airport to your resort in record time. This is much faster than shuttles, taxis, and public transport.
Some taxis are metered. This means that the longer they drive to the resort, the more money they make. Private transfers are different and will help you reach your destination on time.
Transfers in Santo Domingo are always the best option. This is because private transfers can be booked entirely online. This makes the entire process simple and easy when planning your trip.
Booking a Private Transfer
As mentioned above, booking a private transfer is effortless. This is because the process can be done online from the comfort of your home. It's recommended to book your transfer in advance so that everything is set before you arrive.
Once your booking's completed, you will receive a confirmation email or text. This will give you clear information on what to do and expect once you arrive. Your driver will already know where you're going, so you can just sit back and enjoy the comfortable journey.
Uber
Uber is a worldwide known company; many live and breathe Uber back in their home country and think of using it during their trip to the Dominican Republic.
Although the fares seem fantastic, Uber drivers are scamming clients. Don't take our word for it; click here and see a YouTube video explaining more of the scam taking place in the Dominican Republic with Uber Drivers.
Staying in Las Galeras
Las Galeras has tons to offer for people of all ages. Whether you're looking for a small town for your honeymoon, anniversary, or your annual family vacation, Las Galeras is perfect.
If you're looking for accommodation in Las Galeras, a few options are available. Most visitors go straight to the local resorts as they offer all-inclusive packages that make your stay even more accessible. These resorts include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you don't have to worry about cooking.
Some all-inclusive resorts in Samana also include beverages and cocktails. This makes it easy to budget for your trip as the resort cost has everything already.
There are also apartments and villas that you can rent privately. You can find these online or on platforms like Airbnb. These rentals tend to be slightly cheaper than resorts but don't include food or other amenities.
Some of these properties are located on the beach and offer great views of the surrounding nature. This makes it ideal for those who want to experience what it's like to live on the island compared to vacationing there. However, you won't benefit from the convenience and activities of a resort.
Resorts and Hotels in Las Galeras
As mentioned above, Las Galeras is home to some of the best resorts and hotels in the Dominican Republic. This is why so many visitors come to Las Galeras worldwide. Here's a quick look at the best hotels and resorts that you can book for your stay.
Villa Serena Hotel
The Villa Serena Hotel is a beautiful resort in Samana. This stunning hotel has a world-class restaurant and dining halls to host events. This is why many people book their destination weddings at the Villa Serena Hotel.
The Villa Serena Hotel is unique because every room is designed entirely differently. However, you can still enjoy stunning ocean views and the resort's amenities. This includes yoga classes, a spa, a gym, and even adventure packs.
The adventure packs include activities like ziplining, horseback riding, and walking tours of the surrounding nature. This makes it easier for you to relax and enjoy your time in Las Galeras.
Grand Paradise Samana
Grand Paradise Samana is the perfect solution if you're looking for an all-inclusive resort for you and your entire family. This is because the resort includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks in a single package. The all-inclusive option means you can bring your entire family on holiday without washing a single dish!
Grand Paradise Samana is a beach resort with amazing views from almost every room. This is ideal for destination weddings since the resort also has exclusive dining halls and wedding locations. You can also book tours and guided excursions directly with the hotel.
There are a few restaurants and bars on the property. This means that you can have your pick and try something new every night.
Chalet Tropical Bio-Hotel
For those who love embracing nature in every way they can, the Chalet Tropical Bio-Hotel is the perfect place for you. This hotel is an environmentally-friendly option that allows you to appreciate the natural landscape and everything it offers.
The bungalows and villas are made from stone and wood. This gives each room a unique, natural look and feel. While there's no ocean view from the room, you'll enjoy nature fully.
The hotel also has natural pools, restaurants, and bars. Since bungalows can comfortably house six adults, it's perfect for group trips or family vacations.
Things To Do in Las Galeras
Las Galeras is the perfect destination if you're looking for an outdoor adventure. There are tons of activities and experiences for you and the entire family. Here's a quick look at what you can get up to in Las Galeras.
Relax in the Resort
Las Galeras is ideal for sitting back and relaxing. Whether on your annual family vacation or your honeymoon, Las Galeras offers you peace and tranquility throughout your stay.
The resorts come stacked with the best food, drinks, and wellness amenities. This allows you to enjoy a day at the spa or take a yoga class while watching the sunrise. Either way, you'll enjoy every second as you take time out of your busy schedule to recharge.
Guided ATV Tour
There are a few guided tours that many of the resorts and hotels offer to guests. Some of these are walking tours, while others are ATV tours. The ATV tours are often the most fun as you ride around the beach while learning about the unique history of Las Galeras.
Explore the Ocean
For those who love the ocean, some Las Galeras resorts offer tons of activities just for you. Besides taking a dip in the water, you can also go snorkeling. This is a great way to get your snorkeling license if you don't already have one.
Whale Watching
Las Galeras is famous for both whale and dolphin watching. A few restaurants and bars along the beach will let you relax and watch the whales drift by. This is one of the most relaxing and memorable activities you can do with the entire family.
Aerial Adventure Parks
If you want to get an aerial view of Las Galeras, there are tons of outdoor activities that you can enjoy. A few fantastic hikes and walking tours are available to learn about the area's rich history. For those addicted to adrenaline, you can zipline through the trees and enjoy the stunning landscape.
See You Soon in Las Galeras
Las Galeras is a stunning location that offers everything you need to make memories with your friends and family. A few options are available, from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras, but private transfers are always the best choice. This makes your life easier as we fetch you from the airport and take you to your resort.
Book your airport transfer with us today to ensure a smooth ride from the airport to Las Galeras! For further questions, don't hesitate to contact us at Punta Cana Transfer.