Not Touristy Things in the Dominican Republic: Your Guide
If you plan to take an international trip this 2024, you're not alone; according to the travel and lifestyle website Travelbinger.com, 46% of travelers plan to do the same. Many of these globetrotters also plan to vacation in none other than the Caribbean, including the Dominican Republic.
The Dominican Republic is a tourism giant, considering it's home to some of the Caribbean's most stunning beaches. Think clear waters and soft, powdery white sands.
However, the nation doesn't attract millions of vacationers solely for its beaches. There are plenty of "not touristy things in the Dominican Republic" for those wishing to escape the massive crowds and, sometimes, rowdy jet setters.
Join our team at Punta Cana Transfer as we reveal the can't-miss places, must-do activities, and hidden gems Dominican Republic vacationers should consider exploring.
Take a Private Saona Island Excursion
In case you're wondering just how big tourism is in the Dominican Republic, here's a stat that can blow your mind: according to a post by Caribbean Journal, the Dominican Republic welcomed 4.178 million visitors within the first four months of 2024 alone. The nation's Ministry of Tourism said this figure is a record breaker and aligns with its goals of welcoming 11 million total visitors this year.
Yes, many of those vacationers head over to Saona Island. Indeed, Consorcio Energético Punta Cana - Macao, S.A (CEPM) says the now-fully-solar-powered island attracts over a million tourists yearly.
So, Why Is This Island on This List of Not Touristy Things?
The answer is that there's a way for you to explore the stunning Isla Saona with all its glorious waters and marine and land wildlife without worrying about being in a crowd. It's none other than through a private excursion. You can enjoy a piece of this breathtaking Dominican Republic gem in seclusion and at your own pace with Punta Cana Transfer's exclusive Saona Island tour.
A Plus: A Haven for Wildlife Watchers
Saona Island is also among the most unique Dominican Republic spots for those interested in seeing wildlife in action. Located within the Cotubanamá National Park, the island and its waters are home to rare and endangered animal species. If you're lucky, you might see the Caribbean Reef Squid, rhinoceros iguanas, and manatees, just to name a few.
Immerse Yourself in Nature at the Los Haitises National Park
As explained by GlobalNationalParks.com, the Los Haitises National Park is one of the Caribbean nation's largest protected areas. It encompasses an impressive 631 square kilometers (about 244 square miles). With such a vast land area, it's no wonder it's home to many secret places Dominican Republic adventurers would undoubtedly want to explore.
Forest Bathing at the National Park
Thanks to its conservation and preservation status, the park remains a largely undisturbed haven for flora and fauna. It implements strict rules and regulations for all visitors. So even if you encounter a few other tourists as you walk, hike, or trek the jungle trails, they'll most likely be taking in the beauty of the surrounding nature quietly and in serenity.
What to Expect at the Los Haitises National Park
Here are some options for off-the-beaten-path Dominican Republic tours and activities at the Los Haitises National Park:
Walk through the subtropical humid forest with a guide
Say "whoa" as you see vast stretches of untouched mangrove forests
Get some me-time at one of the park's secluded beaches
Wander through ancient caves
Discover what a limestone karst plateau is
Experience the thrill of exploring sinkholes and caverns
Feast your eyes on some of the Dominican Republic's most diverse collections of flora and fauna
Reaching Los Haitises National Park depends on where you're coming from, although booking a private shuttle is the most convenient way to travel by land.
Go on a Punta Cana Buggy Adventure
Another excellent choice for off-the-beaten-path Dominican Republic vacations is adventuring in off-road buggies in Punta Cana.
For those unfamiliar with off-road buggies, these are lightweight motor vehicles with large, wide tires designed for rough terrain. You can rent them out and discover lesser-known or unexplored Dominican attractions.
You can enjoy exhilarating drives as you marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of the nation. They'll boost your and your group's adrenaline levels, giving you a memorable, unique experience.
Buggy It Out With Punta Cana Transfer
At Punta Cana Transfer, we offer all-inclusive buggy adventures complete with:
The rugged buggy itself
Safety briefing and personal protective equipment, including helmet and goggles
A professional and highly experienced (but friendly!) guide
An exploration of rugged trails, muddy tracks, and the wilderness
An incredible viewing experience of beautiful rivers, hidden coves, and lush rainforests
A refreshing dip in a cenote, a natural sinkhole
An educational tour of the vibrant Dominican history, culture, and traditions
A mouthwatering lunch of traditional Dominican cuisine
Numerous photo opportunities
Our customizable Punta Cana Buggy Adventure packages make them perfect for group travelers. You can also add other activities along the way, such as a visit to a local village or zip-lining.
Experience the Thrill of a Big Catch
According to the American Sportfishing Association, the United States is home to 52 million anglers. If you haven't tried fishing, you're visiting the Dominican Republic soon, and you're looking for a not-so-touristy activity, fishing should be on top of your list of things to do.
Why Experience Fishing in the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is an enticing destination for beginners and avid anglers, considering it has among the region's most abundant and diverse marine life. The warm Caribbean waters enveloping the nation offer many fish species, making it a paradise for all fisher folks, regardless of skill level.
Some of the most desirable catches you may hook are:
Blue and white marlin
Mahi-mahi, also called dolphin fish or dorado
Yellowfin and bigeye tuna
Kingfish, also called king mackerel
If you're wondering whether you can eat the fish you catch, you absolutely can
Reel It in With Punta Cana Transfer's Private Fishing Charter
Whether traveling in a group, solo, or with a partner, you'll be happy to know that Punta Cana Transfer also offers a Punta Cana private fishing charter. A private charter is an excellent choice because it lets you enjoy a more personalized experience tailored to your needs and skill level. You also get to choose whether you want a full-day or half-day experience.
Our private fishing charter comes not only with a boat and a captain; rest assured, it'll also have experienced local guides. Our guides, being anglers themselves, are some of the best people to learn techniques from, making our charter even more ideal for beginners.
Indulge in Authentic Dominican Rum
For the Dominican Republic and its residents, rum goes beyond being a spirit; it's an icon celebrating centuries of cultural identity, craftsmanship, and passion. Its origins, tracing back to colonial times, may be humble, but there's no denying that Dominican rum has helped put the Caribbean nation on the map.
Where Can You Taste Authentic Dominican Rum?
You can experience authentic Dominican rum's rich, complex flavors almost anywhere in the nation, such as beach bars and local restaurants. However, opting for this route means you'll likely be in the company of many other tourists. If you'd like to avoid the crowds and enjoy your rum in peace while learning more about its history, consider Punta Cana Transfer's exclusive rum-tasting experience.
Why Choose Punta Cana Transfer's Rum Experience?
We offer two rum experiences: Premium Rums Oliver and Pairing Rums & Cigar. Both will give you:
An educational introduction to authentic Dominican rum
An experience of what rum's raw materials, like cane, sugar cane juice, and molasses, taste like
A sampling of four rums: Cubaney Centenario, Opthimus, Punta Cana XOX, and Unhiq XO
A selection of delicious finger foods that pair best with rum (e.g., honey, cheese, and chocolate)
The primary difference between the two experiences is that with the Pairing Rums & Cigar option, you'll get to pair premium cigars with the spirit. Whichever you choose, though, know that our team will provide you and your companions with transfers.
Marvel at the Breathtaking Beauty of the Underwater World
If you're looking for something "really" far from tourist hotspots, look no further than the Dominican Republic's underwater world. One of the best ways to do this is through scuba diving.
Why Scuba Dive in the Dominican Republic?
With bountiful reefs, walls, and wrecks to explore along the Dominican Republic's Atlantic and Caribbean coastlines, it's undoubtedly a tropical dive destination and a topside hotspot. The best part is that several places in the nation, particularly Punta Cana, offer an ideal place for divers of all levels. Plenty of shallow sites are brimming with schools of tropical fish just a few minutes from the shore.
Enjoy a Different Kind of Sound-Filled Environment
When you scuba dive, you'll escape urbanity's hustle and bustle. However, the underwater isn't as quiet as some people think, but the sounds you'll hear here are way different from the topside.
You'll hear bubbling and buzzing from your air bubbles as you surround yourself with waters brimming with wildlife. You'll also likely get greeted with snapping, clicking, crunching, and thumping. All these are sounds produced by marine life you'll encounter (or perhaps, those they make as they scurry away and hide in their havens).
Scuba Dive Playa Blanca With Punta Cana Transfer
Punta Cana Transfer offers divers of all skill levels a unique Playa Blanca scuba diving experience along the town's stunning coastline. We're proud to be one of only two authorized dive centers in the region. We follow stringent and sustainable diving practices and only dive in small groups to ensure that we help keep the Dominican Republic a haven for humans and wildlife.
Our scuba diving experience gives divers access to 11 protected dive sites, including but not limited to the following:
Playa Blanca's Coral Gardens
The Tortuguita and Juanito Reefs
The Enriquillo and Patricia Wrecks
If you're traveling with friends or family, our scuba diving experience is a perfect addition to your itinerary. We go on two dives each day, except Sundays, with a maximum group capacity of 10 divers.
Delve Into the World of Chocolate Making
If you're ready for some educational and interactive yet not-so-touristy Dominican Republic activity, consider participating in a chocolate-making class. You'll be in the company of other vacationers but away from the racket of the more touristy beach areas. Plus, what you'll learn here is a skill you can apply back home.
Why Learn Chocolate Making in the Dominican Republic?
A good enough reason is that, as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) points out, some of the world's best cocoa is from the Dominican Republic. It's also the world's largest certified organic and sustainable cocoa exporter. So, why learn chocolate making elsewhere that doesn't use locally-grown produce if you can get your "education" straight from the producer?
Where Can You Find Chocolate-Making Classes in the Dominican Republic?
At Punta Cana Transfer, that's where! We offer a chocolate-making master class. By joining one, you can:
Receive guidance from a master chocolatier
Learn about the history of cacao, which is just as rich as the chocolate itself
See a master chocolatier in action as they put on a skillful, captivating show displaying the art and science of chocolate-making
Experience making your very own chocolate
Have fun engaging in chocolate-related activities and contents
Learn tips and recipes you can try back home and share with your loved ones and friends
Punta Cana Transfer's chocolate-making master class also includes transfers to the location and back to your accommodations.
Try These Not Touristy Things in the Dominican Republic
If you want your Caribbean vacation to be primarily off the beaten path, outdoorsy, or educational, don't worry; you have many options for fewer crowds, hidden gems, explorations, and not touristy things in the Dominican Republic.
As a premier provider of high-quality transfer and tour services nationwide, Punta Cana Transfer is your one-stop shop for everything you need to safely get from point A to point B in comfort and convenience. From private airport transfers and shuttle services to exclusive excursions and tours, we offer all these and more to help you maximize your Dominican Republic vacation.
Contact us today to learn more about our services or book your transfers and tours!