Small-Group Tour of the Dominican Republic: A Different Side of the Island in 12 Days

Upon your arrival atLas Américas International Airport (other airports may be available—please contact us), you will be greeted by our local driverbefore heading to the historic center of Santo Domingo.

After checking into your charming hotel located in the heart of the colonial zone, you’ll have your first chance to meet the other travelers in the group and your English-speaking guide. This is a great opportunity to get to know each other, learn about the highlights of the trip, and share your first impressions of this adventure as it begins!

Your local guide will present the itinerary for the coming days and answer any questions you may have.

Depending on your arrival time, enjoy your first moments in this city marked by the arrival of Christopher Columbus, where history blends with the vibrant Dominican spirit.

Dinner on your own.

Overnight stay at a charming hotel in the heart of the historic district.

Let’s set out to explore Santo Domingo, the vibrant cultural capital of the Dominican Republic—but not like everyone else!

As you wander through the narrow streets of the UNESCO-listed colonial district, you’ll discover the key milestones that have shaped the country and its identity. Your guide will share their perspective on Dominican history, its influences, and the contrasts that define the capital today.

The morning continues with an immersion into the daily lives of the locals via the urban cable car, which offers a unique vantage point over the city’s various neighborhoods. It’s an opportunity to discuss the country’s social contrasts.

A stop at a“typical colmado”—a true Dominican gathering spot—allows you to immerse yourself even further in local life before sharing a lunch at a spot beloved by locals.

In the evening, discover the street concerts that regularly liven up the capital’s squares! A wonderful opportunity to try a few dance steps, watch the locals dance, and experience the rhythm of merengue!

You’ll then continue the evening witha welcome dinner with your small group in theheart of the historic center.

Check in for a second night in the heart of Santo Domingo’s historic center.

After breakfast, meet up with your English-speaking guide and driver before heading east.

Your first stop is San Pedro de Macorís, a region historically linked to sugarcane cultivation, which has profoundly shaped the economic development of the Dominican Republic. You’ll explore the Centro Histórico Ron Barceló, where you’ll immerse yourself in the world of Dominican rum—its history, production methods, and significance in local culture. The tour concludes with a tasting to help you better understand the various expressions of this iconic spirit.

The included lunch offers a chance to enjoy a convivial moment with the group before continuing on to the Cuevas de las Maravillas. This impressive underground cave is home to numerous natural formations as well as Taíno petroglyphs that bear witness to the presence of the island’s first inhabitants.

In the afternoon, head to Bayahibe, a former fishing village that has become one of the gateways to Cotubanamá National Park. With its turquoise sea, Caribbean vibe, and laid-back lifestyle, this stop marks the beginning of your immersion in the island’s southeastern coast.

Check in for two nights on the Dominican Caribbean coast.

Today, we’re heading to one of the most beautiful islands in the Dominican Republic.

You’ll set sail on a private tour (small group) to exploreSaona Island, designed to offer an alternative to traditional excursions. The goal: to prioritize moments of connection with the island, its people, and its landscapes rather than the most crowded sites.

After sailing past Cotubanamá National Park, you’ll arrive in Mano Juan, the island’s only village. Its colorful houses, sandy alleyways, and peaceful atmosphere offer a rare glimpse into Dominican island life. You’ll take the time to explore the village and chat with its residents.

Lunch is included and served overlooking the sea before continuing on to Canto de la Playa, one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. Here, there’s no loud music or large crowds—just crystal-clear waters, coconut palms, and time to relax.

On the way back, stop at a natural pool with turquoise waters—a true symbol of Saona—before returning to Bayahibe at the end of the day.

Dinner on your own in Bayahibe, with plenty of great little spots to try. 

Second night at a hotel with a pool on the Dominican Caribbean coast.

Today, you’ll leave the eastern Caribbean coast to head inland to an agricultural region that remains unspoiled by tourism.

Along the way, your English-speaking guide will provide plenty of commentary as you pass through plantations, small villages, and rural landscapes.

Upon arrival in Bayaguana, you’ll check into your traditional Dominican accommodation. Lunch is included and served on-site, surrounded by nature and near the river.

In the afternoon, explore Bayaguana, a small Dominican town renowned for its large sanctuary with modern architectureand its small village church—both major pilgrimage sites in the country. Make short stops to get a sense of how the locals live and fall in love with this village. You’ll then continue on to discover secret waterfalls and hidden natural pools beloved by the locals—true hubs of life in the heart of the Dominican countryside.

Overnight stay and dinner at a charming hotel featuring colorful Victorian-style houses, nestled in the heart of the Dominican countryside.

This morning, enjoy the peace and quiet of your lodging before setting out to meet a family of passionate beekeepers who are carrying on a tradition passed down through several generations.

Accompanied by a local guide, you’ll discover the essential role bees play in Dominican ecosystems as well as the different stages of honey production. Wearing appropriate protective gear, you’ll safely approach the hives and share a special moment with the beekeepers as they tell you about their daily lives, the challenges they face, and their deep connection to this craft.

The experience continues witha tasting of honeys and local products (a real treat!) before enjoying a Creole lunch prepared on-site in a friendly atmosphere.

In the afternoon, it’s time to relax with a swim at a natural waterfall nestled in the heart of the Dominican countryside.

Dinner at your hotel that evening is included. 

Second night at your charming hotel in the heart of the Dominican countryside.

Head to the Samaná Peninsula, one of the regions with the wildest beaches on the island of Quisqueya.

Upon your arrival in Las Terrenas, your English-speaking guide will tell you the unique story of this fishing village, which has become a popular destination over the years while retaining its Dominican identity and laid-back atmosphere.

The rest of the day is yours to fully enjoy Las Terrenas at your own pace. Stroll through the lively narrow streets, explore local shops, have lunch wherever you’d like, or relax on the coconut-tree-lined beaches.

In the late afternoon, head straight to the beach for an introduction to bachata and merengue. Facing the sea, with your feet in the sand, a Dominican instructor will teach you the basics of these iconic dances—a great time is guaranteed!

Dinner included.

Overnight stay at a cozy boutique hotel in the heart of Las Terrenas.

This morning, we set out for one of the Dominican Republic’s most iconic natural sites: Los Haitises National Park.

Aboard a private boat, you’ll cruise among impressive islets covered in tropical vegetation, mangroves, and limestone cliffs that are home to a rich biodiversity. This spectacular landscape, accessible only by sea, is among the most remarkable in the country. And you’ll get to see it in a very small group, allowing you to explore more secluded spots!

The tour continues with a visit to several caves adorned with Taino paintings and petroglyphs, evidence of the island’s earliest inhabitants. A fascinating immersion into the history and beliefs of this civilization.

After a Dominican lunch (included), return to Las Terrenas. Enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace: the beach, the pool, a stroll through the village, or watching the sunset over the ocean.

In the evening, let yourself be surprised by an experience carefully selected by our team. In an exceptional setting, enjoy a dinner you’ll never forget! (We won’t say any more…)

Overnight stay at your intimate boutique hotel in Las Terrenas.

Today, you’ll set out to explore the Samaná Peninsula, taking in its villages, unspoiled beaches, and coastal landscapes.

Your first stop is a secluded beach accessible after a short walk—a chance to discover one of the region’s most beautiful hidden gems. You’ll then continue on to Santa Bárbara de Samaná to sample some local specialties, such as pan de coco or Dominican arepas, before taking a stroll across the bay’s famous pedestrian bridge.

After lunch (included ) at a small local spot, the route follows the coast with several scenic stops, notably in theEl Francés area, renowned for its magnificent ocean views.

In the mid-afternoon, you’ll arrive in Las Galeras, a small fishing village with a peaceful atmosphere. Check into your charming waterfront hotel and enjoy some free time to enjoy the sea or relax overlooking the turquoise waters.

In the evening, take a short stroll to the village for dinner at a local restaurant selected by our team.

Overnight stay at an intimate, waterfront hotel facing the sea in Las Galeras.

This morning, you’ll board a guagua—the iconic local mode of transportation—to explore Las Galeras in a different way. Along the way, your guide will show you several traditional houses and share the history of this fishing village that has remained true to its identity.

The morning is filled with encounters with locals, conversations, and insights into daily life here. You’ll then be welcomed into a local’s home to share a Dominican lunch prepared right there.

Depending on conditions and the group’s pace, the tour continues to one of the region’s iconic beaches before returning to the village.

At the end of the day, back at your hotel, enjoya tasting of Dominican rums overlooking the sea at sunset, as we celebrate together the final moments of this adventure on the Samaná Peninsula.

Dinner on your own.

Spend your final night at your waterfront hotel facing the ocean in Las Galeras.

Enjoy a free morning in Las Galeras to take one last swim, stroll through the village, or simply soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this unspoiled region.

Late in the morning, depart for Santo Domingo. On the way, a included lunch gives you a chance to share your memories and highlights of the trip with the group one last time.

Upon arrival in the colonial district, check into your charming hotel with a pool, ideally located to enjoy the historic center’s unique atmosphere one last time.

The rest of the afternoon is free. This is your chance to wander through the colorful alleys of the old town, explore its art galleries, step inside a few shops carefully selected by our team, or visitthe monuments and churches that have shaped the country’s history.

In the evening, join your group for a farewell dinner at one of our favorite spots in Santo Domingo. It’s one last chance to come together and celebrate this Dominican adventure while sharing your fondest travel memories.

After breakfast, enjoy your last moments in the colonial district of Santo Domingo before your departure.

Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Las Américas International Airport. Schedules are customized to accommodate each traveler’s departure time.

This is your chance to leave the Dominican Republic with much more than just memories: new connections, shared experiences, and a fresh perspective on the island—far from the clichés and up close with its people.

End of your adventure with TERRA Dominicana. 🇩🇴✨