Dominican Republic: Ten Days in Paradise
Dominican Republic: Ten Days in Paradise
The trip in a nutshell
Welcome to the Dominican Republic, a paradise island in the Caribbean Sea, cradle of bachata, merengue, dembow and, of course, rum (vitamin R) and Mama Juana. Our Dominican adventure begins in Santo Domingo, the vibrant capital of the Dominican Republic. This city is rich in history and culture, with its Colonial Zone serving as the heart of this historical allure. Cobblestone streets wind through a neighborhood filled with well-preserved buildings dating back to the 16th century, including the first cathedral and the oldest surviving European fortress in the Americas. We will then continue north to discover what is considered the most beautiful natural area of the island. These days we will be based in three different locations: Samaná, Las Galeras and Las Terrenas. Here we will have the opportunity to live many different and incredible experiences. We will visit the “Los Haitises” national park by boat and stop on the Isla Cayo Levantado, where, between January and March, we will also have the chance to spot some whales. We will visit Playa Frontón and Playa Madama, beaches of fine white sand, bordered by rows of tall coconut palm trees and at the foot of a rocky mountain almost 90 meters high. We will drive buggies through the Dominican jungle, stopping to discover and taste a coffee and cocoa plantation. Obviously you can never miss a nice local dinner on the beach.
The last part of our journey develops again to the south-east and more precisely in the Punta Cana area. Here we will have the opportunity to choose between different visits and activities or simply relax by the sea. We will return to the Caribbean by catamaran to discover the most beautiful island in the country: Isla Saona (legends say that some scenes from the "Pirates of the Caribbean" films were filmed here). Before heading back to Santo Domingo, we're making a thrilling stop at the Chavón River for a quad biking adventure. Riding through the rugged terrain along the riverbanks promises an exhilarating experience, allowing us to soak in the natural beauty and excitement of the Dominican landscape. However, we cannot leave Dominicana before experiencing one of the most incredible parties ever: Coco Bongo!
Trip type
360º - it's our great classic that allows you to discover the destination in all its aspects. We recommend packing a backpack rather than a suitcase as there will be lots of moving around.
Physical rating
MODERATE - this itinerary may involve hiking or other activities that require a moderate amount of physical effort. Be prepared for some potential long transfers and early wake up calls!
Entry requirements
Please visit your country's official government website to find out the necessary requirements for entering the country of destination.
Arrival and departure
This trip will begin and end in Santo Domingo. Aim to arrive by 5pm on the first day – on the last day you are free to leave whenever!
Group
1 WeRoader
What's included
9 nights accommodation in shared rooms
All breakfast
All long-haul transport
Boat tour to Los Haitises National Park and Isla Cayo Levantado with lunch
Boat tour to Playa Frontón and Playa Madama with lunch
Local Experience: local dinner on the beach
Catamaran trip to Isla Saona with lunch
Quad experience at Chavón River
Travel Coordinator services
Cancellation up to 31 days before departure — 100% refund (deposit refunded as a gift card) or option to change trips.
Itinerary
Welcome to The Caribbean
Check-in: our adventure starts in Santo Domingo
Roundtrip flights or transportation to reach the destination are not included in the package, so you can decide from where and when you want to leave! This gives you complete freedom of choice to adjust your travel itinerary to your needs.
Our trip begins in the vibrant city of Santo Domingo, where we dive into the rich history of the Colonial Zone. As we stroll through the cobblestone streets, surrounded by centuries-old architecture, we immerse ourselves in the city's dynamic nightlife. The rhythmic beats of bachata, merengue, and dembow fill the air, offering us a lively introduction to the local music and dance culture.
Included: overnight stay, breakfast
Not included: airport transfer, food and drinks
The famous market: Mercado Modelo
Dominican market vibes
This morning, we visit the bustling Mercado Modelo of Santo Domingo. The market is alive with activity, offering a sensory feast of vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and the lively sounds of vendors and shoppers. It is the perfect place to experience the local culture and pick up unique souvenirs.
Road to Samaná
After lunch we drive to the north, heading towards the beautiful region of Samaná. The journey takes us through picturesque landscapes, offering glimpses of the country’s diverse scenery as we make our way to this stunning coastal paradise.
Included: overnight stay, breakfast, minivan with driver
Not included: food and drinks
Los Haitises National Park and Isla Cayo Levantado
Caves or whales?
The day starts early, our first stop will take us to Los Haitises National Park, a sanctuary of biodiversity and natural beauty. During the boat trip, we will be able to admire the imposing rock formations covered in tropical vegetation that emerge from the turquoise waters. This national park is famous for its caves, where the ancient Taino left carvings and drawings still visible today. We will explore these caves and admire the amazing combination of nature and history.
If our visit is scheduled between January and March, we will have the unique opportunity to spot the majestic whales in the area. These marine creatures migrate into these waters during the aforementioned period, offering an extraordinary spectacle.
Is this heaven?
The journey continues to the enchanting Isla Cayo Levantado (also known as “Bacardi Island” due to its use in advertisements for the famous drink). This island is famous for its white sand and crystal clear waters.
We'll head to a quiet, hidden beach where a hearty lunch of local Dominican specialties awaits us. We will taste traditional dishes prepared with fresh ingredients, a real feast for the palate. Here, we will have some time to relax on the beach, take a walk or a nice swim.
Once back on the boat, we will move to the small village of Las Galeras
Included: overnight stay, breakfast, boat tour with lunch, minivan with driver
Not included: food and drinks
Playa Frontón e Playa Madama
Paradises beaches
Today our journey will take us to Las Galeras, a coastal city facing north-east of the Dominican Republic. Here, we will be greeted by breathtaking views and a relaxing atmosphere that will make us feel far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
We will go by boat to Playa Frontón, a picturesque beach with golden sand and crystal clear waters. We can relax, snorkel or simply enjoy the uncontaminated landscape.
Next, we'll head to Playa Madama, another lovely beach surrounded by lush tropical forest. There will be a delicious lunch waiting for us on the beach. We will be served local specialties that will delight our palate, while the sound of the waves will create the perfect accompaniment.
A midsummer night’s dinner
This evening, we have a delightful dinner on the beach, featuring local dishes like mofongo and sancocho. The sound of the waves and the warm ocean breeze create the perfect ambiance as we savor these traditional flavors under the stars.
Included: overnight stay, breakfast, boat trip with lunch, local dinner
Not included: drinks
7 beaches for 7 brothers
From beach to beach
Today, we are going to discover the famous seven beaches around Las Galeras. Each beach offers its own unique charm, from pristine white sands to crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect day for exploration and relaxation in this stunning coastal area.
For the most courageous, there is also the possibility of experiencing a thrilling zip line adventure. This exhilarating ride offers breathtaking views of the lush landscape, adding an extra dose of excitement to our day of exploration.
Road to Las Terrenas
Once the tour is over, we will move to Las Terrenas. This charming coastal town is famous for its breathtaking beaches and relaxing atmosphere. Its streets are crowded with shops, stalls and street artists. Taking an evening walk among the colors and sounds of local art can be an enchanting experience. For action lovers, this location offers the possibility of kitesurfing, an activity that combines surfing and kite flying. It will be an extraordinary opportunity for those who want to try their hand at an exciting water sport.
Included: overnight stay, breakfast, minivan with driver
Money Pot: seven beaches tour or zip line experience
Not included: food and drinks
Las Terrenas
El Limón Waterfall
Our day begins with a hike to El Limón Waterfall. We will be surrounded by a lush tropical forest while we will walk or ride on horseback natural paths and cross suspension bridges. The route will lead us to the waterfall, where we can admire the waters flowing into a natural pool. It will be a unique opportunity to take a refreshing dip and enjoy the natural beauty around us: we will be surrounded by tropical flora and fauna.
Road to Bayahibe
It's time to head back to the south, and in a few hours, we will arrive in Bayahibe. This charming coastal town is known for its picturesque beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Bayahibe is perfect for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing by the sea. Its lively atmosphere, local markets, and delicious seafood make it a delightful destination to explore and unwind.
Included: overnight stay, breakfast, minivan with driver
Money Pot: waterfall fee
Not included: food and drinks
Isla Saona
Pirates on Isla Saona
This island is a true hidden gem of the Caribbean and even served as the backdrop for some scenes in the famous "Pirates of the Caribbean" films.
To explore this wonderful island, we will travel aboard a catamaran (don't worry, there's rum too!), enjoying the turquoise waters that will take us to our destination.
During the journey, we will make a stop at the natural pools, where we will have the opportunity to see the starfish in all their splendor (please do not touch them or take them out of the water). Once we arrive at Isla Saona, we will be greeted by its breathtaking beauty. We will have a buffet lunch on the beach, with delicious dishes prepared directly for us. It will be a perfect time to relax and enjoy your food on the sand.
Included: overnight stay, breakfast, boat trip with lunch, minivan with driver
Not included: food and drinks
Road to Punta Cana
At the end of our boat trip, we will head to the renowned destination of Punta Cana. Famous for its stunning white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, it is the epitome of tropical paradise. This vibrant city offers an array of luxury resorts, world-class golf courses, and exhilarating water sports. The lively nightlife, with its array of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues, ensures there is always something to do.
Included: overnight stay, breakfast, boat trip with lunch, minivan with driver
Not included: food and drinks
Punta Cana e Bavaro
Time to relax
In Punta Cana, we will have the opportunity to choose between different activities.
We will be able to visit a sugar cane plantation to discover the cane production process and taste the famous Dominican rum. Or, we can opt for a visit to the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, where we will refresh ourselves by bathing in a cenote, a natural pool immersed in the tropical forest.
Alternatively, we can choose to relax on the splendid Bavaro beach. This beach is famous for its snow-white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Swaying palm trees provide shade and the tropical landscaping invites you to enjoy a day of tranquility and natural beauty.
Someone said Coco Bongo?
To end our trip in style, in the evening we will all move to Coco Bongo. This famous nightclub offers an exceptional show with music, dancing, acrobatics and live entertainment. It will be an evening of celebration and fun that will make our trip even more unforgettable.
Included: overnight stay, breakfast
Money Pot: ticket to Coco Bongo
Not included: food and drinks
Santo Domingo
Quad ride at Chavón River
Today, we are heading back to Santo Domingo. On the way, we will stop at the Chavón River for an exciting quad adventure. Riding through the rugged terrain and lush landscapes along the riverbank promises an exhilarating experience, adding a thrilling touch to our journey back to the city.
Included: overnight stay, breakfast, minivan with driver, quad experience
Not included: food and drinks
Goodbye Dominican Republic
Check-out and goodbyes
Time to say goodbye - we'll see each other on another adventure!
Not included: airport transfer, food and drinks
End of WeRoad services. The itinerary may undergo some variations that differ from what is stated above. These variations may not be predictable nor depend on WeRoad’s will, i.e. climate conditions, national holidays, strikes, etc.

The travel coordinators
Our travel coordinators are chosen because they are people like you. Not only are they the best travel buddy you could hope for, but they're trained professionals guaranteed to show you a travel experience like never before
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Round-trip flights are not included in any of our trips because we like to give you autonomy and flexibility: you can choose the airline you want to fly with, the departure airport that suits you best, and how many and which stops you want to make.
Since flights are not included, you also have more flexibility with your travel dates: if possible, you can arrive at your destination a few days earlier or return home a bit later – or even continue independently to a nearby destination!
This is the question of all questions, and here’s the answer, broken down into points!
The Money Pot is a common fund collected in local currency from all tour participants and managed by your Travel Coordinator.
It is used to streamline paymentsfor extra activities, goods and services that the whole group decides to do and to guarantee flexibility in choosing activities and excursions at the destination in line with the mood of the group.
It is typically collected on the first day of the trip in local currency, although at times, the Travel Coordinator may ask for it to be paid before departure.
You’ll find the amount of the money pot on the website under the section ‘What’s included in the money pot’ – how do you get there? Look for ‘What’s included’, scroll down to ‘Money pot? Click here’, and you’ll find the details.
The amount varies depending on the destination chosen.
It is used exclusively for group expenses that ALL participants decide to take part in.
It is estimated based on the experiences of other groups but can vary depending on the needs of the group itself. As such, the Travel Coordinator may need to increase the amount during the trip.
If not all of the money pot is used, the difference will be returned to all participants at the end of the trip in equal amounts.
The Money Pot also covers the Travel Coordinator’s share of the activities included in the money pot, except for those activities that are free for the Travel Coordinator.
If you pay in advance part of the money pot before the trip for certain non-refundable optional activities, unfortunately, the amount cannot be refunded in case of trip cancellation.
We offer several payment methods to fit every need:
1. Credit or prepaid card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express);
2. Instalment payment with Scalapay up to €4,999 (only available with the “Full trip payment” option – not available with the “Deposit and balance” option; pay in 3 instalments up to €1,200 or in 4 instalments over €1,200);
3. PayPal (for selected destinations);
4. Revolut Pay to pay even faster straight from your Revolut account;
5. Welfare credit – BEFORE BOOKING, reach out to us at [email protected].
If you choose the deposit and balance option, you’ll also be able to pay the balance via bank transfer from your Personal Area.
Anyone who books a WeRoad trip has the option to cancel or modify the trip – including both the dates and the destination – free of charge up to 31 days before departure. In case of cancellation, you will receive a 100% refund of the WeRoad trip price. (Deposits will be refunded in the form of a gift card valid for 365 days from issue date.) If you make a change, a price adjustment will be applied to the new trip chosen – meaning, if the new trip is cheaper, we will refund the difference; if it’s more expensive, you will need to pay the difference.
If you’ve purchased the Flexible Cancellation Option (which you can add in the first step of the booking process), you can request a cancellation or trip change until 8 days before departure. In case of cancellation, you’ll receive a 100% refund of the WeRoad trip price, minus the cost of the Flexible Cancellation option. Deposits will be refunded in the form of a gift card valid for 365 days from issue date.
How to request a cancellation or change to your trip? Send us an email at [email protected] or a WhatsApp on +447716573700. Please share the booking reference for the trip you want to cancel or change, and, in case of a change, the new trip you would like to join.
In general, we always choose local accommodations, avoiding large hotel chains, because we love to experience the culture of the place and, whenever possible, contribute to the local economy. Typically, our accommodations are hotels, apartments, guesthouses, and hostels run by local entrepreneurs, with the same standard maintained across all trips in the same destination.
For our Collection trips, which are our premium category, the accommodations are always 4 or 5-star or carefully selected boutique hotels.
The list of accommodations for your trip will be shared with you by your Travel Coordinator between 5 and 3 days before departure, along with other useful details for your adventure!
If you're wondering why WeRoad trips have a money pot, we’re assuming you already know what it is. If not, or if you have any doubts, we invite you to read all the information here!
Let’s quickly recap: The Money Pot is a common fund collected in local currency from all tour participants and managed by your Travel Coordinator. It’s used to speed up payments for extra activities, goods and services that the whole group decides to do and to guarantee flexibility in choosing activities and excursions at the destination in line with the mood of the group.
But let’s get to the point: why the money pot? First of all: it gives us a lot of flexibility. In all WeRoad trips you will have a bunch of Must See/Must Do activities already included - these are experiences, places or activities that simply cannot be missed! Any extra activities is decided by the group, why? Because each group is unique and may have particular wants or desires and the Money Pot allows each group to customise their trip to make it perfect for their requirements!
It also helps us speed up payments – imagine being in the subway in New York City, one by one purchasing the ticket...a nightmare right? Thanks to the Money Pot, the Travel Coordinator can simply purchase the tickets for everyone making the entire processes smoother! Any leftover money will be returned at the end of the trip and split equally amongst all participants.
In some destinations, buying goods or services on site is more economical as you are able to negotiate the price - places like Morocco, or South East Asia, bargaining is part of the culture. As such, our Travel Coordinators will be able to secure the best deal for all participants.
The amount of the money pot is specified in each trip – look for this button
which will take you to a detailed breakdown for each trip, like this:
Even if we don't know the flights of all WeRoaders, there are several ways to find out which flights your travel companions have purchased.
1. Each WeRoader has the ability to communicate their flight details after booking within their personal area so that other travel companions can see the details anonymously. Enter your booking and you will find this section:
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2. If you want to find out before booking, instead, you can contact us and we will support you in your search or you can ask your travel companions for direct information by joining our Facebook group 'WeRoad... let's get to know each other before leaving! (official)' – (here is the extended link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/weroadit) look for a post associated with your trip, or ask the group administrators for help in getting in touch with your future adventure companions!
If the coordinator has already been assigned to the trip you are interested in, you can easily find his/her presentation post in the group through the site: in the shift list click on 'Ask the coordinator', or in the trip tab, in the coordinator section, click on 'Ask [coordinator name] about this shift in our Facebook group'. For both cases, see the screenshots below!
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In all our groups, the Travel Coordinator and participants speak English – knowing how to speak and understand English is therefore a fundamental requirement to participate in our trips.
On average the groups are made up of 6-15 people, with a minimum of 3/4 participants and a maximum of 15.
All our travellers are in theirs 20s, 30s and 40s. If you're very curious to know the age range of the group for a tour you're interested in, you can see this by finding the trip on our website, and clicking the down arrow to see the ages & genders of participants. You'll need to have created a WeRoad account with us to do this.
Any issues finding this info just give our team in the office a call, we're always happy to help!
Regarding the male-female ratio, this is not guaranteed and varies trip by trip.
Yes! If you're curious, you can take a sneak peek at the group before booking – although, in our opinion, that kind of spoils the surprise! You’ll find the info in the ‘Group’ section for each trip on the departures page, showing how many WeRoaders have already booked. Click the little arrow and you’ll even see their gender and ages – but hey, that’s exclusive info, so we’ll ask you to log in or sign up to see that!
Yes, in all our trips you will share a room with other same-sex travellers, and the bathroom will either be private or shared only with fellow participants of the trip. The rooms we select can be doubles, triples, quadruples, or multi-bed (up to 8 people in exceptional cases), depending on the destination and availability.
There are never dorms with people outside the WeRoad group, except in certain cases for local experiences, which are specifically mentioned in the itinerary or communicated before booking. These typically involve specific nights in unique accommodations like tents, homestays, or camping, offering a more adventurous travel experience in exchange for some comfort.
During the booking process, you can also choose to opt for a mixed room: in this case, if needed, only those who have agreed to this option may share a room with travellers of a different sex. If you are booking for multiple people together and select this option, the room will not be exclusive to your group but may be shared with other travellers in the group.
The WeRoad Travel Coordinator is an experienced and skilled traveller and will be the perfect companion for your trip. They will be available for any eventuality and will manage all the logistical aspects of the itinerary (transports, timings, accommodations, meeting points, etc.), so you can enjoy the trip without any worries!
You will have the chance to get to know them when the WhatsApp group is created approximately 2 weeks before departure - this will be the moment to ask any pre-departure questions and get to know the rest of the group! If the trip you are interested in already has a Travel Coordinator assigned, you can contact them before booking – their details will be specified in the schedule or on the trip page, or you can search for their name here. After booking, you will find their contact details in your Personal Area, under ‘Bookings and Trips’ > ‘Your Upcoming Trips’ > ‘Trip Details’.
When you set off on a WeRoad trip, you’re officially a WeRoader – and as we often say, 'Once a WeRoader, always a WeRoader'. This means that once you’re part of the community, a little piece of WeRoad will always stay with you, even if you no longer travel with us.
But you’re not just a WeRoader during your trips, far from it! The community is alive and active all year round: you can stay in touch by following and interacting on our social media channels, like the Facebook group or the Instagram profile. We can also meet up for a dinner or a trek together at one of the events organised by our coordinators around the world!