2 Weeks in the Dominican Republic - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Explore the Beaches, Mountains & Waterfalls of the Dominican Republic

Experience the diverse beauty of the Dominican Republic, from the colonial charm of Santo Domingo to the white-sand beaches of Samaná. Immerse in nature with rafting in Jarabacoa, hiking and ziplining in Cabarete, and snorkeling in Cayo Levantado. With a perfect balance of relaxation and excitement, this two-week itinerary showcases the highlights of the Dominican Republic and is ideal for first-time visitors. 

Your adventure begins in the capital of Santo Domingo, where you'll explore the historic highlights, including the Zona Colonial district, on a self-guided walking tour. Next, head to the mountain town of Jarabacoa to spend time in this popular ecotourism destination with outdoor activities that include horseback riding, hiking, rafting on the Río Yaque del Norte, and swimming at the Salto de Jimenoa waterfalls. Check out the dramatic views and snap some beautiful photos in Valle Nuevo National Park, the "Dominican Alps," before departing for Santiago de los Caballeros for a guided city tour.

On Day 6, it's off to Cabarete for sunbathing and surf lessons. Enjoy a waterfall hike and zipline excursion along the Río Damajagua, then continue to Samaná, where you'll snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Cayo Levantado and hike to the El Limón Waterfall. With a free day in Samaná, you can explore secluded beaches or take part in optional activities like surfing or diving. Your journey concludes with a quad biking tour and a chance to witness humpback whales (from January to March) from aboard a boat in Samaná Bay before returning to Santo Domingo for departure. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Explore a Different Side of the Dominican Republic

This off-the-beaten-track itinerary that goes beyond the usual tourist spots is an excellent fit for foodies and wildlife enthusiasts. You'll enjoy a coffee tasting in Cachote, sample cacao near Lago Enriquillo, snorkel at Saona and Catalina islands, meet squirrel monkeys in Bayahibe, and go bird-watching in Barahona and La Sierra de Bahoruco National Park. Couples and honeymooners will appreciate the inclusion of romantic bonding experiences, such as a swim at Hoyo Azul and a merengue lesson on Saona Island. 

Begin your Dominican Republic adventure by visiting Santo Domingo's historic landmarks, including Alcázar de Colón, on a bike tour. Continue to the Los Tres Ojos National Park, where you can explore limestone caves and crystalline lagoons. Then, transfer to Barahona for a little sunbathing on the white-sand beaches and bird-watching in the rainforests (keep an eye out for the endangered bay-breasted cuckoo). Spot orchids and endemic wildlife, such as the Hispaniolan solenodon (a shrew-like mammal), while hiking in La Sierra de Bahoruco National Park, then sample cacao right from the trees on a hike near Lago Enriquillo.

Experience the unique ecosystems of Jaragua National Park, where you may find flamingoes, manatees, and more. Stop by Las Cuevas, a fishing village where residents live in caves. Take a quad bike from Casa Bonita Lodge to Los Morones for a swim before heading to a local coffee farm in Cachote for a tour and tasting. Enjoy snorkeling, a beach picnic, and a merengue lesson on Saona Island. Cool off at Hoyo Azul, a swimming hole in a limestone cave, then embark on a buggy adventure through the countryside. Spend your final day snorkeling and diving at Catalina Island before departure. Learn more

Itinerary #3: The Dominican Republic from North to South

With whale watching in Samaná Bay, hiking to El Limón Waterfall, a day trip to Los Haitises National Park, snorkeling in Playa Dorada, and more, this comprehensive trip is ideal for active nature lovers. It's also a great option for travelers interested in a mix of outdoor adventures with cultural experiences that include visits to the Macorix House of Rum and an artisanal cigar factory in Puerto Plata as well as a walking tour of Santo Domingo's historic sites. 

Begin your journey in Samaná, where you can relax on beautiful beaches, partake in a whale watching tour (from January to March), and hike to the El Limón waterfall. Hop on a quad bike and visit some of the most secluded beaches on the peninsula, then head to Los Haitises National Park to check out limestone rock formations, mangrove forests, and ancient petroglyphs. Go surfing at El Valle or simply relax on one of Samaná's beaches. Take a day trip to Playa Rincón on Day 7, then sample local fruits and coffee in the Samaná Market. Taste grilled lobster at Playa Grande and take a dip in Laguna Dudú en route to Cabarete.

Embark on a waterfall hike and zipline adventure along the Río Damajagua before taking a horseback ride through traditional villages and along the coast. Transfer to Puerto Plata for a walking tour that includes the Macorix House of Rum, an artisanal cigar factory, and chocolate confectionery. Spend a free day kitesurfing, banana-boat tubing, snorkeling, or sipping cocktails on the beach in Playa Dorada. On your final full day, head to the capital city of Santo Domingo for a guided tour of the sites in the historic heart of the city, including Parque Colón, before bidding farewell to the Dominican Republic. Learn more

More Great Dominican Republic Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to the Dominican Republic? Check out these other Dominican Republic itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.