Best Road Trip Routes in the Dominican Republic |
Posted: October 18, 2022 |
https://www.pexels.com/photo/scenery-of-a-relaxing-beach-7184629/ Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a solo tropical adventure, or a family destination vacation that offers something for everyone, traveling to the Dominican Republic should be on your bucket list. While the island offers plenty of all-inclusive resorts to fit any budget, visitors will want to put aside time to get out and explore all this sunny tropical paradise offers. If you're curious about having a road trip adventure in The Dominican Republic, this article will offer a few suggestions that will reward you with a beautifully diverse island panorama. Preparing for Road Trips in The Dominican RepublicDepending on the length of your stay, try to budget a few days to get out and explore all the tropical sights this region offers. Fortunately, the Dominican Republic offers visitors reasonably reliable highways and a network of roads that help to connect the country's nearly 900 miles of coastline. The good news for tourists from the United States is that drivers follow the right side of the road. However, it's important to note that caution should always be exercised when driving as the road may be shared with pedestrians and animals in smaller, outlying areas. Also, some more remote regions will be poorly lit after sunset, so be sure to reduce speed. Get Your Rental Car and Get Ready to Go!To have a road trip adventure, you'll want to rent a car. Fortunately, this is very easy in the Dominican Republic; all you'll need to show is your driving license from your home state or country or an international driving permit. However, as these suggested travel routes are several hours long, you'll want to investigate luxury car rentals that offer SUVs or vehicles with comfortable seating, air conditioning, a great sound system (because every unforgettable road trip needs the perfect soundtrack), and ample storage space for snacks and beverages. Finally, in addition to your phone's GPS, don't forget to pack a paper map. This old-school, pre-technology addition can be helpful in certain remote areas that may have cell and internet service gaps. Ready to get out and explore? Here are some top suggestions for your road trip adventure.1. Santo Domingo and Las TerrenasLas Terrenas is a fashionable beach resort town and connecting it to the lively city of Santo Domingo is Boulevard del Atlantico. This private, toll-operated highway connects drivers from one coast to the other. The fee to drive the entire length of this road is not outrageous, roughly $20 USD, and the price is worth it for coastal views and a smooth ride. If you're looking to adventure in style or have children traveling with you, it's an ideal excursion route. 2. Pedernales and BarahonaThe southwest corner of the Dominican Republic is one of the country's least developed areas, meaning there are lots of opportunities for adventurous road trips. In this region, you'll be amazed by the stunning cliffs and tropical bluffs that overlook the Caribbean Sea. Traveling to this area via the Barahona Enriquillo Coastal Highway allows easy access to environmental attractions such as Lago Enriquillo, a saltwater lake home to hundreds of crocodiles and iguanas, and Laguna Oviedo, one of the best birdwatching sites on the island and the site of the largest lagoon. 3. Santiago and Puerto PlataLa Ruta Panoramica takes drivers through the heart of cacao and coffee farms while gradually ascending 800m above sea level. This route is one road trip where the driving will be slow – partly because the rural roads will be hilly but also because you'll want time to take in the rolling hills, mountainous landscapes, and pastoral farming scenes. 4. Rio San Juan, Cabrera, and NaguaThe northern coast of the Dominican Republic does not yet have a well-developed highway, but this panoramic route of local roads takes explorers to the breathtaking beach of Playa Grande and the movie-set perfect lagoon of Laguna Dudu. If you've rented a rugged, all-terrain vehicle, you can also visit the beaches of Arroyo Salado, the Cabo Frances Viejo national park, and the waterfalls of El Saltadero. 5. Constanza and San Jose de OcoaThis route would be best traveled with SUV as approximately 60 miles are locally maintained dirt roads. However, don't let that deter you, as the road ultimately brings drivers to one of the highest points in the Caribbean, reaching an altitude of over 8,000 feet. Prepare for a long journey, but the end will be worth it when you finally catch sight of the central mountain range and pristine tropical vegetation. Whether your ideal adventure involves beaches, sky-high mountain tops, hikes through waterfalls, or exploring the natural environment of the Caribbean, there are plenty of road trips through the Dominican Republic to satisfy your curiosity and inner explorer! Make your road trip plan today!
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