Punta Cana
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23°
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05:55
Punta Cana
Punta Cana is located in the easternmost region of the Dominican Republic. The name of the stunning resort originates from cane palms common in the area. Punta Cana has been popular as a holiday resort destination among tourists for decades, and no wonder: travelers can enjoy white sandy beaches fringed with palm trees and crystal clear waters washing over the 32 km long coastline of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.Hitta resa
Going on an expedition in the Iguabonita Cave, zip-lining from the Farallon Cliff or discovering the renowned natural spring waters of Hoyo Hazul, or even heading to the natural theme park of Scape Park, are all options that offer a wide range of cultural and adventurous activities for everyone. Apart from having close encounters with parrots and monkeys, you can also simply enjoy the Caribbean sun and relax on the white sandy beach of Juanillo. Many options and different tours are available as well free transportation from most hotels of Punta Cana and some restaurants.
If you want to pamper yourself on a well-deserved afternoon of relaxation, try the Ocean Spa. You will board a boat to spend an entire afternoon on, where you'll be able to take advantage of bio-pilates classes, a personalized massage and a fish pedicure. Fresh beverages and snacks are also provided.
If you are looking for a new way to explore the landscapes of the Dominican Republic, how about trying to ride the dunes of Bavaro in an eco-friendly buggy across off-road paths. Along the 10-kilometer trail, you will have the chance to discover the beauty of the Dominican countryside, with its colorful vegetation and hill formations. A visit to the Fantasy Cave is included as well as a stop to try local coffee and chocolate. The tour ends with a visit to Bedrock city, caves characterized by stalactites and stalagmites. A guide will supervise small groups of people willing to experience the less traveled roads of the island.
Tired of the beach? You can see the outback of Punta Cana aboard an open-air truck suited for tourists. The guides will give you insights into the traditional way of life in the Dominican Republic, but you will also have the opportunity to meet with locals in person, discover the cocoa and coffee farms, as well as rural schools. It will also be the occasion for you to sample cane sugar and delicious fresh fruit, as well as see wild animals. The tour will also stop at a shop that sells rum, cigars, cocoa... at local prices. It is the opportunity to learn more about the Dominican culture, history and customs while admiring the tropical countryside. Drinks and snacks are included and guests are picked up and dropped off at their hotels.
As the name suggests, this tour introduces you to quirky local inhabitants - monkeys - but also grants insight into local lifestyles. You will first have the opportunity to learn how coconut oil is produced at the Casa del Coco, as well as try some local specialties like exotic fruit or roasted coffee. Then, you will have the time to admire and play with the friendly squirrel monkeys - the monkeys are harmless and often initiate contact with humans. On the way to meet them, the open truck will guide you through Higuey and offer you the chance to admire the mountain and a typical Dominican house. Drinks are included and guests are picked up and dropped off from their hotels.
This company offers several marine tours for you to take time for yourself and relax aboard a luxury boat. You can choose between different activities such as Saona Dive and Snorkel, Punta Cana Scuba Diving, Catalina Island Adventure, Saona Speedboat and Catamaran. All the tours are well organized and the guides take care of the visitors with meals and drinks included. Pick-ups and drop-offs are made at your hotel.
Among the numerous beaches that Punta Cana is famous for, Bávaro Beach is probably one of the most popular ones for tourists who come to sunbathe on deck chairs or take a dip in the turquoise blue sea. If you don't feel like spending all day at the beach, you still have a variety of activities at your disposal: from entertainment at casinos and watching live shows, to water activities like scuba diving, snorkeling or sailing. Lifeguards will be there to ensure security.
The Macao beach is probably the best spot of the Dominican Republic to surf. Whether you are a beginner who always dreamed of experiencing surfing or you have advanced skills in riding the waves, everyone is welcome reagrdless. In small groups, the instructors will help you master proper technique, first on the beach for the less advanced ones, and then directly in the water. There is a possibility to have the lessons taught in Spanish, English, Russian or Italian. Drinks and snacks are provided.
Going on an expedition in the Iguabonita Cave, zip-lining from the Farallon Cliff or discovering the renowned natural spring waters of Hoyo Hazul, or even heading to the natural theme park of Scape Park, are all options that offer a wide range of cultural and adventurous activities for everyone. Apart from having close encounters with parrots and monkeys, you can also simply enjoy the Caribbean sun and relax on the white sandy beach of Juanillo. Many options and different tours are available as well free transportation from most hotels of Punta Cana and some restaurants.
If you want to pamper yourself on a well-deserved afternoon of relaxation, try the Ocean Spa. You will board a boat to spend an entire afternoon on, where you'll be able to take advantage of bio-pilates classes, a personalized massage and a fish pedicure. Fresh beverages and snacks are also provided.
This is the premiere shopping destination in Punta Cana that is a must for you if you happen to be into substantial shopping sprees. Between two sunbathing sessions on the beach, you can come here to refresh by looking around clothing shops and other kind of boutiques or even grabbing a bite at one of the village's restaurants.
Go out and mingle with the locals at Plaza Bávaro. Wander around the shops, search for bargains or get souvenirs to bring home, such as cigars or crafts from local shops, and truly experience where everyday Dominicans do their shopping.
Come and visit the Don Lucas Cigars shop and discover the Dominican tradition of cigar making. This brand is very popular in the area and by visiting its factory, you will have the chance to learn about the history of different types of cigars and find out more about the flagship product of the Dominican Republic.
The Galerias at Puntacana Village reside within the blossoming shopping, dining, and residential complex of Puntacana Resort & Club. After a day full of discovery and new experiences on the island, stroll around this place and relax by doing some window shopping. A large choice of restaurants offers you a refreshing break and a playground is available for families.
If you want to discover true Dominican flavors and taste the finest chocolates from Central and South Americas, you will have the opportunity at this one of the kind museum. Here you can learn more about the history of this renowned chocolate, but what makes this visit special is that you have the chance to make your own chocolate from the beans of Dominican cacao in the chocolate workshop. Besides, a visit to the chocolate factory and museum is totally free.
Don't except brand name shops in the Plaza Uvero Alto shopping center because this place is recognized for its handcraft shops filled with regional paintings, ceramics and other handmade souvenir items. The local shopkeepers, who only speak Spanish, showcase their products in beautiful colorful kiosks which make this shopping area a really interesting one.
Step into Harrison's Fine Caribbean Jewelers and discover the Dominican tradition of jewelry in one of the largest jewelry shop chains on the island. You will find a unique collection of rings, earrings and necklaces including a large selection of larimar and amber pieces, as well as diamonds and other gems.
La Perla Dominicana's cigars are entirely hand-rolled and made from the finest tobacco plants. Harvested on plantations from the top production areas for Dominican tobaccos, their cigars are an exclusive souvenir from the Dominican Republic. You can discover how cigars are produced during the factory tour which includes a guided tasting experience; at the end, you will have the possibility to purchase the cigars, but also a variety of local rums, spices, and coffees.
This is the premiere shopping destination in Punta Cana that is a must for you if you happen to be into substantial shopping sprees. Between two sunbathing sessions on the beach, you can come here to refresh by looking around clothing shops and other kind of boutiques or even grabbing a bite at one of the village's restaurants.
Go out and mingle with the locals at Plaza Bávaro. Wander around the shops, search for bargains or get souvenirs to bring home, such as cigars or crafts from local shops, and truly experience where everyday Dominicans do their shopping.
Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is located in the heart of Punta Cana, only a short shuttle ride from your final destination. Taxis and buses are available at the airport and many resorts supply their guests with personal or group shuttle services.
The Dominican Republic allows nationals from eight countries to enter without a visa or a tourist entry tax (previously known as a tourist card, amounting to US$10). These eight countries are Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Israel, Japan, Peru, South Korea and Uruguay. Residents of the United Kingdom and those holding a valid visa to enter Canada, the United States or any European Union country do not require a tourist visa (tourist card) to enter the Dominican Republic. The tourist entry tax of US$10 should be included in the price of the flight ticket. Nationals who aren't in possession of a valid visa for Canada, the United States or any European Union country must obtain a tourist visa which must be done in person at the Dominican Consulate nearest to their place of residence. Nationals from 95 countries can enter the Dominican Republic by paying the tourism entry tax of US$10 which should be already included in the air fare. Alternatively, the tourist card can be obtained at the airport upon arrival at Punta Cana International Airport. Check out the list of the 95 countries. The tourist cards are valid for 30 days from the date of entry. You can apply for a tourist card at a consulate near you, online (www.dgii.gov.do/Paginas/inicio.aspx) or at the airport upon arrival.
There are two distinct tourist high seasons in the Dominican Republic: the summer months of July and August, mostly for northern-hemisphere travelers, and winter season between December and late February, when the Dominican climate is at its best. But since the weather is warm all year round, trips can be organized at any time of the year. During the summer, temperatures fluctuate from 25 °C to 28 °C and the weather is very hot and humid. The best time to visit the Dominican Republic is therefore during the dry season, from November to April, since the climate is drier but still warm. Regarding water temperature, it rarely falls below 27 °C. The Dominican Republic is also in the center of the Caribbean hurricane belt and can be hit by storms especially during the hurricane season in August and September. If you are planning a trip to the Dominican Republic during the high summer season, and especially if you're heading to Punta Cana, expect higher hotel and resort prices and crowded beaches. Whale-watching runs from around mid-January to mid-March.
Punta Cana is located in the Atlantic Standard time zone, and all times are reflected in Atlantic time.
The public bus system covers both Punta Cana and Bavaro and is low cost, but navigating it can get tricky. Bus stops are not clearly marked and you can hail a minibus (Guacas) anywhere, that's why it is recommended to tell the driver in advance where you want to get off. Tickets can be purchased on board.
Taxis and shuttles are commonplace and can be found almost everywhere you want to travel to. Don’t forget that many attractions will provide free transit if you call ahead or get your resort’s travel desk to book for you. Taxi services in Punta Cana are safe and common, but make sure to set a price before taking a ride. You can book a taxi at hubs at the airport and at most resorts, shopping venues, and attractions. They have fixed rates, which are displayed on a white board in the outer arrival's hall.
A post office is located at Punta Cana Airport, selling postcards and stamps. Dominica Republic's postal service is not renowned for its efficiency, and post can take a few months to reach its destination.
Three are several pharmacies in Punta Cana. Pharmacia Estrella: Plaza Estrella Bavaro, Avenida España, Punta Cana +1 809 552 0344, 8am - 11pm Pharma 360: Primer Nivel 106, Punta Cana +1 809 455 1708, 8am - 12am Farmacia: Plaza San Juan Shopping Center, Avenida Barceló, Punta Cana +1 809 933 4444, 8am - 10pm
Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is located in the heart of Punta Cana, only a short shuttle ride from your final destination. Taxis and buses are available at the airport and many resorts supply their guests with personal or group shuttle services.
The Dominican Republic allows nationals from eight countries to enter without a visa or a tourist entry tax (previously known as a tourist card, amounting to US$10). These eight countries are Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Israel, Japan, Peru, South Korea and Uruguay. Residents of the United Kingdom and those holding a valid visa to enter Canada, the United States or any European Union country do not require a tourist visa (tourist card) to enter the Dominican Republic. The tourist entry tax of US$10 should be included in the price of the flight ticket. Nationals who aren't in possession of a valid visa for Canada, the United States or any European Union country must obtain a tourist visa which must be done in person at the Dominican Consulate nearest to their place of residence. Nationals from 95 countries can enter the Dominican Republic by paying the tourism entry tax of US$10 which should be already included in the air fare. Alternatively, the tourist card can be obtained at the airport upon arrival at Punta Cana International Airport. Check out the list of the 95 countries. The tourist cards are valid for 30 days from the date of entry. You can apply for a tourist card at a consulate near you, online (www.dgii.gov.do/Paginas/inicio.aspx) or at the airport upon arrival.
