DOMINICAN HIGHLIGHTS EXPLORER
From Santo Domingo
7 Days/ 6 Nights
Dominican Highlights Explorer: Small-Group Dominican Vacation
Discover the highlights of the Dominican Republic with the Dominican Highlights Explorer, a fully guided 7-day private small-group journey combining iconic attractions, beautiful beaches, cultural heritage, and authentic local experiences at excellent value. Relax on the pristine beaches of Saona Island, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, explore the artistic Mediterranean-style village of Altos de Chavón, and step into centuries of history in Zona Colonial, the oldest European city in the Americas. Along the way, enjoy authentic Dominican cuisine, scenic coastal landscapes, and carefully selected excursions showcasing the country’s natural beauty and cultural character.
Designed for private groups of 10 participants, the Dominican Highlights Explorer offers a comfortable balance of relaxation, cultural discovery, and soft adventure. From historic cities and local traditions to tropical beaches and crystal-clear waters, each day reveals a different side of the Dominican Republic while creating memorable experiences and meaningful connections with the destination.
Dominican Highlights Explorer - Guided Group Tour Overview:
Duration
7 Days / 6 Nights
Activity Level
Moderate
Tour Type
Guided Group Tour
Group Size
10 adults
Guided in
English, Spanish
Age Range
18+ yrs
Duration
7 Days / 6 Nights
Activity Level
Moderate
Tour Type
Guided Small-group tour
Group Size
10 adults
Guided in
English, Spanish
Age Range
18+ yrs
Dominican Highlights Explorer - Route & Map:
Santo Domingo – Bayahibe – Saona Island – La Romana – Santo Domingo
The total travel distance for this multi-day tour package is approximately 450 km, all comfortably covered by private coach.
Dominican Highlights Explorer 7-day Detailed Itinerary:
DAY 1. Arrival at SDQ Airport. Santo Domingo city
Welcome to The Dominican Highlights Explorer trip and to Santo Domingo – the first city of the Americas and the vibrant capital of the Dominican Republic, rich in history, culture, and traditions. Immerse yourself in the authentic life of the Dominican capital, where colonial charm meets modern Caribbean elegance.
SDQ Airport Private group Transfer
- Arrival at PUJ International Airport of Santo Domingo (SDQ). Group arrival aboard the same flight
- Meet & Greet at Santo Domingo Airport | Bottled water
- SDQ Airport private group transfer to Hotel in Santo Domingo
Hotel Accommodation
- Conveniently located budget hotel in Santo Domingo. Bed & Breakfast
- Check In starts at 3 p.m.
Scheduled Activities
- Welcome briefing – meet your expert guide
- Guided colonial night out
DAY 2. Colonial City Explorer
Begin with a thrilling 4D cinematic journey that brings Santo Domingo’s past to life, then follow your expert guide through centuries of living history. Step into the royal halls of the Alcázar, feel the might of the Ozama Fortress, and pay tribute to national heroes at the Pantheon. Wander the storied Las Damas and El Conde streets, where colonial charm meets Caribbean rhythm — a day when history doesn’t just speak, it dances.
Hotel Accommodation
- Conveniently located budget hotel in Santo Domingo. Bed & Breakfast
Included Meals
- Buffet breakfast in the hotel
- Dominican lunch. Typical Dominican cuisine buffet
Scheduled Activities
- Full-day Colonial Santo Domingo city tour
DAY 3. Cultural Foodie Explorer
Soar above the city on a scenic cable car ride for a bird’s-eye view of Santo Domingo’s everyday life. Immerse yourself in culture with a visit to the monumental Columbus Lighthouse and a leisurely drive along the iconic Malecón, passing the majestic National Palace. Then, your true Dominican adventure unfolds: savor authentic local appetizers, sample rich organic chocolates, and enjoy a homemade lunch featuring a beloved traditional dish – a perfect blend of flavor, culture, and discovery.
On-tour transportation
- Comfortable private coach
- On board: bottled water
Hotel Accommodation
- Conveniently located budget hotel in Santo Domingo. Bed & Breakfast
Included Meals
- Buffet breakfast in the hotel
- Enjoy a brunch featuring favorite Dominican finger foods
- Homemade lunch featuring a traditional Dominican dish
Scheduled Activities
- Discovering the Dominican Capital: A Full-Day Tour
DAY 4. Saona Island Experience
Cotubanamá National Park (also known as Eastern National Park) is a part of the National protected area in the Dominican Republic. Saona Island is a part of the Eastern National Park and a tropical paradise well known for its pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters.
On-tour Transportation
- Comfortable private coach
- On board: bottled water
On-tour Boats
- Shared sailing catamaran. Entertainment program. Included open bar with local drinks: aged rum, sodas, water
- Shared speed boat
Hotel Accommodation
- Conveniently located budget hotel in Santo Domingo. Bed & Breakfast
Included Meals
- Buffet breakfast in the hotel
- Buffet style lunch on Saona Island. Typical local eastern cuisine. Open beach bar: aged rum, sodas, water
Scheduled Activities
- Saona Island Adventures guided full-day tour
DAY 5. Boca Chica Explorer
To start your perfect day, we will visit the stunning Los Tres Ojos National Park. Here, you’ll explore three remarkable cenotes in caves and even take a small boat to discover a hidden fourth lake with its ancient caverns. Afterward, the adventure continues as you head to Boca Chica beach to unwind. You’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch, featuring both local and international cuisine, complemented by an open bar serving refreshing local drinks.
On-tour Transportation
- Comfortable private coach
- On board: bottled water, sodas, variety of juice, light snacks
Hotel Accommodation
- Conveniently located budget hotel in Santo Domingo. Bed & Breakfast
Included Meals
- Buffet breakfast in the hotel
- Local & International cuisine buffet lunch and included open bar with unlimited local drinks: rum, beer, sodas, water
Scheduled Activities
- Los Tres Ojos National Park (a cave with 4 cenotes)
- Boca Chica Beach Day with local and international cuisine buffet lunch and an open bar with unlimited local drinks
DAY 6. Altos de Chavon & Wonders Cave
Step back in time at Altos de Chavón, a stunning replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village overlooking the Chavón River in La Romana. Renowned for its charming architecture and vibrant artistic spirit, this cultural gem features an ancient-style amphitheater that has welcomed legends like Frank Sinatra and Shakira, the picturesque St. Stanislaus Church, and a delightful collection of artisanal shops and galleries. Come experience its timeless beauty and creative soul for yourself.
On-tour Trasportation
- Comfortable private coach
Hotel Accommodation
- Conveniently located budget hotel in Santo Domingo. Bed & Breakfast
Included Meals
- Buffet breakfast in the hotel
Scheduled Activities
- Altos de Chavon & The Cave of Wonders Half-Day guided cultural tour
DAY 7. Departures. SDQ airport
Departure to SDQ International Las Americas Airport
Included Meals
- Buffet breakfast 7:00 a.m. - 10 a.m.
Santo Domingo hotel
- Check out at 12 p.m. (the latest time)
SDQ Airport Private group transfer
- Private group transfer from Santo Domingo hotel to Santo Domingo Airport (SDQ)
- Depart at any time
IMPORTANT TO KNOW:
Arrival & Departure
The group tour is quoted per person, based on a minimum required group size of 10 travelers, with all the group participants arriving at and departing together from Santo Domingo International Airport. Groups may also arrive at or depart from Punta Cana International Airport; in this case, please request a separate quote. Additional private airport transfers can be arranged for an extra charge.
Accommodation & Rates
Published rates are per person, based on double occupancy (sharing a double room) at budget-category hotels. The published price is an approximate starting price per person. The final rate depends on the number of travelers and your preferred hotel category. Please provide these details to receive a customized final quote.
Accommodation includes:
- 6 nights at a budget hotel in Santo Domingo
- Breakfast is included throughout the stay.
- Supplemental Rates: Rates for single occupancy (SGL room) or a third person in a double room are available upon request.
- Age Restriction: This tour is exclusively for participants aged 18 years and older.
- Pre/Post-Tour Services: Extra nights in Santo Domingo Hotel or additional airport transfers can be arranged at a special rate. Please inquire at the time of booking.
We recommend bringing:
- Water shoes
- Beach towel
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Any personal medication you may need
Health, Safety & Dietary Requirements
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, please review the following requirements carefully.
- Dietary Requirements
Please advise your booking agent of any dietary requirements at the time of booking. While we strive to accommodate requests, we must assess in advance whether we can fully meet your needs for all included meals and food-related activities. - Health & Fitness Acknowledgement
All participants must be in good physical and mental health. This tour is not suitable for individuals with certain conditions, including but not limited to: heart disease, vertigo, seizures, balance disorders, or severe allergies to foods or materials involved in the tour activities. - Participation Restrictions
For safety reasons, participation is not recommended for:
- Pregnant women
- People who do not meet the health and fitness criteria outlined above.
The Published Price is per Person and Includes:
- Group meet-and-greet upon arrival
- Round-trip group airport transfers: SDQ Airport - Santo Domingo - SDQ Airport
- Private group transportation throughout the tour
- 6 nights at budget hotel based on double occupancy (sharing a double room)
- Meals: 6 breakfasts and 4 lunches
- Official tour guide assistance
- Full-day Saona Island Experience
- Boca Chica Beach Day, including buffet lunch and unlimited local drinks
- Guided colonial night out
- Los Tres Ojos Caves National Park Tour & Entrance fee
- Guided Colonial Santo Domingo tour & Museums entrance fees
- Guided full-day Modern Santo Domingo and Food Tour (includes meals)
- Half-day guided tour: Altos de Chavon & Wonders Cave
Not Included:
- Local taxes and applicable payment fees
- Airfare and airport fees
- Mandatory international medical and travel insurance
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- Tips
Booking Information
- How to Book: All bookings for the Dominican Highlights Explorer & Cultural Adventure should be made via email at book@academtours.com.
- For groups of more than 16 participants, please inquire for a customized quote and indicate your preferred hotel category.
- Plan ahead and save 10%!
Enjoy this exclusive discount when you book and make your deposit 90 days before your journey. - Deposit: A non-refundable deposit of USD 200.00 per person is required to secure and confirm your reservation.
- Booking Inquiry: Selected tour package, Group Arrival Date, Flight Details (e.g., AA987), Full names of all passengers.
Payment
- Payment Methods & Currency
All payments should be made in US Dollars (USD) via bank wire transfer or a payment link.
- Deposit
To confirm your booking, a non-refundable deposit of USD $200.00 per person is required. An invoice for this deposit will be sent upon receipt of your booking request. - Final Payment
The remaining balance must be settled no later than 16 days prior to the tour start date.
Cancellation Terms
- Officially confirmed bookings: Deposit is retained.
- Cancellations less than 15 days before the tour date: 50% of the total package cost is retained.
- Cancellations within 7 days of the tour date: No refund.
From: USD 1,100