Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies - Educational Travel in the Dominican Republic
Embark on an immersive 8-day Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies educational journey exploring the country’s vital coastal habitats. This comprehensive study project moves beyond theory into impactful, interactive service-learning. From surveying coral reefs in Bayahibe and mangrove forests in Cotubanamá National Park to participating in beach conservation initiatives in Azua, students will engage directly with preservation efforts. The program integrates cultural experiences with scientific fieldwork, fostering a profound understanding of marine biodiversity, environmental challenges, and sustainable community partnerships for a transformative educational adventure.
Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies Tour Overview:
Duration
8 Days / 7 Nights
Activity Level
Moderate
Tour Type
Guided Edu Tour
Group Size
Min.: 16 Students
Guided in
English, Spanish
Age Range
18+
Duration
8 Days / 7 Nights
Activity Level
Moderate
Tour Type
Guided Edu Tour
Group Size
Min.: 16 Students
Guided in
English, Spanish
Age Range
18+
Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies tour Academic Focus:
This Educational Tour moves beyond memorable adventures in ecologically diverse destinations by offering a unique, learning-focused travel experience. The program emphasizes cultural and environmental awareness through voluntourism, community involvement, and responsible travel practices dedicated to preserving natural ecosystems.
The program contains the following active learning practice and engagements:
– Cultural Heritage Preservation in Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone.
– An Introduction to Conservation of the Biodiversity of Hispaniola island and the Caribbean Region.
– Understanding and Protecting Coastal Ecosystems.
– Examples of Ecosystem Services: Understanding the Benefits Nature Provides.
– Interactive Hands-on Coral Reef Snorkeling Experience.
– Local and Global Threats to Coastal Ecosystems.
– Local Restoration and Conservation Strategies.
– Visit to the Hawksbill Sea Turtle preservation project.
– Coastal Guardians Interactive Service-Learning Initiative.
– Guided tour to Los Tres Ojos National park.
– Interactive Service Learning: Hospitality & Environmental Awareness
Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies Tour Map:
Santo Domingo – Bayahibe – Azua – Boca Chica – Santo Domingo
The total travel distance for this multi-day educational tour package is approximately 750 km, all comfortably covered by private coach.
The Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies Tour - Detailed Itinerary:
DAY 1. Arrival at Santo Domingo International Airport
Thank you for your participation in our Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies educational tour and Welcome to Santo Domingo – the 1st city of all the Americas and the Capital of the Dominican Republic made up of history, culture and traditions. Immerse yourself in real life of the Dominican capital – a mixture of colonial style with modern Caribbean elegance.
SDQ Airport Transfer
- Arrival in Santo Domingo Las Americas International Airport (SDQ)
- Meet & Greet at Santo Domingo Airport. Meet your tour director
- Group transfer to the Hotel in Santo Domingo. 1 bottle of water per person
Hotel Accommodation
- Conveniently located 3-star hotel in Santo Domingo. Bed & Breakfast.
- Check In starts at 3 p.m.
Scheduled Activities
- Welcome briefing & tour instructions – meet your expert guide and your group
Included Meals
- Group welcome dinner at a colonial style restaurant
DAY 2. Santo Domingo Explorer - Bayahibe
Discover the living history of the Americas in Santo Domingo’s enchanting Colonial City. Stroll its sunlit cobblestone streets and marvel at the first cathedral and fortress of the New World. Then, explore the island’s natural wonders at the National Museum of Natural History, home to unique endemic species and a remarkable geological past. Your journey culminates in the serene coastal beauty of Bayahibe village, your gateway to exploring the vibrant, life-filled waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Interactive Service-Learning: Cultural Heritage & Natural History.
- Cultural Heritage Preservation in Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone.
- An Introduction to Conservation of the Biodiversity of Hispaniola island and the Caribbean Region.
On-Tour Transportation
- Comfortable private coach
- On board: bottled water
Hotel Accommodation
- Conveniently located 3-star hotel in Bayahibe. Bed & Breakfast.
Included Meals
- Buffet breakfast in Santo Domingo Hotel
- Local cuisine buffet lunch in Santo Domingo
Scheduled Activities
- Guided cultural city tour in the Colonial city of Santo Domingo
- Guided tour in the National Museum of Natural History
- Group transfer to Bayahibe, Check in. Free time
DAY 3. Coastal Ecosystems Studies
Dive into the fundamentals of ecosystem services through hands-on exploration of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. Gain a practical understanding of their vital roles, everyday importance, and the invaluable ecological, economic, and protective benefits these interconnected marine habitats provide to coastal communities and biodiversity.
Service-Learning: Introduction to the Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies.
1st Module (2 hours): Understanding and Protecting Coastal Ecosystems
Objectives:
– Identify and describe the main characteristics of coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds.
– Understand the ecological connections between these ecosystems.
– Analyze the current status and threats affecting them in the region.
2nd Module (2 hours): Examples of Ecosystem Services: Understanding the Benefits Nature Provides
Objectives:
– Identify and describe key ecosystem services provided by coastal environments.
– Understand how these services protect people, support livelihoods, and contribute to climate balance.
– Ecosystem service identification practice.
3rd Module (3 hours): Interactive Hands-on Field Experience
Guided Snorkeling at a Coral Reef
– Identify coral formations, tropical fish, and marine invertebrates.
– Document ecological interactions and visible ecosystem services.
– Facilitated group discussion: Which ecosystem benefit impressed you most, and why?
Hotel Accommodation
- Conveniently located 3-star hotel in Bayahibe. Bed & Breakfast.
Included Meals
- Local breakfast in Bayahibe
- Coffee Break after Module 1
- Typical lunch at a seaside restaurant after Module 2
Scheduled Activities
- 8:00-10:00 a.m. Service-Learning Module 1
- 10:15-12:15 p.m. Service-Learning Module 2
- 2:00-5:00 p.m. Service-Learning Module 3
- Enjoy a free evening and dinner on own
DAY 4. Coastal Ecosystems Studies
The day focuses on the major local and global threats to coastal ecosystems. The program analyzes human impacts and explores key conservation and restoration strategies implemented throughout the Dominican Republic to protect these vital natural resources.
Service-Learning: Threats and Restoration
1st Module (2 hours): Local and Global Threats to Coastal Ecosystems
Objectives:
– Overfishing and destructive unsustainable practices.
– Pollution from land-based sources and marine debris.
– Unregulated coastal development and habitat destruction.
– Climate change: coral bleaching, sea level rise, ocean acidification.
– Analyze the interconnected impacts of global threats on both coastal ecosystem health and socioeconomic stability in local communities.
2nd Module (1.5 hours): Local Restoration and Conservation Strategies
Objectives:
– Why is conservation more effective than restoration?
– The History of restoration projects in the Dominican Republic.
3rd Module (3 hours): Interactive Hands-on Field Experience
Guided Snorkeling in Cotubanama National Reserve
– Identification of seagrasses, fish, and invertebrates.
– Connection with observed ecosystem services.
– Starfish snorkeling activity.
– Brief debate: Which threat seems most urgent? What could you do as citizens to help?
On-tour Boat
- Private speedboat to explore coastal ecosystems
Hotel Accommodation
- Conveniently located 3-star hotel in Bayahibe. Bed & Breakfast
Included Meals
- Local breakfast in Bayahibe
- Coffee Break after Module 1
- Typical lunch at a seaside restaurant after Module 2
Scheduled Activities
- 8:00-10:00 a.m. Service-Learning Module 1
- 10:30-12:00 p.m. Service-Learning Module 2
- 2:00-5:00 p.m. Service-Learning Module 3
- Enjoy a free evening and dinner on own
DAY 5. Saona Island Eco-Immersion
A day of discovery begins in Cotubanamá National Park, a stunning natural reserve. Explore the tropical paradise of Saona Island, with its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Visit the picturesque fishing village of Mano Juan to witness its colorful wooden houses and the Hawksbill Sea Turtle preservation project, showcasing an eco-friendly way of living. The journey concludes with a transfer to Santo Domingo after the Saona Island tour.
Interactive Service-Learning: Coastal Ecosystem Stewardship
- Marine Census: Conduct a snorkeling survey in a designated starfish area to observe population density and document the overall health of this fragile marine habitat.
- Ecosystem Monitoring: Perform a coastal survey to assess the condition of vital mangrove forests and their role in the ecosystem.
- Wildlife Conservation Observation: Visit the Hawksbill Sea Turtle project to learn local methods for protecting hatchlings from natural predators.
On-Tour Boats
- Journey to Saona Island aboard a private speedboat
- Return journey from Saona Island to Bayahibe aboard a shared sailing catamaran
On-tour Transportation
- Comfortable private coach
- On-board: bottled water
Hotel Accommodation
- Conveniently located 3-star hotel in Santo Domingo. Bed & Breakfast.
Included Meals
- Local breakfast in Bayahibe
- Private buffet style lunch on Saona Island
Scheduled Activities
- Saona Island Educational Explorer
- Cultural walking tour of Mano Juan village and visit to the Hawksbill Sea Turtle preservation project
- Swimming at Blue Lagoon Sandbar
- Group Transportation to Santo Domingo. Check In. Free time
DAY 6. Azua Coastal Guardians
Participate in “Coastal Guardians,” a service-learning initiative journeying to a hidden local beach in Azua. Collaborate with the community on a hands-on cleanup, applying responsible tourism and volunteering principles. After this meaningful contribution, savor a traditional Azuan lunch and a refreshing swim, connecting action with authentic culture.
Coastal Guardians Interactive Service-Learning Initiative
- Apply scientific and ecological knowledge to identify pollution sources, assess coastal conditions, and propose sustainable solutions for marine conservation.
- Collaborate with local volunteers and organizations in hands-on conservation projects, fostering mutual learning, cultural appreciation, and community empowerment.
- Strengthen communication, organization, and problem-solving abilities by taking initiative in group activities and coordinating with community partners.
- Discussion and Reflection:
Students reflect on the beach clean-up experience, linking observations to environmental theory. Discussions focus on pollution impact, community action, and personal responsibility in sustaining healthy coastal ecosystems.
On-tour transportation
- Comfortable private coach
- On-board: bottled water, sodas, light snacks
Hotel Accommodation
- Conveniently located 3-star hotel in Santo Domingo. Bed & Breakfast.
Included Meals
- Buffet breakfast in Santo Domingo Hotel
- Azua traditional dish lunch on the beach
Scheduled Activities
- Scenic journey through the Azua Valley
- Coastal Guardians Initiative
- Leisure time on the beach
- Transfer back to Santo Domingo. Enjoy a free evening and dinner on own
DAY 7. Environment & All-Inclusive Bubble Immersion
Discover the subterranean wonders of Los Tres Ojos, exploring its cave systems and radiant cenotes. Then, your all-inclusive style relaxation begins at Boca Chica Beach, where pristine sands, calm waters, and dedicated service offer a effortless blend of natural discovery and beachfront leisure.
Interactive Service Learning: Hospitality & Environmental Awareness
- Local Sourcing Investigation
Identify which food items and products are locally sourced versus imported through guided kitchen and facility tours. - Beach Ecosystem Monitoring Conduct a shoreline clean-up and biodiversity survey along the natural breakwater area.
- Cultural Exchange Activity
Participate in a structured cultural exchange with resort staff to learn about local community perspectives. - Sustainable Tourism Proposal
Develop and present resort improvement suggestions based on the day’s observations.
On-tour transportation
- Comfortable private coach
- On-board: bottled water
Hotel Accommodation
- Conveniently located 3-star hotel in Santo Domingo. Bed & Breakfast.
Included Meals
- Buffet breakfast in Santo Domingo Hotel
- Buffet lunch: local and international cuisine. Unlimited open bar with local drinks
Scheduled Activities
- Guided tour to Los Tres Ojos National park
- Boca Chica All-Inclusive Beach Day
DAY 8. Departure. SDQ Airport
Airport transfer. 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 Transfer
- Private group transfer from Santo Domingo hotel to Santo Domingo Airport (SDQ).
- Depart at any time.
IMPORTANT TO KNOW:
Arrival & Departure
The Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies group educational tour is quoted per student, based on a minimum required group size of 16 students, with all participants arriving at and departing together from Santo Domingo International Airport. Additional private airport transfers can be arranged for an extra charge.
Accommodation & Rates
All published rates are per student per the group tour package (Dominican Logistics Package), based on double occupancy (sharing a DBL room with twin beds).
Accommodation includes:
- 3 nights at a 3-star hotel in Bayahibe
- 4 nights at a 3-star 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 recommendable for:
- Pregnant women.
- People who do not meet the health and fitness criteria outlined above.
The Published Program Student Fee = Per-Person Dominican Logistics Fee Includes:
- Group meet-and-greet upon arrival | bottled water
- Round-trip group airport transfers: SDQ Airport – Santo Domingo – SDQ Airport
- Private group transportation throughout the tour | Daily bottled water
- 3 nights at a 3-star hotel in Bayahibe
- 4 nights at a 3-star hotel in Santo Domingo.
- Hotel accommodation is based on double occupancy (sharing a double room with twin beds)
- Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, welcome dinner
- Official tour guide assistance
- Day 2. Full-Day Interactive Activity: Cultural Heritage & Natural History.
- Day 3. Full-Day Interactive Activity: Introduction to the Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies
- Day 4. Full-Day Interactive Activity: Coastal Ecosystems Threats and Restoration
- Day 5. Full-Day Interactive Activity: Coastal Ecosystem Stewardship
- Day 6. Full-Day Interactive Activity: Coastal Guardians Initiative
- Day 7. Full-Day Interactive Activity: Hospitality & Environmental Awareness
Not Included:
- Farewell Dinner
- Local taxes and applicable payment fees
- Airfare and airport fees
- Mandatory international medical and travel insurance
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- Personal expenses
- Tips
Booking Terms and Conditions
All requests must be submitted via email to book@academtours.com
Group tour dates are proposed by an educational institution or any other organization in its e-mail quote request. A college or university group leader, or another authorized representative, may submit a booking or amendment request in accordance with the educational institution’s requirements.
We do not charge enrollment fees; however, a non-refundable deposit of USD 300.00 per student is required to confirm and guarantee your booking for the Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies educational tour.
Early Bookings: For each student enrolled more than 90 days before the arrival date with a USD 300 non-refundable deposit paid, a USD 100 early-booking discount will be applied to the published student Dominican logistics fee.
Extra Nights: Additional pre- or post-tour nights in Santo Domingo are available upon request. A special rate of USD 110.00 per double room (twin beds for two guests) per night, including buffet breakfast, applies.
Payment Instructions
To confirm the Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies group tour package, a non-refundable deposit of USD 300.00 per student is required.
The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than 22 days before the group’s arrival in the Dominican Republic.
You may choose to pay the full balance at once or arrange an approved payment plan after booking.
All payments must be made in USD by bank wire transfer or by credit/debit card via Payment Link. An additional processing fee applies to card payments.
Cancellation Policy
You may cancel your Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies student group booking up to 22 days before the first tour date. The USD 300.00 deposit per student is non-refundable.
For cancellation requests received 21 to 8 days before the first tour date, a refund will be issued less the non-refundable USD 300.00 deposit per student and an additional per-student USD 250.00 cancellation fee.
No refunds will be provided for cancellation requests received within 7 days of the first tour date.
Early Booking
For each student enrolled more than 90 days before the arrival date with a USD 300 non-refundable deposit paid, a USD 100 early-booking discount will be applied to the published Student Dominican Logistics Fee.
Complimentary Faculty Leader
For every 10 paying students, 1 faculty leader receives the Dominican Logistics Fee FOC (Free of Charge), including accommodation and all land services included in the published program. International airfare, medical and travel insurance, and personal expenses are excluded.
Group Enrollment Bonus
Groups of 21 or more students enjoy additional savings and enhanced benefits.
2027 Special Offer — Bookings made in 2026
- 16 paying students: 2 faculty leaders receive the Dominican Logistics Fee FOC.
- 25 paying students: Every 26th student receives the Dominican Logistics Fee FOC.
From: USD 1,600
