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.
Duration
8 Days / 7 Nights
Activity Level
Moderate
Tour Type
Guided Edu Tour
Group Size
Minimum 16 people - Maximum 20 people
Guided in
English, Spanish
Age Range
18+
Duration
8 Days / 7 Nights
Activity Level
Moderate
Tour Type
Guided Edu Tour
Group Size
Min 16 – Max. 20 people
Guided in
English, Spanish
Age Range
18+
DOMINICAN COASTAL ECOSYSTEMS STUDIES MAP
Santo Domingo – Bayahibe – Azua – Boca Chica – Santo Domingo
The total travel distance for this multi-day educational tour package is approximately 500 km, all comfortably covered by private coach.
Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies tour highlights
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.
DOMINICAN COASTAL ECOSYSTEMS STUDIES 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 hotel in the colonial city of Santo Domingo. Bed & Breakfast.
- Check In starts at 3 p.m.
Scheduled Activities
- Welcome briefing & tour instructions – meet your expert guide and your group
- Welcome gift for every participant
Included Meals
- Group welcome dinner at a colonial style restaurant. Menu.
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 hotel in Bayahibe. Bed & Breakfast.
Included Meals
- Buffet breakfast in Santo Domingo Hotel
- Local cuisine buffet lunch in Santo Domingo
- Welcome dinner in Bayahibe. Menu.
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. Welcome dinner
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 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 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, light snacks
Hotel Accommodation
- Conveniently located hotel in the colonial city of Santo Domingo. Bed & Breakfast.
Included Meals
- Local breakfast in Bayahibe
- Private buffet style lunch on Saona Island
- Buffet dinner in Santo Domingo hotel
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 hotel in the colonial city of Santo Domingo. Bed & Breakfast.
Included Meals
- Buffet breakfast in Santo Domingo Hotel
- Azuan 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 hotel in the colonial city of Santo Domingo. Bed & Breakfast.
Included Meals
- Buffet breakfast in Santo Domingo Hotel
- Buffet lunch: local and international cuisine. Unlimited open bar with local drinks
- Farewell dinner with traditional Dominican flavors
Scheduled Activities
- Guided tour to Los Tres Ojos National park
- Boca Chica Beach Day
- Farewell dinner to celebrate the journey
DAY 8. Departure. SDQ Airport
Airport Shuttle. 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
- Shuttle group transfer from Santo Domingo hotel to Santo Domingo Airport (SDQ).
- Depart at any time.
THE DOMINICAN COASTAL ECOSYSTEMS STUDIES TOUR RATE INCLUDES
Hotel Accommodation ½ DBL Room (twin beds)
- Conveniently located hotel in the colonial zone of Santo Domingo (4 nights)
- Bayahibe Village hotel (3 nights)
Transportation
- Group round trip airport transfer: SDQ Airport – Santo Domingo Hotel – SDQ Airport
- On-tour transportation: private coach with AC. Medical Kit
- Boats to Coral Reefs and Saona Island
Meals
- 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 4 Dinners
Expert Guide
- A certified expert tour guide and a tour director
Scheduled main Activities
- Welcome briefing and a gift for every participant
- Welcome group dinner
- Guided cultural city tour in the Colonial city of Santo Domingo
- Guided tour in the National Museum of Natural History
- Coastal Ecosystems Studies
- Interactive Hands-on Field Experience
- Guided Snorkeling in Cotubanama National Reserve
- Saona Island Educational Explorer
- Cultural walking tour of Mano Juan village and visit to the Hawksbill Sea Turtle preservation project
- Scenic journey through the Azua Valley
- Coastal Guardians Initiative
- Guided tour to Los Tres Ojos National park
- Boca Chica Beach Day
- Farewell dinner to celebrate the journey
Others
- Entrance fees due to itinerary
- Local taxes
NOT INCLUDED:
- Airfare. Air tickets and airport fees
- Mandatory International Medical & Travel Insurance
- Meals not specified in the Itinerary
- Alcoholic Drinks & Beverages at all meals
- Tips
IMPORTANT TO KNOW:
Booking Terms and Conditions
All requests must be submitted via email to book@academtours.com only.
Group tour dates may be proposed by an educational institution or any other organization in its email 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 participant is required to confirm and guarantee your booking for the Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies educational tour.
Early Bookings: For group bookings prepaid more than 70 days before the start of a land-only tour package, a 10% discount will be applied to the published tour rate.
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 your Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies group tour package, a non-refundable deposit of USD 300.00 per participant is required.
The remaining balance must be paid no later than 25 days before the first tour day or the group’s arrival in the Dominican Republic.
You may choose to pay in full or follow an approved payment plan.
All payments must be made in USD via bank wire transfer to the account of PRO ACADEM TOURS RD SRL, as indicated on our official invoice.
Cancellation Policy
You may cancel your Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies group booking up to 25 days before the first tour date; however, the USD 300.00 deposit per participant is non-refundable.
For cancellations received 24 days or fewer before the tour start date, a refund will be issued minus the non-refundable deposit (USD 300.00) and an additional USD 300.00 cancellation fee.
No refunds will be provided for cancellations made within 7 days of the first tour date.
Accommodation & Rates
The published rate applies to the Dominican Coastal Ecosystems Studies tour package per person in double-room (DBL) accommodation.
Rates for single-room (SGL) accommodation or for a third person sharing a double room are available upon request.
This tour is for adults aged 18+ only.
Extra Nights & Transfers:
Additional nights at the Santo Domingo hotel are available upon request.
If you have purchased this tour and wish to add an extra night or arrival/departure transfer, you may benefit from a special preferential rate for these services.
Health Conditions & Dietary Requirements
If you have specific dietary needs or restrictions, please inform your booking agent in advance so we can determine whether your requirements can be accommodated.
Please note that pregnant women are not permitted to participate in this tour.
All participants must confirm that they are in good physical and mental health and free from any major condition that could interfere with tour activities — including but not limited to dizziness, vertigo, heart disease, seizures, loss of balance or coordination, or serious food allergies related to the culinary experiences included in the program.
Travel Insurance Requirement
Medical and travel insurance are not included in the tour package.
Therefore, it is mandatory for all travelers to obtain comprehensive international travel insurance. The policy must be valid for the duration of the tour and must provide adequate coverage for at least the following:
- Medical expenses
- Personal accidents
- Repatriation costs
- Emergency evacuation
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, and members of the European Union, are not required to obtain a visa for tourist travel to the Dominican Republic.
It is the sole responsibility of each traveler to verify the specific entry requirements based on their nationality with the nearest Dominican Republic embassy or consulate.
Force Majeure
The Company (PRO ACADEM TOURS RD SRL) shall not be held liable for any failure to perform its obligations under this agreement, including any delays, itinerary changes, or cancellations, due to circumstances beyond its reasonable control. Under such Force Majeure events, no refunds will be issued.
These circumstances include, but are not limited to:
- Extreme Weather & Natural Disasters:hurricanes, floods, severe storms, or other adverse weather conditions.
- Government Actions:travel bans, border closures, or new restrictions.
- Civil Unrest:war, terrorism, strikes, or riots.
- Significant Accidents or Infrastructure Failure.
In the event of a Force Majeure, we will monitor the situation and make all reasonable efforts to amend itineraries or provide suitable alternative arrangements for the safety and welfare of our clients. Any decisions made by the Company in such circumstances will be final.
From: USD 2,635
