Many know the Dominican Republic as a paradise for long days on beautiful beaches under coconut trees. The beaches are undoubtedly some of the most beautiful in the world, but that’s not all. Hardly any other country in the Caribbean offers such varied vegetation as the Dominican Republic.
Much more than just a dream beach
Away from mass tourism, you can experience this enchanting country as it really is – shaped by its discoverer Columbus, by vast mangroves and tropical forests, to rousing rhythms and spectacular cultural treasures to intense aromas from the unique nature. Experience all facets of the peninsula on a Dominican Republic trip.
Travel information in brief
Travel time
The Dominican Republic has a tropical-maritime climate with trade winds that make the heat bearable. The rainy season is from May to November in the south and from December to April in the north. Temperatures range between 19 and 29 ° C in January and between 23 and 31 ° C in August. Due to climate change, it is no longer possible to define an exact rainy season. It can rain at any time of the year. As a rule, the rain showers are only brief in the afternoon or evening.
Currency / money
The currency of the Dominican Republic is the Dominican Peso (DOP). You can often pay with US dollars, but especially in rural areas it is advisable to have some cash in DOP with you. It is advisable to take cash in US dollars and a few DOP banknotes as well as a credit card (e.g. VISA or MasterCard) with you. Debit and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. There are ATMs in every major city for withdrawing cash.
Vaccinations
No vaccinations are required for travelers from Germany. The Federal Foreign Office recommends refreshing the standard vaccinations according to the Robert Koch Institute. As a travel vaccination it is recommended to vaccinate against hepatitis A, in the case of long-term stays also hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies and, in the case of special exposure, possibly cholera. Please remember to discuss your vaccination protection with your doctor in good time.
Visa / entry
German citizens do not need a visa for a single entry into the Dominican Republic and a stay of up to 60 days. To enter the country, you need a passport that is still valid for 6 months. Every traveler, including children, needs their own identification document. A tourist card must be purchased upon entry for $ 10. This is valid for 60 days. In addition, the return ticket is usually required.
Dominican Republic – more than just dream beaches
Unimagined natural spectacles can be found in the mountain regions, the dense mangroves and in the more numerous national parks. There are great hiking trails that meander through the regions and reveal a view of the animal inhabitants and the tropical flora. In any case, you should keep your eyes open, because from birds such as parrots and hummingbirds to iguanas and crocodiles, the Dominican Republic is a true animal paradise.
The underwater world is in no way inferior to the diversity on land. For diving vacationers, the “Dom Rep” has a number of varied diving spots. Not only small fish cavort in the waters, but also dolphins and sea turtles. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a humpback whale on the north coast.
In the life of the Dominicans, as in most Caribbean countries, music and dance play an important role. The merengue, which is danced almost everywhere, is omnipresent. As soon as you hear the happy sounds, your leg begins to bob until you can no longer hold yourself on the seat cushion. The Dominicans celebrate particularly exuberantly at Carnival – then there is no stopping them.
If you go further through the Dominican villages, you will soon come across the artistic streak of the residents. Be it a particularly interesting bouquet of flowers or even a brightly painted house, there are no limits to the artists. Anyone interested in art will soon be drawn to Altos de Chavón, the artists’ village built in 1976, which is reminiscent of an old Tuscan place. Whether nature, culture or relaxation on the beach – the Dominican Republic is a colorful paradise that turns every vacation into an unforgettable experience.