Punta Cana Domincan Republic 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Relaxation

Morning

  • Arrive at Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)
  • Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel (approximately 30-40 minutes)

Afternoon

  • Check-in at Barceló Bávaro Palace or similar
  • Spend the day relaxing on the beautiful Bavaro Beach, enjoying the crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand

Evening

  • Dine at La Yuca, a local restaurant serving traditional Dominican cuisine
  • Explore the nearby Punta Cana Village for some shopping and souvenir hunting

Day 2: Water Sports and Snorkeling

Morning

  • Take a snorkeling tour to the coral reefs of Cabeza de Toro, exploring the underwater world (approximately $80-$100 per person)
  • Alternatively, try kayaking or paddleboarding in the calm waters of Bavaro Beach

Afternoon

  • Visit Dolphin Island Park, an interactive marine park where you can swim with dolphins and learn about marine conservation (approximately $120-$150 per person)

Evening

  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at La Palapa, a beachfront restaurant serving gourmet cuisine
  • Watch the sunset at Bavaro Beach, accompanied by local music and cocktails

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Morning

  • Take a guided tour to Higüey, a charming town known for its colorful markets and historic basilica (approximately $60-$80 per person)
  • Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia, a beautiful Catholic church

Afternoon

  • Explore the Punta Cana Ecological Reserve, a protected area featuring hiking trails, waterfalls, and local wildlife (approximately $20-$30 per person)

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Dominican music and dance at Areito, a local cultural center
  • Savor local street food at El Quemaito, a popular eatery serving delicious empanadas and more

Day 4: Adventure and Nature

Morning

  • Take an exhilarating zip-lining tour through the lush jungle of Punta Cana (approximately $80-$100 per person)
  • Alternatively, go on a horseback ride through the countryside, exploring rural villages and scenic landscapes (approximately $60-$80 per person)

Afternoon

  • Visit Santo Domingo, the capital city of the Dominican Republic (approximately 2-hour drive)
  • Explore the historic colonial zone, including the first cathedral in the Americas and Christopher Columbus’s first residence

Evening

Day 5: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning relaxing at your hotel or exploring nearby shops and cafes
  • Check-out of your hotel and transfer to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) for your departure flight

Things to Know

  • The Dominican Republic is a Spanish-speaking country, but many locals in Punta Cana also speak English.
  • The local currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP), although USD is widely accepted.
  • Be sure to try some of the local cuisine, including mangú (mashed green plantains with garlic and onions), chicharrón (fried pork rinds), and queso fresco (fresh cheese).
  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Transportation

  • Taxis are readily available at the airport and around Punta Cana.
  • Many hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airport.
  • Renting a car is not necessary, as most attractions are accessible by taxi or tour operators.

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Negotiate prices when shopping at local markets.
  • Respect the local environment and wildlife by not touching coral reefs and not feeding animals in their natural habitats.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Punta Cana!