About this experience
In the historical center of Santo Domingo, there are more than three hundred monuments of the colonial era. We will introduce you to the most iconic and interesting ones. Our program includes the first fortress, palace, and cathedral built by Europeans in America; the Maritime Museum and the Rum Museum, the National Pantheon and the unusual Columbus Lighthouse, as well as a walk on the funicular and visits to cave lakes near the capital.
What to expect
You will ride in a panoramic cabin over the Ozama River and the poorest district of the capital, the Dominican favelas. In the distance, you will see the skyscrapers of the downtown. After that, we will set out to explore the sights of the colonial part of the city.
- We will stroll along the first cobblestone street of Santo Domingo - Las Damas.
- You will visit La Fortaleza Fortress and learn about the history of the oldest citadel built by Europeans in America.
- Visit the National Pantheon - an 18th-century building where the most honored citizens of the republic are buried.
- You will see the Alcazar de Colon Palace, built by the son of Christopher Columbus. It is currently closed for restoration indefinitely, so we will only view the mansion from the outside. You will learn about the first fortified palace in the New World and the oldest residence of the viceroys of South and Central America.
- At the Maritime Museum, you will see models of ships, maps, pirate artifacts - and delve into the fascinating history of Caribbean seafaring.
- Also on the program is the Cathedral of Santo Domingo from the 16th century - also the first in the New World. We will discuss the architecture of one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. And if there is no private service in the cathedral, we will enter to explore the interiors.
- At the Rum and Sugarcane Museum, you will learn about the history of the main Caribbean drink production.
- We will also show you the ruins of the first hospital in Santo Domingo, which have been taken over by parrots - a very photogenic place.
- We will walk through the old streets where the movie 'The Godfather' was filmed, and to the Dominican Arbat - El Conde.
- Special attention will be given to the country's main monument - the Columbus Lighthouse, which does not look like an ordinary lighthouse at all. You will understand the symbolism of its unique architecture, learn about the functions of the structure, and what is inside.
Los Tres Ojos Cave and its lakes
In conclusion, you will visit a cave where at a depth of about 15 meters there are three lakes with crystal clear water of blue and turquoise shades. Each water body differs in chemical composition, and they are surrounded by stalactites, stalagmites, and stalagnates. On a raft, we will float to the fourth lake where you will find yourself in a place reminiscent of the 'Jurassic Park'.
Organizational details
Price includes:
- transfer from hotels in Bavaro area in Punta Cana, La Romana, Bayahibe, Juan Dolio, Boca Chica
- Russian-speaking guide accompaniment
- entrance tickets to museums
- lunch (rice/noodles and a meat dish) and refreshing drinks (juice, cola, water)
- Transfer from Uvero Alto area - plus 20$ per car
- The trip is carried out in a Hyundai H1/Toyota Hiace minivan or a Chevrolet Tahoe SUV
- Approximate departure time - 6:30-7:30, return at 18:30-19:30 depending on the hotel location
- The tour will be led by me or another guide from our team
