Get in

Get ready for an amazing trip to the Dominican Republic! Upon arrival, there is a mandatory US $10 tourist fee. This fee helps support the local tourism industry and ensures that you have a fantastic experience during your stay. The closest airport to the beautiful town of Cabarete is Puerto Plata Airport (IATA: POP). Taxis from the airport to Cabarete cost US $35. Please be aware that taxi rates are union-negotiated and fixed. However, if you arrive at the airport without pre-booking your trip, taxi drivers may try to charge you more. Be cautious of common scams where taxi drivers request $35 per person. Remember that all taxi prices are per trip, not per person. For a hassle-free experience, it's best to pre-book your transportation. You can ask your hotel for assistance or book through Airport Transfers Services [1]. They offer standard posted rates and reliable service. Departure from Puerto Plata airport is fast and easy as it's a small airport. Just make sure you arrive at least 2 hours before your flight to avoid any unnecessary stress. If you're looking for alternative airports, consider flying to Santiago Airport (IATA: STI). The taxi ride from Santiago to Cabarete takes approximately 1.5 hours and should cost around US $100. Again, it's advisable to pre-book your taxi to ensure a smooth transition. If you're arriving at night, please note that the mountain road to Cabarete can be challenging. If you're concerned, you can request a trip that avoids the mountain road, which will take around 2 hours and cost US $160. For a more budget-friendly option, you can also consider the Caribe Tours bus station in the Jardines neighborhood of Santiago. To get there from Santiago city, follow the instructions found here [2]. Take a bus from Santiago to Sosua for RD$160. Buses leave every hour from early morning till evening, and the journey takes approximately 2 hours. From Sosua, if you only have minimal luggage, you can easily flag down any gua gua (local minibus) heading towards Cabarete. The ride usually takes around 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, a taxi from Sosua to Cabarete should cost about US $5-$10. If you're arriving at Santo Domingo Airport (IATA: SDQ), be prepared for a longer journey. The taxi ride from Santo Domingo to Cabarete takes about 3.5 hours and costs approximately $200. However, flights to Santo Domingo can be substantially cheaper, making it a viable option for some travelers. As with the other airports, it's best to pre-book your taxi in advance for convenience and peace of mind. If you prefer to rent a car, exercise caution while driving in the Dominican Republic. Traffic rules are not strictly enforced, and roads are often poorly maintained. Foreigners are often unfairly blamed for accidents, so it's important to have full insurance coverage, including "casa de conductor." In the event of an accident, this extra coverage will ensure that you are placed on house arrest in a hotel, rather than spending time in jail. Stay safe and enjoy your journey!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dominican Republic's most popular dish is known as La Bandera, which consists of white rice, red beans, and chicken. The chicken is often marinated in a blend of spices and then grilled or roasted, imparting a savory, slightly smoky flavor. The beans are cooked until tender and infused with the flavors of garlic, pepper, and other seasonings, while the rice is plain but serves as an excellent backdrop for the other components on the plate. This hearty meal represents the nation's diverse culinary heritage and is enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike.

Another popular Dominican dish is Sancocho, a hearty stew typically made with chunks of beef, tubers such as yams and potatoes, and various root vegetables like cassava and plantains. This filling dish is often prepared with a blend of spices, including garlic, oregano, and cumin, giving it a bold, robust taste. Sancocho is commonly eaten during special occasions and gatherings, embodying the warmth and hospitality of Dominican culture.

The third popular dish hailing from the Dominican Republic is Mangú, a popular breakfast meal consisting of mashed green plantains, seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices. This side dish resembles mashed potatoes in texture and is often served alongside fish, eggs, or other proteins. Mangú can be found in numerous eateries and homes across the country, reflecting its widespread appeal and cultural significance.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing