Santo Domingo
- Duration4 days
- TypeAdventure
- Group Size50 People
- LanguagesEnglish
From $110.00 / Person
Excursion Quick Facts & Booking Policy
About This Excursion
Step back in time and explore the oldest city in the New World. Our Santo Domingo Colonial Zone Historical Tour from Punta Cana is a full-day cultural excursion showcasing the rich history, architecture, and heritage of the Dominican Republic. Perfect for history lovers, families, and travelers who want to see the cultural capital of the Caribbean, this guided tour takes you to the historic landmarks where the history of the Americas began.
Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus to the capital city. Your tour begins at the stunning 'Los Tres Ojos' (Three Eyes) National Park, a series of open-air limestone caves featuring crystal-clear freshwater lakes. Afterward, head to the Colonial Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk down the first paved street of the Americas (Calle Las Damas), visit the first cathedral of the New World, explore the Alcázar de Colón (home of Christopher Columbus's son), and enjoy a traditional Dominican lunch at a historic restaurant. It's a rich, educational day of history and culture.
Trip Highlights
- Tour guided by premium, certified local expert guides.
- Explore deeper histories, scenic beaches, and nature reserves.
- Perfect for families, private booking parties, and solo travelers.
Full Tour Itinerary
Here is what a typical day looks like on this excursion. Please note that the timing and stops can be slightly adjusted based on local traffic and weather conditions.
Resort Pickup & Drive to Capital
Board our comfortable air-conditioned bus from your resort lobby for a scenic 2.5-hour drive along the southern coast highway to Santo Domingo.
Visit to Los Tres Ojos Caves
Arrive in Santo Domingo. Explore the underground limestone caves of Los Tres Ojos. Ride a wooden raft across the lakes and admire the lush vegetation.
Columbus Lighthouse Monument
Stop at the Faro a Colón (Columbus Lighthouse), a massive cross-shaped monument and museum containing Christopher Columbus's tomb.
Colonial Zone Walking Tour
Enter the historic Colonial Zone. Visit the Alcázar de Colón, walk down Calle Las Damas, and see the ruins of the first monastery.
Traditional Dominican Lunch
Savor an authentic Dominican lunch at a historic colonial-style restaurant, featuring local specialties like mofongo, rice, beans, and sweet plantains.
Visit to the First Cathedral
Tour the Catedral Primada de América, the first cathedral built in the Americas, known for its Gothic architecture.
Free Time & Shopping
Enjoy free time to shop for local goods like amber, larimar jewelry, Dominican coffee, and hand-rolled cigars along Calle El Conde.
Return Drive to Punta Cana
Board the bus for the return drive to Punta Cana, enjoying a relaxing movie on board.
Arrival back at Resort
Arrive back at your hotel lobby.
Included/Exclude
- Round-trip air-conditioned bus transport
- Professional certified history guide
- Entry fees to Los Tres Ojos Caves
- Entry to the Alcázar de Colón and Cathedral
- Dominican lunch at a historic restaurant
- Bottled water during the tour
- Tips for guides and driver
- Personal shopping and souvenirs
- Drinks at lunch (other than water)
What to Bring
Pickup & Hotel Coverage
Pickup Timing: Pickups run between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM. Exact times are confirmed via email. Meet your tour guide at your resort lobby entrance.
Includes round-trip transport from all major hotels and resorts in Punta Cana, Bavaro, and Cap Cana.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most common questions asked by travelers booking this excursion. Read through to prepare for your experience.
Excursion Guidelines & Policies
☀️ Weather Tips
Walking tours in Santo Domingo can be warm. We recommend staying hydrated and wearing light, comfortable clothing that meets the cathedral dress code.
🛡️ Safety & Physical Requirements
The caves at Los Tres Ojos have wet, slippery stone steps. Please hold the handrails and walk carefully. Cobblestone streets can be uneven.
👶 Children Policy
Welcome for all ages! However, the long bus ride and walking tour can be tiring for very small children.
♿ Accessibility
The historic sites and cave steps are not wheelchair accessible. However, wheelchair-friendly city tours can be customized upon request.
📅 Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours prior to departure for a full refund.
Location
Excursion departs from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Dominican Republic.
Destination Spotlight: Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic and the first European city in the Americas, boasting a rich history and UNESCO World Heritage Colonial Zone.
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