Looking For Outdoor Adventures? Head To The Dominican Republic

If you prefer vacations on the extreme end of the spectrum, you need look no further than the Caribbean. The Dominican Republic is an emerging tourist destination that’s equal parts white sand beaches, mountain vistas and remote deserts – all of which are dotted with rivers, waterfalls, caves and rocky outcroppings just begging to be scaled. Here’s a short list of must-do activities for anyone who loves the great outdoors:

Canyoning, aka cascading, is an amazing boots-on-the-ground way to experience this island nation. Make that boots off the ground, at least some of the time, as you’ll be swimming, jumping, wading, rappelling and challenging your body and your brain every step of the way. If you can handle it, this is the most awesome, adrenaline-fueled way to see flora and fauna, caves, crystal clear pools, crags and waterfalls. Most of the good canyoning spots are near Cabarete and Jarabacoa.

Or go deep in some of the Dominican Republic’s cave systems, which hide underground rivers and 3,000-year old cave art left by the indigenous Taino Indians. The best of the best is Fun Fun Cave, once known as Devil’s Cave. In it you’ll find spectacular rock formations, four miles of tunnels, and natural wonders aplenty. A cave expert to guide you through isn’t strictly necessary, but Fun Fun’s entrance is on private property and hard to find.

Kiteboarding schools are everywhere along the Dominican Republic’s coast so if you’ve been wanting to try this epic extreme sport now is the time. Kite Beach, between Cabarete and Sosúa, is a kiteboarding hub where competition has driven down rental prices. The wind has to be just right to make strapping on your board worth it, but it usually is.

Are underwater adventures more your speed? Diving the DR is an exhilarating experience –jump into water that’s a comfy 75-82°F year round to explore coral heads, reefs, underwater canyons and shipwrecks. If you’re lucky enough to be in the Silver Banks area off the North Coast, you may even find yourself diving among pods of humpback whales. But anywhere you enter the water chances are good you’ll encounter eels, turtles, nurse sharks, barracuda and rays.

If you can deal with heat, humidity and getting eaten alive, there is brilliant climbing to be found. Some of the most popular places to get your climb on include Cristóbal and Parque Mirador del Este near Santo Domingo, but as popular as they are don’t expect to find the comforts of home or even a lot of information in the guidebooks. Bring plenty of water, your sense of adventure and a willingness to talk to the locals. Oh, and seriously – don’t forget the bug spray.

As a solo vacation, the Dominican Republic offers a new adventure every day. But don’t forget that it also offers the more serene and romantic Caribbean pleasures as well. Consider bringing a special friend even if they aren’t as enthusiastic about rappelling up river canyons. After an action-packed day, you can relax together at an all-inclusive resort. Barcelo Hotels and Resorts offer several all-inclusive properties throughout the Dominican Republic. The all-inclusive hotels offer a tranquil post-adventure experience that includes a rejuvenating spa, access to all white sand beaches and all the poolside cocktails you could ever want.

If you’re looking for a destination packed with adventurous activities like rock climbing, kiteboarding, cave exploring and snorkeling with humpback whales, the Dominican Republic will surely give you the adrenaline rush you’ve been seeking.

– By Stephen Reynolds