Punta Cana is a beautiful beach resort town in the Dominican Republic. It is known for its white-sand beaches, clear blue water, and all-inclusive resorts. However, there is much more to see and do in Punta Cana than just relax on the beach. There are many day trips that you can take from Punta Cana by vehicle. Here are a few of the best places to visit:
1. Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many historical and cultural attractions, including the Catedral Primada de America, the oldest cathedral in the Americas.
2. Altos de Chavón
Altos de Chavón is a replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village. It is located in La Romana, about an hour’s drive from Punta Cana. Altos de Chavón is home to many shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
3. Saona Island
Saona Island is a beautiful island located off the coast of Punta Cana. It is known for its pristine beaches, clear blue water, and abundant wildlife. You can take a boat trip to Saona Island from Punta Cana.
4. Samaná Bay
Samaná Bay is a large bay located on the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic. It is known for its humpback whales, which can be seen in the bay from January to March. You can take a boat trip to Samaná Bay from Punta Cana.
5. Los Haitises National Park
Los Haitises National Park is a large national park located on the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic. It is home to many different types of plants and animals, including mangroves, caves, and pictographs. You can take a boat trip to Los Haitises National Park from Punta Cana.
6. Jarabacoa
Jarabacoa is a small town located in the mountains of the Dominican Republic. It is known for its beautiful scenery, including waterfalls, rivers, and mountains. You can go hiking, biking, or horseback riding in Jarabacoa.
7. La Romana
La Romana is a city located on the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic. It is home to many sugar cane plantations and resorts. You can visit the Altos de Chavón replica village or go on a cigar factory tour in La Romana.
8. Higuey
Higuey is a city located in the eastern part of the Dominican Republic. It is home to the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia, a popular pilgrimage site. You can visit the basilica or go shopping in the local markets in Higuey.
9. Santiago
Santiago is a city located in the north-central part of the Dominican Republic. It is the second-largest city in the country. You can visit the Monumento a los Héroes de la Restauración, a monument to the heroes of the Dominican Restoration War, or go shopping in the local markets in Santiago.
10. Puerto Plata
Puerto Plata is a city located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. It is known for its beautiful beaches, amber museum, and Victorian-style architecture. You can go swimming, sunbathing, or shopping in Puerto Plata.
These are just a few of the many day trips that you can take from Punta Cana by vehicle. With a rental car in Punta Cana, you can explore the Dominican Republic at your own pace and see all that this beautiful country has to offer.
