Contributing to sustainable tourism in the Dominican Republic and traveling to this enclave in the heart of the Caribbean in a different way will give you the gift of an island that awaits you with open arms and a natural diversity that will take your breath away.

Beyond its iconic white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, this tropical paradise is home to a treasure trove of mountains, caves, waterfalls and exuberant flora and fauna.

But what really sets this destination apart are its people: Dominicans are known for their warmth and hospitality and for having a vibrant culture that manifests itself in every corner of the country, from music to cuisine to festivals.

In addition to the above, the island is not oblivious to the current world situation and is aware of the impact of climate change on its environment. That is why its traditional tourism is undergoing an evolutionary process towards more sustainable and responsible practices.

So, today we bring you 8 key tips to immerse yourself in the authentic Caribbean experience while contributing to the conservation of this precious paradise. Let’s take a look at how to do sustainable tourism in the Dominican Republic.

8 tips for sustainable tourism in the Dominican Republic

There is an urgent call to explore this paradise in a sustainable manner, respecting its natural environment and the local communities that call it home.

These 8 tips for sustainable tourism in the Dominican Republic help to leave a positive footprint on its inhabitants.

Respect for history and nature

When exploring the historical and natural treasures of the Dominican Republic, do so with respect.

From the bowels of the earth in the Cabarete Caves to the pristine mountains of the Martinez Community, avoid touching ancient monuments and sensitive ecosystems, and be mindful of your impact on these sacred spaces.

Every stone, every tree, every ruin tells a story that deserves to be preserved for future generations.

Get closer to the local people and culture.

The real charm of the island lies in its people and culture.

Show respect and curiosity, let them see that you are willing to learn from their traditions and support local businesses that reflect the authenticity of the country, while valuing the work and creativity of its inhabitants.

Soak up the richness of its music, art, gastronomy and folklore, do not stay in the typical and immerse yourself beyond the conventional tourist sites.

Use public transportation whenever possible.

Opt for sustainable means of transportation that minimize your carbon footprint and allow you to explore the island in an eco-friendly way.

In addition to reducing pollution and traffic, traveling by public transport offers you the opportunity to connect with local life and culture, sharing experiences with local people.

Public cars, buses, interprovincial buses, motorcycles and cabs are very accessible.

Choose unpopular destinations

In addition to iconic sites, such as the tropical flora museum and the native fauna museum, explore lesser-known corners of the Dominican Republic, where the natural beauty is intact and the authenticity of the tourist experience is at its most genuine.

Getting away from the crowded destinations allows you to discover unique places where you can enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty in its pure state.

At Enjoy Travel Group we can help you with suggestions for this thanks to the knowledge of our local experts.

Travel in low season

The magic of this Caribbean country increases in times of lower tourist influx.

Between April and September, you have the opportunity to interact more closely with the local culture, enjoy more affordable prices and experience hospitality outside of peak periods.

In addition, you contribute to decongest each destination and promote a more sustainable tourism.

Support local businesses

Shop at local markets and traditional restaurants, contributing to the economic development of the communities and enjoying fresh and authentic products.

Not only do you promote the local economy, but you also help preserve the traditions and cultural identity of the Dominican Republic.

Be aware of your water and energy consumption

Adopt responsible practices during your stay on the island, saving resources and preserving the natural beauty of the country for future generations.

Be aware of your water consumption and avoid waste. Small actions such as turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth or turning off the lights when leaving a room can make a difference.

Avoid leaving residues

Make a commitment to leave the smallest possible footprint during your visit, collecting your waste and respecting the nature and biodiversity of the island.

To do this, remember to take a garbage bag with you and dispose of your waste properly. It is a simple but very effective way to maintain the beauty and purity of the Dominican landscapes.

By embracing these principles of sustainable tourism in the Dominican Republic, along with other criteria established by the United Nations Environment Program and the World Travel and Tourism Council, such as economic viability and community well-being, you will discover the unparalleled beauty of the Dominican Republic. Meanwhile, you contribute to its long-term conservation and development.

6 sustainable excursions to do in Dominican Republic

There are many places where few go but many dream of going.

Whether it’s waterfall adventures or encounters with humpback whales, the island offers a diverse range of experiences that connect you to its essence.

Here are some sustainable excursions to do in the Dominican Republic:

Pedernales

To the southwest of the island, in the province of Pedernales, is the Cabo Rojo area.

Located in a demarcation with 40% of protected area, it offers crystalline beaches, arid zones, endemic and native species, as well as diverse natural attractions such as the Romeo wells, the Fishermen’s cave and the Bay of Eagles.

Damajagua Falls

This municipality is home to the Saltos de la Damajagua Natural Monument, a protected area since 2004, where visitors can enjoy 27 pools for swimming, sliding down natural slides and jumping from one to another.

If you still want more, the municipality offers you the possibility to take a catamaran excursion, ride a cable car or see the whole city from the Isabel de Torres hill.

Ocoa

In this Dominican municipality we find the Community of Los Martínez, an agro-tourism project that generates its own clean energy to keep the lights on in 50 homes 24 hours a day.

The province offers rural and ecological tourism with unspoiled mountain landscapes, rivers and a rich local gastronomy.

Cabarete Caves

If you are looking for a mysterious place full of wonders, enter the bowels of the earth through the Cabarete Caves.

You are taken on a journey through time, where you will be able to admire stalactites, stalagmites and rock art that tell the story of the native tribes.

Overnight stay in a cabin in the mountains of Barahona

In the mountains of Barahona, the community of Cachote awaits you with open arms.

Here, surrounded by lush flora and fauna, you will be able to disconnect and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature while supporting local communities.

Whale watching

Samana Bay is a natural wonder that receives thousands of humpback whales every year, which migrate from the North Atlantic to its warm waters to reproduce.

Describing these majestic marine giants in their natural habitat is a unique and unforgettable experience for the eyes of any tourist.

But yes, sustainable Dominican Republic is more than an adventure, it is a transformative experience, and the options for practicing sustainable tourism are endless.

Whether you want to find out more or start organizing your trip, our local experts are ready to design a tailor-made experience to explore the sustainable world of the Dominican Republic at your hand.