Dominican Republic: Merengue Circuit – 6 Days
| Duration | 6 Days / 5 Nights |
|---|---|
| Country | Dominican Republic |
| Price From | $1,133 USD per person |
| Tour Style | Cultural Discovery, Music & Dance, Scenic Route |
| Data Source | TourRadar 2026 — Aborigen Tours |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Santo Domingo — Colonial Zone Welcome
Arrive at Las Americas International Airport (SDQ). Transfer to your hotel in Santo Domingo’s historic Colonial Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afternoon walking tour through Calle Las Damas, the first paved street in the Americas, Plaza de Espana, and Alcazar de Colon. Evening welcome dinner featuring traditional Dominican cuisine with live Merengue music at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Santo Domingo — Merengue Workshop & Colonial Deep Dive
Morning visit to the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor, the first cathedral in the Americas, followed by the Pantheon Nacional and Fortaleza Ozama. Afternoon Merengue music and dance workshop led by local musicians — learn the basic steps, rhythms, and history of this UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage dance. Free evening to explore the zona colonial.
Day 3: Santo Domingo to Cibao Valley — Heart of the Island
Depart Santo Domingo for the fertile Cibao Valley, the agricultural heartland of the Dominican Republic. Visit tobacco plantations and cigar factories in the Santiago region. Lunch at a countryside ranch featuring sancocho, the national stew. Continue to Jarabacoa, known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” nestled in the Cordillera Central mountains. Overnight at a mountain eco-lodge.
Day 4: Jarabacoa — Mountain Adventures
Full day exploring the Jarabacoa region. Morning hike to Jimenoa Waterfalls through cloud forest trails. Afternoon white-water rafting on the Yaque del Norte River (optional) or visit a local coffee plantation for a farm-to-cup experience. Evening cultural exchange with local artisans showcasing traditional crafts and music.
Day 5: Jarabacoa to Puerto Plata — Victorian Coast
Scenic drive north through the mountains to Puerto Plata on the Amber Coast. Afternoon tour of Puerto Plata’s Victorian architecture including the San Felipe Fortress, Independence Park, and the iconic Umbrella Street. Visit the Amber Museum to see prehistoric insects trapped in Dominican amber. Sunset at the Malecon waterfront promenade. Overnight in Puerto Plata.
Day 6: Puerto Plata to Cabarete — Beach Finale & Departure
Morning transfer to Cabarete, the Caribbean’s windsurfing and kiteboarding capital. Relax on the golden sand beach or watch the colorful kites dancing above the waves. Enjoy a farewell lunch at a beachfront restaurant. Afternoon transfer to Puerto Plata International Airport (POP) or Santo Domingo for departure.
What’s Included
• 5 nights accommodation (3-star hotels & eco-lodges)
• Daily breakfast
• Welcome dinner with Merengue show
• Merengue music & dance workshop
• All transfers & transportation
• English-speaking guide throughout
• Entrance fees to mentioned sites
• Airport transfers on arrival & departure
What’s Excluded
• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Lunch & dinner (except welcome dinner)
• Optional activities (rafting, etc.)
• Tips & personal expenses
