Visit of Santo Domingo
Excursion to Santo Domingo and visit to the Barcelo Rum Distillery
Departure by taxi from the Bayahibe/Dominicus area around 7:30 a.m. for a day of exploration in the heart of the historic capital of the Dominican Republic: Santo Domingo, the first city founded by the Spanish in the Americas. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city is full of fascinating colonial monuments that bear witness to the country’s history and the impact of the colonial era on Dominican culture. You will discover a multitude of emblematic sites while enjoying the city’s tropical atmosphere and its vibrant streets.
Santo Domingo, often nicknamed the colonial city, is a true blend of traditions and modernity. In its cobblestone streets and among its historic monuments, you will feel the richness of its past and the dynamism of its present-day life. It is here, in the heart of the island of Hispaniola, that the history of the Dominican Republic began, marked by the arrival of Christopher Columbus and the establishment of the first colonial port in the Americas. Throughout this excursion, you will be immersed in this colonial heritage while discovering places that today have earned the fame of this Caribbean country.
🏛️Discovery of the Colonial Zone
The day begins with a guided tour of the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, where you will have the opportunity to discover several must-see sites. You will start with the Casa Colón, a majestic fortified palace dating from the 16th century, the very first in the New World. This emblematic monument of colonial architecture immerses you in the history of the Spanish and their conquest of the Americas.
Next, head to the “Casas Reales” Museum, where you will learn more about the voyages of Christopher Columbus and exchanges between continents. This museum also showcases artifacts from the colonial era and will help you better understand the early days of the Dominican Republic.
Your visit continues with the discovery of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Incarnation, a historic 16th-century cathedral classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the oldest religious buildings in the New World and a symbol of Catholicism in the Dominican Republic. You will also have the chance to visit the National Pantheon, a former theater now serving as the resting place for the great heroes of Dominican history. This monument stands as a witness to the country’s revolutionary history and its most important historical figures.
After this historical immersion, a delicious typical Dominican lunch awaits you in a local restaurant within the Colonial Zone. You will have the opportunity to taste the flavors of Dominican culture in a typical setting, perfect for a well-deserved break in the heart of this historic city.
After lunch, you will have free time to stroll through the famous Calle Conde, a pedestrian street lined with local shops where you can buy handmade souvenirs such as larimar stones, Dominican cigars, or other handcrafted items. This street is filled with small stalls offering local products of all kinds, making it a true hotspot for visitors looking for tropical souvenirs.
🥃Visit to the Barceló Rum Distillery and Tasting
In the early afternoon, we will head to the historic center of the Barceló Rum Distillery, located about an hour from Santo Domingo, near San Pedro de Macorís. This visit will allow you to discover the manufacturing process of Dominican rum, one of the island’s most emblematic products. You will explore the history of sugarcane, a true pillar of the Dominican economy, and understand the different stages of Barceló rum production, voted the best rum in the world on two occasions.
You will have the opportunity to discover the rum museum, where historical objects and manufacturing tools are exhibited. At the end of the visit, a rum tasting will allow you to savor the various varieties of this spirit, renowned for its exceptional quality. This moment is the perfect opportunity to appreciate the authenticity of the tropical flavors of the Dominican Republic and to discover the secrets behind the production of Barceló rum, a product renowned worldwide.
👨👩👧👦 Visit to Santo Domingo: Alternative for Families
For families traveling with children, the visit to the Barceló Rum Distillery is not available due to the rum tastings. However, an equally captivating alternative is offered. This option includes a visit to the Three Eyes Caves, an exceptional natural site with turquoise lagoons, perfect for both children and adults. After this exploration, you will continue your discovery of Santo Domingo by visiting the iconic monuments of the Colonial Zone, followed by a typical Dominican lunch.
The excursion will end with a ride on the cable car to the hill of Loma Isabel de Torres, where you will enjoy a breathtaking view over the city.
The price for this alternative excursion is 84 USD per adult and 59 USD for children under 12 years old. This option allows families to discover the history and beauty of the Dominican Republic while adapting to the needs of the youngest.
Important informationThis excursion is available only with departure from Bayahibe.
We do not offer this excursion from Punta Cana due to the travel time being too long for a one-day tour.
Departure time:A taxi will come to pick you up in front of your hotel:
Between 7:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. at your hotels in Bayahibe/Dominicus (Sunscape, Catalonia, Iberostar, Viva Beach and Viva Palace, Hilton La Romana) – The exact time will be provided at the time of booking.
Return time to the hotel:5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Duration:Approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes
Included:Bottle of water provided
To bring:Sneakers
Top covering the shoulders for visiting historical sites, and for women, pants or a skirt below the knee
Sunscreen
Pocket money to buy souvenirs during free time or at the Barceló Rum Distillery store
Additional information
Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. Please specify any dietary requirements at the time of booking. Transfer duration is approximate; the exact time will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions. Children must be accompanied by an adult. A vegetarian option is available; please advise at the time of booking if required. Operates in all weather conditions; please dress appropriately and do not forget your sunglasses and sunscreen.
Cancellation policy
If you cancel at least 7 days before the scheduled departure, there will be no cancellation fee.
If you cancel between 3 and 6 days before the scheduled departure, a 50 percent cancellation fee will apply.
If you cancel within 2 days of the scheduled departure, a 100 percent cancellation fee will apply.
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