• See many of the 300 bird species, including many endemic to Hispanola, who call the island home. Our expert local guides will help you cross new species off your birding life list while also providing a comfortable experience.

• Explore diverse geographic locations from rainforest and mountain ranges to pristine mangroves, long stretches of white sandy beaches and crystal clear water.

• Get to know your welcoming Dominican hosts known for their warm hospitality as they expose you to the country’s upbeat culture and outstanding food.

• Experience an easy post-pandemic trip from the U.S. with many short direct flights.

Day 1: Arrival Day | ¡Bienvenidos a República Dominicana!

Arrive into Las Américas International Airport. Your guides will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel in Santo Domingo. Enjoy your first Dominican meal and some time exploring the vibrant old town. (Depending on flight arrival time)

Overnight: Hotel, Santo Domingo

Day 2: Santo Domingo to Puerto Escondido 

After an easy morning at the hotel, we spend the afternoon driving west through the countryside to your first destination at the Sierra de Bahoruco; about 20% of the endemic bird species of the Dominican Republic can only be found in this area. Once at the eco lodge, explore some nearby trails in search of the first endemics of your trip. Once evening arrives, enjoy good company and a hearty Dominican dinner before heading to bed, as you prepare for an early morning of bird watching in one of the most unique habitats of the country, “Zapoten”

Rabo de Gato: White-fronted Quail-Dove (E), Broad-billed Tody (E), Narrow-billed Tody (E), White-necked Crow (E), Hispaniolan Oriole (E), Hispaniolan Parrot (E), Scaly-napped Pigeon, Plain Pigeon, Ruddy Quail-Dove, Key West Quail-Dove, Stolid Flycatcher.

E= Hispaniolan Endemic

Overnight: Villa Barrancolí / Rabo De Gato, Puerto Escondido

Day 3 - Exploring Zapoten and La Placa

An early morning departure to Zapoten, on the Northern side of the Sierra de Bahoruco is a beautiful place, near to the border with Haiti. With your local guides leading the way, slowly walk  the trails listening and looking for many of the endemics in this area such as the Hispaniolan Trogon, Hispaniolan CrossBill and Western Chat-Tanager. Bird watching all morning, breakfast and lunch will be on site. In the afternoon, as we slowly descend the mountain roads, stop at La Placa NP, our most likely location to spot the endangered endemic Bay Breasted Cuckoo. *Optional evening excursion to look for the Hispaniolan Nightjar.

Zapoten: Hispaniolan Nightjar (E), Hispaniolan Trogon (E), Green-tailed Warbler (E), White-winged Warbler (E), La Selle Thrush (E), Western Chat-Tanager (E), Hispaniolan Spindalis (E), Hispaniolan Pewee (E), Hispaniolan Emerald (E), Narrow-billed Tody (E), Antillean Piculet (E), Antillean Siskin (E), Hispaniolan Crossbill (E), (Hispaniolan) Loggerhead Kingbird, Antillean Euphonia, Greater Antillean Elaenia, Rufous-throated Solitaire, Bicknell’s Thrush, Golden Swallow, Pine Warbler, Greater Antillean Bullfinch.

La Placa: Bay-breasted Cuckoo (E), Flat-billed Vireo (E), Antillean Siskin (E), Hispaniolan Pewee (E), Antillean Piculet (E), Broad-billed Tody (E), Antillean Euphonia, Olive-throated Parakeet, Burrowing Owl, Zenaida Dove

E= Hispaniolan Endemic

Overnight: Villa Barrancolí / Rabo De Gato, Puerto Escondido

Day 4: To La Cienaga 

Today we head to the Caribbean coast. Upon arrival at the coast and accommodations, you'll have time to settle in, have a swim, enjoy an easy lunch and search for coastal species as evening approaches.

Overnight: Hotel El Quemaito or similar

Day 5: El Cachote

This morning it's an early start, ascending into the cloud forest of Cachote, the only known population of the Eastern Chat-Tanager south of the Enriquillo Basin. Other species typical of the moist broadleaf forests are also readily found here. The surrounding shade coffee and citrus plantations host a wide variety of other bird species, including large numbers of over-wintering Neotropical migrants, in season, including the Bicknell’s Thrush.

El Cachote: Scaly naped Pigeon, Plain Pigeon, White- fronted Quail- Dove (E), Hispaniolan Trogon (E), Golden Swallow, Rufous- throated Solitaire, Bicknell’s Thrush, La Selle Thrush (E), Eastern Chat- Tanager (E), Hispaniolan Spindalis (E), Antillean Euphonia, Antillean Siskin (E)

(E)= Hispaniolan Endemic

Overnight: Hotel El Quemaito or similar

Day 6: Back to Santo Domingo

Completing our “southwestern loop”, today you’ll head back toward Santo Domingo. Once settled in with a little time to relax, you’ll have a chance to visit the cenote caves at Tres Ojos National Park or explore the Colonial Zone’s local watering holes, chic modern restaurants, and galleries of Afro-Caribbean folk art.

Overnight: Hotel, Santo Domingo 

Day 7: Botanical Garden and Paraíso Caño Hondo

This morning will be spent exploring the Botanical Gardens in Santo Domingo and having lunch at an iconic dominican restaurant located right at the seafront. After lunch we head north towards beautiful Samana bay, to Paraíso Caño Hondo, an eco-hotel built into the rock formations of the Haitises National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the crown jewels of the country’s national park system. 

Species to watch out for: 

Botanical Garden: Palmchat (E) , Hispaniolan Woodpecker (E), Hispaniolan Parakeet (E), Hispaniolan Lizard-Cuckoo (E), Black-crowned Palm-Tanager (E), West-Indian Whistling-duck, Mangrove Cuckoo, Black-whiskered Vireo, Red-legged Thrush, Village Weaver, Antillean Mango, Vervain Hummingbird.

(E)= Hispaniolan Endemic

Overnight: Paraíso Caño Hondo, Sabana de la Mar

Day 8: Los Haitises National Park - Ridgeway Hawk & Ashy faced owl

A favorite for many, this morning will be a guided trail walk/hike in Los Haitises National Park. Your guide will lead you through the lush forests, spotting birds, butterflies and blooms along the way! Keep your eyes peeled to spot the endangered Ridgway’s Hawk, the Antillean Piculet, the Hispaniolan Woodpecker and the Hispaniolan Emerald. Just to name a few! In the evening, it's time to turn on our headlamps while searching for the Ashy Faced Owl!

Species to watch out for: 

Los Haitises National Park: Ridgway’s Hawk (E), Hispaniolan Oriole (E), Antillean Piculet (E), White-necked Crow (E), Broad-billed Tody (E), Ruddy Quail-Dove, Scaly-napped Pigeon.

(E)= Hispaniolan Endemic

Overnight: Paraíso Caño Hondo, Sabana de la Mar

Day 9: Los Haitises National Park - mangrove tour and focused species afternoon (open)

Todays adventure takes us on a journey through the maze of tidal mangroves and limestone cliffed coves of Los Haitises National Park. Keeping your eyes peeled to spot pelicans, frigate birds, herons, and many more oceanic and coastal birds, both resident and migratory species that frequent the park’s extensive landscape.

Overnight: Paraíso Caño Hondo, Sabana de la Mar

Day 10: Back to Santo Domingo

This morning you’ll head back to Santo Domingo and enjoy your final day exploring the Colonial Zone, a historic walled quarter of the city which is famous for its delicious food and vibrant music. Take a guided walking tour or wander on your own with some recommendations from your guide. Today is a perfect day to buy a few souvenirs for yourself or loved ones back home.

Overnight: Hotel in Santo Domingo

Day 11: Buen Viaje! Departure Day!

After an exhilarating visit, exploring some of the most beautiful places in the Dominican Republic and adding many new species to your birding life list. Enjoy a final coffee on the plaza or a stroll through town as you grab any last-minute gifts or handicrafts from the artisan markets. The team will escort your group to the airport in private transport for your onward journey.

*Itinerary days and activities are subject to change without notice due to unforeseen circumstances or events. See full terms and conditions for more information.

Carry-On

A school sized backpack or similar sized bag is ideal and can double as a day bag.

• Passport

• Photocopy of passport

• Wallet/money

• Book and/or journal

• Pen to fill out custom forms upon arrival

• Phone / Camera / Chargers

• Binoculars / spotting scope

• Change of clothes (optional)

• Water bottle (refillable - Nalgene 1L)

• Medication

• Visa documentation (if applicable)

• Earbuds

Check Luggage

A 50-70 Liter duffel bag or backpack is ideal.

• Clothes (when in the field birding, avoid bright colored clothing, earth and natural tones prefered)

• Socks (enough for each day + 1 or  2 long socks)

• Underwear (enough for each day)

• Pants/capris (2)

• Long shorts* (2-3)

• Long skirt (1)

• T-shirts (5-6)

• Long sleeved shirt (1 preferably darker color in case of night walk and 1 lighter color for sun protection)

• Swimsuit (2 or 3)

• Beach towel/sarong/quick dry towel

• Rain jacket

• Strappy sandals (like Tevas or Chacos)

• Sneakers (comfortable and previously broken in)

• Sunglasses / Hat

Toiletries - (Travel sized and in ziplock bags)

• Be sure to pack sunscreen, bug spray, feminine hygiene products and if bringing medications, be sure to bring enough for the duration of travel.

• Foam earplugs, personal medkit and wet wipes are also recommended.

• Headlamp with extra batteries

• Local travel and birding guides

• All scheduled meals

• All scheduled transportation

• Each night of accommodation

• All activities as detailed in your itinerary

What's Not Included

• Travel Insurance

• International flights, visa fees (if applicable)

• Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks unless otherwise stated

• Personal expenses (phone, laundry, cabs, etc.)

• Unscheduled activities

• Tips to hotel or lodge staff

• End of trip gratuity for drivers and guides

Do I need a passport to travel to the Dominican Republic?

You must have a passport to travel internationally. When you book your trip with Off Cape Experiences, we ask that you submit a copy of your passport in part to verify whether it’ll be valid when you travel. To travel, your passport must be valid for at least six months after you return from your trip and has at least one (and probably more) empty pages. 

Renewing a passport can take four months so if it doesn’t meet the above criteria, start the process immediately. 

• Learn more about how to renew an existing passport.

• Learn more about how to expedite your passport renewal.

• Learn more about how to apply for a first-time passport.

Make copies of your passport and keep one in a safe place not with your passport. This will come in very handy if you misplace it and need to get a new one.

Do I need a visa to travel to the Dominican Republic?

Visas aren’t required for U.S., Canadian or EU citizens visiting the Dominican Republic for less than 30 days. Learn more by visiting the U.S. State Department website. 

Travelers from outside the U.S. with other passports should review entry requirements for your home country, or get in touch and we’ll help you navigate this process.

What do I write on the customs card as my reason for being in the Dominican Republic?

Please list tourism/travel as your reason for visiting the Dominican Republic. 

What vaccines are required for travel to the Dominican Republic?

None if traveling from the U.S. However, we recommend reviewing the CDC Traveler’s Health page for the Dominican Republic, which recommends a number of vaccines, including childhood vaccines, COVID-19, Hepatitis A and B, Rabies and Typhoid. Please be sure to consult your doctor to decide what medicine is right for you. 

In addition to vaccines, if you take prescriptions, please bring enough for the duration of your trip. Obtaining your prescriptions in the Dominican Republic may not be possible. Some other prescription tips:

• Pack you’r prescriptions in their original, labeled containers. We suggest you pack them in your carry-on bag.

• Be sure to bring enough contact solution and personal hygiene products for the duration of your trip. Ear plugs are also a good idea to have on your flight.

• A personal First Aid kit is always a good idea to have on you when traveling abroad. 

Is the tap water safe to drink? 

Water from the tap is generally safe to use for brushing teeth etc, but participants will be provided as much bottled water as they can drink. Bringing a Nalgene or similar 1 Liter refillable bottle is highly recommended and promotes sustainable travel and respect for the places we are traveling.

In addition, routine hand washing before and after meals and after using the bathroom will cut down on your chances of getting sick. Although delicious and a great way to experience local culture, eating street food can also increase your chance of getting sick. 

What will the food be like? What kind of dietary requirements/food allergies can you accommodate?  

Group members will eat a combination of local Dominican dishes and more western-style dishes. Breakfasts typically include cereal, breads, eggs, oatmeal, and fresh fruit. Lunches and dinners range from traditional Dominican food – rice and beans, chicken, seafood, plantains, fresh fruit and salad – to pastas, barbeques, tacos etc.

Dietary Requirements/Food Allergies – We can easily accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other common dietary requirements on this program. Please make sure to let us know if you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions. Keep in mind that the variety of foods available for some dietary preferences may become a little repetitive on longer trips.

Is it safe where we’re going in the Dominican Republic?

The Dominican Republic is generally a safe place to travel. However, using common sense is a must. You will be briefed upon arrival at each location. Listen to briefings from your guides and ask questions! Do not assume. 

We highly suggest avoiding excess alcohol intake and being out late at night, especially alone. 

What happens if I need medical care while in country?

Our staff will take you to the clinic or hospital that has been previously vetted in the area. It is important that each traveler purchase Travel Medical Insurance.

What’s the weather like?

The Dominican Republic is surrounded by over 1,600 km (1,000 miles) of coastline on its north, east, and southern borders, and the climate is tropical. Noontime temperatures range from 27°C to 32°C (80°F to 90°F ), and can fall to 18°C and 23°C (64°F to 73°F) during the winter. Because the DR is in the tropics, it is hard to say if and when there is a rainy season. Rains are usually short lasting.

Do I need to bring cash? How much? 

It’s always a good idea to bring some US dollars as spending money. ATM cards with Plus or Cirrus network (or both, so with standard debit cards like Mastercard or Visa you should be fine). Beware of fees your bank may charge you though for international withdrawals.  Contact your bank beforehand as banks often freeze the account when used abroad. We can help you exchange dollars for pesos. 

Some additional info about cash and money:

• ATMs are widely available and offer decent exchange rates, even when including fees from your bank.

• Travelers Checks are not recommended as you will receive a lower rate of exchange and additional fees to use them.

• Bargaining is acceptable in some places such as street vendors, when buying souvenirs in the Dominican Republic. Stores, not so much. How much you want to push it is up to you. Ask yourself what you would pay for that item at home, compare the price and find somewhere in the middle that is reasonable for both parties. Remember to keep a smile on your face and always be polite. It’s a good thing when both sides of the deal are happy.

Is tipping expected in the Dominican Republic?

Yes. You’ll be expected to tip your guides and service staff you interact with while traveling in the Dominican Republic. How much to tip is up to you, but please use the following as a guide:

As a general rule, expect to tip around 10% of the bill. If you get exceptionally good service, say thank you with a tip closer to 15-20%. Whether you're tipping with cash or card, always use the local currency to save money.

Should I bring my expensive digital camera?

If you want to capture images your phone can not capture, then yes. Cameras are or can be an important piece of equipment while traveling. If you want to record memories to revisit later. As for what type of camera or lens to bring, it’s entirely up to you. Whichever camera you decide to bring, be sure to become familiar and comfortable using it before departing for your adventure. 

Photo etiquette is very important. The etiquette of photographing most people is about the same as it would be on the streets of your hometown. In general, you need permission to take a close-up, as you would at home, but not for a crowd scene. Be especially polite if you want to photograph people. If you want to shoot a portrait, show interest in your subject, and try to have a bit of interaction first. Then use sign language to inquire if a picture is OK. Your driver-guides can help.  

Will my phone work in the Dominican Republic?

Probably, if you pay for it. Check with your provider for roaming rates and international data packages before traveling. These rates can pile up very quickly and be extremely expensive.

If you have a travel phone or a phone with a slot for an extra SIM card, you can buy a local SIM card with data for the duration of your stay. This usually ends up being the cheapest option, though not always the most convenient.

Do I need a power adapter to charge my devices

American electronics generally do NOT need any adaptors. In some places outlets might be two pronged instead of three. So you might want to pick up a three prong adaptor on Amazon or your local hardware store before traveling. That being said, most places have standard three prongs, same as the U.S.

How will we get around in the Dominican Republic?

We work with a local transportation company that has a private fleet of vehicles for you to travel comfortably as we move about the country.