Welcome to your MTT travel guide “Punta Cana travel guide”
Punta Cana travel guide
Must-see places
Experience Punta Cana like never before, with white sand beaches, exotic adventures and unique attractions that will captivate your heart and mind.
Playa Bávaro
Your white sand oasis in Punta Cana
Playa Bavaro, located in the Punta Cana region of the Dominican Republic, is one of the most popular beaches in the Caribbean.
Features
- White sand beach. Playa Bavaro stretches for several kilometers of fine white sand, providing an ideal setting for relaxation and seaside activities.
- Crystal clear waters. The calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling and other water sports.
Activities on site
- Water sports. Enjoy a variety of activities including scuba diving, jet skiing, sailing and paddle boarding.
- Boat Tours. Take a boat trip to explore coral reefs, go deep-sea fishing or visit nearby islands.
Useful information
- Access. Playa Bavaro is easily accessible from Punta Cana International Airport, located approximately 20 minutes by car. Taxis and shuttles are available to take you there.
- Accommodation. The area offers a wide range of hotels and resorts, from luxury establishments to more affordable options, often located directly on the beach.
Why visit Playa Bavaro?
- Natural beauty. Enjoy paradisiacal landscapes with pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and tropical vegetation.
- Varied activities. Whether you are a fan of water sports, relaxing in the sun or underwater exploration, Playa Bavaro offers a multitude of options for all tastes.
- Tropical atmosphere. Immerse yourself in a relaxing and exotic atmosphere, ideal for an unforgettable holiday with family, partner or friends.
Hoyo Azul
Punta Cana travel guide
Hoyo Azul, or “the Blue Hole,” is a beautiful cenote located in the Scape Park ecological park.
Features
- Turquoise Waters . Hoyo Azul is renowned for its incredibly clear, blue waters, providing a stunning visual experience.
- Natural environment. Surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush vegetation, the cenote offers a serene and picturesque setting.
Activities on site
- Swimming. Dive into the cool, crystal clear waters of the cenote for a unique swimming experience.
- Hiking. Enjoy the hiking trails through the ecological park, which offer spectacular views and the opportunity to discover the local flora.
- Guided Tours. Guided tours are available to learn more about the geological formation of the cenote and the surrounding biodiversity.
Useful information
- Access. Hoyo Azul is located in Cap Cana’s Scape Park, approximately a 15-minute drive from Punta Cana International Airport. Organized tours and shuttles are available from area hotels.
- Opening hours. The park is open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Why visit Hoyo Azul?
- Natural Beauty. Admire the incredible blue of the waters and the surrounding natural beauty, a true hidden paradise.
- Adventure and relaxation. Combine the excitement of hiking and swimming with the tranquility and serenity offered by this magical place.
- Unique experience. Explore one of the most beautiful cenotes in the Caribbean, an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers.
Departure from your hotel + entrance ticket for Scape Park → Price 129 $→ Duration 7 hours.
- Discover a hidden cenote and admire the most beautiful turquoise waters that nature has to offer
- Get your adrenaline pumping and fly over the trees
- Explore the vast network of underground chambers and tunnels and be amazed by the incredible geological formations
- Climb aboard the water hammocks and land in the refreshing waters
- Cool off with a swim in a hidden cenote with brilliant blue waters
See availability → Reservation
Saona Island
Punta Cana travel guide
Located off the southeast coast, Saona Island is part of the national park.
Features
- Paradise beaches. Saona Island is famous for its pristine white sand beaches, lined with palm trees and bathed by turquoise waters.
- Fauna and flora. The island is home to a diversity of fauna and flora, including tropical birds, colorful fish and coral reefs.
Activities on site
- Boat Tours. Enjoy various catamaran or speedboat excursions to reach the island, often accompanied by music, dancing and refreshing drinks.
- Snorkeling and Diving. Explore the beautiful coral reefs and discover the rich marine life through snorkeling and scuba diving activities.
- Relax and swim. Spend the day relaxing on the white sand beaches, swimming in the crystal clear waters and soaking up the Caribbean sun.
Useful information
- Getting there . Tours to Saona Island typically depart from Bayahibe, a fishing village about a 45-minute drive from Punta Cana. Organized tours often include transportation from area hotels.
- Schedule. Excursions to Saona Island are available daily.
- Book in advance for this crazy excursion.
Cruise to Saona Island and buffet lunch → Price 81 $→ Duration 8 hours.
- Embark on a state-of-the-art speedboat.
- Hotel transfer.
- Stop at a natural pool and observe starfish
- Spend the day exploring, strolling along the beach, relaxing in the white sand and swimming in the azure water
- Sip drinks at the bar and enjoy a buffet lunch of traditional Dominican dishes
See availability → Reservation
Indigenous Eyes ecological park
Punta Cana travel guide
Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, or Ojos Indígenas, is a nature reserve located in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Managed by the Punta Cana Ecological Foundation, this park aims to preserve natural habitats and promote the conservation of local biodiversity.
Features
- Cenotes. The park is home to 12 beautiful freshwater lagoons, called “eyes” by the indigenous Taíno people. These crystal-clear cenotes are perfect for swimming and exploring.
- Flora and fauna. The reserve covers more than 600 hectares and is home to a great diversity of plants and animals, including endemic and migratory species.
Activities on site
- Hiking. Enjoy well-maintained trails that wind through the rainforest, offering stunning views of lush vegetation and wildlife.
- Swimming. Cool off in the clear waters of the cenotes.
- Educational Tours. Take guided tours to learn about the area’s biodiversity, conservation efforts, and cultural history.
Useful information
- Access. The park is located approximately 15 minutes by car from Punta Cana International Airport. Taxis and shuttles are available to take you there.
- Opening hours. The park is open every day from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Why visit Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park?
- Natural Beauty. Explore a preserved tropical ecosystem with stunning landscapes, clear cenotes and dense vegetation.
- Varied Activities: Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming and educational tours, suitable for all ages.
- Conservation and Education. Support local conservation efforts and enrich your knowledge of the region’s unique ecosystem.
Violas of Chavon
Punta Cana travel guide
Altos de Chavón is a reconstructed artistic village, located above the Chavón River, in La Romana.
Features
- Picturesque architecture. The stone buildings, cobblestone streets and charming squares of this village give the impression of traveling back in time.
- Amphitheater. Altos de Chavón has a 5,000-seat amphitheater, inaugurated by Frank Sinatra in 1982, which hosts concerts and cultural events.
Activities on site
- Art Galleries and Shops. Explore the many art galleries, craft shops and studios where local artists display and sell their work.
- Regional Archaeological Museum. Visit this museum to discover artifacts and information about the pre-Columbian civilizations of the region.
- School of Design. Altos de Chavón is home to a design school affiliated with the Parsons School of Design in New York, offering programs in art and design.
Useful information
- Access. Located approximately 90 minutes by car from Punta Cana and close to La Romana, Altos de Chavón is accessible by taxi or organized excursion.
- Opening hours. The village is open every day.
Why visit Altos de Chavón?
- Architectural beauty. Admire the unique and picturesque architecture of this reconstructed medieval village.
- Culture and art. Immerse yourself in the artistic and cultural atmosphere with art galleries, craft shops and concerts in the amphitheater.
- History and Education. Learn about the region’s pre-Columbian history at the Archaeological Museum and explore the School of Design’s art programs.
To get there from downtown Punta Cana, take a bus or rent a car (around $30).
Altos de Chavón – Cultural day experiences in Higuey → Price 149 $→ Duration 6 hours.
- Air-conditioned vehicle return from your hotel
- Free entry to the Altos de Chavón country house
- Basilique La Altagracia
- Lunch
- Soda/Pop
- Coffee and cocoa plantation
- Anamuya River
See availability → Reservation
Este National park
Punta Cana travel guide
Parque Nacional del Este, known as the Eastern National Park, is located in the southeastern region of the Dominican Republic. Created in 1975, it covers an area of more than 310 km², including both land and sea.
Features
- Biodiversity. The park is home to a great diversity of fauna and flora, with more than 500 species of plants, 300 species of birds, and numerous marine mammals, reptiles and fish.
- Diverse ecosystems. The park includes white sand beaches, mangroves, coral reefs, caves and rainforests.
Activities on site
- Hiking. Explore hiking trails through rainforest and mangroves, offering spectacular views of local flora and fauna.
- Diving and snorkeling. Discover coral reefs and marine life while scuba diving or snorkeling in the park’s crystal clear waters.
- Bird Watching. The park is a bird watcher’s paradise with many species of birds to observe, some of which are endemic to the area.
Useful information
- Access. Parque Nacional del Este is located near the town of Bayahibe, about a 45-minute drive from Punta Cana. Organized excursions are available from major hotels in the area.
- Opening hours. The park is open daily from 8am to 5pm. It is recommended to check opening hours and book guided tours in advance.
Why visit the Parque Nacional del Este?
- Natural Beauty. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, from white sand beaches to lush forests and colorful coral reefs.
- Adventure and exploration. Engage in a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, diving and bird watching, for a day full of discovery.
Dolphin Explorer
Punta Cana travel guide
Dolphin Explorer is a marine park, offering unique interactive experiences with dolphins and other marine animals. This park aims to promote conservation and education about marine life.
Features
- Dolphin Encounter. The park offers several programs that allow visitors to swim and interact with dolphins in a safe and controlled environment.
- Marine Diversity . In addition to dolphins, Dolphin Explorer is home to sea lions, sharks, rays and many other marine species.
Activities on site
- Swim with Dolphins. Take part in interactive sessions where you can swim, play and even receive kisses from friendly dolphins.
- Meet the sea lions. Learn more about these fascinating creatures and take part in interaction sessions where you can feed and pet them.
- Snorkeling with rays and sharks. Dive into a safe pool to swim with rays and sharks, an exhilarating and educational experience.
Useful information
- Access. Dolphin Explorer is located approximately 20 minutes drive from Punta Cana International Airport. Shuttles are often available from major hotels in the area.
- Opening hours. The park is open daily from 9am to 5pm. It is recommended to book activities in advance online or through your hotel.
Why visit Dolphin Explorer?
- Interactive experience. Enjoy a unique opportunity to interact up close with dolphins and other marine animals, a memorable experience for all ages.
- Education and Conservation. Learn more about marine life and conservation efforts through the park’s educational programs and experienced staff.
- Family Fun. With a variety of activities to suit all members of the family, Dolphin Explorer offers a day of fun and learning for young and old alike.
Swimming and encounters with dolphins → Price 97 $→ Duration 55/70 mins.
- Swim and play with dolphins.
- Interact with dolphins with games like foot push and back tug
- Watch the dolphins show off their impressive aquatic acrobatics
- Get to know animals with hugs, kisses and handshakes
- Play on Pirate Island with water tunnels and slides
See availability → Reservation
The Land of Monkeys
Punta Cana travel guide
Manati Park, located in Punta Cana, is one of the country’s first theme parks, opened in 1996. It was created to provide educational and recreational experiences while promoting the conservation of local flora and fauna.
Features
- Monkey Interaction. Monkeyland is famous for its adorable and curious squirrel monkeys. Visitors can interact directly with these monkeys in a natural and safe environment.
- Natural environment. The park covers several hectares of tropical forest, offering a lush and green setting that is home not only to monkeys but also to a wide variety of local flora and fauna.
Activities on site
- Guided Tours. Join educational guided tours where expert guides will teach you all about squirrel monkeys, their habitat, behaviors, and conservation efforts.
- Interaction with monkeys. Enjoy unique moments where you can feed and play with the monkeys. The monkeys are accustomed to humans and love to climb on visitors.
- Tasting of local products. In addition to interacting with the monkeys, tours often include tasting of local products such as coffee, cocoa and tropical fruits grown on site.
Useful information
- Access. Monkey Land is located approximately 25 minutes drive from Punta Cana. Organized excursions with transportation included are available from major hotels in the area. See below.
- Opening hours. The park is open daily from 8am to 5pm. Advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist season.
Why visit the land of monkeys?
- Immersive experience. Enjoy an immersive and educational experience by interacting directly with monkeys in their natural habitat.
- Conservation and Education. Learn more about squirrel monkeys and the park’s conservation efforts to protect local wildlife.
- Family Fun. Monkey Land is a perfect activity for families, offering a combination of entertainment and learning for visitors of all ages.
Half-day safari to the land of monkeys with transfer → Price 95 $→ Duration 5 hours.
- Have fun and feed the squirrel monkeys.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the eastern mountains and local villages
- Admire a typical island house and learn about coffee and cocoa production
- Enjoy fresh organic fruits and coffee
- Enjoy round-trip transportation to and from your hotel
See availability → Reservation
Coco Bongo
Punta Cana travel guide
Coco Bongo is a famous nightclub and concert venue located in Punta Cana. Known for its electrifying atmosphere and breathtaking shows.
Features
- Live Shows. Coco Bongo offers a unique experience with live shows that combine acrobatics, dance, music and Broadway-style performances.
- Party atmosphere. With a capacity of several hundred people, the nightclub is renowned for its festive and energetic atmosphere, attracting tourists and locals alike.
Activities on site
- Nightly Shows. Enjoy incredible nightly shows featuring talented performers, dancers, acrobats and celebrity impersonators.
- Music and dance. Dance the night away to DJs who mix a variety of musical genres, from international hits to Latin American rhythms.
- Theme Bars. Discover the themed bars located in the nightclub, offering a wide range of cocktails and drinks to enhance your evening.
Useful information
- Access. Coco Bongo is located in the heart of Punta Cana, easily accessible by taxi or shuttle from the main hotels in the area. To get there by car you can take the main road and follow the signs to Coco Bongo. The journey takes about 25 minutes or costs between $10 and $15 by taxi.
- Opening hours. The nightclub is open every night, usually from 10pm until dawn. It is recommended to check specific opening hours and book tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
Why visit the Coco Bongo Discotheque?
- Unforgettable experience. Experience a memorable evening with world-class shows, a festive atmosphere and impressive performances.
- Total entertainment. Coco Bongo offers more than just a nightclub; it is a complete entertainment venue with shows, music and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Must-see destination. Whether you are on vacation or visiting Punta Cana, a night out at Coco Bongo is a must-see experience to enjoy the local nightlife.
Entrance ticket to Coco Bongo with transfer → Price 70 $ → Duration 5 hours.
- Enjoy special effects, live shows, confetti, lighting effects, cameras and non-stop entertainment
- Spend an unforgettable and unique night in the legendary Coco Bongo nightclub
- Enjoy round-trip transportation to and from your hotel
See availability → Reservation
What to do in Punta Cana?
The best activities
Where to stay in Punta Cana?
The best areas to stay in Punta Cana
Bavarian
Bávaro is one of the most popular areas of Punta Cana, known for its pristine white sand beaches and luxury resorts. It is the perfect place for travelers looking for relaxation and water activities. You will also find a lively nightlife with bars and restaurants.
Punta Cana village
Located near the airport, Punta Cana Village is a modern neighborhood with a chic and quiet atmosphere. Here you will find high-end boutiques, quality restaurants, and world-class golf. It is an ideal choice for discerning travelers.
Cape Cana
If you are looking for absolute luxury, Cap Cana is the place for you. This area is home to high-end resorts, an exclusive marina, and a world-renowned golf course. You can also enjoy deep-sea fishing and a private beach.
The Cortecito
For a more authentic vibe, El Cortecito is a lively area with a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and local shops. It’s a great place for travelers looking for a more local experience and easy access to the beach.
High Uvero
Located a little further north, Uvero Alto is a haven of tranquil beaches and all-inclusive resorts. It’s a perfect choice for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy unspoiled natural surroundings.
Getting around in Punta Cana
Punta Cana travel guide
To fully enjoy your trip, here are some tips for getting around easily in this paradise region of the Dominican Republic.
- Public Transportation : Local buses are an economical option, with fares around $2-3 each way.
- On foot : Many of Punta Cana’s tourist attractions are within walking distance, providing an enjoyable discovery experience.
- Rental car : Ideal for exploring the area at your own pace, rentals cost around $30-40 per day.
- Taxis : Abundant in Punta Cana, prices vary depending on distance, generally around $25-30 for a 30-minute trip.
- Scooter : Scooter rental is an option for those who prefer faster, independent mobility.
- Rideshare : Rideshare services are becoming increasingly popular in Punta Cana, providing an affordable alternative to taxis.
- Biking : Certain areas of Punta Cana are ideal for cycling, providing a unique perspective of the region.
- Hotel Shuttles : Many hotels in Punta Cana offer shuttles to local attractions, providing a convenient option for guests staying at these properties.
- Buggy : A trendy option for getting around Punta Cana is to rent a buggy, which allows for a unique and fun experience for exploring the area.
Practical information for your trip to Punta Cana
- French nationals do not need a visa for a stay of less than 3 months.
- A passport valid for 6 months is required.
- Nonresident aliens pay an entry tax of $10 and an exit tax of $20.
- Having an expired residence permit can lead to serious consequences.
- Taking out travel insurance is recommended.
- Avoid wearing flashy jewelry to avoid theft.
- Be vigilant against scams in tourist areas.
- Respect local customs, especially in places of worship.
- Learn a few words of Spanish to make communication easier.
- Choose bottled water and avoid street food.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- The premises are welcoming, start a conversation to learn more.
Homosexuality in Punta Cana
Discover the LGBTQ+ world in Punta Cana, a dream destination where you can feel safe and comfortable. Here are the places not to be missed:
- Playa Bavaro: the most famous beach in the region, where you can relax and enjoy the sun without being judged.
- Club Natura: a place exclusively reserved for men, with modern facilities, a swimming pool, sauna and jacuzzi. Prices for a day are on average 20 to 30 euros.
- Le Boite Discotheque: one of the most popular nightclubs in Punta Cana, where you can dance the night away to lively rhythms.
- Le Merengue Bar: a lively bar with a festive and warm atmosphere, ideal for having a drink and meeting people from all over the world.
- The Soles Chill Out Bar restaurant: a perfect place to enjoy local and international cuisine, while admiring the sunset on the beach.
Punta Cana is an open and tolerant destination towards the LGBTQ+ community, where you can fully enjoy your vacation with complete peace of mind. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover a dream place where you can be yourself without fear. Come live a unique experience in Punta Cana, a destination that is sure to seduce you!
MTT wishes you the most beautiful trip to Punta Cana
