This Catholic cathedral is a national monument and one of the Dominican Republic's most revered architectural structures. It is located in nearby Higuey, only 20 to 40 minutes from Punta Cana depending on which resort you're staying at. It features stained glass windows with cutouts shaped like oranges to commemorate a nearby orange grove where a vision of the Virgin Mary was spotted. Dominicans make a pilgrimage to it every Jan. 21 in celebration of a battle victory.
Basilica de Higuey Nuestra Senora de la Altagracia
Agustin Guerrero 66
Higuey, Dominican Republic
809-554-4541
Situated on the cliffs above the Chavon River about an hour and half from Punta Cana, the Altos de Chavon is a replica of a 16th century Tuscan village, complete with cobblestone streets, restaurants, shops and artist studios. It features an archaeology museum, art gallery, a school of design and an open-air amphitheater. The museum is located inside the Casa de Campo and features more than 3,000 artifacts from the Taino Indian tribe. The amphitheatre was inaugurated by Frank Sinatra and hosts many symphonies, concerts and festivals.
Located about two hours from Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic cueva is the longest underground cave in the Caribbean. It is accessible from Hato Mayor on a variety of local tours. The cave features cave art, subterranean rivers and giant corridors. Most tours offer horseback riding, jungle walks and lunches.
This theme park is located in Bavaro and features all types of native plants, animals and activities. It has overflowing gardens with orchids and other tropical flowers. The park offers dolphin encounters in which visitors can swim with the friendly mammals. It also has a nine shows a day, featuring parrots and horses. It has a replica Taino village, complete with traditional native clothing and dance rituals. Visitors can shop in art crafts stores and eat native Dominican Republic food at its restaurants.
Manatí Park
Carretera Manati, S/N
Bavaro, Dominican Republic
809-221-9494
manatipark.com
