Punta Cana itinerary for an easy 1-week road-trip – beaches, culture and mountains

Are you flying to Punta Cana and would like to see more than just an all-inclusive resort, but don’t want to miss out on the fantastic beaches Punta Cana has to offer? Then this Punta Cana 1-week itinerary is the perfect road trip for you, as it combines a couple of days at the most amazing beaches in Punta Cana and leads you into the countryside afterwards. Here you can explore the majestic mountains of the country before heading to Santo Domingo, which is famous for its rich history and diverse culture, especially within the Colonial Zone, the UNESCO-awarded historic center of Santo Domingo. Check out this 8-day itinerary from/to Punta Cana to see what other highlights of the Dominican Republic you can experience without driving super long distances during this handcrafted road-trip from Punta Cana Travel Blog. While this itinerary is designed as a road trip and it’s recommendable to rent a car, it can also be done with private transfers or – if you add some additional time – by public transport. 

Completely UPDATED: September 2025

Not the road-trip you are looking for? Check out the two following Dominican Republic itineraries:

For further super helpful information about exploring the country with a rental car, you can also read our general road-trip guide for the Dominican Republic.
Not sure if it’s safe to rent a car in Punta Cana – continue reading here!

At a glance: what to expect from this itinerary

I’ve lived in the Dominican Republic for more than 7 years and have explored over 45 resorts, 70 beaches, and 40 waterfalls + I have visited all the provinces in the country. That’s why I am happy to share some of my experiences and the best hidden gems with you. This itinerary combines some light adventures, stunning natural beauties, cultural experiences and enough time for beaches and relaxation without having to worry about complicated logistics. Here is what to expect from this hand-crafted itinerary starting and ending in Punta Cana:

• Duration: 8 days / 7 nights (can be shortened or extended – comment below for questions)
• Route: Punta Cana → Miches → Punta Cana → Jarabacoa → Constanza → Santo Domingo → back to Punta Cana
• Driving times: Between 1.5 and 3 hours per day, only one day with approx. 4.5 hours
• Highlights: Beaches in Punta Cana, waterfalls and mountains around Jarabacoa & Constanza, history and cultural melting pot in Santo Domingo
• Best for: Travelers who want a mix of beach, nature, and culture in one trip
• Travel style: Best with a rental car, but can be done with a private driver or public transport as well
• Accommodation: all styles of accommodation possible, from backpacker hostels to mid-range accommodation or boutique and luxury hotels

Overview: 1-Week Punta Cana Road Trip Itinerary (print it out)

Here is the whole road-trip itinerary at a glance. If you like, you can take a screenshot and print it out. Like this, you always have the entire week available for a quick reference. All the days are described below in detail, including attractions, accommodation suggestions, safety tips and driving recommendations.

Map of this hand-crafted 8-day itinerary

General information for your Punta Cana itinerary: rental car and accommodation

Before starting with your possible Punta Cana itinerary, let’s have a quick look at the basics when traveling around the Dominican Republic: your rental car and accommodation.

One of the first questions I always receive is if renting a car in Punta Cana is safe and if it is recommended to drive in the Dominican Republic. Both questions can easily be responded to with “yes”, even though it is worth diving a little bit deeper into the topic, which I have done in a separate article: shall I rent a car in Punta Cana?

As a rule of thumb, you won’t have a problem renting a car in Punta Cana if you have already driven in other countries besides your home country and – with an additional plus – if this was a Latin American, Asian or African country. Furthermore, if you feel confident driving at home and can adapt to different situations and conditions of driving, you most likely will be fine on your Punta Cana road trip as well. As long as you drive defensively and watch your surroundings, a rental car in Punta Cana is safe, despite the notorious reckless motorcycle riders.

If you haven’t booked your rental car yet, I’d recommend checking prices here*. Make sure to book your rental car in the Dominican Republic always with full insurance. To get the best prices and conditions, I recommend Expedia* and Sunny Cars*.

Concerning accommodation, the Dominican Republic has all kinds of places to stay, among them guesthouses, hostels, all-inclusive resorts, glamping accommodation and luxury hotels, fitting all different kinds of travel budgets. Therefore, you can head on a Punta Cana road trip on both occasions, if you are on a budget or if you want to splurge on boutique hotels or luxury accommodation. For your convenience, I have compiled a selection of very recommendable accommodation for each destination, which is separated by budget. You can find them on each of the itinerary days below or here in this list of recommendations with all hotels mentioned in this blogpost*.

Day 1: arrival in Punta Cana

 Today is the day of your arrival in Punta Cana – and the start for an amazing holiday in the Dominican Republic. If you are coming from the United States or Canada, you are most likely to arrive around noon or the early afternoon at Punta Cana International Airport. Flights from Europe usually land in the later afternoon or the evening. 

My personal tip: Don’t forget your FREE e-ticket for immigration. It’s mandatory and you might get denied boarding if you have not done it.

 Immigration and customs at the airport are straightforward, so you can head directly to your accommodation. I highly recommend booking a private transfer* or – if you are traveling alone and want to save some money – a shared shuttle* as this is the smoothest way to arrive at your hotel. Check out this article about all options for airport transportation from Punta Cana International Airport. 

Arrival at Punta Cana International AirportHave your first meal and drink at Punta Canas’ beaches

 Once at your hotel, you might have a few remaining hours to have the first dip into the ocean or enjoy the last rays of sunlight. If you have booked an all-inclusive resort (check here to see how to find the right one), you can have your first drinks and dinner in your resort. If you are staying in a hotel or Airbnb without meals, I’d recommend to head to Los Corales for dinner and drinks as you can find a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere there.

Driving time: 15-35 minutes (book your private transfer here*)
Accommodation Recommendations:
BACKPACKER ($) – GAVA Hostel* (backpacker accommodation)
VALUE ($$) – Honky Tonk* (centrally located, close to the beach, ideal for individual travelers)
MID-RANGE ($$$) – Grand Bavaro Princess* (all-inclusive resort: affordable, modern, beautiful – review here)
SPLURGE ($$$$) – Live Aqua Punta Cana* (all-inclusive resort: adults-only, great food, relaxed vibe – review here)
LUXURY ($$$$$) – Eden Roc Cap Cana* (beachfront resort, high-class, top luxury, with golf courses, elegant beach club)
Insider tip: prebook your airport transfer – it’s smoother and less hassle
Further information on Punta Cana Travel Blog:
– The best airport transfers in Punta Cana
– How to find the right resort in Punta Cana

Day 2: relax, explore or go on an excursion in Punta Cana

 As mentioned in the introduction, this Punta Cana itinerary also includes some beach time, so today is your day to relax and enjoy the marvelous beaches of Bavaro and the entire Punta Cana area. You can either just sunbath at your hotel or go on a long walk, as some of the Punta Cana beaches are up to 12 miles long. 

Travel resources

Punta Cana Airport Transfers: Info | Book It*
Santo Domingo Airport Transfers: Info | Book It*
All-Inclusive Resorts: Info | Book It*
Apartments & Villas: Info | Book It*
Excursions: Info | Book It*
Rental Car: Info | Book It*
Road-Trips & Self-Drive Tours: Info | Plan It
Health Insurance for your trip: Compare Plans* | See prices*

 If you’d like to go on an excursion, I would recommend a half-day snorkeling trip, as this is something you won’t have elsewhere in this itinerary. There are two amazing snorkeling tours in Punta Cana which go to the more natural Cabeza de Toro reef instead of the crowded Bavaro reef plus they offer great customer service and an amazing experience. That’s not only my opinion, the reviews show this as well.
The following two are the best-rated snorkeling trips from Punta Cana – and they’re both half-day, hence you still can enjoy some beach time in Punta Cana:
– Small Group Snorkeling & Catamaran Tour
– Adults-Only Small Group Snorkeling with Seafood Lunch

Snorkeling in Punta CanaHave a drink at the beachExplore Punta Canas’ beachesExplore the countryside of Punta Cana

 You can also explore the surrounding area of Bavaro, particularly if you are not staying in an all-inclusive resort. If you don’t like to spend a lot of money on that day, you can have a look at all the free things you can do in Punta Cana. On the other side, if you need more ideas on how to make this a memorable vacation day, check out the best things to do in Punta Cana.

Accommodation Recommendations:
BACKPACKER ($) – GAVA Hostel* (backpacker accommodation)
VALUE ($$) – Honky Tonk* (centrally located, close to the beach, ideal for individual travelers)
MID-RANGE ($$$) – Grand Bavaro Princess* (all-inclusive resort: affordable, modern, beautiful – review here)
SPLURGE ($$$$) – Live Aqua Punta Cana* (all-inclusive resort: adults-only, great food, relaxed vibe – review here)
LUXURY ($$$$$) – Eden Roc Cap Cana* (beachfront resort, high-class, top luxury, with golf courses, elegant beach club)
Insider tip: if you want to keep it relaxed but explore a hidden gem of Punta Cana, you can visit Hoyo Claro.
Further information on Punta Cana Travel Blog:
– Best beaches in Punta Cana
– Free things-to-do in Punta Cana

Day 3: exploring the hidden gems of Punta Cana

 Today is the first road-trip day within your Punta Cana itinerary, as you should use this day to venture out and exploring the surrounding area of Bavaro & Co. That’s why I would recommend to pick-up your car (check prices for rental cars from/to Punta Cana here*) in the morning to start some first explorations (or the night before if you want to start early) – and to get used to the road conditions in the Dominican Republic. If you don’t want to rent a car, you also can hire a taxi / private driver.

Get your free e-book now – “16 amazing things-to-do for free in Punta Cana”!

 One of the best road-trips from Punta Cana is to go to Montaña Redonda and Playa Esmeralda. These two hidden gems can be perfectly combined into a day trip from Punta Cana. It is approximately a one-hour drive to reach Montaña Redonda from Bavaro. The road is in very good condition (no potholes, newly built, hardly any traffic), so it is a perfect opportunity to get the first experiences when driving your rental car in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic.

Editor’s Choice: the best experiences 2025

Most unique experience in a small group: Authentic rum tasting* (rating 4.81/5)
Best Rated Punta Cana excursion: Isla Saona Premium in small groups* (rating 4.95/5)
Most booked through Punta Cana Travel Blog: Small-Group Snorkeling* (rating 4.92/5)
Best off-the-beaten-track excursion: Montana Redonda & Costa Esmeralda* (rating 4.77/5)
Best excursion for family fun: Jungle Buggies + Zipline Combo* (rating 4.89/5)
New and trending for 2025: Mimosa Cruise*

Not the right tour for you?
Check out the 45 best Punta Cana excursions here at Punta Cana Travel Blog!

My personal travel hack: don’t forget your health insurance*! Ite only costs a few bucks, but it can save you a fortune as doctors and hospitals in Punta Cana usually charge hundreds or thousands, even for simple treatments. Compare prices here* (Trustpilot review score 4.8/5.0)

 Montaña Redonda is a hemispherical mountain amidst a flat part close to the coastline between Miches and Punta Cana. The plain surrounding allows spectacular views from the top, including a panorama of fantastic beaches such as Playa Esmeralda and Playa El Limon. What sets Montaña Redonda apart is the opportunity to take unique photos, thanks to the giant swings and relaxing hammocks set on the mountain which let you glide far over the edge of the mountain. You can either hike up or take a safari truck to the top. Check out my full article about Montaña Redonda to get all the details.

Montaña RedondaPlaya Esmeralda

 After having a quick and easy lunch on the mountain top of Montaña Redonda (alternatively you can also have lunch in some authentic local oceanfront restaurants in Miches), you head down again and continue your journey to Playa Esmeralda, less than a 30-minute drive away. It is one of the most pristine beaches in the entire Dominican Republic, even though the first resorts were built and opened in 2025. Still, as it’s a 2-mile beach with plenty of space for everyone, you have most stretches still all for yourself.

 From Playa Esmeralda, you head back to Bavaro with your rental car and enjoy your last night in Punta Cana.

Total distance: 100 miles / 165 kilometers
Driving time: approx. 3 hours in total
Accommodation Recommendations:
BACKPACKER ($) – GAVA Hostel* (backpacker accommodation)
VALUE ($$) – Honky Tonk* (centrally located, close to the beach, ideal for individual travelers)
MID-RANGE ($$$) – Grand Bavaro Princess* (all-inclusive resort: affordable, modern, beautiful – review here)
SPLURGE ($$$$) – Live Aqua Punta Cana* (all-inclusive resort: adults-only, great food, relaxed vibe – review here)
LUXURY ($$$$$) – Eden Roc Cap Cana* (beachfront resort, high-class, top luxury, with golf courses, elegant beach club)
Insider tip: when you book your car (check prices for rental cars from/to Punta Cana here*), make sure to book it from Bavaro, so that you don’t have to go back to Punta Cana Airport (of course this depends on where your accommodation is located, but usually Bavaro is much closer from most hotels and resorts)
Further information on Punta Cana Travel Blog:
– Shall I rent a car in Punta Cana?
– Best day trips from Punta Cana
– Explore Montaña Redonda

Day 4: heading west to the mountains of the Dominican Republic

 Assuming that you already have your car, you can start early today and enjoy the full variety the Dominican Republic has to offer.

Why you can trust me & Punta Cana Travel Blog

With my extensive travel history and industry background, I can offer the best advice from the traveler’s perspective and tourism professional perspective.

All articles on Punta Cana Travel Blog are written with love & passion, all from my first-hand experiences and without any AI. Furthermore
– I have been living in the Dominican Republic for approx. 6 years
– I have visited more than 50 all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic
– I designed hundreds of tailor-made itineraries for a tour operator in the Dominican Republic
– I have visited more than 40 waterfalls, all 31 provinces and 70 beaches in the Dominican Republic
– I have a bachelor’s degree in tourism and know all the secrets of the industry
– I have spent a total of 373 nights in accommodation in the Dominican Republic, visiting 155 hotels
– I have worked my entire life in the tourism industry and am a passionate traveler as well
Read more about me here or send me a travel coaching request if want to take advantage of my expert knowledge of Punta Cana’s tourism.

 First, you head west on an easy drive to Santo Domingo. The highway is well maintained and does have two lanes in each direction. On the way, I recommend stopping at Cueva de las Maravillas, the “Cave of Wonders”. The main attractions of this large and illuminated cave system are its paintings and engravings on the walls, which are over 500 years old and date back to the Taínos, the native inhabitants of the Dominican Republic.

Cueva de las MaravillasView of JarabacoaWaterfall Salto Jimenoa I

 Once passing Santo Domingo – which is amazingly easy as the 4-lane bypass has been completed since 2020 – you continue on the highway until you reach the central mountain area of the Dominican Republic, the Cordillera Central. After a short way up into the mountains, you arrive in Jarabacoa, one of the main towns here and the best choice to spend the night.

Expert tip: Have some local cash (Dominican Pesos) ready as you need to pay some tolls between Punta Cana and Santo Domingo. For this day you will pass 6 toll stations, where you pay a total of approx. 600 DOP (approx. 10 USD).

You should arrive in the early afternoon, which gives you time to explore the surrounding area. My recommendation is a short but steep hike (approx. 2x 30 minutes) on a well-marked hiking trail to Salto Jimenoa I, a gorgeous waterfall with a natural swimming pool. During this hike, you can get a first glimpse of the stunning beauty the Central mountain area has to offer.

Total distance: 225 miles / 365 kilometers
Driving time: approx. 5 hours in total
Accommodation Recommendations:
BACKPACKER ($) – Ananda* (very affordable local stay)
VALUE ($$) – Mi Hogar Jarabacoa* (well-rated guesthouse)
MID-RANGE ($$$) – Hotel Gran Jimenoa* (old hotel but top location on the river)
SPLURGE ($$$$) – The Grand Forest Jarabacoa* (stylish eco-lodge half-way between Jarabacoa and La Vega)
LUXURY ($$$$$) – n/a
Insider tip: after passing Santo Domingo and the last toll station close to Pedro Brand, stop on the side of the highway and buy a hot and grilled sweet potato from the various roadside vendors – a delicious treat!
Further information on Punta Cana Travel Blog: Best day trips from Punta Cana (incl. Cueva de las Maravillas)

Day 5: from Jarabacoa to Constanza

 Day 5 of your 8-day Punta Cana itinerary is waiting for you – and it is an action-filled one. Jarabacoa is home to various outdoor activities, with rafting and paragliding being the most famous ones. Both can be done for a fraction of the price of other countries. Both activities are around 50-60 USD each in the Dominican Republic. You can also head on a mountainbiking excursion or ATV tour.

 If you need an adrenaline boost, I would probably go with the rafting, as this is a fun-filled activity along the wild river of the Rio Yaque del Norte. The classification of this river depends on the water level but be prepared on a class II to IV rafting experience in Jarabacoa.

 Alternatively, paragliding is a unique and interesting option, even though I found it a bit short when I did it. However, the feeling of flying was amazing.

 After this exciting morning during your Punta Cana itinerary, check out the lunch options in Jarabacoa. There are plenty of good local options in the town center. Alternatively, if you’d like something exquisite, you can visit the restaurant Aroma de la Montaña for some amazing views over the entire valley.

Paragliding in JarabacoaRiver rafting in JarabacoaThe Cordillera CentralView of ConstanzaConstanza

 In the afternoon, you continue your road-trip and head towards Constanza. The winding road from Jarabacoa is slow, but in a good shape and offers marvelous and multiple views of the Cordillera Central. 

 With an altitude of approx. 1.200 meters (3,800 feet), Constanza is the highest city in the Dominican Republic and will welcome you with a milder climate and some chilly mountain breezes. However, don’t worry too much, temperatures during the day are still above 20 degrees Celsius / 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The city has a mere 50.000 inhabitants hence the nature is predominant here. Constanza is also interesting because a lot of the countries’ fruits and vegetables are coming from here, especially those which need a bit of a colder climate.

 As you should reach Constanza in the afternoon, there is time for the last activity in your Dominican Republic itinerary for this day. There are a statue and a viewpoint atop the city with impressive views over the city as well as the surrounding mountains, from which many reach more than 2000 meters / 6000 feet. The place is called Monumento Divino Niño and can be reached by car.

Total distance: 28 miles / 45 kilometers
Driving time: approx. 1:15 hours in total (+ short way up and down to Monumento Divino Niño)
Accommodation Recommendations:
BACKPACKER ($) – n/a
VALUE ($$) – Rancho Constanza* (great option for a road trip)
MID-RANGE ($$$) – Hotel Alto Cerro* (the best classic hotel in Constanza)
SPLURGE ($$$$) – Nubes de Chulavista* (elegant apartment with great views)
LUXURY ($$$$$) – n/a
Insider tip: in Constanza, have a beer or drink (and a meal if you want) at La Esquina Bar, one of the most unique bars in the Dominican Republic. It feels like you are in the European Alps.

Day 6: from Constanza to Santo Domingo

 Another part of the mountains is waiting for you: Ebano Verde Scientific Reserve. It is a protected nature reserve home to over 600 species of flora and fauna, including over 100 bird species (making it perfect for birdwatching in the Dominican Republic), giant tree frogs, lizards and over 80 species of orchids. It is also one of the most humid areas in the Dominican Republic and the source of many rivers. You can either explore Ebano Verde through the small waterfalls of El Arroyazo or hike one of the several trails. A guide is very recommendable and can be obtained through Ecoturismo Constanza*.

ConstanzaConstanzaEl Arroyazo at Ebano Verde

 From Ebano Verde, where you still can feel the chilly temperatures, you head down to the Cibao Valley, where the thermometer soon hits the 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) again. From here it’s just a 1-hour drive with your rental car until you reach Santo Domingo, where you will encounter the third big part of this Punta Cana itinerary: after beaches in Punta Cana and mountains in the Jarabacoa/Constanza area, it’s now time for culture and history.

By the way, if you don’t want to turn back yet and explore more of the Dominican Republic than explained here, check out the ultimate Dominican Republic itinerary. This road trip includes Constanza and Jarabacoa as well, but continues the journey towards the spectacular north coast.

Personal insider tip: It’s crucial that your hotel is located in the Colonial Zone as this is by far the best and safest area to be, plus you have everything within walking distance. That’s why all my accommodation recommendations below are also based in the Colonial Zone.

 As you will arrive in Santo Domingo in the afternoon, there is still time for the first explorations. You can explore a few of the historic streets without too much of an itinerary. Wander around and see what hidden gems you can find in the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo.

TRAVEL COACHING

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 At night, I’ll recommend dining out in of the several restaurants with outdoor patios and having a drink in one of the creative bars. (see day 7 below for more details)

Total distance: 90 miles / 145 kilometers
Driving time: approx. 3 hours in total
Accommodation Recommendations:
BACKPACKER ($) – Island Life Hostel* (the only real hostel in Santo Domingo – making backpackers happy for many decades)
VALUE ($$) – Honky Tonk Colonial* (a modern, affordable hotel in a historic and central location)
MID-RANGE ($$$) – Hotel Villa Colonial* (great mid-range option in the Colonial Zone)
SPLURGE ($$$$) – Billini Hotel* (elegant hotel in a historic building with popular rooftop pool and marvelous views)
LUXURY ($$$$$) – Casas de XVI* (wonderful historic suites in several century-old buildings)
Not the right accommodation among those proposals? Check out the 27 best Airbnbs in Santo Domingo for other unique places to stay.
Insider tip: when leaving Constanza, stop at one of the several roadside vendors and buy some fresh Dominican strawberries.
Further information on Punta Cana Travel Blog:
– 10 reasons why you should visit the Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo
– 23 exciting things-to-do in Santo Domingo (and 5 NOT to do)

Day 7: explore the Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo

 Today is your day to explore Santo Domingo. Keep note that it is best to leave your rental car in the hotel, as Santo Domingo is notorious for traffic jams and can be best explored on foot or with Uber.

Personal tip: In case your hotel doesn’t offer parking, you can use the public parking lot at Calle Arzobispo Merino (between Calle Las Mercedes and Calle Emiliano Tejera). Drive to your hotel, unload your bags, check-in and then head to the public parking to leave your car for the entire stay in Santo Domingo. Rates are very affordable, 24 hours are less then 8 USD if I am not mistaken.

In the morning, you should discover some of the historic treasures of the Colonial Zone (Zona Colonial). Some of the highlights include:

• Alcázar de Colón (or “Casa Colón” or the “House of Columbus”), the first castle residence in the Americas, which nowadays features one of the most popular museums in Santo Domingo
• Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, the most important religious building in Santo Domingo and the First Cathedral of the Americas
• Calle Las Damas, a historic cobblestone road and the oldest street of the Americas
• Fortaleza Ozama with views on the Ozama River, the oldest fortress in America
• Plaza de España, with magnificent views on the surrounding colonial buildings and the Alcázar de Colón

 All these things-to-see in Santo Domingo are walkable from all the accommodation recommendations I have provided, so it is easy to walk around.

 For the afternoon, there is no need to leave the Colonial Zone as there are plenty of secrets to explore. You can also check out one of the following activities in Santo Domingo.

The Colonial Zone in Santo DomingoThe Colonial Zone in Santo DomingoThe Colonial Zone in Santo DomingoThe Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo

With its ancient cobblestone streets, centuries-old buildings and creative art scene, it feels like an open-air museum when you walk around. If you need further information on what to see in this unique part of Caribbean history, check out my comprehensive guide about the Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo.

 If you want to see another part of Santo Domingo, you can take a taxi or an Uber and head to Los Tres Ojos National Park – a national park amidst the city. It consists of three lagoons fed by underground water and can be explored on foot. It is surrounded entirely by the concrete jungle of Santo Domingo, which makes it so special and unique.

 For your last night in the Dominican Republic, you should enjoy the nightlife of the Zona Colonial and celebrate the amazing memories you made during the past 7 days of this road-trip itinerary from Punta Cana. 

 If you want to splurge a bit, start by dining out at Plaza España, the most iconic setting in the entire city, with romantic views at night of the house of Columbus’ son. For some cheaper options, you can dine at Conde de Penalba at Plaza Colón.

The Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo at nightThe Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo at nightSanto Domingo at night, view from the Colonial Zone

 For a drink, I can highly recommend La Alpargateria, which is a beautiful patio with good cocktails. Alternatively, try out La Cocina de Cheska. 

 If you would like to go dancing, there is no way to miss Parada 77, the most popular dance bar in the entire area. Entrance is free (exceptions might apply on weekends) and you will see hundreds of Dominicans dancing to their favorite music, Salsa, Bachata and Merengue. In general, Dominicans love the Zona Colonial, so it is by far more local than you expect. It will give you an authentic glimpse of the local nightlife.

Accommodation Recommendations:
BACKPACKER ($) – Island Life Hostel* (the only real hostel in Santo Domingo – making backpackers happy for many decades)
VALUE ($$) – Honky Tonk Colonial* (a modern, affordable hotel in a historic and central location)
MID-RANGE ($$$) – Hotel Villa Colonial* (great mid-range option in the Colonial Zone)
SPLURGE ($$$$) – Billini Hotel* (elegant hotel in a historic building with popular rooftop pool and marvelous views)
LUXURY ($$$$$) – Casas de XVI* (wonderful historic suites in several century-old buildings)
Not the right accommodation among those proposals? Check out the 27 best Airbnbs in Santo Domingo for other unique places to stay.
Insider tip: I have lived in the Colonial Zone for 4 years and can give you every little detail you need. A lot of insider tips are already mentioned in the text, but if you are looking for more, just drop me an email.
Further information on Punta Cana Travel Blog:
– 10 reasons why you should visit the Zona Colonial of Santo Domingo
– 23 exciting things-to-do in Santo Domingo (and 5 NOT to do)

Day 8: from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana

 Unfortunately, this is the last day of your itinerary from/to Punta Cana, your road trip in the Dominican Republic is coming to an end. However, it’s not time to say goodbye before one last stop. While the way to Punta Cana is easy, you should stop approximately halfway at the rum distillery of Barceló, one of the most popular rum brands in the country. The visitor center is located amidst endless sugar cane plantations, where a lot can be learned about the distilling process, the history and the different brands. Make sure to buy a few bottles to take them home, you will hardly find them cheaper anywhere else (or maybe at a similar price in a local supermarket). 

Barceló Rum DestillerySay goodbye to the Dominican Republic

 Depending on the departure time of your flight, make sure to arrive around 3 hours before at the airport of Punta Cana, where you can drop off your car and check in for your flight.

This 1-week Punta Cana itinerary gave you an overview of the beauty of the Dominican Republic, but you have just seen about 10% on what the country has to offer, so make sure to come back and check out one of the other itineraries (such as the Samaná 3-day itinerary or the ultimate Dominican Republic itinerary), as there is a lot more to explore.

Total distance: 120 miles / 190 kilometers
Driving time: approx. 2.5 hours in total
Insider tip: When buying rum, get a Barceló Dark and a Barceló Onyx, those are two of the most delicious ones.

What if I don’t want to rent a car for this Dominican Republic itinerary?

 Don’t worry, this Dominican Republic itinerary is also possible without driving a car. In this case, you have three options:

 Taxi: this is the most expensive option, but of course, the easiest. Just grab a cab, negotiate a rate for the daily itinerary and head off. However, taxi prices are not cheap in the Dominican Republic. I would not recommend this option.

 Private driver: this is the most recommended option if you don’t want to drive on your own. A private driver usually brings his own car, so you just need to present the itinerary and go. Besides the negotiated rate, you would be responsible for all the expenses of the driver as long as not otherwise agreed on.

 Public transport: it’s possible to do this itinerary by public transport, even though you should add a few more days for it. In this case, I would suggest 1 additional night in Jarabacoa, 1 in Constanza and maybe 1 at the end in Punta Cana, depending on when your return flight is leaving. If you decide on doing this itinerary by public transport, you will go by bus, minivan, maxivan and mototaxis – all means of public transportation the Dominican Republic has to offer. Please pack light to make moving around easier!

What if you want to change this Punta Cana itinerary?

 If you would like to change the activities, add more days or have a different route, no problem. First, this is just an idea factoring in many of the experiences I have had in the last years, so everything is customizable. Feel free to change it according to your preferences. If you have any questions about how to customize it to your needs, let me know in the comments.

 If you’d like to have a tailor-made itinerary like the one above but with different conditions, you can also send me a travel coaching request. I am happy to either change the itinerary above or create a completely new one, depending on what exactly you are looking for. As I have traveled the entire country various times and I have been living in the Dominican Republic for many years, I am happy to share all the knowledge I have.

How can I book this itinerary?

 As I am just a travel blog and not a tour operator, you can’t book this itinerary directly through me. However, there are three options you can consider:

• If you’d like to book this Dominican Republic 8-day itinerary exactly as proposed (or similar), you can use the booking links I have included in the text above. I receive a small commission for those bookings, which is helping me maintain this website. You can find a complete list of all the accommodation recommended here*.

• If you’d like to book this itinerary and need professional assistance or if you would like to change this travel plan according to your preferences, you can contact me via my travel coaching.
• If you’d like to get everything organized by a professional tour operator, I am happy to put you in contact with a company that specializes in tailor-made trips through the entire Dominican Republic.

Practical travel info for your Punta Cana road trip

Transportation Options

In case you’re doubting which is the easist way of transportation, here is a quick comparison of all transport options you have:

Road Safety & Driving Tips

• Navigation: Google Maps works fine in the Dominican Republic, distances and travel times are mostly realistic. Still, try to use common sense and double-check in case Google Maps sends you weird ways.
• Driving Conditions: Main roads between Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and the north coast are in good shape. Expect potholes and slower driving outside of the main highways. Even on the highway, some unforeseen conditions can always occur.
• Night Driving: Avoid it. Many roads are poorly lit, and animals or unexpected obstacles can appear. Short distances from the restaurant to the hotel are not a problem at night, but you always should reach your destination before 6pm if possible.
• Gas Stations: Available on all major routes.
• Tolls: Highways between Punta Cana and Santo Domingo as well as the circumvalation around Santo Domingo have tolls—bring cash (RD$).
• Police Checks: the most important tip you need for driving in the Dominican Republic – never pay a ticket right on the road. If the police stops you and asks for money, it’s illegal. Get a ticket and pay it in the city at an official office. Everything else is a scam.

Packing Essentials

• Valid driver’s license (your national license is fine if written in Latin alphabet; otherwise bring an International Driving Permit).
• Cash in small bills for tolls (credit cards are usually accepted at gas stations).
• A power bank and offline maps in case of bad reception in the mountains.
• Light jacket or sweater for Constanza (temperatures can drop below 15°C at night, especially during the winter months).
• Swimsuit, sunscreen, mosquito repellent — because you’ll still spend plenty of time in the water.
• For more helpful packing tips, check my packing list here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it safe to drive in the Dominican Republic?

Yes, driving is generally safe if you avoid night driving and drive defensively. Main roads are generally in okay condition, especially between Punta Cana and Santo Domingo. Mountain roads are slower but scenic. Always get full insurance for your rental car. If you have never driven outside of your home country, I would not recommend doing such a road trip as your first holiday experience.

Do I need a car for this itinerary?

This itinerary is designed for renting a car – after all it’s a road trip. However, if you don’t want to drive, you can hire a private driver or use buses for parts of the route — just keep in mind that travel will take longer.

How much does a one-week road trip cost?

For two people, expect to spend around 500–700 USD for a rental car, fuel and tolls. Accommodation costs depend widely on your chosen category and can range from 40 USD per room per night up to 300 USD per room per night.

Can I do this trip with kids?

Yes, the route is family-friendly and the activities as well. Kids will particularly love the Cueva de las Maravillas, Montana Redonda, the pristine beaches, Salto Jimenoa waterfall and the kids activities in the Colonial Zone.

What is the best time of year for this itinerary?

You can do this loop year-round, but the best months are December to April (dry season, cooler in the mountains). May–November is the wetter season, with September being peak hurricane month, though rain usually comes in short bursts.

Can I follow this itinerary without booking all hotels in advance?

Yes, outside of Christmas, New Year, and Easter, it’s usually easy to book accommodation last minute. However, mountain lodges in Jarabacoa and Constanza are smaller, so reserving a few nights ahead is recommended.

What if I only have 5 days instead of 7?

You can shorten the loop by skipping the mountain area, focusing on Punta Cana and Santo Domingo. You could add a loop to Los Haitises if you love some nature adventures and would like to see one of the most popular national parks in the Dominican Republic. This would make a great loop for 5 days.

 Do you have any questions about this itinerary, which leads you from Punta Cana through the mountains and to Santo Domingo? Could you imagine heading out on such an adventurous road trip? Let me know in the comments what you think and I am happy to reply to your thoughts.

SHARING IS CARING! IF YOU ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE, PLEASE SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS – I WOULD APPRECIATE IT A LOT.

CHRIS

Author, Travel Coach & Industry Professional (Bachelor’s degree in tourism)

Hey, I am Chris, a born and raised German, travel-addictive and Caribbean soul, who has been living in the Dominican Republic for 6 years. I’d love to be your Punta Cana expert, as I have stayed at more than 45 all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana and the country, visited more than 70 beaches, explored more than 40 waterfalls and have seen basically all the attractions Punta Cana has to offer. I have also studied tourism for 3 years and worked in the tourism industry my entire life, which is why I am not only giving you recommendations and tips as a traveler but also the best secrets and travel hacks as an industry professional.
Do you need more information? Read more at my About Me Page, send me a travel coaching request or Contact Me here.

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