Se hva du kan gjøre og oppleve i Punta Cana

Altos de Chavon is, perhaps, a rather unlikely attraction for the Dominican Republic – it is a recreation of a 16th-century Mediterranean village (adjacent to the Casa de Campo resort), complete with dining, shopping and entertainment. There is an on-site Grecian-style amphitheater that plays host to major performances and concerts, and views over Rio Chavon from here are spectacular, too.

Internalized in multiple motion pictures, the Rio Chavon and its surrounding valley are a definitive must-see. Take a cruise or join a guided Rio Chavon Jungle tour with one of the many local companies offering the service, or take in the area in its entirety from atop Altos de Chavon.

Approximately 800 meters below the ground lie the ancient las Maravillas caves, whose age is estimated to be somewhere around 100,000 years. The caves are now open to the public, and an option of taking the elevator back up exists for those not thrilled about the upwards climb. See stalactite and stalagmite formations, wall pictographs, and even local fauna (iguanas).

The Casa de Campo Resort's very own beach is accessible to non-guests for a fee which grants visitors access to the well-maintained premises. Activities available range from water sports (kayaking, paddle boarding, windsurfing, etc.) to bike rental.

La Romana's unlikely dining scene champion is Shish Kabab, a Middle Eastern restaurant serving a wide array of delectable dishes of world cuisine (with an emphasis on Lebanese and local Dominican fare). Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Carlos Pichardo serves excellent grilled meats and burgers at his very own Dom Ham, a breezy restaurant (doubling as bar) with a laid-back atmosphere, regular live music performances, and an incredible beer list that features labels from all over the world.

The undisputed best Italian cuisine in La Romana is served at family-run Restaurant Lucas, a quaint location with in- and outdoor seating available. Pasta is made fresh in-house, and a wide assortment of Italian dishes is on offer, including seafood such as lobster.

The charming, centrally located Trigo de Oro is a delightful French-style cafe and bakery serving a wide selection of snacks and dessert, making it an all-around good choice any time of day. Serves delectable croissants and pastries, and sandwiches for those who choose to opt for savory.

At the heart of the Altos de Chavon historical site, this chain-restaurant opened 24/7 is one of the unmissable places of Dominican nightlife. This atmospheric location is one that serves great pizzas and tapas by day, and turns into a relaxed, low-key hang out lounge after dinner hours are over. A wide selection of drinks and cocktails grace the menu, making it an easy pick for an evening out in La Romana. Happy hours from 6pm to 8pm and special evenings organized every week also makes this bar a very dynamic one on the island.

The Multiplaza shopping center contains over 80 stores and boutiques, a varied food court (with international and local fast food eateries represented), essentials such as pharmacies and banks, a modern 7-screen cinema with a frequently updated movie list, and a gym.

Going on an expedition in the Iguabonita Cave, zip-lining from the Farallon Cliff or discovering the renowned natural spring waters of Hoyo Hazul, or even heading to the natural theme park of Scape Park, are all options that offer a wide range of cultural and adventurous activities for everyone. Apart from having close encounters with parrots and monkeys, you can also simply enjoy the Caribbean sun and relax on the white sandy beach of Juanillo. Many options and different tours are available as well free transportation from most hotels of Punta Cana and some restaurants.

If you want to pamper yourself on a well-deserved afternoon of relaxation, try the Ocean Spa. You will board a boat to spend an entire afternoon on, where you'll be able to take advantage of bio-pilates classes, a personalized massage and a fish pedicure. Fresh beverages and snacks are also provided.

If you are looking for a new way to explore the landscapes of the Dominican Republic, how about trying to ride the dunes of Bavaro in an eco-friendly buggy across off-road paths. Along the 10-kilometer trail, you will have the chance to discover the beauty of the Dominican countryside, with its colorful vegetation and hill formations. A visit to the Fantasy Cave is included as well as a stop to try local coffee and chocolate. The tour ends with a visit to Bedrock city, caves characterized by stalactites and stalagmites. A guide will supervise small groups of people willing to experience the less traveled roads of the island.

Tired of the beach? You can see the outback of Punta Cana aboard an open-air truck suited for tourists. The guides will give you insights into the traditional way of life in the Dominican Republic, but you will also have the opportunity to meet with locals in person, discover the cocoa and coffee farms, as well as rural schools. It will also be the occasion for you to sample cane sugar and delicious fresh fruit, as well as see wild animals. The tour will also stop at a shop that sells rum, cigars, cocoa... at local prices. It is the opportunity to learn more about the Dominican culture, history and customs while admiring the tropical countryside. Drinks and snacks are included and guests are picked up and dropped off at their hotels.

As the name suggests, this tour introduces you to quirky local inhabitants - monkeys - but also grants insight into local lifestyles. You will first have the opportunity to learn how coconut oil is produced at the Casa del Coco, as well as try some local specialties like exotic fruit or roasted coffee. Then, you will have the time to admire and play with the friendly squirrel monkeys - the monkeys are harmless and often initiate contact with humans. On the way to meet them, the open truck will guide you through Higuey and offer you the chance to admire the mountain and a typical Dominican house. Drinks are included and guests are picked up and dropped off from their hotels.

This company offers several marine tours for you to take time for yourself and relax aboard a luxury boat. You can choose between different activities such as Saona Dive and Snorkel, Punta Cana Scuba Diving, Catalina Island Adventure, Saona Speedboat and Catamaran. All the tours are well organized and the guides take care of the visitors with meals and drinks included. Pick-ups and drop-offs are made at your hotel.

Among the numerous beaches that Punta Cana is famous for, Bávaro Beach is probably one of the most popular ones for tourists who come to sunbathe on deck chairs or take a dip in the turquoise blue sea. If you don't feel like spending all day at the beach, you still have a variety of activities at your disposal: from entertainment at casinos and watching live shows, to water activities like scuba diving, snorkeling or sailing. Lifeguards will be there to ensure security.

The Macao beach is probably the best spot of the Dominican Republic to surf. Whether you are a beginner who always dreamed of experiencing surfing or you have advanced skills in riding the waves, everyone is welcome reagrdless. In small groups, the instructors will help you master proper technique, first on the beach for the less advanced ones, and then directly in the water. There is a possibility to have the lessons taught in Spanish, English, Russian or Italian. Drinks and snacks are provided.

If you are looking for a different way to explore the lush vegetation of the Dominican Republic, consider riding a horse and discovering the outback of the island. On your way, a stop will be made for you to learn more about the local cultural life by tasting some fresh cocoa and trying your hand at rolling your own cigars. You'll have a choice of several different tours but you will always finish your ride with a zip line across the forest.

Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park is a private protected area owned and operated by Puntacana Ecological Foundation. About 1,500 acres of reserve await you in this tropical wonderland. Explore the several lagoons in the shape of an eye and take a dip in some of them. After, pay a visit to the zoo or the iguana habitat to have a complete experience of the fauna and the flora of the Dominican Republic. There is a possibility to visit with a guide or independently.

The Isla Catalina is just a ferry ride away from Dominican Republic’s mainland, providing a personal luxury getaway or a diving or snorkeling trip to some of the best reefs of the region. Away from the bustling sites of Punta Cana and La Romana, it is the ideal spot to enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches for those in search of peace.

Besides the idyllic settings of clear blue waters and white sandy beaches, the Dominican Republic is also renowned for its golf courses. One of the more popular ones is the Punta Blanca Golf Club, designed by the famous player and golf course designer Nick Price. You have the opportunity to work your swing among luxuriant vegetation, natural wetland areas, lakes and rolling hills. Drinks and snacks are included.

Punta Cana offers great fishing opportunities with over seven months of bill fish season. Fishing off the East Coast is regarded as one of the top five of the world’s best bill-fish areas. Blue marlin and sailfish are among some of the fish that you can expect to catch. The Marina is also a famous spot for fishing tournaments and has become a popular destination among those who enjoy fishing and breaking records. Among all the different fishing charters and tours in the Marina Bay, Mike's Marina Fishing Charters offers a large choice of boats for shared or private fishing charters as well as participation in national and international sport fishing tournaments.

The long stretch of sandy coastline is Punta Cana's claim to fame. Powdery white sand is fringed by coquettish coconut palms. Located away from the popular Bavaro, Playa Juanillo has kept its original allure, and much of it still appears to be untouched by man. In a calm and low-key location, with its only one restaurant, it's the perfect place for relaxing on the sunbeds while admiring the sunset.

Swimming with dolphins is a dream for many looking to share an intense moment of tenderness with the animals. Here at Dolphin Island you will also have the possibility to interact with other animals such as sea lions, sharks and stingrays and make this moment an unforgettable and unique one. Different activities are proposed in order for you to come close to these amazing aquatic animals in their natural habitat. Snorkeling with sharks and jet boat rides are also offered during the tours.

The Manatí Park Bavaro theme park offers a getaway for the whole family, invited to discover and learn more about the Caribbean fauna and flora. The largest animal collection of the country hosts more than 150 species of animals and plants and visitors will even have the opportunity to come into close contact with some of them, suh as parrots, iguanas or dolphins. Four animal shows are performed daily as well as a ritual show of the ancestral Taino culture, a step into Dominican history and traditions.

The stunning Jesus Maestro Parish welcomes everyone who may want to attend mass in a different Catholic country or simply visit the church. The architecture is quite unique, with a crisp white exterior and domed roof. Check the hours to attend the masses that are held in Spanish most of the time, but some translations and gospels in English are arranged for the tourists.

After having tried typical Dominican food, try exploring different flavors from Central America and the Caribbean. At Wacamole, you will find authentic Mexican specialties like the world-famous tacos and fajitas, but also dishes inspired by local produce like seafood. In this open-air taqueria, different kinds of pub food are served in a relaxed environment, usually with live music. Accompany your meal with some tequila shots and fruit cocktails to have a complete Mexican dining experience.

On the tiny outdoor terrace of Little John restaurant you can enjoy a great view of the sea while grabbing a quick bite. Classic bar food like pizzas and burgers are served as well as some local specialties of sea food to satisfy everyone. Enjoy your meal in this open-air restaurant on the beach and relax with a fresh cocktail in hand.

Winner of 7 Michelin stars, Passion at Paradisus Palma Real is one of the most recognized restaurants in Punta Cana. Martin Berasategui, a celebrated Spanish chef, developed fine courses for diners in search of delicacies and new flavors. Enjoy a romantic and elegant atmosphere with incredible Spanish tapas or succulent fish dishes. A once in a lifetime dining experience. Due to its reputation and long waiting times, book beforehand and do not forget to dress appropriately.

A standing favorite in Bávaro, Jellyfish is a meld of natural ingredients all culminating in a comfortable beach setting. Specialized in fresh fish from local fishermen and shellfish dishes, it brings forward the finest flavors of the Dominican Republic. Topped with a lounge offering a splendid view of the beach, Jellyfish is perfect for family outings or date nights. There is also a special service which organizes weddings and events.

Dine beneath a palapa-shaded table on a pier overlooking the Caribbean's gentle waters with a very pleasant view over the ocean. The restaurant's small fleet of fishing boats traverses the waters for fresh fish, which are in turn served to you daily. A variety of seafood dishes are on offer along with traditional Dominican specialties.

The gorgeously casual ambiance of Playa Blanca is not to be underestimated, as guests are invited to taste fresh seafood while enjoying sweeping views of the white sand beach. The restaurant serves fresh local seafood as well as a variety of meat or fish dishes which can be accompanied by a freshly made fruit cocktail.

The AAA Three Diamond Award-winning La Yola was named for the yola, or the small, local fishing boats from which their expert seafood is caught. The menu is a fusion of Mediterranean and Caribbean influences served in a space modeled after a fisherman’s boat and perched right on the sea with magnificent views of the ocean. Cocktails or other drinks can be savored, especially during the happy hours from 5pm to 7pm.

Dine at the AAA Four Diamond Award-winning Bamboo Restaurant and experience local cooking with an influence from Mediterranean flavors. Nestled at the exclusive Tortuga Bay, the setting was designed by the renowned Dominican-American fashion designer Oscar de la Renta who conceived this snug and elegant atmosphere. On the menu are fresh vegetables from organic gardens, Lion Fish dishes (one of the restaurant's specialties), and a large cold and hot dish buffet for breakfast.

The Hard Rock Cafe, one of the favorites among tourists, is conveniently located in the Palma Real Shopping Village, an upscale mall in Bávaro. Enjoy its signature authentic rock atmosphere and great American fare influenced by the location and the regional cuisine. Stop by and enjoy a yummy meal or a refreshing cocktail while listening to some live music or just relax in the outdoor patio.

Agave is the ultimate Mexican dining experience at the Excellence Resort. Enjoy the buffet-style venue and a wide variety of authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes like burritos and fajitas, whether you like you food spicy or mild.

For those looking for a place to have a snack, the old bakery of Las Leñas, one of the first in the Bavaro area, offers different kinds of pastries and breads for breakfast or brunch, as well as savory dishes like sandwiches and tortillas. With natural juices and aromatic coffee, it's an authentic local meeting place excellent for a refreshing break at this now well-known Dominican cafe.

Kat's Corner is an open-air bar that serves breakfast meals like scrambled eggs with bacon and potato pancakes, but also Mexican specialties with its burrito breakfast and other kinds of quesadillas and nachos. You can come at any time of day to enjoy fast food dishes with fresh juices or fruit cocktails. Live acoustic music is put on weekly.

JOY Nutritional Popsicle is a nice and cozy place to have breakfast, sweet or savory, or both lunch and dinner, as the menu teems with salads, burgers and sandwiches. A lot of vegetarian and vegan options are available, and they serve fresh natural juices and smoothies. Take a look at the ice cream card and finish your meal with the restaurant's specialty, a popsicle.

The thatched-roofed palapa is the signature of Huracán Café. Enjoy a meal on the wooden deck in the sand with a wonderful view of the ocean or relax on a deck chair with a mojito or caipirinha in the hand. The menu features delicious pastas and other Italian dishes. Weddings and special occasions are another specialty of the restaurant.

For bagel and sandwich lovers, Brot Bagel offers a large choice of breakfast meals. Between two shopping sessions at Galerias de Punta Cana, take a break and enjoy fresh or hot beverages along with breakfast burritos, salads and wraps. Multiple sweet or savory options for a complete breakfast.

If you are looking for a different way of partying and clubing, consider descending into a cave and dancing all night in this one of a kind setting. In this place built in the remains of a castle, be prepared to experience a unique party you can only have in Punta Cana. Several packages are proposed for parties with different music styles, and even Spring Break parties.

Hard Rock Casino offers you more than a simple gambling experience. Indeed, in this incredible 45,000-square-foot setting, you will find more than 40 table games and 400 other kinds of roulettes and slots. Whether you are a confirmed poker player, an amateur of blackjack, craps and baccarat or just looking for a nice place to chill out at the bar, everyone can enjoy this casino in their own way.

For a night of drinking and dancing with locals on any day of the week, Drink Point is one of the most reputed nightclubs in Punta Cana to head to for the purpose. To the sound of traditional Caribbean and Latin music, such as bachata and merengue, you can experience a true Dominican dance night and drink local cocktails or rums.

Mangu Disco is located at the Hotel Occidental Grand Punta Cana. This two-floor club booms with all kind of music styles, from electronic to merengue and bachata, salsa and even rock and Reggae. If you don't feel like dancing, the bar also features a big screen where you can watch soccer, football, baseball, boxing, racing and more. Locals and tourists mix together to enjoy the music and dance all night long.

ORO is Hard Rock’s answer to the Punta Cana nightclubs. With guest shows by some of the top performers of today, theme nights and local and international DJs, you will experience Caribbean nightlife at its most vibrant. The setting of about 14,000 square feet with its two levels features intelligent show lighting and a unique LED wall which makes the show performances all the more impressive.

The Punta Cana installment of this internationally celebrated chain attracts both locals and visitors in near-equal proportion. Music played includes styles enjoyed locally alongside international top hits.

Located in the luxurious Caribe Club Princess, Areito Disco is decorated in an indigenous theme with aboriginal elements. Live shows and events are organized frequently but you can simply come to enjoy a freshly mmixed cocktail and dance all night long.

This is the premiere shopping destination in Punta Cana that is a must for you if you happen to be into substantial shopping sprees. Between two sunbathing sessions on the beach, you can come here to refresh by looking around clothing shops and other kind of boutiques or even grabbing a bite at one of the village's restaurants.

Go out and mingle with the locals at Plaza Bávaro. Wander around the shops, search for bargains or get souvenirs to bring home, such as cigars or crafts from local shops, and truly experience where everyday Dominicans do their shopping.

Come and visit the Don Lucas Cigars shop and discover the Dominican tradition of cigar making. This brand is very popular in the area and by visiting its factory, you will have the chance to learn about the history of different types of cigars and find out more about the flagship product of the Dominican Republic.

The Galerias at Puntacana Village reside within the blossoming shopping, dining, and residential complex of Puntacana Resort & Club. After a day full of discovery and new experiences on the island, stroll around this place and relax by doing some window shopping. A large choice of restaurants offers you a refreshing break and a playground is available for families.

If you want to discover true Dominican flavors and taste the finest chocolates from Central and South Americas, you will have the opportunity at this one of the kind museum. Here you can learn more about the history of this renowned chocolate, but what makes this visit special is that you have the chance to make your own chocolate from the beans of Dominican cacao in the chocolate workshop. Besides, a visit to the chocolate factory and museum is totally free.

Don't except brand name shops in the Plaza Uvero Alto shopping center because this place is recognized for its handcraft shops filled with regional paintings, ceramics and other handmade souvenir items. The local shopkeepers, who only speak Spanish, showcase their products in beautiful colorful kiosks which make this shopping area a really interesting one.

Step into Harrison's Fine Caribbean Jewelers and discover the Dominican tradition of jewelry in one of the largest jewelry shop chains on the island. You will find a unique collection of rings, earrings and necklaces including a large selection of larimar and amber pieces, as well as diamonds and other gems.

La Perla Dominicana's cigars are entirely hand-rolled and made from the finest tobacco plants. Harvested on plantations from the top production areas for Dominican tobaccos, their cigars are an exclusive souvenir from the Dominican Republic. You can discover how cigars are produced during the factory tour which includes a guided tasting experience; at the end, you will have the possibility to purchase the cigars, but also a variety of local rums, spices, and coffees.

Located in the San Juan Shopping Center, Museo del Artesano is a complete souvenir shop. Find multitudes of gifts at great prices and of good quality. It's a must if you're looking for either common souvenirs like T-shirts and hats or more authentic local ones such as Dominican ceramics or cigars.

San Juan Shopping Center, located close to Downtown Punta Cana, has a large choice of stores of both national and international brands. Popular for tourists as much as locals, it contains designer shops, local traders, a grocery supermarket, and restaurants.

Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is located in the heart of Punta Cana, only a short shuttle ride from your final destination. Taxis and buses are available at the airport and many resorts supply their guests with personal or group shuttle services.

The Dominican Republic allows nationals from eight countries to enter without a visa or a tourist entry tax (previously known as a tourist card, amounting to US$10). These eight countries are Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Israel, Japan, Peru, South Korea and Uruguay. Residents of the United Kingdom and those holding a valid visa to enter Canada, the United States or any European Union country do not require a tourist visa (tourist card) to enter the Dominican Republic. The tourist entry tax of US$10 should be included in the price of the flight ticket. Nationals who aren't in possession of a valid visa for Canada, the United States or any European Union country must obtain a tourist visa which must be done in person at the Dominican Consulate nearest to their place of residence. Nationals from 95 countries can enter the Dominican Republic by paying the tourism entry tax of US$10 which should be already included in the air fare. Alternatively, the tourist card can be obtained at the airport upon arrival at Punta Cana International Airport. Check out the list of the 95 countries. The tourist cards are valid for 30 days from the date of entry. You can apply for a tourist card at a consulate near you, online (www.dgii.gov.do/Paginas/inicio.aspx) or at the airport upon arrival.

There are two distinct tourist high seasons in the Dominican Republic: the summer months of July and August, mostly for northern-hemisphere travelers, and winter season between December and late February, when the Dominican climate is at its best. But since the weather is warm all year round, trips can be organized at any time of the year. During the summer, temperatures fluctuate from 25 °C to 28 °C and the weather is very hot and humid. The best time to visit the Dominican Republic is therefore during the dry season, from November to April, since the climate is drier but still warm. Regarding water temperature, it rarely falls below 27 °C. The Dominican Republic is also in the center of the Caribbean hurricane belt and can be hit by storms especially during the hurricane season in August and September. If you are planning a trip to the Dominican Republic during the high summer season, and especially if you're heading to Punta Cana, expect higher hotel and resort prices and crowded beaches. Whale-watching runs from around mid-January to mid-March.

Punta Cana is located in the Atlantic Standard time zone, and all times are reflected in Atlantic time.

The public bus system covers both Punta Cana and Bavaro and is low cost, but navigating it can get tricky. Bus stops are not clearly marked and you can hail a minibus (Guacas) anywhere, that's why it is recommended to tell the driver in advance where you want to get off. Tickets can be purchased on board.

Taxis and shuttles are commonplace and can be found almost everywhere you want to travel to. Don’t forget that many attractions will provide free transit if you call ahead or get your resort’s travel desk to book for you. Taxi services in Punta Cana are safe and common, but make sure to set a price before taking a ride. You can book a taxi at hubs at the airport and at most resorts, shopping venues, and attractions. They have fixed rates, which are displayed on a white board in the outer arrival's hall.

A post office is located at Punta Cana Airport, selling postcards and stamps. Dominica Republic's postal service is not renowned for its efficiency, and post can take a few months to reach its destination.

Three are several pharmacies in Punta Cana. Pharmacia Estrella: Plaza Estrella Bavaro, Avenida España, Punta Cana +1 809 552 0344, 8am - 11pm Pharma 360: Primer Nivel 106, Punta Cana +1 809 455 1708, 8am - 12am Farmacia: Plaza San Juan Shopping Center, Avenida Barceló, Punta Cana +1 809 933 4444, 8am - 10pm

Country codes: +1 809, +1 829, +1 849

120 volts, 60 Hz American style two-pin plugs