Puerto Plata is well known for its gorgeous beaches and glamorous beach-side living that lure visitors from far and wide. However, there’s a lot more to this breathtaking city that has the potential to take your breath away. Here are top five experiences in Puerto Plata that will show you the best of city’s natural, cultural and architectural heritage.
Mount Isabel de Torres
If you can’t think of a better way to explore a place than by soaking in the stunning vistas from several feet high in the sky, the trip to Mount Isable de Torres is for you. You can take the cable car to the top or put on your hiking shoes and prepare yourself for a little activity. No matter what you decide, you’ll be treated to astounding views of the city on your way to the top. The statue of Christ and the lush botanical gardens atop make for a pleasing sight. You can also shop for souvenirs from the vendors selling jewellery and crafts under the Christ statue.
27 Charcos
27 Charcos refers to a group of 27 waterfalls of Damajagua, lying in the rolling hills of the Northern Corridor mountain range. The experience of exploring these waterfalls is frequently touted as one of the best things to do in Dominican Republic. To reach to each of these waterfalls, you either have to swim or climb a mountain or jump down one, making this experience rate very high on thrill seekers’ list. The trip, however, needs to be taken under the supervision of a guide. Depending upon your interest and fitness level, you can go up to the 7th, 12th or 27th waterfall.
Ocean World Adventure Park
A one-stop destination for family fun, the Ocean World Adventure Park is one of the star attractions of a Caribbean holiday. There are a number of fun slides and rides that cater to the whole family. Additionally, one can have close encounters with sharks and sea lions through interactive sessions. Swimming with dolphins is one of the most popular experiences amongst patrons. Don’t miss checking out a tropical reef aquarium, shark tanks, a rain forest, and a Tiger Grotto inhabited by Bengal tigers. For adult-only fun, leave the kids at home and discover the glamorous nightlife of Ocean World through a Bravissimo show, a magic dinner and play time at a casino.
Gri Gri Lagoon
Discover the gorgeous underwater life of the Dominican Republic at the Gri Gri Lagoon, just 100 kilometres from Puerto Plata, located in the fishing village of Río San Juan. A snorkelling adventure here will reveal the popular story of a sunken shipwreck – the Concepcion. Gri Gri Lagoon, set along lush mangroves, is also one of the most popular bird sanctuaries in the country and you can discover some of the rarest indigenous birds here. A guided tour of the lagoon will take you to Cueva de Las Golondrinas (Cave of the Swallows), a shallow cove fit for swimming, before ending at Playa Caletón, a stunning beach.
Victorian Times
The old centre of Puerto Plata, Victorian Times is an architecture lover’s paradise, boasting bronze sculptures, a cathedral and beautiful and colourful colonial-styled houses. A walk down the narrow streets here will lead you to the City Hall, Palace of Justice and several old government office buildings where you can’t help but feel like travelling back in time to the colonial era.
