Located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata is a popular destination for visitors from around the world. There are many things to see and do in this beautiful city.
One of the top things to do in Puerto Plata is ride the cable car. This journey takes you to the top of Isabel de Torres, a landmark that overlooks the city.
Mount Isabel de Torres
The 739-meter-high mountain Mount Isabel de Torres is the top attraction for travelers in Puerto Plata. It boasts botanical gardens, natural caves, streams and creeks that are a haven for endemic flora and fauna.
The cable car ride up the mountain is included on most Puerto Plata sightseeing tours. It’s also easy to visit independently for a day trip from the city center.
While you’re at the summit, take some time to admire a replica of Christ the Redeemer statue. It’s a smaller version than the one in Rio de Janeiro, but it’s still impressive.
The Amber Museum
One of the Dominican Republic's most popular attractions, The Amber Museum is housed in an impressively restored Victorian building. It's a charming glimpse into the area's colonial past, and it's worth checking out as part of your tour of Puerto Plata.
The museum showcases a collection of rare amber specimens, including pieces with prehistoric animals and plants trapped within the precious resin. The museum also features a state-of-the-art lab where scientists work to study and analyze the specimens.
Monkeyland
Monkeyland is a sanctuary for squirrel monkeys, located in a natural jungle habitat. It's also home to a botanical garden with medicinal plants, flowers and fruit trees.
The monkeys are looked after by a Canadian couple who have worked with animals for decades, teaching them to trust and enjoy human contact. They often come down from the trees to sit on your shoulder or eat from your hand.
After your city tour, visit Monkeyland to see these charming and intelligent animals in a natural habitat. The park also offers a zipline adventure.
Whale-Watching Tours
Located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata is a beautiful area known for its stunning beaches and lush vegetation. It's also home to many historical landmarks and cultural attractions.
Whale-Watching Tours are a great way to enjoy the beauty of the Dominican coastline and witness spectacular marine life in their natural habitat. There are plenty of boat tours available in the area, so you can choose one that fits your budget and schedule.
Humpback whales migrate to the Dominican Republic from mid-December to mid-March, so you'll want to book a tour during that time to increase your chances of spotting these giant animals.
Damajagua Waterfalls
The Damajagua Waterfalls, also known as 27 Charcos de Damajagua, are one of the most exciting natural attractions in Puerto Plata. A national monument and protected area, these waterfalls are a favorite among eco tourists and locals alike.
Discover the hidden natural wonders of this stunning landscape on a guided visit to 27 Waterfalls, complete with hiking, swimming and jumping into deep blue waters. Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
The waterfalls were discovered in the 1990s and are a popular destination for eco-tourists, who love the adventure of climbing and sliding down natural waterslides, followed by an excellent lunch. Kennedy received grant money from USAID and the UN Development Program to build the area, train guides on safety precautions and develop sustainable ways of earning income from the falls.
Laguna Dudu
The lagoon at Laguna Dudu is a must-see for nature lovers. The clear turquoise water is surrounded by steep cliffs that are home to an overhead zip line.
While there, stop by a Taino cave and enjoy a slew of enticing attractions including a mini zoo and some plantations. The best way to see the area is on a small-group tour. It’s a great way to get away from the crowds and take in some of the most spectacular scenery in the Dominican Republic. It’s also one of the most budget-friendly options around. The cost is around 150 DR dollars per person. The most memorable part of the trip is the ambiance and the fact that you’re getting to see something so unique in the country.