Service & Natural Splendor in Dominican Republic - 10 Day

Daily Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in the Dominican Republic and Travel to Community

Upon arrival, you'll meet with your Tour Manager and head to a cooperative community rustic lodge in the mountains north of Santiago and take in the beautiful views on the way  The idea in building this lodge was to gradually develop the area as a rural tourism destination. In collaboration with USAID, the UN and the Dominican Sustainable Tourist Alliance, three lovely rustic cabins were completed in February of 2012. This rural lodge is now in full swing and through the cooperative efforts of community members, it in helps to supplement the incomes of 27 local families. 

Day 2– Orientation and Begin Service Project

After a traditional breakfast, you will gather for an orientation about the exciting days ahead including an introduction to the lodge, the community, the art center that trains local women in micro-enterprise, the challenges the community faces, and the service work you will be doing. You will then meet at the work site to be briefed on the community project and talk with the local leaders who will be working with us. You will then begin your service work.

Some examples of service projects include paving pathways and clearing trails at the lodge, teaching local children about environmental issues (putting garbage in its place, composting), teaching a special craft to kids at the local art center, or painting the facilities at the non-profit or other community center.

Days 3-8 – Community Service Project, Coffee Farm, Rappelling, Salto Jimenoa Waterfall

Each day after breakfast and lunch, you'll spend time working on your community service project.

One half day, you will visit a local coffee farm and learn how coffee is produced from growing the berries to enjoying a delicious cup of hot coffee. You will also get the opportunity to see great views from a lookout point and then rappel down the rock face!

Another adventure will include a visit the impressive Salto Jimenoa Waterfall in Jarabacoa, perfect for splashing around and cooling off!

In the late afternoons and evenings, you will enjoy activities to experience local culture. You may learn about local traditions, visit the local hydroelectric plant, play baseball with community children, learn to dance the bachata and merengue or play dominoes!

On your final night in the community, you will have a farewell dinner and celebration with your new friends at the lodge.

Day 9 – Travel to Santo Domingo

After breakfast at the lodge you will say goodbye to your new friends. You will then depart for Santo Domingo. Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to tour the historical center of the city.

This evening you will have a delicious dinner, reminiscing about the time shared together in the Dominican Republic. After dinner you will return to your hotel to pack up before your flight home.

Day 10 – Depart

Your Dominican Republic adventure comes to a close today as you depart early for the international airport.