Birding in the Dominican Republic / With Driver-Guide

The day begins in Santo Domingo with a guided walk through the National Botanical Garden, a green oasis in the heart of the capital and an ideal introduction to the birdlife of the Dominican Republic. During the approximately two-hour tour, you will discover some of Hispaniola's endemic and characteristic species in a diverse environment of tropical plants, palm trees, ponds, and shady forest paths.

With a bit of luck, you may already spot species such as the Hispaniolan Woodpecker, Broad-billed Tody, Hispaniolan Amazon, Palmchat, various doves, herons, and other characteristic birds of the island. The visit offers a pleasant and engaging introduction before the journey continues into the biodiverse southwest.

Afterwards, the journey continues towards Duvergé, the gateway to some of the country’s most important birding areas.

• Distance: Approximately 220 km
• Meals included: Lunch
• Accommodation: Private accommodation in Duvergé

Exploring the Sierra de Bahoruco with Rabo de Gato and Loma Charco Azul, two important areas for endemic and characteristic bird species.

• Distance: Approximately 20 km
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
• Accommodation: Private accommodation in Duvergé

Today you will visit the Cachote Cloud Forest, an atmospheric mountain region above Barahona. Surrounded by lush vegetation, ferns, mosses, and mystical veils of mist, you will experience one of the Dominican Republic’s most pristine and untouched natural settings.

Cachote is an excellent area for birdwatching. With a bit of luck, you may spot species such as the Hispaniolan Trogon, Narrow-billed Tody, Hispaniolan Emerald Hummingbird, La Selle Thrush, or Rufous-throated Solitaire.

Afterwards, the journey continues to Santo Domingo.

• Distance: Approximately 215 km
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
• Accommodation: Hotel Villa Colonial

Today you will visit the impressive Los Haitises National Park, one of the most important nature reserves and birdwatching destinations in the Dominican Republic. Surrounded by rainforest, mangroves, karst formations, and tranquil waterways, you will set out in search of the rare Ridgway’s Hawk, an endemic and highly endangered bird of prey found only on Hispaniola.

Beyond this highlight, the park also offers excellent opportunities to spot other bird species such as the Hispaniolan Amazon, White-necked Crow, Broad-billed Tody, herons, frigatebirds, and pelicans. The combination of birding and spectacular scenery makes Los Haitises a memorable finale to the journey.

Afterwards, you will be transferred to the airport or to your agreed departure point.

• Distance: Approximately 170 km
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
• Accommodation: Hotel Villa Colonial

Transfer to Las Américas International Airport or to an agreed point in Santo Domingo.

• Distance: Approximately 25 km
• Meals included: breakfast