Dominican Republic: Spanish Language and Mountain Immersion

Arrive at Las Americas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo and meet your program leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head directly to Jarabacoa, a three-hour-plus drive, and settle in. Join the group for an orientation discussion and an introduction to the local culture. Have a hot, local dinner and get some sleep for a big day tomorrow.

Flights: Rustic Pathways is happy to book your flights as an optional add-on service.

Overnight: Bohíos de Campo Añil, Jarabacoa

The next couple of days you’ll get an overview of Dominican history and culture. Spend your mornings and afternoons taking Spanish classes, working on foundational grammar and vocabulary. Learn about Dominican culture and colloquialisms. Participate in cultural activities such as history lessons and dance classes in the evening.

On day 3 celebrate the end of your last Spanish class and take a trip to Salto Baiguate, an easily accessible waterfall with shallow, jade colored waters. Wrap up the day with a fresh fruit smoothie in the town of Jarabacoa.

Overnight: Bohíos de Campo Añil, Jarabacoa

Head out for a hike and then return to the eco-lodge to unwind and enjoy an authentic Dominican lunch. Hop in the van to travel through the foothills to the region of La Angostura where you’ll meet your host families. You and a roommate will call this house your home for the next two nights. Spend the evening getting to know your hosts and learning about life in La Angostura.

The next day, after breakfast with your host family, head further up the mountain to begin your service projects. Work alongside local farmers and volunteers on projects geared toward the environment or improving local village infrastructure. After service, discuss your service experience with your group focusing on responsible tourism, water access and local community resources.

Overnight: Homestay, La Angostura

Wake up early in the morning, have breakfast and drive to the beach town of Juan Dolio. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beaches of the South Coast. Have lunch and swim in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, soaking up the sun after your days of hard work.

Overnight: Hotel Novus Plaza, Santo Domingo

Tour of the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the first university, cathedral, and hospital in the Americas. Explore the walled city and learn about the deep history of the first European settlement in the Americas. Enjoy a special dinner and dance show at a typical Dominican restaurant.

At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences during the closing discussion and traditional Rustic Ties ceremony. This unique and powerful activity allows students to capture their memories and see how they can share the lessons they’ve learned with their communities back home.

Overnight: Hotel Novus Plaza, Santo Domingo

Say goodbye to your new friends and the beautiful DR. Your program leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.

Flight Details: Rustic Pathways can book your flights upon request as an additional service