Dominican Republic: Beachside Service

Arrive at Miami International Airport (MIA) where you’ll meet your Rustic Pathways Flight Leader, who will help get you checked in and through security before traveling with your group to the Dominican Republic. Get acquainted with fellow Rustic travelers before boarding your flight.
Arrive in Santo Domingo, drop off your bags at the hotel, and head out for your first night in the Colonial Zone, the historic walled quarter and UNESCO World Heritage site that’s rich with food and music. Old colonial buildings have been converted into coffee shops, restaurants, and community arts spaces. The warm weather allows for a blossoming bohemian scene at night where the city’s plazas and squares become centers for artistic, folkloric and cultural expressions.

You’ll stay the in a comfortable hotel in Santo Domingo

After breakfast embark on a scenic 4-hour journey north to Puerto Plata. Post-lunch, explore the captivating Isabel de Torres National Park, ascending 2400 feet to the summit via cable car. At the top, you’ll be greeted by a giant statue of Cristo Redentor, stunning vistas, lush botanical gardens, and serene walking paths weaving towards springs and secluded caves, all enveloped in refreshingly cool air.
Then head to town and explore a key piece of Puerto Plata’s history, the Fortaleza San Felipe, built by the Spanish to defend the north coast of the Dominican Republic from the British, Dutch, and French pirates in search of the area’s riches such as gold and silver. Considered one of the most important colonial military structures in the Caribbean, it was completed in 1577 and later served as a prison from the 19th century through the Trujillo years. Now a museum, touring the fort reveals the original canons facing the Atlantic, ancient weapons, and numerous hidden chambers.
After touring the fort, head east to the town of Cabarete, check into your hotel, enjoy a relaxing dinner, and rest up, gearing up for the exciting week ahead.

After breakfast, head up through the foothills to the region of Bella Vista where you’ll spend the two days working with the Kerolle Initiative, a local NGO that supports health in batey communities. Here, your service might include:

• Measuring the height and weight of children in the community to monitor growth
• Distributing basic anti-parasite medication and essential vitamins and minerals to children and families
• Playing health-related games with children to promote hygiene and wellness
• Participating in hands-on community-centered projects such as painting murals, improving water access, building cement floors, and assisting at a local plantain farm

Learn about the healthcare challenges in rural Dominican communities and engage with community members, sharing stories, laughter, and mutual learning. Take a break from service and hike through the serene mountains surrounding the community of Buena Vista, discovering hidden waterfalls and cool rivers, perfect for a refreshing swim.

After breakfast, hop on a boat and cruise to one of the stunning coral reefs near Sosua Bay, one of the Dominican Republic’s premier snorkeling spots. After a safety briefing and equipment setup, you’ll immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters to discover a variety of colorful coral formations, tropical fish, and other marine life. Spend the rest of the day relaxing in Playa Alicia; a serene beach known for its mountain views, stunning sunsets and clear blue waters.

Kickstart your day with an exhilarating surf lesson at Playa El Encuentro, a hidden gem known for its consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, the professional instructors will tailor the experience to your skill level. In the afternoon, attend a farewell ceremony hosted by the local community, celebrating the meaningful impact of your service.

Head back to the capital to 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. Tour 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 and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home.

Spend your final night in a hotel with shared rooms separated by gender with private bathrooms.

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