Punta Cana is renowned for its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts, but beyond the picturesque shores lies a vibrant culture waiting to be explored. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the local flavor while enjoying the natural beauty, this guide will take you through some of Punta Cana’s hidden gems, including the Secrets Tides Resort, Monkeyland, Bavaro Runners, and the Marinarium.

Secrets Tides Resort: Your Luxurious Gateway

Start your adventure at Secrets Tides Resort, where luxury meets local culture, and all your travel arrangements were seamlessly handled through your travel advisor and Apple Vacations. Nestled along the pristine Bavaro Beach, this adults-only resort offers a blend of relaxation and authentic Dominican experiences. Take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens or unwind at the infinity pool with breathtaking ocean views. The resort often hosts cultural nights, featuring traditional Dominican music and dance, allowing guests to connect with the local culture without ever leaving the property. Be sure to indulge in local dishes at the resort’s restaurants, where you can savor flavors unique to the Dominican Republic.

Embrace Nature at Monkeyland

Be sure to take some time to venture out to Monkeyland, arranged through Amstar DMC. This eco-adventure park provides a unique opportunity to interact with squirrel monkeys in their natural habitat. Guided tours offer insights into the care and conservation of these adorable creatures, allowing you to learn about local wildlife, while having fun. As you swing through the trees and engage with these playful monkeys, you’ll not only make unforgettable memories but also gain a deeper understanding of the island’s biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Experience Local Life with Bavaro Runners

To truly experience the heart of Punta Cana, hop on a Bavaro Runner adventure. These open-air safari trucks take you off the beaten path, showcasing the beauty of the countryside. You’ll visit rural villages, where you can meet local artisans and taste traditional Dominican foods. The tours often include stops at local farms and markets, offering a glimpse into everyday life for Dominicans, as well as demonstrations on locally harvested coffee beans, cocoa beans, and cigars. This immersive experience is perfect for travelers looking to connect with the local community and understand the culture beyond the resort.

Dive into the Deep with Marinarium

For the adventurous souls, the Marinarium offers a fantastic snorkeling experience. This marine park is teeming with tropical fish, vibrant coral reefs, and even the chance to swim with nurse sharks.

Find out the best time to travel!

Whether you are planning a relaxing getaway or a special trip, Punta Cana should be at the top of your list.

Reach out to one of our travel advisors to plan your vacation at https://mvptravel.com/travel-agents/.

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Stephanie Werner

Stephanie grew up in the travel industry with both her mother and father in the business. A graduate of Benedictine University in Lisle, Illinois, with a degree in Communications, Stephanie started her career in Inside Sales with Mayflower Tours. In 2014, Stephanie was hired by MAST Travel Network in an administrative position. After taking on a few different roles throughout the company in the graphic design, marketing, and communications areas, as well as spending a short time working on the convention and visitors bureau side of the industry, Stephanie has found her way back to MAST as the Director of Operations & Member Affairs. Stephanie participates in ASTA Headquarters’ Consortia Committee and Young Professionals Society, and sits as Committee Chair for the JV Program, an organization for MAST affiliated travel professionals under the age of 40. Stephanie is responsible for overseeing the Membership Department and facilitating, enhancing, and optimizing, ongoing projects. She acts as a member liaison, hearing the ongoing needs of members and suppliers and communicating and implementing tasks within the MAST staff to fulfill those needs. She is heavily involved in business development, membership recruitment, consumer awareness initiatives, developing agent training tools, providing content for communications and print collateral, and evolving MAST’s brand strategy on both the member-facing and consumer-facing side.