Samana Vacation Information:

A peninsula located on the north shore of a mountainous region of Dominican Republic offers natural untouched beauty of tropical forests, coconut covered mountains and pristine beaches. Samana Bay is mating grounds for Humpback whales from mid January to mid March. Home to many exotic birds and butterflies, this sparsely populated region is great for quiet getaways and honeymooners who want to explore the Caribbean as it was 40 years ago. Samana is 45 to 60 minutes from the airport.

A few large all inclusive resorts only account for half the rooms offered in this area. The rest are family owned hotels of 20 rooms or less where you experience true Dominican charm and hospitality. There is also a nice Hotel in the Coral Reef Island of Cayo Levantado just a short boat ride from Samana, again only recommended for those seeking total relaxation.

Hike to the El Limon waterfall, or take a 4wd jeep safari into the mountains of Samana or a horseback excursion for excitement along with the many beautiful beaches which are virtually deserted. Spanish and some French is spoken here and English in the tourist areas. The electrical current is 110 V. Cash in the local currency, Dominican Republic Pesos is most widely accepted. US dollars can be used in some places. Internet and cell phone service is sporadic or not available because of Samana's topography. Internet cafes are at the resorts and telephone centres in Las Terrenas, Samana and Sanchez. Bottled water is recommended.


Entertaiment is based on Dominican music, Bachata, Salsa and Merengue and you can hear it everywhere, in the Samana Hotels and the main Town.

Shop for amber or semi-precious Lorimar jewellery, colourful clothing, vanilla, rum, art by Dominican artists or Haitian art at the resort, airport or roadside shops.

There is only one Golf Course in Samana: 9 Hole Loma de Chivo Country Club. Samana's rocky Coastline makes it a good spot for scuba diving and snorkelling. Local transportation provided by bus to Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata, moto concho (motorized rickshaw), gua-gua or motorcycle and taxi. Rental cars available but night driving in Samana is NOT advised.

Most Samana resorts spray for mosquitoes but take your insect repellant, mostly for evenings.

Canadians require a valid passport. Other nationalities must check with the Dominican consulate.

There is a $10US tourist visa payable upon arrival and $20 US departure tax paid locally upon departure from Samana. Infants under 2 years are required to pay. Some tour operators include these fees on your package, Please make sure you consult with your travel agent if this is not the case for you to be prepare since only exact USD cash per person is accepted.

SSL