Explore the Dominican Republic at Your Own Pace with a Rental from Prestige. Here are five of the best road trips you can take from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – all doable with a rental car and a sense of adventure.
The Dominican Republic has so much more to offer than the capital city. And the best way to see it? By car. Renting a vehicle gives you the flexibility to explore the country’s mountains, beaches, and small towns without being tied to a tour group or schedule.
5 Best Road Trips from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
1. Santo Domingo to Jarabacoa
Distance: ~2.5 hours | Best for: Mountain views, waterfalls, cool climate
Leave the coast behind and head into the heart of the Cordillera Central. Jarabacoa is known as the “city of eternal spring” thanks to its cooler temperatures and lush landscapes. Visit Salto de Jimenoa or Baiguate Waterfall, go rafting on the Yaque del Norte River, or hike Pico Duarte if you’re feeling ambitious.
Why drive: The route winds through hills and farmland—scenic and peaceful. You’ll want your own vehicle to explore the countryside and nearby eco-lodges.
2. Santo Domingo to Las Terrenas (Samaná Peninsula)
Distance: ~2 hours | Best for: Beaches, relaxed towns, nature
Drive north across the island via the highway to Samaná, then down to Las Terrenas. This beach town is a favorite for its mix of Dominican and European influence, and the coastline here is stunning. Spend time at Playa Bonita, explore El Limón waterfall, or take a trip to Playa Rincón nearby.
Why drive: You’ll pass through mountains and get panoramic views on the descent to the north coast. Having a car gives you access to beaches that tours don’t reach.
3. Santo Domingo to Barahona and Bahía de las Águilas
Distance: ~4–6 hours | Best for: Untouched nature, off-the-grid adventure
If you’re up for a longer drive, head southwest along the coast to Barahona, then continue to Bahía de las Águilas, one of the most beautiful and remote beaches in the Caribbean. This trip takes you through cliffs, desert-like landscapes, and turquoise waters few travelers get to see.
Why drive: Public transport doesn’t go this far easily. You’ll want the freedom to stop at natural springs, small towns, and lookout points along the way.
4. Santo Domingo to Punta Cana (via scenic routes)
Distance: ~2.5 hours | Best for: Resorts, nightlife, classic beach vacation
Everyone knows Punta Cana, but most fly straight in and out without seeing the rest of the island. Driving there from Santo Domingo gives you the chance to stop in La Romana, visit Altos de Chavón, or take a detour to Bayahibe and the Parque Nacional del Este.
Why drive: Skip the airport hassle, explore more, and set your own schedule. If you’re staying at a resort, a rental car gives you freedom to get off the property.
5. Santo Domingo to Constanza
Distance: ~3 hours | Best for: Fresh air, agriculture, hiking
Constanza is a mountain town surrounded by pine trees and farmland. It feels completely different from the coast—like a hidden valley. You can visit local strawberry farms, hike in Valle Nuevo National Park, or just enjoy the quiet, cool weather.
Why drive: The road to Constanza is steep, winding, and beautiful. You’ll want to stop along the way to take it all in—and a car is the only way to do it comfortably.
Why Rent with Prestige?
Whether you’re heading into the mountains, across the island, or just looking to explore outside the city, having your own car is the best way to travel the Dominican Republic. At Prestige, we make it easy. Our vehicles are clean, reliable, and ready for the road—and our local team is always here to help if you have questions before or during your trip.
With convenient pickup in Santo Domingo and other key locations, you can hit the road without delay and explore the country the way it’s meant to be seen: up close, on your terms.
Ready to Go?
Book your rental today and start planning your next adventure from Santo Domingo. Wherever you’re heading, Prestige Car Rentals is with you every mile.