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Previously off the tourist radar, the area of Samana boasts some of the island’s most densely populated jungle and greatest concentration of unspoiled nature. While best known for the estimated 4,000 humpback whales which migrate through the area every January to March, visitors are often surprised by the exotic species of birds and butterflies which are found in abundance throughout the peninsula.

The recent development of 4 and 5 star properties has made Samana a new and emerging vacation destination. Cruise ships have also discovered the Bay of Samana, and the town has responded by opening retail shops with offerings ranging from organic cane sugar, natural vanilla, rum, honey, and coffee from the area’s lush mountains, to clothing and local art work. The Bahia Principe has also created a shopping mall catering to all tourists which includes cafes and a casino.

Adding to Samana’s appeal are the beautiful beaches, many of which are virtually deserted. If you are in search of your own private island for a day, the area is filled with tiny cayos scattered throughout the bay, many of which are accessible by sea kayak. Don’t let the weather forecast scare you. Due to the coastal climate and mountain backdrop, most days are sunny with brief tropical showers in the afternoon.

Practical Information LOCATION: North East coast of the Dominican Republic
LANGUAGE: Spanish, English widely spoken in tourist areas
CURRENCY: Dominican Peso, although it is advisable to bring US Dollars due to the fluctuating exchange rates
ELECTRICITY: 110 volts
TOURIST BOARD: www.godominicanrepublic.com

See and Do in Samana Humpback Whale Watching
Imagine viewing one of mother natures’ most magnificent creatures in lush tropical surroundings. Due to its shallow warm protected waters, the Bay of Samana is one of the most important reproductive areas of the Humpback Whale. From mid-January until mid-March each year these creatures migrate from North America to court and mate. Considered one of the best locations in the world for Humpback Whale watching, Samana offers a chance to see these creatures up close and personal.

Los Haitises National Park
A humid tropical forest, the 1200 square km park is home to more than 100 species of birds and over 700 species of plants. Its lush territory plays host to mangroves, curious rock formations known as mogotes, islets and bird filled caves like the Cueva del Angel. A protected reserve, Las Haitises is a nature enthusiasts dream.

El Salto del Limon (El Limon Waterfall)
One of the most beautiful gifts from nature is the waterfall, and El Limon is no exception. Nestled into the magical green hills of Samana, these falls thunder from a height of 120-feet into a refreshing pool below. Trekkers who visit the falls are often awe struck by their beauty and spend part of the day swimming in the cool waters and the rest exploring the surrounding isolated villages and fields of coffee, cocoa and tropical fruit.

Eating With beans and rice taking the lead as staple items, Dominican cuisine is hearty, nutritious and wholesome. At any typical meal one will find themselves dining on root vegetables (typically yams or yucca) along with chicken, pork or fish. As a treat, or in traditional Dominican restaurants, exotic meats such as goat, conch and octopus are often served. Mid-day snacks of mangoes, pineapple, banana’s and fresh, still-in-the-shell coconut milk are served and provide natural sugar and loads of energy for eco-touring.

Shopping

Our top choices:
Amber jewellery; a recent addition to the Amber jewellery scene, the Dominican is home to a unique and somewhat fluorescent form of this stone known as ‘Blue Amber’. While the blue is not solid in colour it can be seen in pieces when held under favourable lights.

Colourful paintings; the abundance of intense natural beauty surrounding Samana make for striking pieces of artwork. With such inspiration it is easy to see why all the beach vendors have countless canvases for you to choose from.