Virgin Voyages' guide to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Tucked between the Cordillera Mountains and the Atlantic coast, this charming Dominican port embodies geographical duality at its best.
PUERTO PLATA
Setting sail to the silver coast
With its silver fog covering the mountain tops and shining coastline by the sea, Puerto Plata earned its name as the Port of Silver. Its lush mountains and rushing waterfalls dare adventurers to explore more, while its sandy beaches and colorful cityscape lure in sightseers to slow down.
Soar up to the top of the Pico Isabel de Torres to get a bird's eye view of Puerto Plata or stroll by the Malecón at sea level. The technicolor Victorian facades, colonial homes and the 16th-century Fortaleza San Felipe will turn any regular Joe (or Joanna) into an architecture aficionado. On top of the sights, the Dominican Republic’s rum, cigars and cuisine keep you coming back for more (and a second serving). But, settling on a day lying on the beach is perfectly ok, too.
Cable Car Mountain Ride
Soar 800 meters above sea level as you take a 10-minute ride in a cable car up to the top of the beautiful Loma Isabel de Torres Mountain. Once you get up there, you’ll get to take in breathtaking panoramic views of Puerto Plata. After exploring the ecological park on the mountain top, you’ll head back down to the city for a brief tour — followed by lunch at a local hot spot in the city.
Waterfalls of Damajagua and Off-Road Adventure
Over the river and through the woods to reach the Waterfalls of Damajagua you go. Drive around in an off-road buggy, then hike to jump into the falls. After your adventure, enjoy an authentic Dominican cuisine lunch.
Island Rum Tasting Tour
(D)rum roll please…calling all rum lovers! Spicy, sweet, and toasted — it’s the famous Caribbean rum tour of your dreams. See how Dominican rum is made at the Brugal Rum Factory and learn its history at the Macorix Rum Museum all while sipping on a collection of different rums.
Puerto Plata is home to the teleférico
The only cable car in the Caribbean.
Shore Excursions
Waterfalls of Damajagua
If your friend jumps off a waterfall should you? Yes (safely, of course). Jump into the Waterfalls of Damajagua to find surprises around each corner.
DISCOVER MORE SHORE THINGSIn the Dominican Republic, everything has a silver lining, especially in Puerto Plata. The port town that was once plagued by pirates now shines as a destination with rhythm, color and soul. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or beach bum, Puerto Plata has something in store for you — even if you prefer to look at bugs trapped in ancient amber (yes, seriously, visit the Amber Museum). The flavors of Dominican coffee, rum and mamajuana — the D.R.’s sweet rum and wine concoction will linger on your taste buds until you return to the lush mountain tops and snow-like powdered beaches to experience it all over again.
