Marine life
The Dominican Republic is located in the Caribbean and more accurately on the large island of Hispaniola which is shared with the country of Haiti. On this land, the national language is Spanish and the population is about 10 million inhabitants. Its varied landscapes includes mountains, high plateaus, humid tropical forests and verdant valleys that will seduces nature enthusiasts, climber or horse riders. But this island also harbors other treasures under the surface of the water. Less known and less touristy than some of its neighbors, the Dominican Republic is nevertheless an ideal place for a great diving holiday. There are caves, abrupt slopes, but also beautiful coral reefs. The diving areas are divided into 4 distinct regions:
Where to go giving in the Dominican Republic
Bayahibe
This small and charming seaside town is located near the Parque Nacional Del Este. The underwater natural reserve and its transparent waters are full of a rich biodiversity. There are many species of marine turtles, angelfish, parrotfish and moray eels. Diving centers offer daily excursions but also day tour for snorkeling enthusiasts.
San Domingo and Boca Choca
Both of which are close to La Caleta National Park. In this reserve you will be able to do some great wreck diving but also cave diving. The most renowned shipwrecks are called Ocean Spring, Hickory and El Limon, which are mostly famous because of their relatively low depth and, therefor, easy access. Moreover, many fish have taken up residence in the bowels of the ships for the pleasure of underwater photographers. On the other hand, for more technical divers, the La Sirena dive site is particularly recommended for its magnificent stalactites.
Catalina Island
Located in the southeast of the Dominican Republic, in the province of La Romana, is a great destination for a day diving trip. The fauna and flora are plentiful and will please divers of all levels.
Sosua
Located on the northern par of the north Atlantic coast, is a great city with immense and beautiful sandy beaches. With more than twenty dive sites, and several dive centers, Sosua is definitly a must for divers.
When should we go?
The climate in the Dominican Republic is tropical with high heat and humidity. Outdoor temperatures never fall under 20 ° C. The rainy season, from October to May in the north and from May to October in the south, ban be pretty violent. The hurricane season is between June and September. The best period is therefore from June to September for the north and from November to April for the south.
Diving conditions
Visibility is generally good from 15 to 40 meters depending on the region.
Underwater currents are not violent, but you should always check with your dive instructor before a diving trip.
Diving Level required: a diving trip in the Dominican Republic is an ideal opportunity to start and learn scuba diving. It is also a great location to settle challenges on very picturesque sites. Speleo, wrecks, deep, you will surely find your happiness.
Water temperature is hot all year round. It varies from 25 ° C to 30 ° C.
What to see in scuba diving?
Those who have already dived in the Caribbean won’t be disoriented. The Dominican Republic is home to all the diversity of tropical fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, tuna fish, trunkfish, trumpetfish, moray eels and many more. There are also some marine turtles, eagle rays, sharks nurses, black tips, bulls, barracudas and tarpon. Humpback whale watching is one of the most popular activities in the February period. Finally, occasionnaly, there is dolphins and sometimes even whale sharks.
