If Punta Cana is the Dominican Republic’s crown jewel, then the Samaná Peninsula is one of its hidden gems. Wild and diverse, its landscape includes secluded beaches, underwater caves and cascading waterfalls. Journey through old fishing towns or cross the bay to a forested, mangrove-lined national park. See it all in Samaná or simply settle for the panoramic view of sun, sand and sea.
Visit Samaná: get started
If you're set on the Samaná Peninsula, explore our all-inclusive options to find the best, beachfront Samaná resorts. Find Samaná excursions, like whale-watching across the Samaná bay, horseback-riding to the Limón Waterfall or touring cosmopolitan Las Terrenas. Eco-tourists, don't miss a trek to Los Haitises National Park.
Browse last-minute deals to get there for less.
Samaná travel guide
Destination facts
Language
Spanish
What to bring back
Mamajuana (a bottled Dominican drink consisting of rum, honey and spices) and figurines made from native Guayacan wood, symbols of good luck for the indigenous Taíno people.
What to eat
Try the region’s iconic dish: pescado con coco (fish in coconut sauce), and other coconut-based classics like coconut bread and a delicious coconut cookie called conconote.
Fun fact
The Samaná Bay’s crystalline water welcome more than just sun-seekers between January and March. Every winter, about 2,500 humpback whales swim to these waters to mate, birth and maybe take in some tropical views. Whale watching tours depart from the harbour in Samaná, or you can check out the Museo de las Ballenas year-round.
Important info
For more information on all necessary travel documents, visa, taxes and more, check Air Canada’s Travel Requirements page and the Government of Canada’s Travel and Tourism website.
