The tourism tides are changing in the South of the Dominican Republic and it will never be the same again. The tranquil, off-the-beaten-path gems like Cabo Rojo, Pedernales, and Bahia de las Aguilas are on the brink of a major shift, becoming accessible to the traveling masses, thanks to upcoming cruise ship routes starting in 2024. Cabo Rojo will be packed with vacationers in a couple of years as 10 large resorts are being built. Soon, Cabo Rojo and the province of Pedernales will look more like Punta Cana than the small coastal town and isolated beaches that it has been for years.

What Changes Can We Expect in the South of the Dominican Republic?

Mockups of Cabo Rojo

Photo credit: Master Plan of Tourism Development in Cabo Rojo

The Pedernales-Cabo Rojo Development project has been a long-standing initiative spanning multiple government administrations over the years. This ambitious decade-long endeavor aims to transform the pristine coastal region of the south in the Dominican Republic. The comprehensive plan includes the establishment of nine hotels, an international airport, a shopping center, and a cruise port in Cabo Rojo,  near the town of Pedernales. Various countries and businesses are actively participating in this colossal project, making this an international collaboration.

What's the primary objective? Simply put: money.

The southern coastal areas of the Dominican Republic remain among the few untouched regions. Currently, reaching Cabo Rojo from abroad involves a considerable journey, with the nearest international airport located in Santo Domingo, 333 km away. Private transportation requires a minimum 6.5-hour drive, and public transportation can extend the journey to an entire day. Creating easy access to this beautiful part of the island will bring loads of tourists to this “new”, exciting destination to spend their vacation dollars. 

Despite the challenges, the remoteness of the destination adds to its allure. The efforts to reach this pristine location are justified upon arrival, as visitors are greeted by untouched, immaculate beauty, revealing the authenticity of the Dominican Republic and its people along the way.

Pedernales: The New Punta Cana

This project makes me think of one of the Dominican Republic's most popular tourist destinations—Punta Cana. Once an undeveloped area with untouched beaches, it was acquired by a visionary businessman in the 1960s, and evolved into a thriving hub with resorts and an international airport by the 1980s. The nearby town of Bavaro emerged to accommodate the growing workforce. In 1970, the closest town, Higuey, was quite a drive away from Punta Cana. The subsequent construction of roads, the development of towns, influx of Dominicans and Haitians from other areas for employment, and the establishment of vital infrastructure collectively shaped the region into the vibrant destination it is today.

At what expense? It is undeniable that the development of Punta Cana has brought economic prosperity and employment opportunities to the Dominican Republic, placing it prominently on the global tourism map with 8.5 million visitors in 2022. However, what often goes unnoticed is the missed opportunity for these visitors to truly appreciate the richness of the country – its delicious local cuisine, the warmth and hospitality of the Dominican people, and the chance to gain insight into the daily lives of regular people. Many tourists, upon arrival, swiftly transition from the airport terminal to shuttle buses, heading directly to the confines of the resort and the allure of the swim-up pool bar. While these visitors may claim to have experienced the Dominican Republic, I often find myself suggesting that a journey confined to a resort doesn't capture the essence of what the Dominican Republic really is.

What impact will this have on Travel to the South of the Dominican Republic?

THE GOOD

More Jobs

The project is anticipated to generate numerous job opportunities, benefiting both the local area and the entire country. The establishment of resorts, the expansion of the airport, port, and the development of shopping centers will require a substantial workforce.

Better Roads and Easier Travel

Travel has not always been easy in the south. The drive from Santo Domingo to Pedernales has its harrowing moments. The Pedernales Project has spurred initiatives to widen and improve roads, particularly from Barahona westward. This development is expected to facilitate travel to destinations such as Cabo Rojo and Bahia de las Aguilas.

THE BAD

Rise in Tourism

While an increase in tourism may seem positive, it could negatively impact the authentic experience of the Dominican Republic for both locals and those seeking an authentic visit.

Environmental Degradation

The Pedernales project is situated near the protected Jaragua National Park, home to endangered animals, 130 bird species, and diverse flora and fauna. Cabo Rojo, the main area of the project, contains one of the largest reef complexes in the Dominican Republic, providing a refuge for endangered sea turtles and mantises. Despite assurances that the project will respect these areas, concerns persist about potential harm to this fragile ecosystem due to heightened traffic, construction activities, and an influx of visitors.

When NOT to visit Bahia de las Aguilas and other areas of the South?

CRUISE PORT DAYS AND LAND EXCURSIONS

On January 4, 2024, the first cruise ship arrived in Port Cabo Rojo with thousands of cruisers. Until the opening of the hotels, the cruise passengers will be the only burst of tourists coming to the area. We can help you plan around them so you can still enjoy the serenity that Cabo Rojo, Bahia de las Aguilas, and the surrounding areas have to offer. 

Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, and Costa Cruises will be docking at Port Cabo Rojo for the day. We are sharing the dates and places you need to know NOT to plan a trip to the area.

CRUISE PORT DAYS 2024-2025

• October 16, 2024 - Royal Caribbean: Adventure of the Seas

• November 20, 2024- Holland America Line: ms Eurodam

• December 11, 2024- Holland America Line: ms Eurodam

• January 2, 2025 - Holland America Line: ms Rotterdam

• January 7, 2025 - Norwegian Jewel

• February 1, 2025 - Costa Fascinosa

• February 15, 2025 - Costa Fascinosa

• March 1, 2025 - Costa Fascinosa

• November 27, 2025 - MSC Divina

LAND EXCURSIONS

• Eco Del Mar Hotel & Cabo Rojo Beach

• Bahia de las Aguilas

• Laguna de Oviedo

• Donut Boat and Beach Club at Port

• Dune Buggies & Beach

On cruise days, thousands of tourists will be arriving on the ships. Although not everyone may venture beyond the port or the ship itself, the prospect of these areas possibly becoming crowded with hundreds of people is sufficient reason to consider scheduling a visit on a different day. Keep this post handy for your future trip planning to the South.

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The good news is that you still have time to plan an epic trip to the south of the Dominican Republic before it is overrun by vacationers. You can have Bahia de las Aguilas all to yourself if you follow our tips on when to travel there. Make sure to read this post about the holidays in the Dominican Republic, and what days to avoid travel. Use our other posts as a travel guide for the ultimate adventure! 

• 5-Day Road Trip: Santo Domingo to Bahia de las Aguilas

• Oviedo Lagoon: A Nature Lover’s Paradise in the Dominican Republic

• Staying near Bahia de las Aguilas

• Save Money with these Travel Tips