DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
CARIBBEAN SERVICE ADVENTURE
Support community-led projects, share in Dominican traditions and dive into an epic Caribbean eco-adventure.
Program Overview
Step outside the typical tourist experience and discover the authentic heart of the Dominican Republic on an action-packed 8-day service adventure. Working alongside a well established local partner organization that stewards community initiatives year-round. Students will contribute to ongoing housing construction and environmental restoration efforts. This program is intentionally rooted in meaningful cultural exchange—learning with local partners, sharing meals, taking cooking and dance classes and engaging in authentic interactions with community members. Your hard work culminates in an epic adventure day exploring the wilderness of Jamao del Norte, featuring an unforgettable adventure-hike as you jump and swim your way through magical rock formations and turquoise blue waters, followed by a relaxing kayak down the river.
On GLA’s Dominican Republic: Caribbean Service Adventure program you will:
- Support year-round housing projects managed by long-standing local partners
- Kayak down a tranquil river and discover hidden rock formations, natural jumps and vibrant blue swimming holes along the lush tropical jungle
- Participate in a coastal restoration initiative supporting a local beach cleanup as you learn about local environmental efforts
- Dive into the rich Dominican culture through an engaging Spanish workshop, a cooking class and a traditional dance lesson
Program Menu
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
CARIBBEAN SERVICE ADVENTURE
Sample Itinerary Coming Soon!
Let’s take a sneak peek at what your program experience might look like this summer! Please note that the order of activities may differ for each program session. The details provided here represent a general outline of what you can anticipate, though community service projects and activities are subject to change based on the needs of our local community partners, cultural celebrations and traditions, weather conditions and the specific requirements of the student group.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
CARIBBEAN SERVICE ADVENTURE
Program Details
Dates & Tuition
2027 Session Dates
July 09 – July 16, 2027
What's Included in Tuition
In-country transportation
Lodging
3 meals per day
Professional full-time staff and experts
24/7 parent support hotline during program
Secondary medical and evacuation insurance
Cultural activities, lectures and excursions
Pre-departure materials and support
Educational materials
to hold your spot on-program.
Program at a Glance
Adventure Activities: Hiking, Swimming (includes Pool, Lake, or Ocean)
Every GLA Program is Backed by our 5-Point Safety System™
GLA HOME BASE:
SAFE & SECURE LODGING
CARING SUPERVISION &
EXPERT LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
SAFE
TRANSPORTATION
HEALTHY FOOD
& PURE WATER
24/7 SUPPORT &
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Recommended by Students and Parents
SCARLETT W. | 2020-2024 Alumni Student
“I have done GLA for four years now. GLA has not only helped me become more confident as a person, but also helped me to grow in being a good listener and loving others well. Doing the hard service taught me that I can do hard things and come out stronger. I have a greater understanding of my global impact on the world.”
The Program Experience
Service Learning
Put global citizenship into practice by supporting sustainable, partner-led initiatives in rural Dominican communities. Rather than imposing short-term fixes, students work alongside a long-term partner organization that oversees these projects year-round, ensuring ethical and lasting impact. Participants will assist with hands-on tasks—such as mixing cement, laying bricks and building walls to advance ongoing housing efforts. Students will also participate in a coastal cleanups initiative, gaining insight into local stewardship while building meaningful relationships through shared work and community interactions.
Adventure
Prepare for an epic, double-thrill adventure day in Jamao del Norte like no other! Gear up in the morning for a scenic kayak expedition, paddling down tranquil river bends surrounded by lush tropical greenery. After working up an appetite on the water, refuel with a delicious lunch prepared by a local restaurant. In the afternoon, board a safari or 4×4 vehicle to reach Sendero Las Caobas (The Mahogany Trail)—a magical landscape shaped by extraordinary rock formations, hidden tunnels and natural jumps. Hike through the wilderness, breathe in the fresh mountain air and dive into crystal-clear, turquoise blue pools. It’s an unforgettable day of pure nature, outdoor adrenaline and fresh-air exploration!
Country Spotlight
Experience the vibrant music, rich history and coastal beauty of the Dominican Republic’s northern shore.
Lodging: Stay in an enclosed compound offering clean, comfortable and secure gender-segregated rooms with access to common areas for group reflection and downtime.
Meals: Savor fresh, authentic Dominican staples prepared daily, including rice, beans, plantains, seasonal vegetables, fresh tropical fruits and local meats, alongside a hands-on Dominican cooking class.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
CARIBBEAN SERVICE ADVENTURE
Photo Gallery
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
CARIBBEAN SERVICE ADVENTURE
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