ISLAND SERVICE ADVENTURE

Arrive at the Santo Domingo (SDQ) Airport. GLA staff will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel to check-in. Join your group for your first local dinner and an introduction to local culture. ¡Bienvenidos!

Start your day at Los Tres Ojos National Park, where you’ll explore three underground caves, each filled with crystal-clear turquoise water. You’ll have the chance to take a guided boat tour through one of the caves, offering a unique view of the stunning rock formations and natural beauty.

Afterward, drive two hours to the beach town of Bayahibe, a fishing hub and gateway to Isla Saona. Settle into your new Home Base and join your group for an orientation on local customs, safety, and the upcoming week’s activities.

During these days, you’ll work on a variety of projects related to conservation, education, or community infrastructure. After your service, take time to connect with the locals—whether it’s joining a pickup baseball game, sharing coffee with neighbors, or simply getting to know the community.

One afternoon, we’ll explore the Padre Nuestro Cave, where you can swim in cool, fresh waters by the light of your headlamps. Evenings will be spent bonding with your group, engaging in leadership activities, and reflecting on your experiences, with a focus on responsible tourism and environmental stewardship.

After breakfast, take a short walk to Playa Magallanes, a hidden beach with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. The calm, clear waters make it an ideal spot for snorkeling, where you’ll encounter colorful fish, coral, and other marine life. After your underwater adventure, enjoy a hearty Dominican lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, hop on a bus and head east to Hoyo Claro, a stunning natural swimming hole tucked away in the jungle. The crystal-clear, cool waters are perfect for a refreshing dip as you unwind in the serene, lush surroundings.

Begin your day with an exciting catamaran ride to Isla Saona, with a stop along the way to snorkel and spot giant starfish in the clear waters. Once on the island, enjoy a beachside lunch and explore the charming village of Mano Juan. During a guided tour, you’ll learn about an inspiring local man’s sea turtle conservation efforts. After some time to relax on the island’s beaches, you’ll return to the mainland in the afternoon, wrapping up your island adventure.

Start the morning by snorkeling off the coast of Bayahibe, where you’ll explore vibrant reefs teeming with colorful fish and marine life. After your underwater adventure, spend a relaxing afternoon on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze. As the day winds down, transition into final reflective leadership activities, where you’ll connect with your group and look back on your experiences, celebrating your journey and growth.

Return to Santo Domingo and check into your hotel before spending the afternoon exploring the vibrant Colonial Zone. Wander through its architecture, chic modern restaurants, and galleries showcasing Afro-Caribbean folk art.

In the evening, indulge in a special dinner and dance show at a traditional Dominican restaurant, giving you a chance to celebrate your final night in the DR with a great experience.

The GLA team will escort your group to the airport in private transportation. We hope you enjoyed your stay in the Dominican Republic and created memories to last a lifetime!