Barahona 101 - Everything You Need To Know

Barahona is a major port and commercial center in the Dominican Republic.

It is also a popular tourist destination because of its beaches and nearby attractions.

Tourism has become increasingly important in recent years, as the city has developed a number of facilities and attractions for visitors. These include several hotels, restaurants, and bars, as well as a casino and a golf course.

In this article, you’ll find the details about everything you need to know about this wonderful tourism spot in the Caribbean region.

Table of Contents

Where is Barahona located?

Barahona is a province located in the southwest of the Dominican Republic, on the coast of the Caribbean Sea, about 60 miles from the capital city of Santo Domingo.

The economy of Barahona is mainly based on agriculture in an area that crops coffee, plantains, bananas, and sugarcane.

Fishing is also an important part of the economy, with many different species being caught off the coast, including tuna, snapper, and lobster.

In livestock, the fattening of cattle and goats for meat, sale of leather and the growing milk production predominate.

In mining the extraction of larimar, marble, plaster, alabaster, kaolin (for the production of bottles), mineral salt and construction materials, are among the main activities of Barahona.

Santa Cruz de Barahona

It’s capital city is Santa Cruz de Barahona and the province has a population of about 180,000 as of 2020.

The current name of the province and city is derived from the surname of the first Spaniards who came to the area, some of these Spaniards were also from the town of Baraona in Spain and named it in honor of their town of origin.

Is Barahona worth visiting?

Yes! It is definitely worth the money.

Barahona’s beaches are surrounded by idyllic landscapes, wild nature, and have turquoise waters and white sand; this is the reason why the area is one of the preferred places not only for “sun, sea and sand” tourism, but also for ecotourism since it presents different ecosystems that range from interior dry forests to tropical humid forests in Bahoruco’s Mountain Range.

Which is better Punta Cana or Barahona?

There is no clear answer as to which is better, as it depends on what you are looking for in a vacation.

If you are interested in enjoying the sun and sea, go to clubs, ride a safari or explore the abundant tourism options for all kinds of things, then Punta Cana may be a better choice.

However, if you want to experience the south of the country and a wider range of activities connected to nature, ecotourism, and ancestral history, then Barahona is worth considering.

Is it safe to visit Barahona?

Yes, Barahona is a safe place to visit. However, as with any destination, it is always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Some safety tips include not walking alone at night, keeping your valuables close to you, and avoiding areas that are known to be unsafe.

How do I get to Barahona?

Barahona can be reached by car, bus, or plane. There are a number of different airlines that offer flights to Barahona’s airport, which is located about 3 miles from the city center.

From Santo Domingo

Most travelers take flights to Santo Domingo and then drive over to by car or by bus.

If you are driving, the journey from Santo Domingo takes around 3.5 hours depending on traffic.

There are also a number of bus companies that operate services to Barahona, with the journey taking around 4 hours.

Do I need a passport to go to Barahona?

Yes, a valid passport is required for all visitors to the Dominican Republic.

Do I need a visa to visit Barahona?

Citizens of the United States, Canada, and most European countries do not need a visa to enter this city in the located on the northern coast of Samaná Bay.

Other visitors need to check the Dominican Republic Ministry of Foreign Affairs for further information.

Is there a marina in Barahona?

No, the town doesn’t have a marina. However, there is one in construction process in the nearby province of Pedernales.

Is there an entrance fee to enter Barahona?

No, there is no entrance fee to enter Barahona. However, if you drive over there, you need to pay several tolls coming from Santo Domingo that will account to about 10 down and back.

Is there Uber in Barahona?

No, there is no Uber in Barahona. However, there are plenty of taxis available.

What should I pack for Barahona?

Beach essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, and a beach towel are a must.

If you’re planning on doing any hiking or adventuring in the mountains or jungle, then make sure to pack proper shoes and clothing.

Also, don’t forget to bring repellent, a small first-aid kit, and your allergy medication.

What is the time zone in Barahona?

The time zone in Barahona is GMT-4 (Atlantic Standard Time).

What is the currency and the language spoken in Barahona?

The currency in Barahona is the Dominican Peso (DOP). US dollars are also widely accepted, although you will usually get a better rate if you pay in pesos.

ATMs can be found at the shopping malls, in the local community, and banks.

The official language in the town is Spanish, however English is also spoken by the hotel staff.

It might be good to know a few Spanish words before arrival, so you can introduce yourself to the locals at the central park or visit places like Polo.

What is the weather like in Barahona?

The weather in Barahona is tropical, with an average temperature of 28 degrees Celsius (82 Fahrenheit).

The rainy season is from May to November, and the dry season is from December to April.

In general, Barahona has a great climate all year round.

What are the prices like in Barahona?

Prices in Barahona are relatively low compared to other tourist destinations in the Dominican Republic.

A meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost around $10 per person, and a bottle of beer will cost around $2.

Accommodation is also relatively affordable, with mid-range hotels starting at around $50 per night.

What is the electricity voltage in Barahona?

The electricity voltage in Barahona is 110 volts.

If you are from a country with a different voltage, you will need to bring a converter.

What is the drinking age in Barahona?

The drinking age in Barahona is 18 years old.

Can I drink the tap water in Barahona?

It is NOT recommended to drink the tap water in Barahona. Bottled water is widely available and relatively affordable.

Do I need to tip in Barahona?

Tipping is not mandatory in Barahona, but it is appreciated. A 10-15% tip is considered standard.

What is the internet/wifi like in Barahona?

The internet/wifi in Barahona is widely available and relatively fast. However, it can be unreliable at times.

What is the hottest and coldest month in Barahona?

The hottest month is August, with an average temperature of 32 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit).

The coldest month is January, with an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit).

What are the average temperatures in Barahona ?

The average annual temperature in Barahona is 27.4 °C | 81.3.

What type of electrical sockets are used in Barahona ?

The type of electrical sockets used in Barahona are the standard North American 120 volt, 60 hertz with two flat parallel prongs and one ground (grounded) prong.

What are the business hours in Barahona ?

Most businesses are open from 8am-5pm, Monday to Friday.

However, many shops and restaurants stay open until 12pm or later, especially on weekends.

How much should I tip in Barahona?

Tipping is common in Barahona for good service. A 10-15% tip is customary in restaurants and bars.

For taxi drivers and tour guides, a 5-10% tip is appreciated.

Do I need travel insurance for Barahona?

Yes, we recommend that you purchase travel insurance before your trip to Barahona.

This will help to protect you in case of any unforeseen circumstances, such as lost luggage, cancellations, or medical emergencies.

Are there mosquitoes in Barahona?

Yes, there are mosquitoes in Barahona.

Be sure to pack insect repellent and wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts if you’re going to be outdoors during peak mosquito hours (dusk to dawn).

When is the rainy season in Barahona?

The rainy season in Barahona is from May to November. If you’re planning on visiting during this time, be sure to pack your raincoat or umbrella. During this time, the average rainfall is 14 inches.

What should I do if I get sick while in Barahona?

If you get sick, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

There are a number of hospitals and clinics located in the area.

What should I do if I lose my passport while in Barahona?

If you lose your passport in Barahona, you should go to the nearest police station and file a report.

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged passport, please follow the instructions in the Passport Navigator even if you need to travel urgently and need an emergency passport.

You must schedule the first available passport appointment using our online system and then email the United States Embassy at [email protected] to move the appointment.

Can I drink the tap water in Barahona?

The tap water in Barahona is NOT safe to drink. Travelers prefer to stick to bottled water, which is widely available.

Is it safe to rent a car in Barahona?

Yes, it is safe to rent a car in Samaná.

However, it is important to be aware of the local traffic laws, drive defensively, and get car insurance. Don’t expose your valuables inside the car, as most of them have clear windows.

What is the best time to visit Barahona?

The best time to visit Barahona is from January to April. This is the dry season, with average temperatures of 25-32 degrees Celsius (77-84 degrees Fahrenheit).

How to get around Barahona?

There are a few different ways to get around. You can take a bus, taxi, or rent a car. The easiest way to get around is by car. Buses in Barahona are relatively inexpensive and run frequently. This is not recommended for unexperienced travelers unless they side with a local guide.

What are some of the hotels in Barahona?

Barahona has a limited hotel offer, which includes:

Hotel Caribe
Hotel Quemaíto
Oasi Encantad
Hotel Loro Tuerto
Hotel Playazul
Platón Ecolodge
Hotel Napoles
Casa del Mar Lodge

What is Barahona known for?

Barahona is known for its beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and friendly people. It is also a popular destination for whale watching and for its outstanding cuisine.

What are some of the most popular things to do in Barahona ?

Visit to Lago de Enriquillo. This astounding natural wonder is located far below sea level among striking, stony mountains. Here, there are at least 180 species of orchids, of which 32 are endemic, rhinoceros iguanas, and over 100 species of birds along marked trails.

Visit Polo, a remote mountain town about an hour drive from Barahona surrounded by mountains and coffee.

FestiCafé (festival of coffee) held in Polo in June.

Other popular tourist attractions include:

Laguna de Oviedo National Park
Sierra de Bahoruco National Park
Tobacco Museum

What are Barahona’s main beaches?

The main beaches in Barahona are:

San Rafael
Quemaíto
Saladilla
Los Patos
Paraíso

How many days do you need in Barahona?

This really depends on what you want to do while you’re here.

If you’re just looking to relax on the beach and eat at several restaurants, then a few days will suffice.

However, if you want to explore the island and go on excursions, then we recommend staying for at least a week.

What is there to do in Barahona for families?

There are a number of activities for visitors and families to enjoy in Barahona.

Can I play golf in Barahona?

There are no golf courses in the area. Best thing to do is to play in Santo Domingo or Punta Cana.

What can you not bring to Barahona?

As a tourist that comes by either plane, boat, or car to this Caribbean location, you should avoid bringing the following:

Illegal drugs (including CBD pens)
Firearms
Ammunition
Explosives
Pornographic materials

Are there any waterparks in Barahona?

No, there are no waterparks in Barahona. However, there are a number of beaches and pools that visitors can enjoy.

Facts about the Barahona

Lago de Enriquillo is an astounding natural wonder, located far below sea level among striking, stony mountains. The lake’s surface is also the lowest point in the West Indies, at 144 feet (44 metres) below sea level.
The town has a central park where locals hang out, drink, and play dominoes.
Polo has a much cooler climate and is surrounded by mountains.
The area presents different ecosystems that range from interior dry forests to tropical humid forests in Bahoruco’s Mountain Range.
Many of the families of locals are living in the United States and Europe.
After the nation’s Independence in 1844, Barahona was a military post of the Azua Province.
Barahona and its surrounding areas are famous due to their richness in rock salt, onyx, gypsum and bauxite deposits.
Barahona is one of the best tourism destinations of the Dominican Republic.
The Dominican Republic is occasionally damaged by tropical storms and hurricanes, which originate in the mid-Atlantic and southeastern Caribbean from August until October each year. Some of these storms hit this region.
The south has a wide availability of fruits like mangoes, avocados, bananas, and more.

Why is Barahona so popular?

Barahona is a popular destination in the region for a number of reasons.

First, the weather is warm all year, so you can visit any of the national parks and mountains in the region, walk down central park, taste some fresh fruits, go to an excursion, or enjoy a delicious meal at a restaurant.

Second, the beaches provide a good scenery of the Caribbean sea.

Third, the Polo and the Lake Enriquilo allows you to connect with nature in a whole another way.

I hope this article has help you in some way understand what to expect of this south province in the Dominican Republic. Now, get ready to explore Barahona!