Things To Do
in El Cacao

The Dominican staple—white rice, red beans (or stewed beans) and stewed meat (chicken, beef or pork). Find it at local comedores for lunch; it’s the everyday hearty meal.

Must-Try!

Freshly fried whole fish served with crunchy fried green plantains (tostones). Common in coastal areas and small seaside restaurants near El Cacao.

A rich meat-and-root-vegetable stew often made for special occasions or weekend family meals. Try it at local homes if invited or at larger local restaurants on weekends.

Mashed green plantains typically served at breakfast with fried cheese, eggs and salami—available at breakfast spots and small cafés.

A small daily market where vendors sell fresh fruit, vegetables, eggs, beans and occasionally grilled snacks. Try seasonal mangoes, papaya and freshly roasted coffee beans.

Simple stands offering empanadas, fried yucca, pastelitos and grilled fish near busy roads and coastal access points. Great for quick, inexpensive bites.

Greet people with a friendly 'Buenos días/tardes' and a handshake; acquaintances may offer a light cheek kiss. Politeness and small talk are appreciated.

Dress modestly in town and when visiting churches or community spaces; swimwear is for the beach. Avoid loud or disruptive behavior in residential areas.

If invited to a home or farm, bring a small gift (fruit, sweets) and accept food offers graciously. Remove shoes if requested and compliment the host.

Always ask before photographing people, especially in rural communities; many people appreciate being asked and may pose for a small tip or reciprocal image.

A 10% service charge is sometimes included at restaurants—if not included, tipping 10% is customary for good service. Tip small amounts to porters, guides and taxi drivers for helpful service; rounding up is common in casual settings.

Cash (Dominican pesos) is widely used, especially in small towns, markets and for transport. Credit and debit cards may work at larger establishments but acceptance is limited; bring enough cash and use ATMs in bigger towns. Notify your bank before travel and carry some US dollars as a backup.

Drier, sunnier and slightly cooler—pleasant days and comfortable evenings. This is one of the best times to visit for outdoor activities and fewer mosquitoes.

Warmer temperatures and increasing humidity; flowers and fruit trees come into season. Expect occasional showers but generally good conditions for exploring.

Hotter and humid with brief afternoon thunderstorms. Coastal breezes help; plan water-based activities in the morning and carry sun protection and mosquito repellent.

Higher risk of tropical storms and heavy rain; travel disruptions possible. Monitor weather forecasts, and have flexible plans and travel insurance during these months.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited—rice, beans, salads, fried plantains and vegetables are common. Communicate clearly in Spanish (or with translation) and ask for meals without meat or fish; vegetarian restaurants are unlikely in town.

More challenging but possible: focus on rice, beans, fresh fruit and salads; request no cheese or eggs. Bring snacks or staples if you have strict requirements.

Many traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free (rice, beans, grilled fish), but processed snacks and sauces may contain wheat—ask about ingredients and consider bringing essentials.

Label cards in Spanish for common allergies (nuts, shellfish, dairy) are helpful. Medical-grade alternatives may not be stocked in small eateries, so exercise caution.