Things To Do
in San Francisco de Macorís

Mashed plantains served with fried cheese, salami and eggs; a Cibao breakfast staple available at local diners and mercado stalls.

Must-Try!

Hearty meat-and-root-vegetable stew often served on weekends or at family gatherings; find good versions in local fondas and mid‑range restaurants.

Fried plantains served with freshly fried fish or chicken; common in small eateries and informal lunch spots.

Given the region's cacao ties, you'll find sweets and drinks showcasing local cacao—try them at markets or artisanal producers.

A lively central market where vendors sell fresh produce, tropical fruits, prepared snacks and morning breakfasts; ideal for tasting local bites like empanadas, pastelitos and fresh juices.

Scattered along main roads and near bus stops—great places to try grilled meats, frituras (fried snacks) and local drinks at low prices.

Polite, friendly greetings are important—handshakes and ‘buenos días/tardes’ are common. Use respectful titles like Don/Doña with older people.

Casual dress is fine, but dress more conservatively for church or formal occasions. Public displays of anger or loud confrontations are frowned upon.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets and at private homes or farms.

Bargaining is normal in markets but done politely; treat vendors respectfully and be prepared to accept the local rhythm of trade.

Tipping is modest: around 10% in restaurants when service isn't included, small tips or rounding up for taxi drivers and bag carriers, and a few pesos to cleaning staff or guides as appreciation.

Dominican pesos (DOP) are the standard currency; cash is king in markets and small businesses. ATMs are available in the city center and larger banks accept card transactions; US dollars are sometimes accepted but expect change in pesos and limited acceptance outside tourist-facing businesses.

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; ideal for early-morning activities and farm visits. Carry sun protection, stay hydrated and expect brief tropical downpours.

Still warm with gradually reduced humidity; hurricane season overlaps (June–November), so monitor forecasts and have flexible plans during peak storm months (Aug–Oct).

Milder temperatures and lower humidity make this the most comfortable time for outdoor exploration and evening strolls; daytime temperatures remain warm compared with temperate climates.

Vegetation is lush after winter rains and temperatures rise; a good time for farm visits and river walks before the hotter months set in.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with meat-based plates; rely on plantain dishes, rice-and-bean combos, salads and market vegetables. Ask vendors about chicken/fish broths used in some rice dishes and request plain preparations where possible.

More challenging—carry snacks and be explicit about no animal products. Fresh fruit, plantain-based dishes and simple rice-and-bean plates are the most reliable vegan choices.

Many traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free (rice, beans, plantains), but be cautious with empanadas, breaded foods and sauces; ask about wheat-based fillers.

Language barriers can complicate allergy communication—learn key phrases (included below) and consider carrying translated allergy notes.