Immerse yourself in the world of ZEL Punta Cana 5*, a pearl nestled on the magnificent beach of Bávaro, where luxury meets Caribbean authenticity. Inspired by the Mediterranean art of living and designed in partnership with tennis legend Rafa Nadal, this adults-only hotel offers an idyllic setting for a unique stay.

With its elegant suites featuring private pools and spacious terraces, its refined restaurants combining Mediterranean and local flavours, and its lively beach club, this hotel is much more than an accommodation; it is a true sensory experience. Every detail, from the tropical gardens to the areas bathed in natural light, has been designed to enhance your tropical getaway.

Immerse yourself in the elegance of the ZEL Master Suite, a true haven of peace offering a bedroom with a king-size bed, a separate living room with a sofa bed and an elegant dining room. Relax on a spacious terrace equipped with a whirlpool bath, ideal for savouring moments of serenity against a tropical backdrop.

This is an all inclusive stay. Your breakfast, lunch, and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant, with a selection of snacks and drinks. Please see the ‘details’ tab for more information.

Surrender to indulgence at the AUA Spa, a sanctuary of refined relaxation where saunas, hammams, whirlpool baths, and bespoke treatments awaken your senses. Find inner calm with yoga or meditation sessions in a serene, inspiring setting.

Immerse yourself in the natural splendour of the Dominican Republic. Glide through the crystalline waters of the outdoor pool, or perfect your swing on the exquisitely designed golf course, set amid lush tropical surroundings.

Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family without limits.

Please note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.

Enjoy a relaxing day at Saona Blue Lagoon, an island paradise of crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches. The excursion includes a boat trip with an open bar, time for swimming and diving, and a delicious lunch on Palmilla Beach.

For a real taste of Caribbean culture, enjoy this full-day bus tour through the heart of the Dominican countryside. You'll visit villages and markets while learning about local products and the island's history.

Explore Santo Domingo, the largest city in the Caribbean and the first capital of the Americas, and visit the Colonial Zone with its pedestrian streets and historic monuments.

Miches is a jewel on the east coast, known for its contrast between mountains and beaches. Join an unforgettable excursion that combines a quad bike ride, a hike on Redonda Mountain and Esmeralda Beach.

Enjoy an exceptional night at Coco Bongo, where the show skillfully blends film, theatre, music, and acrobatics. Sing along to songs from iconic musicals and soundtracks such as Moulin Rouge and Chicago as well as some timeless pop anthems.

Leave for a day on a boat to discover some of the Dominican Republic's most beautiful seascapes. By sailing a catamaran, you'll travel to Catalina Island and glide on the Cumayasa River, where you can swim in warm Caribbean waters or go snorkelling.

Enjoy this catamaran cruise on the Caribbean Sea and visit the Ojos Indigenas ecological reserve, where you can swim in one of the most beautiful crystal-clear springs and do some underwater exploring as you snorkel.

Punta Cana, a haven of white sand beaches and swaying palms, epitomises the essence of the Caribbean. Situated on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, this idyllic retreat is famed for its luxurious resorts, pristine coastline, and year-round sunshine. Beyond the well-trodden beaches, the region offers a wealth of cultural and natural wonders waiting to be explored.

Must-sees:

• Bavaro Beach - A postcard-perfect stretch of soft, white sand, ideal for sunbathing or snorkelling in tranquil waters.
• Macao Beach - A favourite among surfers, this unspoiled shoreline offers rolling waves and a more rugged, local charm.
• Altos de Chavón - A replica 16th-century Mediterranean village perched above the Chavón River, home to art galleries, a cultural centre, and a stunning amphitheatre.

Culinary culture:

Punta Cana’s food scene blends indigenous Taíno influences with Spanish, African, and Caribbean traditions. Fresh seafood dominates menus, with dishes like mofongo de camarones (garlic mashed plantains with shrimp) and pescado con coco (fish in coconut sauce) showcasing the island’s flavours. Local markets brim with tropical fruits, while beachfront shacks serve crisp tostones and the Dominican staple, La Bandera – a hearty plate of rice, beans, and meat.

Dive deeper:

Beyond the beaches, explore the hidden treasures of the Dominican Republic. Discover the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, a lush reserve with freshwater lagoons and native flora. Take a guided tour of a cacao plantation to learn about traditional chocolate-making, or visit Higüey’s Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia, an architectural marvel and a significant pilgrimage site.

Good to know:

The ideal time to visit is from December to April, when the weather is warm and dry. Transport is best arranged via private transfers or rental cars, as public transport is limited. Be mindful that while resort areas are well-developed, smaller villages retain a more traditional pace of life, offering a glimpse into the island’s authentic charm.