Higuey Holidays

Higuey is the capital of the Dominican Republic`s eastern province of La Altagracia. It is one of the largest and most popular cities in the Dominican Republic. Yuma River runs through the city of Higuey, and one the of the most attractive things to see in this city is the 16th century Church of San Dionisio and the Basilica of La Altagracia. Because of its eastern location, the name Higuey was given by the native Taino people and it can be translated as the ‘land where the sun rises’.

Higuey is a very nice place to visit as a part of your daily excursions or on your way towards the popular beach destination of Punta Cana, which is around sixty kilometers away from Higuey. Check out some of the beautiful surroundings of the city and admire the nice small farms, picturesque houses and traditional shops. Higuey offers a truly unique Dominican experience.

Higuey has a nice weather all year long, with average year temperatures in the upper 20s C. Summer months often have temperatures in the mid 30s C, while winter months are also pleasantly warm and ideal for going on sightseeing tours.

A major attraction in the city of Higuey is the Basilica of La Altagracia. There you can see the 15th century painting of the “Virgin de la Altagracia” which was brought by the ancient Spanish missionaries six centuries ago. Virgin de la Altagracia is Higuey`s patroness and 21st of January is her feast day and National Holiday of the Dominican Republic. On that day tens of thousands of visitors come to Higuey`s Basilica to celebrate the patroness and enjoy the festivities.

The interior of Basilica of La Altagracia includes an amazing altar made of gold and precious jewels, concrete walls and beautiful stained glass windows. It is definitely a place worth to be seen from up close. The outside architecture is equally stunning, with arches standing over eighty meters high. Entering this impressive cathedral is forbidden for those wearing shorts, sandals or miniskirts.

Close to the city of Higuey is the nice hamlet of Otra Banda. It is located around five kilometers away and it is considered one of the nicest villages in the region. There are many nice cabins and houses in pastel colors and its people are very friendly. If you are interested in beaches, closest beaches to Higuey are Bavaro and Punta Cana. From Higuey you can go on numerous tours and excursions and visit some popular attractions in the region. The Dolphin Island, Manati Park Bavaro and the Marinarium are some of the most popular excursions on which you can go to.

People mostly go to Higuey on their daily excursions, but there are fair share of tourists that decide to spend their entire holiday there as well. The city has a lot to offer and it is very close to the most popular attractions in the area. No matter what kind of holiday you seek, you will never feel bored if you decide to spend your holiday in Higuey.