Higuey Half Day Safari Tour

First, head to the Higüey Basilica. Devotees from every corner of the country flock this awe-inspiring shrine. As the Dominican Republic’s largest religious monument, it covers a massive area. As a distinctive structure in the shape of a Latin cross, this is a masterpiece of French architects. Visitors are led in through a somber bronze entryway plated in 24-kt. gold.

On his second visit to the country, Pope John Paul II crowned an image of Virgin of Altagracia, a remarkable gilded silver diadem. A lofty bell tower guarding 45 bronze carillons are pleasing visual stimuli for the passerbys, engulfing them in a celestial aura. Despite your religious beliefs, this sacred place radiates a sensation of peace and tranquility. This part of the tour leads you across Main Street, come eye to eye with its many monuments, restaurants and street vendors. Mingle with ordinary citizens and experience firsthand the peculiarities of everyday life and the quirks of their culture. It is a motley of color, culture and flavor.

The Cross of Forgiveness is located in an area of the park adjourning the church, where the customs of the people of Higüey are deeply-rooted. The sanctuary holds invaluable jewelry, a novelty piece for the prying eyes of those who visit. A gorgeous silver frame with the image of the Virgin of Altagracia can be seen, highlighted by precious stone incrustations underlined by an eloquent emerald bounded by crystals property of Saint Pius X.

Next on the itinerary, you will disperse in the area neighboring the Higüey Marketplace. Astray among the hustle bustle of busy streets and continual seesawing of cars, trucks, vans and motorcycles, you will appreciate the day to day occurrences of rural life. Get caught up in the beliefs and customs of their people. Learn how master craftsmen manufacture cigars by hand. Discover how tobacco has, for centuries, remained a staple of the Dominican economy, traditionally used in the making of the world’s best cigars. Take a look at their inventory, harnessing the opportunity of purchasing renowned brands, at unheard of prices. During this tour you may also purchase the best Dominican rum and visit quaint kiosks where the most distinctive and chic samples of local craftsmanship and costume jewelry are on display.