Marine Life & Coral Reef Conservation

Sandpoint Area Students

Dominican Republic | June 10 to 17th 2025

  • Embark on an immersive journey with the Marine Life & Conservation Adventure in the Dominican Republic. Join us for a transformative experience focused on marine conservation and service learning. Dive into hands-on marine conservation projects with Fundación Maguá, directly contributing to the preservation of vital marine ecosystems. Engage in meaningful community service while gaining valuable insights into environmental conservation. The Dominican Republic is on the frontlines of climate change, and protecting our reefs, mangroves, and other marine and coastal ecosystems is vital. Join us and make a tangible difference while creating lasting memories and fostering personal growth.

  • Arrival Day | Arrival and Isabel De Torres National Park

    Arrive in Santo Domingo and embark on a scenic 4-hour journey north to Puerto Plata. Post-lunch, explore the captivating Isabel de Torres National Park, ascending 2400 feet to the summit via cable car. At the top, you'll be greeted with stunning vistas, lush botanical gardens, and serene walking paths weaving towards springs and secluded caves, all enveloped in refreshingly cool air. Following your descent, check into your hotel, enjoy a relaxing dinner, and rest up, gearing up for the exciting week ahead.

    Lodging: Hotel Loase Resort, Puerto Plata

    Day 2 | Service with Fundación Magua

    Spend your morning learning about Fundación Maguá, a local NGO that carries out projects aimed at the conservation and recovery of the environment and natural resources of the Dominican Republic. After a brief introduction to the NGO you will head to the beach and participate in their coral restoration project, where you will help in the creation and maintenance of coral nurseries located along the Atlantic coastline. Coral reefs are an essential part of Marine ecosystems, they are home to many species of fish and also protect coastlines from storm surges and erosion.

    Lodging: Hotel Loase Resort, Puerto Plata

    Day 3 - 4 | Continue Service with Fundación Magua

    Spend these days continuing work on the coral nurseries you’ve been creating. This project will help increase the resilience of corals to disturbed environments and will safeguard coral species threatened with extinction. In the evening discuss the impact of environmental conservation efforts like the ones you’ve just participated in.

    Lodging: Hotel Loase Resort, Puerto Plata

    Day 5 | 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua

    After breakfast, set off for an adventure-filled day. Drive south to the renowned 27 Charcos, a series of waterfalls offering exhilarating opportunities to jump, slide, and rappel down. Following an invigorating morning, enjoy lunch near the waterfalls. Post-lunch, visit a local chocolate farm where you can learn about the chocolate-making process and sample some fresh, artisanal chocolate. Return to your eco-lodge in the evening for dinner and a tranquil night's rest.

    Lodging: Hotel Velero, Cabarete

    Day 6 | Free time in Cabarete

    Today offers a mix of relaxation and cultural immersion. Spend your morning enjoying the beautiful beaches or engaging in water sports, and exploring the charming local shops and cafes.

    In the afternoon, energize yourself with a lively dance class led by Nina Frika, learning Caribbean rhythms like merengue or bachata. Conclude your day by experiencing the town's culinary delights or taking a sunset beach stroll.

    Optional Surfing Lesson or Scuba Dive with a PADI certified dive shop can be arranged for students interested.

    Lodging: Hotel Velero, Cabarete

    Day 7 | Parque Nacional El Choco and Monkey Jungle Zip Line

    Begin the day with a visit to El Choco National Park, where you can wander through caves, lagoons, and lush trails. In the afternoon, head to Monkey Jungle and Zip Lining Adventure for an exhilarating zip-lining experience over a botanical park and a unique chance to interact with friendly monkeys. End your day back in Cabarete, relaxing at a local restaurant or enjoying the beach, reflecting on a day full of adventure and discovery.

    Lodging: Hotel Velero, Cabarete

    Day 8 | ¡Buen Viaje!

    The Offbeat team will escort your group to the airport in private transport. We hope you enjoyed your stay in the Dominican Republic!

  • In Puerto Plata the group will stay at the Hotel Loase Resort. The hotel has basic comfortable accommodations and convenient amenities, including beach access, spacious rooms, and recreational facilities.

    In Cabarete the group will stay at Velero Beach Resort. Similarly it has a pool, and beach access.

  • • 7 nights of accommodation

    • All meals all days

    • All transportation

    • Offbeat Travel full-time international and local guides

    • All activities as detailed in your itinerary

    • Single point of contact from Offbeat Travel for support leading up to the program

    • Offbeat Travel 24-hour emergency support throughout program

    • All airport taxes and departure fees

    • All fees, community service donations, and guide tips

  • Ground Costs: $1995

    Flights: Approximately $1200 (pending confirmation from airline)

    Total: $3,195

    Payment Plan:

    • $200 Deposit Now then equal payments spread out until a month before the trip

    All payments after the initial deposit will be invoiced via email.