The Colonial Zone is a worthy destination, no doubt. With architectural beauty dating back over 500 years, it's not something you'll want to miss during a visit to Santo Domingo, but save some time to go where the tourists don't usually go. You'll see a truer and, many times, a more personal and endearing side of Santo Domingo and surrounding areas.

If you like challenging, out- of- the- way places, for example, the coastal road from Barahona to Enriquillo is worth taking. Though a four-wheel drive is the best mode of transportation, there are few tourists, no hotels, and beautiful scenery.

Near Santo Domingo is Boca Chica where, if you explore, you'll find out-of-the-way waterfalls, beautiful mountain scenery, and lots of hidden treasures. 

Please note Boca Chica is a small beach town near Santo Domingo it is not near any waterfalls, beautiful mountain scenery, and lots of hidden treasures in fact it is rather tacky. Its main claim to fame along with Sousa is "adult" tourism.

Cocotours offers daytrips ranging in price from $25 to $99. Go on an Outback Safari, which takes you on scenic back roads and visit with local people living their day-to-day lives. An especially exciting one is a river raft ride down the Yaque del Norte River, which runs through the center of the island. 

There are lots of off-the-beaten-path and even remote places to visit on the island. There is plenty of potential for ecotourism, and visitors are highly encouraged to get out of the hectic city and discover the beauty of the countryside. Explora! Ecotour provides informative half day, full day, and overnight excursions from Santo Domingo to most of the countries' national parks and protected areas. With emphasis on conservation and sustainability, this is a great way to get off the beaten path and get to know the countries' natural wonders from Santo Domingo.