Las Terrenas is a beautiful beach town located on the North coast of the Samaná peninsula. Over the last few years, what started as a peaceful fishing village has become the star destination of the Dominican Republic.
While Las Terrenas is very walkable, there are a few different means of transportation that make travel easier within the area.
Guagua (bus)
Inside the Peninsula of Samaná it is really easy to move around with the “Guagua”, the local public transport in the Dominican Republic.
The bus station in Las Terrenas is located on the main street, Calle Duarte (in front of the commercial plaza). The “Guaguas” will bring you to the following destinations:
-El Limón (Horseback riding and Waterfalls)
-Samaná (The island of Cayo Levantado, whales watching, Los Haitises natural reserve)
-Las Galeras (A mesmerizing beach village located at the tip of the Peninsula)
It is recommended to arrive at the station 10 minutes earlier in order to secure a seat.
MotoConcho
MotoConchos (motorbike taxis) are the cheapest and most convenient way to travel short distances within Las Terrenas. The price is US$ 2 to US $4 for most trips depending on distance and whether it is day or night time.
MotoConchos are always wearing a yellow jacket to show that they are members of the Local Drivers Association and therefore must follow certain rules to ensure a safe ride.
Renting a scooter or a motorbike
The peninsula of Samaná enjoys a lush tropical landscape and hundreds of kilometers of beaches and turquoise waters. The scooter, also called pasola, gives you the freedom to move around and discover the different beaches, waterfalls and country roads. Enjoy a day trip along the coast with the ocean breeze, have a typical Dominican lunch in small village, get to know the friendly local villagers and drive to infinite adventures.
Prices vary between US$15 - US$20/day. If you are driving, remember to wear a helmet for your own safety and to avoid being pulled over by police. Make sure you have a copy of your passport, water and sun screen.
Roads in Las Terrenas have many high speed bumps, so drive safely and do not speed. There are only two traffic rules: keep on looking before you and use your arms to point out if you want to go right or left.
Renting an ATV ( Quad)
It’s stable to drive and good for any road condition in Las Terrenas and Samaná. It is easy to park (there are not many parking options for cars), can transport two adults and one child and it is convenient to do groceries with. And of course, it’s a very practical vehicle to explore the wider area in Las Terrenas.
There are many ATV rental opportunities in town and prices vary between US$35 and US$45 /day, discounts are giving for a longer rental period. A helmet is not mandatory for an ATV.
Renting a car
When traveling with a bigger family a car might be more economic and easy when it rains. Cars can be rented locally in Las Terrenas or at any airport.
The road from Santo Domingo Airport to Samaná is in a very good condition. It is also a toll road, price one way will cost you +/-1300RDS ( US$25).
It is better to avoid driving during the night on the toll-way to Samaná, because there are no lights at all and especially driving through the National park which is nestled in the mountains can become a bit tricky. Most accidents happen during nighttime with collisions with cows, horses or dogs.
Driving a car during nighttime is no problem in Las Terrenas, you just have to find a good parking spot as they are very limited in town.
Cycling
The greener option to move around Las Terrenas. The bicycle is a nice means of transportation to ride along the beaches and to the center of the village. It is a daily activity for some residents.
For the more sporty, there are cycling teams in Las Terrenas leaving early in the morning towards El Limón or the mountains.
Several places offer road or mountain bikes for rent in Las Terrenas.
Sources:
Ocean Edge Real Estate
Travel Las Terrenas
