Samaná Hosts Canadian Journalists to Showcase Sustainable Tourism

The Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism welcomed five Canadian journalists to Samaná to experience one of the Caribbean's most unspoiled destinations, where nature, wellness and responsible tourism define the visitor experience.

Still largely untouched by mass tourism, Samaná invites travellers to slow down, reconnect with nature and discover a destination where pristine beaches, lush mountains, exceptional biodiversity and sustainable initiatives shape every experience.

During the trip, journalists explored some of the peninsula's most spectacular beaches, including La Playita, Playa Grande, Playa Rincón and El Aserradero, all renowned for their natural beauty.

The itinerary also included a visit to La Fábrica Samaná, a family-owned producer of shade-grown coffee and cacao. Shade-grown coffee grows more slowly, requires less water, fertilizer and pesticides, supports greater biodiversity, promotes healthier ecosystems and helps diversify farmers' income.

The group also explored Los Haitises National Park, one of the Dominican Republic's most important ecological reserves, before visiting Cayo Levantado. There, they toured Cayo Levantado Resort and experienced a sound healing session, a wellness activity inspired by the island's peaceful natural surroundings.

The journalists also discovered the town of Samaná, its marina and its growing hospitality offering, including Bannister Hotel, a boutique hotel overlooking Puerto Bahía Marina, and Las Casitas, which showcase the destination's authentic charm.

Their ecotourism experience continued with a visit to the spectacular El Limón Waterfall, organized by Parada La Manzana, a locally owned business that welcomes visitors in small groups while embracing sustainable practices. Its restaurant prepares meals using locally sourced ingredients, promotes circular economy initiatives, composts organic waste and partners with local businesses for recycling.

Throughout the trip, the group stayed at Viva V Samaná by Wyndham, an adults-only resort committed to responsible tourism through initiatives such as refillable water stations that reduce single-use plastics, environmentally friendly products, and a wellness-focused program including yoga classes, bachata lessons, cocktail tastings, kayaking, paddleboarding and archery.

Through this media familiarization trip, the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism showcased Samaná as a destination where travellers can experience the Caribbean differently by connecting with nature, supporting local communities and embracing more sustainable ways to travel.