Columbus Lighthouse & Santo Domingo Este Tour

Overview

Cross the Ozama River to Santo Domingo Este, the side of the capital most visitors skip. The Faro a Colón (Columbus Lighthouse) is a cross-shaped monument about 240 m long, inaugurated in 1992 for the 500th anniversary of Columbus's arrival; it houses a museum and a mausoleum that, according to Dominican tradition, holds remains attributed to Columbus. We combine it with the cave lagoons of Los Tres Ojos and views back to the Colonial Zone across the river.

Why book this tour

The Faro a Colón is one of the most controversial and impressive monuments in the Caribbean. With a guide you understand the story behind it — and you see a side of Santo Domingo beyond the old town.

Who it suits

History fans, repeat visitors, families and travellers with a few hours before an evening flight.

Good to know

Opening hours and entrance fees can change; we confirm them when you book. Respectful dress is appreciated inside the mausoleum.

Highlights

• Faro a Colón monument and museum
• Mausoleum and the Columbus remains debate
• Los Tres Ojos cave lagoons
• Parque Mirador del Este
• Views of the Colonial Zone from the east bank
• Easy to combine with an airport day

Itinerary

1. 09:00

   Pickup

   From your hotel in Santo Domingo.

2. 09:30

   Faro a Colón

   Monument, mausoleum and exhibitions from across the Americas.

3. 11:00

   Los Tres Ojos

   Stairs down to the open-air cave lagoons.

4. 12:30

   Return

   Back to your hotel, or continue to SDQ airport (about 20 min).

Questions