Educational & Cultural Immersion in Samaná

Discover, Learn, and Connect Beyond the Classroom

Our educational tours in Samaná are designed to give students and educators an unforgettable hands-on learning experience that goes far beyond textbooks. Set in one of the Dominican Republic’s most breathtaking regions, these immersive programs blend culture, language, ecology, and history—allowing participants to learn directly from local communities and the natural environment.

From the lush El Limón waterfalls to the vibrant fishing villages and agricultural landscapes, Samaná offers the perfect open-air classroom for subjects like environmental science, social studies, marine biology, Spanish language, anthropology, and sustainable tourism.

Each program can be customized to align with your school’s learning goals and curriculum. Students will explore real-world issues such as climate change, biodiversity, coastal conservation, and cultural preservation while engaging with local guides, educators, and artisans who share their lived experiences and traditions.

As part of our culturally immersive education programs, we take on every administrative detail—so teachers are free to focus entirely on meaningful learning and authentic cultural connection.

Program Highlights

Why Choose TiK

TiK is a fully licensed, registered, insured and authorized agent in the Dominican Republic, most other companies which operate in this space do not function in such a capacity on the island.

Students in our program gain access to opportunities that no other organization on the island can offer. We provide exclusive visits with U.S. governmental agencies operating in the Dominican Republic, as well as meetings with local government officials, NGOs, community leaders, entrepreneurs, and established corporations across Samaná. These interactions give students a rare, behind‑the‑scenes understanding of international cooperation, development work, and the social and economic forces shaping the region. To deepen cultural immersion even further, students and faculty enjoy meals inside a traditional Dominican home, experiencing authentic hospitality and everyday life firsthand. Our programs deliver one‑of‑a‑kind, academically rich, culturally grounded experiences that are truly unmatched in the Dominican Republic.

 

Samaná is known for its natural beauty, welcoming people, and educational value. Our team at This is Kulture Tours (TiK) partners directly with local communities to ensure every experience is authentic, respectful, and impactful—helping students broaden their worldview while contributing positively to the region.

Contact us today so you can be connected with an experience coordinator to walk you through the process of designing a customized experience for your group.  As your experience is designed you and your group can participate in virtual tours with our guides.

While we highlight Samaná as an exceptional educational destination, our programs extend across the entire island, offering immersive learning experiences in every region.

Educational & Cultural Immersion in Samaná

Ready for a study‑abroad experience that goes beyond the classroom? Join us in Samaná, where you’ll explore waterfalls, coastal ecosystems, and vibrant Dominican culture while learning directly from local communities.

You’ll visit farms, try traditional foods, take part in cultural workshops, and see what daily life is really like in this beautiful region. It’s hands‑on, immersive, and full of unforgettable moments.

If you’re looking for adventure, cultural connection, and real‑world learning, Samaná is the place to be.

Where learning meets culture, community, and authentic Dominican life

Discover the heart of the Dominican Republic through an immersive educational journey in Samaná, a region known for its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm, welcoming communities. This experience is designed for students and groups seeking meaningful learning beyond the classroom—where every activity, conversation, and environment becomes part of the curriculum.

A Living Classroom

Samaná offers a rich blend of history, ecology, and cultural heritage. Students engage directly with local experts, artisans, and community leaders, gaining insight into:

Each experience is thoughtfully curated to deepen understanding, spark curiosity, and encourage global awareness.

Hands On Learning Experiences

Participants step into real‑world environments that bring learning to life. Depending on the program, activities may include:

Every moment is designed to be interactive, reflective, and connected to the local context

Safe, Supported, and Fully Guided

Our experienced team leads all activities with professionalism and care. We prioritize:

Educators can focus on student learning while we handle all logistics and coordination.

Inclusive & Customized Programs

No two groups are the same—so no two experiences are either. We collaborate with educators to design programs that reflect:

Whether you’re seeking environmental exploration, cultural connection, or community engagement, we tailor the journey to your group’s unique objectives.

A Transformative Journey

Students leave Samaná with more than memories—they gain:

This is learning that lasts long after the trip ends.

Study Abroad Program • Dominican Republic

Experience the Dominican Republic through an academic lens with a transformative Educational & Cultural Immersion Program in Samaná. Designed for university students seeking meaningful global engagement, this program blends experiential learning, cultural exploration, and community connection in one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant regions.

Program Overview

Samaná serves as a dynamic living classroom where students engage directly with local communities, ecosystems, and cultural traditions. Through guided activities, field visits, and hands‑on learning, participants gain a deeper understanding of Dominican society, environmental sustainability, and the region’s Afro‑Caribbean heritage.

This program is ideal for students in global studies, education, environmental science, anthropology, public health, social work, and Latin American studies, as well as those seeking a broader intercultural experience.

Academic & Experiential Learning

Students participate in structured learning experiences that may include:

  • Field visits to local farms, cooperatives, and community projects
  • Workshops on Dominican music, dance, and culinary traditions
  • Discussions with local leaders, educators, and cultural practitioners
  • Exploration of coastal ecosystems, conservation efforts, and biodiversity
  • Guided excursions through rural communities and natural landscapes

Each activity is intentionally designed to support academic inquiry, cultural understanding, and reflective learning.

Cultural Engagement

Samaná offers a rich cultural environment shaped by African, Taíno, and European influences. Students will:

  • Interact with local families and artisans
  • Learn about regional history and identity
  • Observe daily life in both rural and coastal settings
  • Participate in cultural exchanges that foster mutual understanding

These experiences help students develop intercultural competence and a more nuanced perspective of Dominican culture.

Program Support & Safety

Our team provides comprehensive support throughout the program, including:

  • Trained, experienced staff leading all activities
  • Full supervision and safety protocols
  • Licensed and insured operations in the Dominican Republic
  • Trusted local partners with long‑standing relationships in the community

 

Faculty leaders can focus on academic goals while we manage logistics, coordination, and on‑the‑ground support.

Customized for Your Institution

We collaborate with universities to tailor the program to specific academic objectives, course themes, and student needs. Whether your focus is environmental sustainability, cultural studies, community engagement, or interdisciplinary learning, we design an experience that aligns with your curriculum.

Student Outcomes

By the end of the program, students will have:

  • Strengthened intercultural communication skills
  • A deeper understanding of Dominican culture and society
  • Increased global awareness and cultural humility
  • Hands‑on experience connecting theory to real‑world contexts
  • Personal growth through reflection, adaptation, and community engagement

This is more than a trip — it’s an immersive academic journey that broadens perspectives and builds global citizens

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival & Orientation
  • Airport pickup and transfer to Samaná
  • Welcome session and program overview
  • Introduction to Dominican culture and regional history
  • Visit to a local community
  • Cultural workshop (dance, music, or cooking)
  • Guided discussion on identity and traditions
  • Visit to a cacao or coffee farm
  • Learn about sustainable agriculture and local economies
  • Hands‑on tasting and demonstration
  • Coastal ecosystem walk or mangrove visit
  • Marine conservation discussion with local experts
  • Reflection session
  • Visit to a rural community
  • Participate in a community‑based activity
  • Dialogue with local leaders
  • Guided hike or horseback experience to Salto El Limón
  • Swimming and exploration at the waterfall
  • Group reflection
  • Final discussion and cultural debrief
  • Transfer to airport

Itineraries can be customized to meet academic goals.

Including Benefits

🏡 Housing

Students stay in safe, comfortable accommodations vetted by our team. Housing includes:

  • Shared rooms
  • Clean, modern facilities
  • 24/7 staff support
  • Secure environment
  • Proximity to program sites

🍽️ Meals

Meals highlight Dominican cuisine and local ingredients. Programs typically include:

  • Daily breakfast and dinner
  • Fresh fruit, rice, beans, plantains, and local specialties
  • Vegetarian options available
  • Dietary needs accommodated with advance notice

FAQs

Is the program safe?

Yes. We follow strict safety protocols, work with trusted local partners, and provide full supervision throughout the program.

No prior Spanish is required, though students will learn basic phrases and cultural communication skills during the experience.

Absolutely. We work with faculty to tailor activities to academic themes and course requirements.

Housing, meals, guided activities, transportation, staff support, and all program coordination.

Students in global studies, education, environmental science, anthropology, public health, social sciences, business, or anyone seeking meaningful cultural immersion.