This half-day trip to Xploration Animal Park has family fun stamped all over it. One of our guides, Noel, gives it his own seal of approval. ‘I’m a father of four, and because we live close to the park, it’s one of our favourite places to visit. Whenever I’m guiding this tour, I arrive with a smile on my face, knowing I’ll be spending the day surrounded by beautiful landscapes and incredible animals.’

You’ll be picked up and taken on a scenic voyage into the hills of Nisibon in the northeast of the Dominican Republic. On arrival at Xploration, there’s a presentation on the park from one of our expert guides. It’s Noel’s favourite part of the tour. ‘I love explaining the differences between our animals and how they help us work the land,’ he says.

Jump aboard the bus for a panoramic drive around the park, or head out on foot to find your own hidden viewpoints over the landscape. You'll spot the likes of rabbit, deer, ostrich and emu, plus see cows being milked. Enjoy a drink and snack as well as time to meet the farm animals, including goats, sheep and pigs. What's more, all visits support the park's dog rescue shelter. And, as the heat ramps up, cool down with the option to kayak, paddleboard or bamboo raft. For Noel, this part of the experience brings back great memories. He says, ‘When I was younger, my family and I used to come and fish at the River Maimon. I remember those days well and want guests to make memories with their own families here, too.’