Let's start our journey with The Three Eyes National Park, an extraordinary place located in the heart of Santo Domingo. This unique national park hides three crystal clear lakes hidden in limestone caves. It's a place that impresses not only for its beauty, but also for its history - it is said to have been the inspiration for the setting of the movie 'Jurassic Park.' Entrance to the park costs about 100 pesos for locals and 200 pesos for tourists (as of 2023). Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, as the paths can be slippery.

Next on our list is Montaña Redonda, a place that offers some of the most spectacular views on the island. This round mountain, which offers a 360-degree panorama, is a paradise for photography and adrenaline lovers. Here you can take advantage of swings suspended over the precipice, which give the illusion of swinging over the edge of the world. A ride to the top costs about $10-15 per person (as of 2023), but the views make up for every cent spent.

If you're a fan of exploring underground natural wonders, Cave of Wonders (Cueva de las Maravillas) is a place you can't miss. This fascinating cave, located near La Romana, hides an impressive collection of petroglyphs and cave paintings left by the island's indigenous Taínos. The temperature inside the cave remains constant at around 25°C, making for a comfortable visit. Entrance tickets cost about 300 pesos for adults (as of 2023), and tours are guided.

When comparing the three attractions, it's worth noting that each offers a completely different experience. The Three Eyes National Park is ideal for families with children due to its easy access and short trails. Montaña Redonda is for thrill seekers and beautiful views, but may not be suitable for those with a fear of heights. Cave of Wonders, on the other hand, is a treat for history and geology enthusiasts, although those with claustrophobia may feel uncomfortable in the cave's narrow passageways. Regardless of your choice, each of these places guarantees an unforgettable experience and the chance to experience the Dominican Republic from a completely different perspective.

If you're looking for a true adventure and adrenaline rush, the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua is a must-visit destination. This natural water park offers an amazing canyoning experience among cascades and natural slides. You can choose a route that includes 7, 12 or all 27 waterfalls, depending on your fitness and courage. Prices range from $40 to $80 per person (as of 2023), depending on the option you choose. Keep in mind that this attraction requires good physical fitness and swimming skills.

Another amazing place is Hoyo Azul - a turquoise lagoon hidden deep in the rainforest. This crystal clear natural lake, surrounded by high rocks, offers a refreshing swim and amazing views. Reaching Hoyo Azul requires a short trek, which adds to the charm of the whole experience. Admission costs around $65-80 (as of 2023) and is often part of a broader tour of the area.

For nature lovers and ecotourism enthusiasts, Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve is a true paradise. This 1,500-acre private nature reserve offers 12 freshwater lagoons, five of which are open for swimming. It's the perfect place to relax and observe local flora and fauna. Admission to the reserve costs about $50 for those not staying in nearby hotels (as of 2023).

Comparing the three attractions, the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua offers the most adrenaline and is ideal for active tourists looking for a strong thrill. However, due to its demanding nature, it may not be suitable for families with young children or those in lesser shape. Hoyo Azul, on the other hand, is for those who want to combine light physical activity with relaxation in a beautiful setting. It is more accessible to a wider range of hikers, although the short trek may be challenging for those with mobility problems. Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve is the mildest of the three options, ideal for families and nature lovers who prefer a more leisurely pace of sightseeing.

All of these places have one thing in common - they offer unique experiences surrounded by the incredible Dominican wilderness. By choosing any of these attractions, you're guaranteed to see the Dominican Republic from a completely different perspective than the typical beach tourist.

To conclude our tour of the Dominican Republic's not-so-obvious attractions, we can't leave out Scape Park - a destination that combines the best of the previous offerings. This eco-friendly theme park offers a range of attractions that will satisfy even the most demanding adventurers. From ziplining over a lush rainforest to cave exploration to relaxing on a private beach, Scape Park has it all.

One of the park's main attractions is Xenotes Caribe, a series of underground caves and cenotes where you can swim and snorkel. The experience is somewhat reminiscent of Hoyo Azul, but offers more variety. The park also offers an adrenaline rush in the form of the Zip Line Eco Splash, a series of zip lines that end with a landing in a crystal clear lagoon.

For lovers of history and culture, Scape Park has prepared the Iguabonita Cave Expedition, a fascinating journey inside a cave where you can admire the cave art left behind by the island's indigenous people. This experience is a bit like Cave of Wonders, but in a more controlled environment.

Admission prices to the Scape Park range from $109 to $149 per person, depending on the package selected (as of 2023). While this may seem like a lot, it's worth remembering that the price includes many attractions that in other places would have to be paid for separately.

To summarize our tour of seven of the Dominican Republic's not-so-obvious attractions, it's worth noting that each of these destinations offers unique experiences that go beyond the typical idea of a Caribbean vacation. From the mysterious caves of The Three Eyes National Park, to the breathtaking views from Montaña Redonda, to the thrilling adventures at the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua, each attraction allows you to discover a different face of the Dominican Republic.

When choosing among these attractions, there are several factors to consider. For adrenaline and activity seekers, 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua and Scape Park will be ideal. Those who love nature and a quieter pace of sightseeing should consider Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve or Hoyo Azul. And for those who want to combine beautiful views with a bit of excitement, Montaña Redonda will be a hit.

Keep in mind that prices and opening hours can change, so it's always a good idea to check current information before planning a trip. Whichever attraction you choose, you are guaranteed to see the Dominican Republic from a completely different perspective and return home with a baggage of unforgettable memories. Discover this fascinating island off the beaten track and let yourself be surprised by its hidden treasures!