Exotic Dominican Republic: Top 6 Most Interesting Fruits

The Dominican Republic is famous not only for the beaches of Punta Cana but also for fruit that grows here all year round. Many of these fruits are rare and expensive in European supermarkets, while in the Dominican Republic they are sold at every market. Here are six fruits worth trying on holiday.

Top 6 exotic fruits of the Dominican Republic

1. Mamey

A large fruit with rough brown skin and orange flesh. Its taste resembles a mix of apricot, pumpkin and plum. Mamey is used in milkshakes, ice cream and desserts.

2. Soursop (Guanábana)

A green fruit with soft spines on the skin and white fibrous flesh. The taste combines pineapple, strawberry and citrus. Soursop is most often made into juice and ice cream.

3. Red Banana

This banana is easy to recognise by its red-purple skin. It is sweeter and denser than the usual kind, has a light berry note and is rich in potassium.

4. Papaya

In the Dominican Republic papaya is called lechosa. The ripe fruit has yellow-orange skin and juicy orange flesh with a delicate sweet taste. It is eaten fresh and added to salads and smoothies.

5. Star Fruit (Carambola)

Cut a carambola crosswise and the slices are shaped like five-pointed stars. The taste is fresh and slightly tart, with notes of pear, grape and citrus.

6. Passion Fruit

In the Dominican Republic passion fruit is called chinola. Under its hard skin is juicy pulp with seeds and a sweet and sour taste. Chinola is used for juices, sauces, desserts and cocktails.

Where to try fruit in the Dominican Republic

The freshest fruit is sold at local markets, in small colmado shops and from street carts. In cafes and on the beach, order a fresh juice (jugo natural) or a batida, a fruit milkshake.

Before eating fruit bought on the street, be sure to wash it with drinking water.

Frequently asked questions

Which fruits should I try in the Dominican Republic?

Mamey, soursop, red banana, papaya (lechosa), carambola and passion fruit (chinola).

What is passion fruit called in the Dominican Republic?

Chinola.

Can I take fruit home from the Dominican Republic?

Rules on bringing in fresh fruit depend on the country of arrival, so check them before your flight.

Exotic fruit is a tasty addition to a holiday in the Dominican Republic, and Fly&Joy managers will help you pick a tour for your dates and budget.