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Santiago

Culture Corner

Map of the ISA Office and the Pontifical Catholic University Madre y Maestra in relation to the Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration.
Scenic view of the lush, green landscape surrounding Santiago from atop a hill.

Region and Population

With a population of 1,000,000 Santiago has much to offer culturally, academically and historically. It was founded in the late 15th century by members of Christopher Columbus’ expedition, making it one of the oldest cities in the New World.

Time Zones:
From the first Sunday in April until the last Sunday in October, it is the same time in the Dominican Republic as it is on the east coast of the United States (Eastern Standard Time). In fall and winter, the Dominican Republic is one hour ahead of EST.

Climate

The weather in the Dominican Republic is fabulous. Hispaniola (the island that contains the DR and Haiti) is in the tropics, and the parts that are at sea level experience warm temperatures and humidity. The average temperature in Santiago is around 75-85º F and the rainiest month is usually May. Of course, if you travel in the mountains, expect cooler temperatures and less humidity, but generally there is really only one season in the Dominican Republic, summer.

**Average monthly highs and lows (degrees Fahrenheit) and rainfall (inches) in Santiago**

TypeJanFebMarAprMayJuneJulAugSeptOctNovDec
Highs838486888991919191908683
Lows646566677071727271706865
Avg. Rainfall21.92.34.162.72.22.93.84.34.93.2