The destination Barahona/Pedernales is huge and cannot be done in one or two days. You should separate your outings in Barahona from those in Pedernales. You will need at least two days for each, better if you have more time.
Some suggestions:
When you hit Barahona and Pedernales you are talking about no frills adventure tourism. There is a handful of hotels that offer luxury. You can tell by their room rates of RD$5,000 plus. Otherwise, for your own comfort consider taking a set of your own sheets and pillow, just in case.
Stock up on provisions in Barahona. Check out the Parque Litoral Maria Montez.
If you get in late, suggest you overnight in the town. Have stayed at the Loro Tuerto, they have a good bar, restaurant and small town vibe.
What to see:
Las Caritas. This is on the north side of Enriquillo Lake.
Enriquillo Lake. Largest in the Caribbean. Excursions are not so easy to arrange. Go early, or call EcoTour people as suggested previously. The boat trip to Isla Cabritos is recommended but if possible go as early in the morning as you can. Probably drop by the island entrance to arrange for the boat trip or through EcoTour. Arrange to go as early as possible, as later in the day expect temperatures of 38C+ on the island, so take sunscreen, hats and lots of water and a cooler.
Barahona Panoramic Highway. This is one of the most beautiful in the world. Take time to stop on the road to see the great views and take photos. This is a wow highway.
San Rafael. There is Villa Miriam, the care-keeper will let you in and maybe let you go for a dip. Otherwise, below there are natural pools formed by the rier waters.
Playa Azul. Lovely views and a great place to stop for lunch. This is also a hotel.
El Cachote. This will require more time. You drive up the winding road to where you will enjoy cool temperatures and lovely views. There is a basic eco lodge in this area and trails for hiking. But this is a detour that needs at least 4 hours.
Cueva de la Virgen (Garganta del Diablo). On the road leading to Casa Bonita, this is a worth stop to see this cathedral-like cave with impressive rock walls and gushing waters.
Casa Bonita Zipline. This is one of the most beautiful in the country. Well worth taking it. Casa Bonita Spa. Would combine it with relaxing treatment in the spa that is just where the zipline finishes. This spa is outstanding because it is located right in the jungle. They also use local ingredients.
Polo and the Magnetic Hill. This is another half day excursion because visiting Polo takes you inland. This is the famous point on the road where parked cars travel backwards up a hill on their own.
Los Patos. Back on the Panoramic Highway, drive south and stopover at this parador built by the government for a good fish meal.
Pedernales
Take note that Pedernales is about an hour and a half drive from Barahona.
It is best done separately. To try to tour Pedernales when being based in Barahona is doable, but you will be spending lots of time on the road. Better to split the trip and also stay in Pedernales.
On the road you will see the Parque Eologico Los Cocos, an impressive wind farm. Tours can be arranged, but you will have to contact them previously.
Laguna de Oviedo. Boat excursions take the tourists to observe birds and iguanas in this large lagoon. Best to arrange an excursion for first thing in the morning ? at dawn, or late in the afternoon to see the birds at their best. Otherwise, take note the heat reaches more than 36C+, so bring sunscreen, hats and lots of water.
Hoyo de Pelempito. This is another panoramic drive to a 700-meter drop that goes from cactus to pine forest landscapes in less than half an hour.
Cabo Rojo. White-sanded beach.
Bahia de las Aguilas. This is one of the most famous Dominican beaches. It is now accessible by car, but more scenic by boat. There is a restaurant stop on the way. Take note the beach itself is barren and there is blazing sun and no service on the beach. Bring sunscreen, hats and lots of water.
There are some restaurants in Pedernales where you may be able to get a fresh lobster lunch.
For a list of hotels and their contact telephones, see:
http://dr1.com/directories/Southwest.Barahona.html (two pages of listings)
http://dr1.com/directories/Southwest.Pedernales.html (one page)
Hotel recommendations:
Loro Tuerto
809 524-6600
Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge
Tel: (809) 476-5059
Luxury hotel
Hotel Playazul
Tel (809) 204-8010
Good restaurant
Casa de Tarzan (need 4 wheel drive vehicle)
Tel: (809) 977-4280
Pedernales:
Hostal Dona Chava
Tel 809 524-0332
Hostal D?Oleo Mendez
809 524-0415