Holiday eco-tourism, Oscar de la Renta style

Puntacana Resort & Club has recently announced their very first voluntourism package, one which take ornithology to the next level.

Guests of the resort from December 28 to January 4 are invited to accompany Dr. André Dhondt from the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology on a yearly census of the 27 indigenous bird species native only to the Dominican Republic. The good doctor will be offering tours of the resort's grounds and lectures on different types of birds, and guests will receive exclusive access to the resort's beautiful Ecological Reserve, as well as guides, binoculars and refreshments, as well as a basic lesson in Caribbean ornithology and an opportunity to "participate in scientific research of native, migratory, and endemic bird species," including the rare Ridgway Hawk.

"People think of eco-tourism as tents and backpacks. The launch of these voluntourism packages means that guests can relax and enjoy their vacation while also helping us take care of a beautiful natural environment. The Oscar de la Renta designed villas at Tortuga Bay, new rooms at the Puntacana Hotel, Six Senses Spa or our golf courses are the perfect locations to unwind after the day's activities," says Puntacana Resort & Club Executive Director of Hospitality Alberto Abreu.

If you're interested in a mid-holiday island getaway with a splash of goodness, visit the website for more information -- and check out the Oscar de la Renta designed villas below (drool-worthy images courtesy of Puntacana Resort & Club)! Rates for this package start at $390 per night for a Deluxe, recently refurbished room at Puntacana Hotel. A portion of the rate will be donated to the Puntacana Ecological Foundation.

Gallery: Oscar de la Renta Designs Villas for Tortuga Bay

Filed under: Dominican Republic, Ecotourism