A massive fire broke out at a popular Dominican Republic resort, turning a dream Caribbean vacation into a terrifying scene as tourists and families rushed to safety.
The blaze erupted Friday at the Viva Dominicus Bayahibe resort in La Altagracia, a major beach destination operated by Wyndham Resorts and popular with American travelers.
Shocking video from the scene showed thick smoke pouring into the sky as flames tore through part of the resort. Footage appeared to show fire raging through a thatched roof on one of the hotel buildings while guests and staff scrambled to evacuate.
Emergency crews raced to the resort as the fire grew out of control. First responders said firefighters were sent quickly to the scene to try to contain the flames before they spread to nearby structures, according to Dominican Today.
But witnesses said the fire was so large that crews appeared to need more help.
“Although fire trucks are already on the scene, the magnitude of the blaze exceeds the available equipment and greater support is required with higher-impact units to fully extinguish it,” one witness wrote on social media.
Video showed firefighters spraying water at the burning structure as smoke continued to billow over the resort. Dozens of people could be seen gathered nearby watching as the fire ripped through the building.
Hotel staff and tourists were forced to evacuate. Several people were escorted to safe areas, including a nearby beach.
It remains unclear whether anyone was injured or whether anyone was trapped inside during the fire. Officials have not yet confirmed the cause of the blaze or the full extent of the damage.
Local authorities have not released a formal statement.
The Viva Dominicus Bayahibe resort is a well-known all-inclusive destination for travelers looking for sun, sand, and beachfront relaxation. The hotel describes itself as an “all-inclusive paradise” surrounded by “pristine white sands.”
The resort offers restaurants, live music, pickleball, paddleboarding, trapeze lessons, a large pool near the beach, and direct access to the water. It has also undergone extensive renovations in recent years, including upgrades to common areas and food options.
For guests who expected a relaxing Caribbean escape, the fire created a frightening scene as smoke filled the air and families fled from the resort.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
