Orlando, Anaheim, and … Punta Cana?
It’s true: The Dominican Republic is the latest theme park destination for families and thrill-seekers alike; Katmandu Park Punta Cana is slated to open in early 2023.
The new park is operated by Orlando, Florida-based entertainment, attraction, and theme park company Falcon’s Beyond, and it builds on the mythical Katmandu universe that was originally introduced in “Hidden Realms of Katmandu,” an original proprietary franchise begun in 2012 at its sister park in Mallorca, Spain. The interactive storytelling at the latest park is sure to appeal to theme park-savvy North American travelers.
"Katmandu Park Punta Cana will deliver an unprecedented theme park experience based on the popular characters of our very own Katmandu fantastical universe,” said Cecil D. Magpuri, co-founder and CEO of Falcon’s Beyond. “Through innovative rides and attractions that deliver unmatched and immersive storytelling, guests will truly lose themselves in the Hidden Realms of Katmandu.”
The Main Attractions of Katmandu Park Punta Cana
The park’s four marquee attractions (featuring several proprietary technologies) tell one overarching, episodic storyline that immerses clients in an “unfolding adventure,” while at the same time delivering an independent experience — something David Schaefer, chief development officer for Falcon’s Beyond, says has never been done before.
A centerpiece of Falcon Beyond’s “resortainment” concept is the new Falcon’s Central entertainment zone.
Credit: 2023 Falcon's BeyondThe four interwoven chapters include Legend of the Desirata, a 4D ride that introduces the Katmandu origin story of explorer Kilgore Goode’s travels to the Himalayas (and into the Hidden Realms); Voyage of the Fathom Wanderer, a suspended theater attraction that invites riders on an underwater mission to protect the Hidden Realm of Azurlan from a sea monster; Challenge of the Mad Mage, an interactive theater experience where guests duel against Explorer Mage Alvis; and EtherQuest, a walk-through attraction (making its global debut) that will transport clients into the Hidden Realms to defeat powerful Explorer Mages, find a precious EtherMetal ember and return home.
To enhance the visitor experience, Katmandu Park Punta Cana embraces what it calls a “Big Experience/Small Footprint” philosophy: Confining the large-scale, world-class attractions U.S. travelers want to a smaller, more manageable area than traditional mega-parks.
This includes additional family-friendly attractions such as a 36-hole mini-golf course that crisscrosses over mountains and inside caves; an outdoor ropes course; the indoor Quadagon "adrenaline courses”; and the Wheel of Infinite Wonder, a Katmandu-themed carousel with custom figures inspired by creatures and characters from the Hidden Realms.
I think the industry has learned that these large investments draw families.
This unique, complex Katmandu universe is sure to be a draw for clients with children, says Steve Griswold, owner of Atlanta-based Pixie Vacations, who notes that many cruise lines (and several Caribbean resorts) have already “upped their game” to appeal to families. He points to attractions like Norwegian Cruise Line’s top-deck go-cart tracks, MSC Seascape’s new robotic arm ride and Royal Caribbean International’s CocoCay waterpark.
"I think the industry has learned that these large investments draw families,” Griswold said. “It’s also more difficult to get families to the Dominican Republic versus destinations with more affordable flights, such as the Bahamas or Mexico, so anything they can do to set themselves apart is going to help.”
Falcon’s Resort by Melia - All Suites Punta Cana
One way Katmandu Park Punta Cana sets itself apart is through its “resortainment” hospitality concept, which blends the attractions and experiences of the new theme park; Falcon’s Central shopping, dining and entertainment zone; and luxury resort amenities from Falcon’s Resort by Melia - All Suites Punta Cana. The hotel debuted in December and offers clients five-star service with direct theme park access.
Falcon’s Resort by Melia - All Suites Punta Cana offers five-star service with direct access to Katmandu Park.
Credit: 2023 Falcon’s Resort by Melia - All Suites Punta Cana“Falcon’s Resort by Melia - All Suites Punta Cana seamlessly blends premium resort amenities with extraordinary entertainment experiences in a casual, yet sophisticated manner that is the first of its kind,” said Andre Gerondeau, chief operating officer of Melia Hotels International.
He notes that beyond access to the theme park, hotel guests can enjoy premium features such as The Beyond Room Experience, therapies from MAIA Signature Spa by Natura Bisse and multiple international restaurant concepts.
Falcon’s Beyond CEO Magpuri describes the collaboration between his brand and Melia as a “perfect marriage” — with Melia’s 66 years of expertise in travel and hospitality and Falcon Beyond’s experience in entertainment development and master planning, he says, the two can offer “an extraordinary beach getaway with endless thrills and adventure that will change the way we vacation.”
Following the 2023 opening of Katmandu Park Punta Cana, Falcon’s Beyond has plans to open parks in Tenerife, Canary Islands (slated for 2024); Playa Del Carmen, Mexico (2025); and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (opening TBA).
