Santiago, DR.- The Mayor’s Office of Santiago de los Caballeros has launched the “Tourist Carriages: Tradition, Well-Being and Protection” project, an initiative aimed at preserving the city’s historic horse-drawn carriage tradition while strengthening animal welfare standards, supporting coachmen, and boosting cultural tourism.

Presented by Iris Cepín de Rodríguez, the program seeks to modernize one of Santiago’s most iconic attractions through authorized routes, mandatory veterinary supervision, regulated work schedules, training for carriage operators, and sanctions for any form of animal abuse. “The horse-drawn carriages of Santiago are part of our cultural identity and history, but they also represent an important social and urban challenge,” she said during the launch event.

Santiago introduces new standards for tourist horse-drawn carriages

Deputy Mayor Mariana Moreno explained that the project will reduce the horses’ workload by implementing shorter routes, structured operating hours, and the gradual incorporation of electric or motorized support systems. The initiative also includes a social assistance component for carriage drivers and their families, many of whom face economic and health difficulties.

Veterinarian Horacio Ceballos said the first animal care operation has already been carried out in Bella Vista, where more than 20 horses received vitamins and deworming treatments. Work schedules will also be adjusted to prevent horses from operating during the hottest hours of the day.

The project brings together legal experts, veterinarians, urban planners, and sustainability specialists, with support from organizations such as VISIT Santiago and the Santiago Tourism Cluster. City officials say the initiative will help preserve a centuries-old tradition while ensuring more humane conditions for animals and improved livelihoods for coachmen.