27 waterfalls PUERTO PLATA

Experience the 27 Waterfalls in Puerto Plata with a Balanced View of Adventure and Authenticity

Imagine a day filled with splashing, sliding, jumping, and swimming through a series of 27 waterfalls in the Dominican Republic’s scenic countryside. For $69 per person, this tour takes around 6.5 hours and promises an energetic mix of outdoor fun and local flavors. It begins with a jeep tour through the lush countryside, leading you to the famous Damajagua Falls, where the real excitement starts. What makes this tour stand out are the opportunity to leap from heights up to 8 meters (26 feet) if you’re feeling daring, and the chance to enjoy authentic Dominican cuisine topped with local rum drinks. The tour also offers door-to-door transportation, making it convenient and stress-free, especially for those wary of navigating local transport on their own.

Two features we especially appreciate are the guides’ friendliness and safety-oriented approach and the culinary experience that complements the adventure. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, which can transform a physically demanding activity into a safe, memorable experience. Plus, the included lunch and local rum make the day feel like a genuine taste of Dominican hospitality.

A consideration worth noting is that reviews mention discrepancies between the advertised activities and what some travelers experienced—particularly regarding the jeep safari and the number of waterfalls actually visited. It’s important to stay flexible and understand that some parts of the experience depend on group size and weather conditions. This tour suits active travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural flavor, especially those comfortable with moderate physical activity and heights.

Key Points

• Adventure for all: Whether you want to leap or just enjoy the scenery, there are options for everyone.
• Authentic local meal: A well-loved part of the tour, featuring traditional Dominican dishes and local drinks.
• Guides’ knowledge and friendliness: Frequently praised for making the experience safe, fun, and memorable.
• Value for money: The tour includes transportation, lunch, and the waterfalls—many reviews highlight the good value.
• Potential discrepancies: Some travelers note differences between expectations and reality, especially regarding the Jeep Safari and waterfalls count.
• Accessibility considerations: The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level, with hikes and water activities involved.

In-Depth Review of the Damajagua Falls Tour

Getting There and the First Impressions

Starting at 8:00 am, this tour begins with a door-to-door pickup, which is a huge plus for travelers who don’t want the hassle of organizing transport. The jeep ride out to the countryside is part of the adventure, giving you a glimpse of rural Dominican life and lush scenery. Given that the tour typically sells well in advance—about 50 days on average—you can plan ahead and secure your spot.

The Heart of the Experience: Damajagua Waterfalls

The core of this trip is the series of waterfalls, which is described as a natural monument featuring 27 cascades of different sizes. The activity starts with a moderate 30-minute hike to the top of the falls, where you can choose your path: jump, slide, swim, or relax—depending on your comfort level.

The highlights are the opportunity to jump from heights up to 8 meters (about 26 feet). Don’t worry if you’re not a thrill-seeker; there’s a walk-around option for the big jumps, making the experience accessible for different comfort levels. Many reviews, like Ashley’s, note the “silly grin” that appears after descending, a sign of genuine fun.

However, some reviews point out that the actual number of waterfalls visited might be less than the 27 listed—some travelers report only seeing or doing about 6 waterfalls. This discrepancy could be due to weather, group size, or the specific route taken on the day.

Guides and Safety

Many reviewers laud the guides—particularly for their knowledge, friendliness, and safety consciousness. One reviewer mentions “our driver was very nice and informative,” which highlights the importance of good support when engaging in water-based activities involving heights. Guides often use translators for non-English speakers, making the experience inclusive and reassuring.

The Lunch and Local Rum

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the authentic Dominican lunch. It’s a chance to sit down, refuel, and savor local flavors after the physical activity. The local rum drinks are also popular, often mentioned as the perfect end to an adventurous day.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours, including the river time of around 2.5 hours. While the advertised duration is longer, reviews indicate that actual time on-site can vary—some say it’s closer to 4 hours. This variability might be due to group size or weather conditions, which can influence the pace of activities.

The group size is capped at 50, which helps maintain a personalized feel, and the small group environment often enhances the safety and enjoyment of physical activities.

Real-World Experience: Reviews and Insights

• Ashley’s glowing review emphasizes safety and fun, especially for solo travelers.
• Andre describes “feeding his adrenaline” with jumps and slides, showcasing the tour’s appeal for thrill-seekers.
• On the flip side, some reviews highlight disappointments, especially when the activities promised (like the Jeep Safari) don’t meet expectations or are not included. These are often attributed to miscommunication or differences in what was marketed versus what was delivered.
• Another reviewer, Cynthia, mentions only seeing 5 waterfalls, and others complain about overcharging for photos, which suggests that travelers should clarify what’s included before booking.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring a waterproof camera or phone case if you want photos—note, photos are not included in the price.
• Be prepared for moderate physical activity—a good level of fitness makes the experience more enjoyable.
• If jumping from heights makes you nervous, remember there are walk-around options.
• Confirm your pickup time and ensure your cruise or flight schedules align with the tour, as some disappointment stems from timing issues.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For adventurous travelers seeking a mix of adrenaline, natural beauty, and local culture, this tour offers solid value. The guides tend to enhance the experience, and the lunch and drinks add a relaxing touch. However, if your main goal is to see all 27 waterfalls or enjoy certain activities like the Jeep Safari, it’s wise to check the details and reviews carefully.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who don’t mind getting wet, climbing, or jumping. It suits solo visitors, groups, and families with children comfortable enough for moderate hikes and water activities. It’s especially good for those wanting a break from lounging on the beach and eager to explore the natural, adventurous side of Puerto Plata.

Those who prioritize authentic local cuisine and a friendly, informative guide will find this tour appealing. Conversely, travelers seeking a heavily scripted, all-inclusive experience with guaranteed waterfall counts should consider other options or clarify details beforehand.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 6.5 hours, with river time around 2.5 hours. Actual time on-site may vary slightly depending on group size and weather.

What are the activity options at the waterfalls?
You can choose to jump, slide, swim, or walk around the waterfalls. The big jumps have walk-around options if you’re not comfortable with heights.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers door-to-door round-trip transfers, making it convenient and eliminating the need for a designated driver.

What should I bring?
Bring waterproof footwear or sandals, waterproof camera or phone case for photos, and moderate physical fitness for hiking and water activities. Sunscreen and a hat are also advisable.

Are meals included?
Yes, there’s an authentic Dominican lunch included, along with local rum drinks—a highlight appreciated by many.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for refunds.

In sum, the 27 Waterfalls tour in Puerto Plata offers a lively, authentic, and fun-filled day that blends adventure with culture. While it’s important to manage expectations regarding the waterfalls and activities, many travelers find it delivers great value and memorable moments. If you’re craving an active day in nature, don’t mind getting wet, and enjoy sharing with friendly guides, this tour could be a perfect fit.