El Limon Waterfall and Bacardi Island Tour from Punta Cana with Lunch Included

Experience the Natural Beauty of the Dominican Republic with the El Limon Waterfall and Bacardi Island Tour

This full-day adventure from Punta Cana offers a taste of authentic Dominican scenery and culture. For around $149 per person, you’ll spend approximately 11 to 12 hours exploring the lush countryside, swimming in the famous El Limon Waterfall, cruising on a catamaran, and relaxing on Bacardi Island. Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a buffet lunch, and two drinks on the boat — making it a convenient and well-rounded excursion.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines adventure with comfort. The guided horseback ride through coffee and cocoa farms provides a genuine look at rural life, while the boat trip offers a breezy escape along the coast. Plus, the opportunity to swim under the waterfall and unwind on a beautiful island makes this a memorable day for nature lovers and curious travelers alike.

On the flip side, a key consideration is the long travel distance — some parts of the trip involve up to 4 hours on the road or boat, which might test the patience of those with limited stamina or small children. It’s a tour best suited for active travelers who enjoy a full schedule of sights and physical activity. This experience works best for those eager to see multiple natural attractions in one day and are comfortable with a busy itinerary.

If you love scenic landscapes, outdoor activities, and cultural insights, this tour offers a balanced mix of all three. Expect a day packed with highlights and a good dose of Dominican charm.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience combining waterfalls, beaches, and countryside sights
• Guided horseback riding through coffee and cocoa farms enhances the authentic feel
• Cultural and scenic insights during bus and boat rides add depth to the day
• Long day with extensive travel — ideal for energetic travelers who don’t mind a packed schedule
• All-inclusive amenities like lunch, drinks, and hotel transfers add convenience
• Mixed reviews highlight knowledgeable guides but caution about the physical demands and travel time

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown: From the Countryside to the Coast

This tour begins bright and early, typically with pickup around 6:00-6:30 AM from your Punta Cana hotel. The first stretch of the journey takes you through Miches and the Dominican countryside, offering glimpses of local life and stunning coastal views. It’s a good opportunity to settle in with some snacks or a camera, as the scenery shifts from resort zones to lush, green landscapes.

After about an hour on the road, you’ll board a luxury catamaran at Las Cañitas. This part of the trip is often praised for its beautiful views of the coast and the smooth ride to Samaná. During the transfer, restrooms, soda, and two drinks are available — a nice touch to keep you comfortable amidst the sea breeze. Many reviews mention the boat ride as a highlight: “The boat ride is fun and pretty — our waters were kinda choppy which made it more exciting,” one reviewer notes.

El Limon Waterfall: The Main Attraction

Once in Samaná, you’ll hop into a safari truck and climb up a mountain to the base of the El Limon Waterfall. The elevation of the ride (up to 2,100 feet) offers panoramic views and a sense of adventure. The horseback riding part is often described as fun and scenic, taking you through coffee and cocoa farms. A typical ride lasts about 30 minutes each way, and the path can be rocky and uneven — reviewers recommend sturdy shoes and some physical stamina.

The hike to the waterfall involves a moderate uphill trek of about 10-20 minutes, so be prepared for some exertion. Once you arrive at the 120-foot waterfall, you’ll have about an hour to swim, take photos, and enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery. Many visitors mention the waterfall as spectacular, with one saying “the waterfall was beautiful, and swimming behind it was a highlight.”

Lunch at a Countryside Ranch

After the waterfall, you’ll head back to a local ranch for lunch, which is generally described as buffet-style with typical Dominican dishes. It’s a chance to refuel after a physically active morning. Several reviews praise the quality of the food, calling it delicious and plentiful. This break also provides a moment to relax and chat, soaking in the rural atmosphere.

Bacardi Island (Cayo Levantado): Beach Time and Relaxation

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a boat ride to Cayo Levantado — popularly called Bacardi Island. This small island is famous for its crystal-clear waters and soft sandy beaches. Here, you’ll get about 90 minutes to swim, sunbathe, or explore. Many reviews mention the beautiful scenery and the refreshing dip in the ocean as a perfect way to unwind.

It’s worth noting that the island’s orchard status was affected by Covid, and it might be less commercialized than some travelers expect. Still, the opportunity to relax on a pristine beach is a highlight of the tour.

Returning and Reflection

After your island retreat, you’ll head back on the boat — which some mention can be choppy, so bringing seasickness pills is a good idea if you’re prone. The return trip includes a bus ride back to your hotel, often with a quick stop at a local market where you can browse souvenirs and grab snacks.

The entire day wraps up around 7:00-8:00 PM, with many feeling exhausted but satisfied — a sign of a full and well-paced adventure.

What We Love About This Tour

One of the most praised aspects is the knowledgeable guides like Rafael, who make the experience genuinely engaging. Their insights about local culture, the environment, and the history of the sights add a layer of depth many travelers appreciate. As one reviewer put it, “Our guide Rafael made everyone feel comfortable,” which is crucial on a long, physically demanding tour.

Another favorite is the variety of activities packed into one day — from horseback riding and waterfall swimming to scenic boat rides and beach lounging. The combination offers something for all, especially those who thrive on outdoor adventures in beautiful settings.

Honest Caveats: Travel Length and Physical Demands

The tour is undeniably long and tiring, with some reviewers mentioning up to 4 hours on the bus or boat each way. If you’re not someone who enjoys extended travel or has mobility issues, this might be a tough day. The waterfall hike involves steps and uneven terrain, and the horseback riding can be rocky and bumpy.

Plus, some reviews highlight disappointing experiences such as missed pickups, long waits, or misleading expectations about Bacardi Island. It’s worth noting that animal welfare concerns were raised by some travelers, although others didn’t observe any issues with the horses.

The Value for Money

At $149, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Dominican nature and rural life. The all-inclusive elements — lunch, drinks, transfers — add to the convenience. Several visitors mentioned the excellent guides and the quality of the activities for the price, making it a good deal for active travelers seeking a full-day experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous, energetic travelers who don’t mind a long day and are keen to see multiple natural attractions. It’s perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities like horseback riding and swimming, and are comfortable with moderate hiking and travel distances.

It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues or small children or those seeking a more relaxed, less physically demanding day. Also, if you’re sensitive to sea motion, bringing sea sickness remedies is wise.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickup is typically between 6:00 and 7:00 AM, so plan to be ready early, especially as breakfast may not be served at your resort beforehand.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring a bathing suit, comfortable clothing, camera, beach towel, sunscreen, and some extra cash for tips and souvenirs. Water shoes are recommended for the waterfall hike, but water boots are available for purchase.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the physical demands and long hours mean it’s better suited for active, fit adults or older children able to handle hiking and horseback riding.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride from Las Cañitas to Samaná lasts about an hour, and the ride back is similar. Some find it choppy, so seasickness medication is advised if needed.

Can I swim at the waterfall and the island?
Yes, you can swim at El Limon Waterfall and on Bacardi Island. Be sure to wear water shoes for the waterfall and bring towels to dry off.

What kind of lunch is provided?
A buffet-style Dominican lunch, usually plentiful and tasty, is included, along with two drinks on the boat.

How physically demanding is the waterfall hike?
The hike involves some steps and uneven terrain, plus a 10-20 minute walk to the waterfall. Expect some exertion; it’s a good workout but achievable with moderate fitness.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, many reviews praise the guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable. They also point out interesting flora and fauna along the way.

What are the main attractions of the tour?
The highlights are the El Limon Waterfall, the horseback ride through cocoa farms, the scenic boat trip, and relaxing on Bacardi Island.

Is the tour worth the price?
Most visitors feel it offers good value for the variety of activities and sights, especially considering the included meals and transfers. However, be prepared for a full and tiring day.

To sum it up, this tour offers a dynamic snapshot of the Dominican Republic’s natural beauty. It’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and curious explorers who want to pack a lot into one day. The guides’ expertise, beautiful scenery, and well-organized activities shine through, making it a memorable choice for those ready for an energetic adventure. But, if you prefer a slower pace or have limited mobility, you might want to consider other options. Overall, it’s a robust, authentic experience that captures many of the island’s highlights in one compelling package.