Punta Cana isn’t just about lounging on the beach—though it’s great for that too. Its open landscapes, warm waters, and easy access to natural beauty make it an ideal place for quick but memorable adventures. If you’re short on time but craving a taste of the local scenery and culture, these 2-hour tours are perfect. Whether you want to ride along the coast on horseback or explore the underwater world from a boat, Punta Cana offers options that are both fun and authentic. Our favorite? The horseback riding tours stand out for their scenic settings and the chance to enjoy a stunning sunset—something you can’t see from your resort balcony.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top 2-hour tours in Punta Cana, from scenic horseback rides to glass-bottom boat experiences. We’ll weigh their unique features, reviews, and value so you can pick the best fit for your interests and schedule.
1. 2-Hour Horseback Riding Tour at Sunset from Punta Cana
At number one, this sunset horseback ride offers a truly memorable experience. It starts with easy pick-up from your hotel in Punta Cana or Uvero Alto, making logistics simple and stress-free. Once at Rancho Un Regalo De Dios, you’ll meet your guide and get familiar with your horse—important since the staff is highly trained and professional. During the ride, you’ll pass through lush tropical landscapes, alongside Macao Beach, where the soft sands, cooling breezes, and gentle waves make for a picture-perfect backdrop.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of nature and culture. You’ll see the beautiful landscape, the Maimón River flowing into the ocean, and enjoy the tranquility of riding along the beach at sunset. The guide will also take photos, a bonus for capturing memories without needing your own camera skills. With over 223 reviews and a perfect 5.0 rating, travelers praise the organization, safety, and friendly guides. Many mention the opportunity to relax, enjoy the scenery, and even sample local artisan products like Mamajuana and coffee. The ride suits anyone comfortable on horses, and the sunset views make it ideal for couples or solo riders looking for a peaceful escape.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-organized, scenic ride with professional guides and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for those wanting a peaceful, beautiful experience with memorable sunset views.
2. 2-hour sunset horseback ride from Punta Cana
Coming in at number two is another horseback ride that emphasizes the magic of an afternoon sunset. While slightly shorter in reviews (18 reviews, all 5-star), it still hits the high notes for quality and experience. This ride explores trails crossing both beach and countryside, giving you a taste of Punta Cana’s diverse scenery. After a quick introduction and equipment fitting, the guide will lead you along well-maintained paths, sharing insights about the flora, fauna, and local culture.
What makes this tour unique are the trails it covers, offering a blend of beachside riding and rural landscapes—your chance to see more of the natural environment in a short time. The spectacular sunset provides the perfect end to your ride, with views that likely will stay with you long after. This tour is praised for its professional guides and the chance to relax and enjoy nature without long hours in the saddle. Its price point is just a touch lower, offering excellent value for an intimate, scenic experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a shorter, intimate ride with a focus on sunset views and diverse scenery, all led by knowledgeable guides.
3. 2-Hour Glass Bottom Boat Experience in Punta Cana
Rounding out our list is the glass bottom boat tour, which is a different kind of quick adventure. Although it’s a bit longer in duration (about 3 hours) and slightly lower rated (2.5 stars from three reviews), it offers a unique underwater perspective. Starting with hotel pickup, you’ll board a boat with a clear viewing floor that allows you to see marine life beneath your feet. The tour includes two main stops: Bavaro Beach and the Natural Pool near Isla Saona.
At Bavaro Beach, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of the seabed, a great way to see fish and coral without getting wet. The Natural Pool stop is a highlight, where waist-deep water and floating in the shallow lagoon makes for fun photos and relaxing moments. Reviewers compliment the scenic views but note that the experience can feel rushed, given the short time at each stop and the somewhat limited reviews. It’s best suited for those who want a quick, visual introduction to Punta Cana’s underwater world without diving or snorkeling.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an easy, family-friendly way to see marine life from a boat, great for travelers short on time wanting a taste of the ocean.
$70.00 per person
How to Choose the Best 2-Hour Tour in Punta Cana
When deciding between these options, consider what kind of experience you’re after—scenic horseback riding at sunset or a marine-focused boat tour. If you want a relaxing, picturesque ride along the beach as the sun dips below the horizon, the first two horseback tours are your best bets. The sunset view is often the biggest draw, especially for couples or anyone looking for a peaceful escape.
On the other hand, if you prefer to see underwater life without swimming or diving, the glass bottom boat provides a quick peek at marine ecosystems. Think about your budget, physical activity level, and whether you want to be on land or water.
Booking early is wise, especially during high season. Both horseback tours are highly rated and tend to fill up, so reserve ahead to secure your preferred time. For the best sunset experience, aim for the later afternoon rides, and always check if hotel pickup is included.
Final Thoughts
Punta Cana offers a surprising variety of quick experiences that pack a punch—whether it’s the tranquility of a horseback ride at sunset or a glimpse beneath the ocean from a glass-bottom boat. For a more traditional, scenic adventure, the horseback tours are hard to beat, especially considering their glowing reviews and professional guides. If you’re more ocean-oriented, the boat experience offers a fun, visual introduction to the marine environment.
For travelers with limited time, both horseback options provide excellent value and memorable moments. If you’re eager to explore the coast and enjoy spectacular sunsets, one of these rides will fit right in your schedule. Just remember to book early—these popular tours tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Take your pick based on your interests, and enjoy a brief but beautiful slice of Punta Cana’s natural beauty. Happy riding and boating!