Punta Cana is famous for its stunning beaches and clear waters, but it also offers a surprising variety of 3-day tours that cater to different interests. Whether you’re eager to learn scuba diving, explore historic cities, or enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities, Punta Cana delivers. One of our favorite options is the Open Water Diving Course, perfect for those wanting to gain a new skill and see marine life up close. Meanwhile, the Saona, Buggy, & Santo Domingo tour provides a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural history. And if you’re craving a personalized experience, the Private Bahía de Las Águilas tour offers a more exclusive look at the islands and natural beauty.
In this guide, we’ll help you compare these four excellent options to find the right fit for your travel style and interests.
1. 3 Days Open Water Diving Course in Punta Cana
For travelers who want more than just a beach holiday, the 3 Days Open Water Diving Course is an excellent choice. At around $490 per person, this course is designed to turn beginners into certified divers by the end of three days. The package includes classroom theory, confined water skill practice, and open water dives at some of the most beautiful dive sites in Punta Cana.
This course is especially appealing for those interested in acquiring a PADI Open Water Certification—a valuable skill that allows you to dive worldwide. The instructors are experienced, guiding you through essential safety procedures, dive physics, and equipment handling. As you progress, you’ll explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life that make the Caribbean a diver’s paradise. The course’s structure ensures you build confidence step-by-step, with plenty of hands-on practice.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on safety and skill-building, ideal for beginners or those with limited experience. The only challenge might be fitting the schedule into your trip, but for those serious about learning to dive, the cost and comprehensive training are well worth it.
Bottom Line: If you want to learn to dive and see the underwater world, this course offers a solid, professionally guided experience, perfect for adventure seekers ready to expand their skills.
2. Dominican 3-Day Tour: Saona, Buggy & Santo Domingo
For about $195 per person, this multi-activity tour covers some of the Dominican Republic’s best sights in just three days. It combines a day on Saona Island, where you’ll relax on white-sand beaches and enjoy a traditional Dominican lunch, with an off-road buggy adventure and a full day exploring Santo Domingo.
The Saona Island experience is often the highlight, with travelers sailing through crystal waters to reach the island’s pristine beaches. The Buggy tour takes you through fields, caves, and rural landscapes—an exhilarating way to see the countryside and squeeze in some adrenaline. The final day in Santo Domingo gives you a taste of history, walking along cobblestone streets in the Colonial Zone and visiting landmarks that tell the story of the first European settlement in the Americas.
This tour is a great bang for your buck, especially since it includes round-trip transportation, multilingual guides, and lunch on two days. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a mix of relaxation, adventure, and history without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those looking for a varied, full-immersion experience of the Dominican Republic’s beaches, countryside, and colonial roots in just three days.
$195.00 per person
3. Private 3-Day Tour of Bahía De Las Águilas from Santo Domingo
If you’re after a customized experience, this private 3-day tour offers an in-depth exploration of some of the Dominican Republic’s most stunning natural sites. Starting from Punta Cana, the tour covers places like Santo Domingo, Bani, Azua, and the breathtaking Bahía de las Águilas—one of the most pristine beaches in the Caribbean.
This tour is priced at $671 per person, reflecting its exclusivity and comprehensive itinerary. Highlights include visiting the Museo Larimar, walking through Los Cocos Wind Farm, and relaxing at Playa Los Patos. You also explore natural attractions like Laguna de Oviedo and Los Pozos de Romeo, plus cultural sites such as Mercado Bilateral and Rancho Típico.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on authentic local experiences combined with natural beauty. The stay involves glamping—a comfy way to enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a tailored, intimate experience and are comfortable with a higher price point.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a personalized, all-encompassing adventure that mixes culture, natural landscapes, and comfort.
$671.00 per person
4. 3-Day Ultimate Dominican Adventure: Nature, Culture & History
At around $190 per person, this comprehensive tour combines natural wonders with cultural exploration. It’s designed for travelers wanting a full Dominican experience in just three days, with activities ranging from relaxing on Saona Island to exploring Macao Beach with a buggy ride, and finishing with a tour of Santo Domingo.
The Saona Island visit includes a boat ride and stops at the famous Natural Pool, with free time to swim and relax. The Macao Beach segment involves an adrenaline-fueled buggy adventure over unspoiled terrain, offering a taste of the island’s rugged beauty. The last day immerses you in Santo Domingo’s historic Colonial Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where cobblestone streets and landmarks tell stories from centuries past.
This tour balances active moments with culture at a budget-friendly price. It’s best suited for travelers who want variety and rich experiences without the cost of private tours.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for active travelers who want to explore natural landscapes and historical sites without overextending their budget.
$190.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Punta Cana 3-Day Tour
Selecting the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and travel style. If you’re eager to get certified as a diver and love marine life, the Open Water Diving Course is a clear winner. Those who want a mixed itinerary with beaches, adventure, and history may prefer the Dominican 3-Day Tour or the Ultimate Dominican Adventure. For a more tailored, exclusive experience, the Bahía de las Águilas private tour offers personalized attention and comfort.
Think about your fitness level and how much activity you want—water sports, cultural walking, or just relaxing on beaches. Also, check seasonality, as some tours, especially outdoor adventures, are best booked in dry months.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season (December to April), to secure your preferred dates and avoid disappointment.
In summary, Punta Cana offers a wide range of 3-day tours suitable for different tastes and budgets. Whether you’re interested in professional dive certification, cultural explorations, or a personalized natural adventure, you’ll find options that fit. For a comprehensive experience that combines both natural beauty and local culture, the Private Bahía de las Águilas tour is hard to beat. For budget-conscious travelers who want variety, the Santo Domingo, Saona, & Buggy tour delivers excellent value. And for those eager to learn something new in the water, the Open Water Diving Course provides a life-changing experience.
No matter what you choose, early booking guarantees a smooth trip. Enjoy your time in Punta Cana—the memories will last long after the tan fades.