Damajagua The 7 waterfalls excursion – Amber Cove & Taino bay

Experience the Waterfalls of Damajagua — a Guided Adventure in the Dominican Republic

If you’re looking for a day packed with action, natural beauty, and local flavor, the Damajagua Waterfalls tour offers a blend of all three. Starting at just $54 per person, this roughly four-hour journey takes you into the lush hills of the Dominican Republic, where you’ll hike, leap, and slide your way through seven spectacular waterfalls. The tour includes round-trip transportation from both Amber Cove and Taino Bay, making it a seamless addition to your cruise or land-based adventure.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines adrenaline-pumping fun with moments of cultural tasting — from organic chocolate to Dominican coffee — all guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious Dominican buffet lunch with a Mamajuana shot complements the physical activity perfectly.

A potential consideration is that this is a strenuous activity that requires a decent level of fitness. The hikes can be long, and the terrain can be rocky and slippery, especially after rain. So, if you’re a family with young children or someone with mobility challenges, this might not be your best fit. But if you’re adventurous and physically capable, this tour promises a memorable mix of nature, culture, and fun — ideal for active travelers who want more than just a beach day.

This adventure suits travelers craving a genuine, hands-on experience that gets you out of the typical tourist spots and into the natural and cultural heart of the Dominican Republic. If you love physical challenges, local flavors, and stunning scenery, you’ll find plenty of value here.

Key Points

• Thrilling waterfalls with jumps, slides, and swimming
• Expert-guided with safety gear provided
• Authentic local experience with tastings of coffee and chocolate
• Comfortable transportation included, pick-up from cruise ports
• Price point offers excellent value for a full-day activity
• Physical activity level required — good fitness recommended

A Close Look at the Damajagua Waterfalls Tour

The Setting and Overall Experience

Imagine stepping into the rolling hills of the Dominican Republic, where verdant mountains meet rushing freshwater streams. The Damajagua waterfalls are a series of natural pools and cascading falls that thrill those who like a splash of adventure. The tour starts at a modern visitor center, offering a chance to enjoy Dominican food and drinks in an open-air setting with mountain views, immediately setting a relaxed, local tone.

Your day begins with a quick prep — gear, helmets, and life jackets are handed out, and then the real fun begins. The guides, like Mara and others mentioned by happy travelers, are friendly, professional, and safety-minded, making sure everyone gets the most out of the experience while staying secure.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: The Damajagua Waterfalls

This is the star of the tour, where the real adventure unfolds. You’ll hike up to the waterfalls, traversing a path that is mostly shaded, making the walk cooler and more comfortable. The hike is about three hours, and many reviews note it’s quite a workout — “a lot of walking” and “an hour hike” are common phrases. Some reviewers mention that proper water shoes are essential; many suggest bringing an old pair of running shoes that fit tightly to avoid blisters or discomfort.

Once at the waterfalls, it’s jumping, swimming, and sliding all the way. The guides are there every step of the way, encouraging and helping even those who are unsure. The thrill of jumping into deep pools, sliding down natural rock chutes, and swimming through clear waters makes this a highlight worth every step.

What Travelers Say:
“Enjoyed the waterfalls though could only go down 5 instead of 7. A LOT of walking! Wear water shoes that are comfortable but tight. Prepare to get fully submerged,” shares one reviewer.

And:
“The jumps are higher than you may think, so be ready. Don’t think about it, just do it,” advises another. The guides are attentive, often stopping to help those feeling hesitant or to carry gear for older or less agile members of the group.

Potential Drawback:
If you’re not in good shape, the hike and water activity can be quite demanding. Several reviews warn that it’s strenuous and not suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility issues. But for most physically active travelers, it’s a fantastic challenge.

Extra Tip:
You might find the photo packages tempting — for around $50, you get professional photos of your jump and slide moments. Many reviewers note that these are worth it, capturing memories you’d struggle to take yourself due to the muddy, wet conditions.

Cultural Stop: Organic Chocolate Tasting

After the waterfalls, your journey continues with a 40-minute stop in Imbert to sample organic chocolate. This is a gentle, tasty way to unwind before heading back. The reviews highlight the authenticity and friendly atmosphere of this stop, making it more than just a sugar rush.

The Lunch and Additional Cultural Stops

Following the water adventure, a delicious Dominican buffet awaits, featuring white rice, red beans, fried chicken, grilled pork, and fresh salads. Reviewers consistently praise the quality and flavor of the food — a satisfying end after all the physical activity.

The tour also includes a Mamajuana shot, a traditional Dominican herbal liquor, which many find a fun and authentic touch. For those interested in local crafts, a brief visit to a cultural artisan coop offers a chance to taste fresh coffee, hot chocolate, and buy souvenirs.

Transport, Group Size, and Value

You’ll be picked up and dropped off directly from Amber Cove or Taino Bay cruise ports, in air-conditioned, Wi-Fi-enabled vans. The tour is shared, typically with about 12-47 travelers, depending on the day. This makes it more personal than large cruise excursions but still lively.

The price of $54 covers all the essentials: transportation, guides, safety gear, lunch, and the waterfalls entry fee. Considering the included activities, cultural stops, and the memorable nature of the experience, it’s quite good value.

Authenticity and Tips from Reviews

Many travelers commend the friendly, helpful guides like Mara and Elizabeth, who go out of their way to make the experience memorable. Photos are a popular add-on, with many reviewers noting it’s worth the extra cost for professional shots of that perfect leap or slide.

A few warnings from reviews remind you to bring cash for extras, such as photo packages or tips, and water shoes — which can be rented for around $3 if you don’t have your own.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re active and love outdoor adventures, this tour will hit the spot. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind a bit of a workout and want to experience nature’s playground firsthand. Families with children 8 and older tend to find it manageable, especially with attentive guides.

Travelers who appreciate local cuisine and cultural stops will also enjoy the added flavor of Dominican chocolate, coffee, and crafts. It’s a great mix of physical activity and culture, delivered by friendly guides who make safety and fun their priorities.

This tour probably isn’t ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed day or have mobility concerns. The hike and water activities require a good bit of stamina and balance. Also, rainy weather might affect the waterfalls’ flow, making some reviewers note that less water might be available.

The Sum Up

The Damajagua Waterfalls tour offers an authentic, exhilarating experience that combines adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. For travelers who are fit, adventurous, and eager to see a different side of the Dominican Republic, it’s an excellent choice. The guides are praised for their friendliness and professionalism, ensuring safety while allowing you to enjoy every splash.

The value for money is quite high, especially considering the inclusion of transportation, lunch, cultural stops, and professional photos. It’s a full day of activity that leaves you with stories and photos to last a lifetime. This tour is best suited for those craving a physical challenge and authentic local experiences rather than a passive sightseeing day.

If you’re prepared for some effort and looking for a memorable, off-the-beaten-path adventure, this trip delivers in spades — a true highlight of any visit to the Dominican Republic.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about four hours, including transportation, the waterfall hike, and cultural stops.

What should I wear?
Bring an old, tight-fitting pair of water shoes or tennis shoes, swimwear, and a towel. Women are encouraged to wear shorts over their bathing suits for comfort and safety.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 8 and older can participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The activity demands physical fitness and bravery.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation from and to the cruise ports, guides, safety gear, entry fee to the waterfalls, and a Dominican buffet lunch are included.

Are photos included?
No, photos are an extra. Many travelers buy photo packages for around $50, which are transferred directly to your phone.

Is there any optional alcohol?
The tour includes a Mamajuana shot and water or Coke, but alcohol isn’t included in the price.

How strenuous is the activity?
It’s quite active — expect a significant hike, lots of walking, and some climbing. Good physical fitness is recommended.

Can I do this if I have mobility issues?
Probably not, as it involves climbing, walking on uneven terrain, and swimming. Check with your guides if unsure.

What happens if it rains?
Heavy rain might reduce the water flow or cause cancellations. The tour provider offers a full refund or rescheduling if weather issues arise.

How do I book and what if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Confirmations are sent upon booking, and the tour is operated by EXCEPCUST TOURS.

This Damajagua tour blends adventure with culture, providing a thrilling and authentic taste of the Dominican Republic. It’s a perfect choice if you want to move beyond the beach and into the heart of nature and local life.