If you’re looking to escape the beaches of Punta Cana for a day, this Whale Watching and Montana Redonda Tour offers a blend of marine life adventure, stunning vistas, and authentic local flavor. Starting early around 7:30 am, you’ll venture to Miches, where the day begins with a comfortable boat cruise in Samana Bay. Then, in a safari truck, you’ll climb to Montana Redonda to take in panoramic views that stretch across the Atlantic, topped with a delicious mountain lunch.

We love how this tour provides a combination of marine wildlife and striking landscapes, giving a well-rounded taste of the Dominican Republic beyond its popular beaches. The boat ride itself is smooth, and the sight of whales breaching or synchronizing their swimming routines is genuinely memorable. Plus, the lunch on the mountain with an outstanding view is the perfect way to relax after a morning of adventure.

One thing to keep in mind is that sea conditions can vary, so if seasickness is an issue, you might want to prepare accordingly. Also, the full-day schedule means you’ll be on the move for quite some time, so comfortable shoes and clothing are a must.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy nature, wildlife, scenic landscapes, and culture. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, it offers a mix of activities that appeal to those looking for a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path day.

Key Points

Marine Wildlife: You’ll have the chance to see whales in their natural habitat, with multiple sightings reported.
Scenic Views: Climbing Montana Redonda offers panoramic vistas of the Atlantic coast.
Local Cuisine: Lunch on the mountain features regional dishes like pork, chicken, and fresh fruit.
Comfort & Convenience: Pickup and transportation are organized, with options from six different locations.
Guide & Crew: Knowledgeable guides and a friendly crew enhance the experience, making whale watching more engaging.
Authentic Experience: The tour takes you through natural Dominican landscapes, away from typical tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup

The tour begins with pickup from six different locations around Punta Cana, including Dominicus, Bávaro, and Uvero Alto. This flexible pickup arrangement makes it easy to join from your hotel or residence. Expect a comfortable bus ride that lasts about 105 minutes, giving you time to settle in and prepare for the day ahead.

From the reviews, the transportation is generally smooth, with one traveler noting that they were “pünktlich abgeholt” (punctually picked up). The early start is perfect because it allows plenty of time to enjoy each segment of the tour without feeling rushed.

Planning more time in Punta Cana? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

Whale Watching in Samana Bay

Once at the Miches pier, the tour kicks into gear with a hearty breakfast and welcome refreshments. The whale watching takes place on a well-equipped motorized catamaran, designed for stability and comfort. The cruise lasts between 2 to 3.5 hours, during which you’ll get a close-up view of Humpback whales, which migrate here to breed and calve.

Expect to see whales breach, spy their tails, or witness their unique synchronized swimming in clear, calm waters. The reviews emphasize how many travelers were thrilled with multiple sightings—some even saw whales swimming just 20 meters from the boat. One reviewer recounted a mother whale swimming alongside her calf for an extended time, making the experience particularly special.

Guides play a significant role here, helping point out the whales and share interesting facts. Several reviews praise the guides for their knowledgeable, polite, and engaging nature—adding to the enjoyment. Be prepared for some areas where whales may keep their distance if shy, but overall, the chances of a memorable encounter are high.

Travelers also note that the boat crew was attentive, helping with photos and videos, which adds a personal touch. Be mindful that rough seas can occur; one guest mentioned the water was quite choppy, so consider bringing extra Dramamine if seasickness is a concern.

Transition to Montana Redonda

After returning to the docks around 12:30 to 1:30 pm, the journey continues with a short 20 to 25-minute drive inland to Montana Redonda. This part of the day is all about scenic driving and mountain views. The climb to the top is done in a safari truck, which the reviews describe as “mind-blowing”—a bumpy, fun ride that’s part of the adventure.

Once at the summit, you’re free to explore and enjoy self-guided walks. The views from Montana Redonda are stunning, offering a sweeping vista of the Atlantic coast, often described as breathtaking. Many travelers find this part of the tour to be a highlight, especially because of the photo opportunities and the chance to stand at a mountain peak with panoramic scenery.

Mountain Lunch with a View

The meal served on the mountain is a regional feast—pork, chicken, or fish fillet, accompanied by rice, salads, and fresh fruit. Several reviews highlight the delicious quality of the food and the relaxing atmosphere of dining with such an incredible backdrop.

You’ll have time to enjoy your meal, soak in the views, and perhaps take some photos. The setting feels authentic and disconnected from touristy resorts, giving you a real taste of local Dominican flavors.

More Great Tours Nearby

Return Journey and Final Stops

After lunch, the return trip takes you through the interior of the island, offering glimpses of rural Dominican life far from the usual tourist spots. The bus ride back to your hotel typically lasts around 105 minutes, arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 pm.

This part of the journey allows you to reflect on your day, share stories, and enjoy the scenery. From the reviews, the overall impression is that the day was well-organized, with a good balance between activity and relaxation.

While you're exploring Punta Cana, here are other experiences we've looked into

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking scenic views. The combination of whale watching and mountain vistas makes it particularly appealing to travelers who want a diverse experience. It’s also well-suited for families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate authentic experiences off the typical beach scene.

However, be aware of the full day schedule—it’s quite active and involves some bumpy rides—and if you’re prone to seasickness or have back problems, you might find parts of the tour less comfortable. Children under 3 and pregnant women are advised against participating.

This From Punta Cana: Whale Watching and Montana Redonda Tour offers a genuine glimpse into the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic. It’s a perfect choice for travelers eager to see majestic whales, enjoy breathtaking mountain views, and indulge in authentic regional cuisine. The tour’s well-organized structure, friendly guides, and authentic settings make it a value-packed day that goes beyond typical beach lounging.

If you’re interested in marine life, scenic landscapes, and culture, this trip will likely meet your expectations. It’s especially suitable if you want to experience the island’s diverse natural habitats in one memorable day.

How early does the tour start?
Pickup is usually around 7:30 am, giving enough time for a full day of activities.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, breakfast, whale watching cruise, guided tour of Montana Redonda, a scenic drive, and lunch on the mountain.

How long is the whale watching cruise?
The cruise lasts between 2 to 3.5 hours, depending on conditions and sightings.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the cruise is operated on a comfortable motorized catamaran designed for stability and marine viewing.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, a change of clothes, and perhaps extra seasickness medication if needed.

Can children participate?
Children under 3 years are not suitable, and pregnant women or those with back problems should consider their health before joining.

How is the lunch?
Guests often praise the regional dishes, including pork, chicken, fish fillet, rice, salads, and fresh fruit—delicious and filling.

What if I don’t see whales?
Whale sightings depend on nature, but multiple reviews mention seeing whales, with some close-up encounters.

What’s the scenery like on Montana Redonda?
Expect panoramic views of the Atlantic coast, beautiful photo spots, and a scenic drive in a safari truck.

Is the tour worth the price?
Considering the variety of activities, authentic experiences, and positive reviews, it offers good value for those wanting a full day of adventure and nature.

This tour balances a unique marine wildlife encounter with spectacular mountain views and local flavor, making it a well-rounded choice for travelers looking to explore beyond the usual beach scene. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a landscape lover, or simply seeking a memorable day in the Dominican Republic, this trip is worth considering.