Punta Cana is often celebrated for its stunning beaches and all-inclusive resorts, but it’s also a surprising gateway to some of the most beautiful national parks in the Dominican Republic. Whether you’re after a full-day eco-tour that combines adventure and culture, a private yacht experience, or a scenic hike with waterfalls, Punta Cana offers options for every interest. We particularly enjoy tours that blend nature, history, and local flavor, like the Haitises National Park with Paraiso Caño Hondo & Montaña Redonda, which provides a balanced mix of boat rides, hikes, and cultural insights.
If you’re looking for a deep dive into the lush landscapes and wildlife of the area, you’ll find several options here. For a more relaxed day, some tours focus on scenic spots and light activities. For those who want exclusivity, private yacht trips are available. Whatever your style, this list covers the best national park tours in Punta Cana to help you plan your perfect escape.
1. Haitises National Park with Paraiso Caño Hondo & Montaña Redonda
At number 1, this full-day adventure offers a wonderful introduction to Los Haitises National Park. It’s especially appealing if you love nature and cultural stories. The tour includes a riverboat ride, where you can spot mangrove ecosystems and learn about the region’s biodiversity. Highlights include a stop at Montaña Redonda—a 1,000-foot mountain with panoramic views—and a visit to Paraiso Caño Hondo, a natural swimming pool perfect for cooling off.
What makes this trip stand out: a well-balanced itinerary with a mix of activity and relaxation, plus lunch and hotel transfers included. The guide’s local knowledge and the variety of stops, from caves to scenic viewpoints, make it ideal for first-timers and nature lovers alike. Reviews praise the tour’s smooth organization and engaging guides. Expect to spend around 11-12 hours exploring the Dominican countryside, making it a full but rewarding day.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a comprehensive, culturally rich tour that balances adventure and downtime, this is a top pick.
2. Los Haitises National Park – Punta Cana
At number 2, this highly-rated, full-day eco-adventure focuses entirely on exploring Los Haitises, with its stunning landscapes and wildlife. The tour features paddling through mangrove tunnels, which is a highlight for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. You’ll also visit ancient Taino caves adorned with petroglyphs, offering a glimpse into the indigenous culture.
What makes this tour exceptional: a small group setting (with a perfect 5.0/5 rating) and personalized attention. The journey includes comfortable transportation, an included lunch, and plenty of time to appreciate the scenery and wildlife. Many reviews mention the impressive mangrove ride and the knowledgeable guides who share detailed stories about the park’s flora and fauna.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a more intimate experience with wildlife and history in a pristine setting.
3. Shared 10-12 Hours Tour in Los Haitises National Park
Number 3 features a group tour offering a cost-effective way to see Los Haitises. It’s a great choice for those on a budget or who enjoy socializing during their adventures. The tour includes transportation, an included lunch, and stops at Miches, Montaña Redonda, and Cano Hondo.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guide and the chance to see multiple highlights in one day. The itinerary covers diverse environments: mountains, caves, mangroves, and beaches. The tour’s flexibility and focus on local culture and natural beauty make it a favorite among budget-conscious travelers.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a comprehensive experience with a group, and don’t mind a long day on the road.
4. Punta Cana: Los Haitises National Park Full-Day Tour
This full-day tour offers a relaxed way to explore Los Haitises, including a boat trip through its lush waterways and a visit to Cano Hondo for swimming. It also includes a stop at Montaña Redonda for scenic views, making it a well-rounded experience.
What makes it stand out: a combination of boat rides, caves, and viewpoints packed into about 9 hours. The reviews highlight the smooth logistics and the opportunity to see natural pools and hidden caves. It’s suited for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one day without too many stops or overly strenuous activities.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for travelers seeking a full but manageable day exploring the park’s highlights.
5. Los Haitises National Park, Montaña Redonda & Bacardi Island
Number 5 combines a cultural tour with beach and snorkeling adventures. Starting from Puerto Plata, it visits Punta Rusia and then takes a speedboat to Paradise Island for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
Unique features include the guided snorkeling with all gear provided and a buffet lunch with open bar. The tour’s length is around 10 hours, making it a slightly longer day. Reviews praise the quality of snorkeling and the friendly guides. The inclusion of Punta Rusia adds a cultural touch, blending history with leisure.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a trip that combines cultural sites, beach, and snorkeling with a touch of luxury.
6. Bayhibe Private 2 Tank Scuba Dive Tour in the National Park
Number 6 caters to certified divers eager to explore the best dive sites in the area. The tour focuses on Peñon Dive Sites in Cotubanama National Park, known for abundant sea life, including sea turtles and stingrays.
What makes this experience special: it’s a private guided dive with longer bottom times, tailored to your skill level. The private instructor ensures a personalized experience, making it ideal for serious divers or those wanting a more flexible schedule. The tour lasts about 5 hours, perfect for fitting into a day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for certified divers who want a high-quality, personalized diving experience in one of the region’s top underwater parks.
7. From Punta Cana: Santo Domingo Day Tour with National Park
Number 7 offers a cultural day trip to Santo Domingo, including stops at Three Eyes National Park and the Colonial Zone. The 8-hour tour provides a break from nature to explore historical sites, making it ideal for history buffs.
Guests enjoy the unparalleled experience of walking through the oldest European settlement in the Americas. The tour includes roundtrip transportation and lunch, making it a hassle-free way to see the capital’s highlights. The reviews reflect a well-organized day with plenty of interesting stories.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a culture and history during your visit, especially if your time is limited.
8. Los Haitises National Park Tour from Punta Cana: Montana Redonda and Cano Hondo
Ranking 8, this tour emphasizes mountain views and mangrove exploration. It includes a 2-hour trip to Montana Redonda, then continues to Los Haitises to explore caves, mangroves, and natural pools.
What sets it apart: a shorter duration of about 6-7 hours, making it a good option for those with limited time. The tour offers photo opportunities and a chance to experience local landscapes with expert guidance. Reviewers note the tour’s well-paced schedule and the scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a taste of the park’s highlights without a full-day commitment.
$120.00 per person
9. Los Haitises National Park Tour with Lunch from Punta Cana
This 7-hour tour provides a full immersion into Los Haitises, including a boat trip, native flora and fauna, and a lunch by the waterfalls. It’s perfect for those interested in nature and indigenous culture.
The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, and all entrance fees are included. Many travelers appreciate the chance to swim in natural pools and learn about local Yaniqua culture. It’s a good value, especially for those eager to combine sightseeing with cultural stories.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting an educational, nature-rich day with a cultural twist.
$160.00 per person
10. Los Haitises + Yanigua Waterfall & Redonda Mountain
Number 10 offers a three-in-one tour, combining Los Haitises, Yanigua Waterfall, and Montaña Redonda. It’s a long 12-hour day but packed with diversity—mountains, waterfalls, caves, and wildlife.
What makes this trip special: comprehensive nature experiences, including waterfalls, caves, and scenic mountain views. It’s suited for those who want to maximize their sightseeing and can handle a full day’s activity. Reviews mention long driving times but highlight the variety of landscapes and experiences.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting the most diverse natural sights in one trip.
11. Luxury Mini Yacht Private Cruise in Cotubanama National Park
At number 11, this private yacht offers an exclusive way to visit Saona Island. The VIP experience includes snorkeling, scenic cruising, and a freshly prepared lunch onboard. It’s suited for small groups wanting a luxury escape.
Guests rave about the personalized service, floating loungers, and paddleboards. The speedboat transfer ensures more time at each stop, making this a luxurious yet intimate experience. This tour is best for those seeking privacy and comfort.
Bottom Line: For a luxury, all-inclusive day in the Caribbean with personalized attention, this is unmatched.
12. Punta Cana: Los Haitises National Park Horseback & Boat Tour
Travelers interested in a more tactile experience will love this horseback riding and boat tour. It combines cultural heritage with natural landscapes, including caves and cays. The guided horseback ride through the forests is a highlight, followed by a cruise through the park’s waterways.
Many reviews mention the friendly guides and the diverse scenery. The tour lasts about 10 hours, making it suitable for active travelers who enjoy both land and water activities in one day.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a multi-sensory experience combining riding and boating.
13. Los Haitises National Park Hiking and Kayaking
Number 13 is perfect for outdoor lovers. It offers hiking through humid forests and kayaking in the mangroves. The tour includes a lunch with locals, giving a taste of regional flavors alongside nature exploration.
It’s ideal for active travelers who want to combine physical activity with scenic sightseeing. The tour is full-day and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easy. Reviewers appreciate the hands-on experience and the chance to see native plants and animals up close.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers looking for an interactive day in nature with physical activity.
14. Full-Day Boat Tour of Los Haitises National Park
Rounding out the list, this full-day boat trip offers a comprehensive tour of Los Haitises with visits to caves, caves with indigenous paintings, and mangroves. It features river exploration and stops at Cueva de la Arena and Cueva de la Lechuza.
While it currently has no reviews, its emphasis on culture and scenery makes it a compelling choice for those interested in indigenous history and nature. Its duration of about 7-8 hours makes it a full but manageable day.
Bottom Line: For travelers eager to learn about indigenous history and see the park’s key features in a single trip, this tour is worth considering.
$165.00 per person
How to Choose the Right National Park Tour in Punta Cana
Choosing the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If your main goal is to connect nature and culture, the Haitises National Park with Paraiso Caño Hondo & Montaña Redonda offers a great mix. For those seeking adventure and wildlife, the Los Haitises National Park Tour with Lunch provides an immersive experience. Budget travelers may prefer the Shared 10-12 Hours Tour, while those craving luxury will find the Private Yacht Cruise irresistible.
Consider your fitness level—some tours involve hiking, kayaking, or horseback riding. Also think about your interest in culture versus scenery. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular adventures.
Final Thoughts
No matter which tour you choose, Punta Cana’s national parks promise a memorable encounter with the region’s natural beauty. For families, the full-day tours with gentle activities work well, while adventure seekers will appreciate the diving and hiking options.
Our top recommendations are the Haitises National Park with Paraiso Caño Hondo & Montaña Redonda for its variety, and the Luxury Mini Yacht Private Cruise for an exclusive experience. Whichever fits your style, start planning now—these tours fill up quickly during high season.