Explore the Hidden Wonders of Los Haitises on a Private 2-Day Tour from Samaná

If you’re craving a journey into untouched Caribbean nature and authentic local culture, this private 2-day tour to Los Haitises National Park might just be your ticket. Starting from the vibrant town of Samaná, this experience takes you across scenic ferry rides, through mangrove tunnels, into limestone caves adorned with ancient petroglyphs, and ends with a peaceful overnight stay at the Caño Hondo eco-retreat. Guided by friendly locals who bring the landscape alive with stories, this tour offers a deeper connection to the Dominican Republic’s natural beauty and cultural roots.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see coastal lagoons that few visitors reach and the tranquility of staying overnight in a setting that feels completely removed from tourist crowds. The boat expedition is a highlight, especially for those who enjoy wildlife, as the waters are filled with birdlife and the chance of spotting marine creatures. The second standout? The local Dominican dinner, which feels like a warm welcome into everyday life, rather than a tourist show.

A potential consideration is the physical activity involved—walking, boat rides, and exploring caves do require some mobility and stamina. Also, if seasickness is an issue, it’s worth noting that boat rides are part of the adventure. This tour suits travelers looking for an authentic, quiet escape into nature with the comfort of private guiding and local cuisine.

This experience is ideal for those who want a balanced mix of adventure, cultural insight, and relaxation—perfect if you’re staying in Samaná, love nature, and appreciate authentic local experiences away from large crowds.

Key Points

Authentic Exploration: Experience untouched landscapes and learn about local ecology and culture.
Boat Journeys: Glide through mangrove tunnels and coastal lagoons—an awe-inspiring way to see the park.
Cultural Highlights: Discover indigenous Taíno petroglyphs in limestone caves.
Comfort & Rest: Stay overnight at the tranquil Caño Hondo eco-retreat, surrounded by nature.
Local Flavors: Enjoy a Dominican-style dinner made from fresh, local ingredients.
Private Group: The tour is exclusive, providing intimacy and personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Los Haitises Experience

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Sabana De La Mar

Starting Point: From Samaná to the Park

Your adventure begins in the lively town of Samaná. We mostly liked the ease of the ferry ride to Sabana de la Mar—it’s a scenic, 30-minute trip that offers a glimpse of the coast’s colorful fishing boats and lush mountains. The ferry is simple, comfortable, and the start of your journey into the wilderness. From Sabana de la Mar, a short land transfer takes you to the eco-retreat. The journey itself sets the tone: a relaxed ride through rural landscapes, with a chance to start unwinding even before the real exploring begins.

Day One: Settling into Nature at Caño Hondo

Upon arrival at Caño Hondo, a charming eco-retreat located amidst tropical forests and natural springs, we found the accommodations to be simple but comfortable—perfect for reconnecting with nature. The retreat’s natural springs are a highlight, offering calm, spring-fed pools where you can refresh after traveling. The setting is peaceful: no loud music, just the sounds of birds and rustling leaves. Many reviews mention how soothing it is to unwind here and how well the retreat maintains its natural charm while providing basic amenities.

The evening features a delicious Dominican-style dinner prepared with fresh, local ingredients. It’s a great chance to indulge in authentic flavors—think rice, beans, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits—served in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s an experience that truly feels like a warm invitation into local life. After dinner, many guests enjoy wandering the garden paths or simply listening to the night sounds, which are surprisingly lively and full of birdcalls.

Day Two: Exploring Los Haitises by Boat

The next morning starts with a hearty breakfast, fueling your body for the upcoming adventures. The highlight of the day is the guided boat expedition into Los Haitises National Park. Our guide, who was knowledgeable and eager to share stories, took us through mangrove tunnels where the boat’s narrow profile allowed us to glide silently among twisting roots and hanging branches. The tranquility of these waterways is mesmerizing.

We loved the way the guide pointed out wildlife—herons, pelicans, and sometimes even iguanas sunning themselves on the mangrove branches. The boat then took us into coastal lagoons, where the waters are quiet, and the scenery is postcard-perfect, with limestone cliffs rising dramatically from the water. It’s easy to see why this spot is a favorite among nature lovers.

One of the most memorable moments was visiting the limestone caves, where ancient Taíno petroglyphs are still visible on the walls—a rare glimpse into indigenous history. The caves are cool and dark, a contrast to the tropical exterior, and the petroglyphs add a sense of timelessness that makes this stop special.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Return Journey

After exploring the caves and lagoons, we returned to Caño Hondo to gather our belongings. The transfer back to Sabana de la Mar is straightforward and allows for reflection on a day well spent. The ferry ride back to Samaná in the afternoon offers a chance to soak in the scenery and relive the highlights of the trip.

While you're exploring Sabana De La Mar, here are other experiences we've looked into

Value and Practicalities

The price of this tour includes the boat rides, overnight stay, meals, and guiding—making it quite a good deal considering the personalized experience and the quality of the encounters. The tour is well-organized, with a focus on small groups (private group), which enhances the experience and allows personalized attention.

Keep in mind that it involves walking, boat rides, and some physical activity, so pack comfortable shoes, insect repellent, and sunscreen. The boat rides are mostly calm, but if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s worth considering. This tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues but is perfect for active travelers who want a genuine taste of wilderness and local culture.

Final Thoughts

For travelers who love nature, history, and authentic local flavors, this tour offers an excellent balance of all three. It’s especially suited for those staying in Samaná who want an immersive, relaxed exploration of Los Haitises without sacrificing comfort. Many reviews highlight the peaceful atmosphere, the delicious food, and the unique landscape—all of which make it stand out from more generic excursions.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour involves walking and boat rides, it’s generally suitable for active children comfortable with outdoor activities. However, check with the provider for age restrictions or recommendations.

How physically demanding is the boat ride?
The boat rides are mostly smooth, but some sections may involve gentle bouncing. We recommend comfortable shoes and being prepared for some sitting and minimal walking.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a camera, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent. It’s wise to have a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a Dominican-style dinner on the first night and breakfast on the second day, all made from local ingredients.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility in your travel plans.

Is there any time spent in the town of Samaná?
This tour starts from Samaná but focuses mainly on the park and eco-retreat. If you’re looking for a cultural experience in the town, you might want to explore separately.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry from Samaná to Sabana de la Mar takes about 30 minutes. It’s a scenic, comfortable crossing.

What makes this tour different from other Los Haitises excursions?
Its private group setting, overnight stay at a peaceful eco-retreat, and focus on authentic cultural and natural experiences set it apart.

Is this tour suitable for travelers prone to seasickness?
Boat rides are part of the adventure and are generally calm, but if seasickness is a concern, you might want to prepare accordingly or consider other options.

This private Los Haitises 2-day tour offers a genuine, well-rounded experience of one of the Dominican Republic’s most stunning natural areas. It delivers good value through personalized guiding, comfortable accommodations, and memorable sights—perfect for those seeking a quiet, authentic escape into Caribbean wilderness.