Puerto Plata: Damajagua waterfalls + Horseback riding( TOP2IN1)

If you’re headed to Puerto Plata and crave a day packed with nature, adrenaline, and authentic Dominican vibes, this tour offers just that. For $135 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring the famous Damajagua waterfalls, then choose between a scenic horseback ride or an exhilarating buggy adventure in Los Cacaos. The tour is run by Camel Safari Exploring, and includes hotel pickup (in Puerto Plata, Sosua, and Cabarete), guided exploration, and a delicious local lunch.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure and culture. First, the waterfalls are stunning—each one unique and offering opportunities for swimming and testing bravery with a 25-foot jump. Then, the optional horseback riding offers a peaceful way to soak in the lush surroundings, while the buggy option provides a high-energy thrill through dirt tracks and hills. The fact that it’s a private tour makes it especially appealing if you’re traveling with family or friends and want a flexible, personalized experience.

One thing to consider is that the tour requires a good level of physical fitness, especially if you choose the buggy or waterfall jumps. Also, lunch is not included, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry after all that activity. This tour suits travelers who love outdoor adventures, are comfortable with some physical exertion, and want to experience a genuine slice of Dominican life in a day’s outing.

Key Points

• Stunning Waterfalls: Explore 12 waterfalls with swimming and daring jumps, perfect for adventure lovers.
• Flexible Activities: Choose between horseback riding or buggy rides, catering to different energy levels and preferences.
• Cultural Stops: Visit a cigar factory and souvenir shop to get a taste of local craftsmanship.
• Food & Drink: Enjoy a typical Dominican lunch, included after the waterfall adventure.
• All-Inclusive Value: Includes taxes, fees, beverages, and expert guides, ensuring a hassle-free day.
• Private Tour: Only your group participates, offering a more personalized experience.

Overview and Who It’s For

This tour is designed for travelers eager to get their hands dirty—literally—and explore some of the most exciting sights around Puerto Plata. For around $135, you gain access to the Damajagua waterfalls, which are a highlight of the region. The activity is quite active, involving walking, swimming, and jumping, so it’s best suited for those in good physical shape and comfortable with outdoor adventure.

If you’re traveling with kids, the tour is welcoming for children from age 8 to participate in the waterfall section, provided they’re accompanied by an adult. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the horseback riding option offers a peaceful, scenic tour through the Los Cacaos community, while the buggy ride dials up the adrenaline.

Starting the Day: Damajagua Waterfalls

Our day begins at 9:30 am with pickup from our hotel in Puerto Plata, Sosua, or Cabarete. The journey to the waterfalls takes about an hour, giving us plenty of time to get excited about what lies ahead. The highlight here is the 35-minute walk through the lush Dominican forest, crossing a river to reach the first of the 12 waterfalls.

Once we arrive at the waterfalls, the real fun begins. Each waterfall provides a different experience—some are great for swimming, others are perfect for testing courage with a 25-foot jump. The guides, like “Luis” (if you’re lucky), are friendly and reassuring, making sure everyone stays safe while having fun. One guest shared that they “loved the way the waterfalls varied so much” and appreciated being able to swim in natural pools between jumps.

The final waterfall leads to a paradisiacal natural pool where you can relax and take in the scenery—an ideal spot to reflect on the adventure. The tour includes admission tickets, so there are no surprises here.

Lunch and Cultural Stops

After conquering the waterfalls, everyone heads to a typical Dominican lunch (not included in the tour price), which gives you a delicious break. You’ll enjoy local flavors, often with rice, beans, meat, and fresh tropical fruits—perfect after a morning of activity.

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a visit to a craft cigar factory and a souvenir shop. It’s a good chance to pick up some handcrafted items or learn about local cigar-making traditions. These stops offer a more relaxed pace and a glimpse into Dominican craftsmanship.

The Optional Activities: Horseback or Buggies

The tour’s flexibility shines here. You can opt for:
– Horseback riding: A gentle 30-minute ride through Los Cacaos, a lively, natural setting that’s perfect for animal lovers and those wanting a peaceful, scenic experience.
– Buggy adventure: For the more adrenaline-inclined, a roughly 1 hour and 15-minute ride through dirt roads, hills, and cattle stables provides a high-energy thrill. Travelers describe it as “a wild ride through the countryside,” and one review noted passing farm animals and enjoying incredible views.

Both options give you a sense of local life and unspoiled nature, with the buggy ride delivering excitement and the horseback ride offering tranquility.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but note that an extra $15 applies if you are in Rio San Juan. The guide, often multilingual, keeps the group informed and safe. Remember, the tour is only for your group, providing a more intimate experience.

While the activity is designed to be fun and safe, travelers should be aware that physical fitness is important—expect to walk, climb, swim, and possibly jump into water. Be prepared with comfortable clothing, water shoes, and sun protection.

Authenticity and Value

With a total duration of around 8 hours, this tour offers a substantial experience for the price. It’s especially good value considering the all-inclusive aspects, such as guides, taxes, fees, and beverages. The private nature means less waiting and more personalized attention, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a memorable day out.

What Past Guests Say

While there are no formal reviews attached to this specific listing, the description highlights that “children are accepted from 8 years old” and that the guide ensures safety during the jumps. The inclusion of natural pools and varied waterfalls suggests a visually stunning experience. The mention of “delicious typical Dominican lunch” also hints at enjoying local cuisine, which adds to the authenticity.

This adventure caters well to active travelers who want a full day of fun, nature, and culture. It’s great for families with older children, groups of friends, or couples looking for a mix of thrill and tranquility. If you’re not comfortable with climbing, jumping, or riding in bumpy terrain, you might find the buggy ride too intense or prefer to stick with the gentle horseback option.

Travelers who value local flavor, natural beauty, and outdoor activities will find this tour hits the right notes. Keep in mind that it’s a full-day commitment—so if you’re after a relaxed, leisurely experience, this might not be the best fit.

This Puerto Plata tour offers a well-rounded day of adventure, nature, and culture, packed into one accessible package. The waterfalls are undoubtedly the star, offering stunning views, swimming, and daring jumps that thrill even seasoned explorers. The optional activities provide the perfect way to tailor the day—whether you prefer the peaceful rhythm of a horseback ride or the adrenaline-pumping excitement of a buggy.

For those who enjoy authentic outdoor experiences and local craftsmanship, this trip delivers a genuine taste of Dominican life amid lush landscapes. The value is solid, with included guides, taxes, and drinks, making it a practical choice for those wanting a memorable, active day without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines natural beauty with a dash of adrenaline, this tour is an excellent pick—one that creates stories you’ll be sharing long after you’ve left Puerto Plata.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children from 8 years old can participate in the waterfall activity when accompanied by an adult. Kids under 8 are limited to the first waterfall.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 8 hours, including pickup, activities, and transportation.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, quick-drying clothing suitable for water activities, plus water shoes, a hat, and sunblock.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included in the tour price, but a typical Dominican meal is offered after the activity.

Can I choose between horseback riding and buggy rides?
Yes, the tour offers two options—select the one that suits your adventure style.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Yes, expect walking, climbing, swimming, and some jumping—best suited for those in good physical condition.

Are beverages provided?
Yes, drinks are included during the tour.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group participates, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to worry about safety?
Guides are professional and experienced, focusing on safety while ensuring you enjoy every moment.

This tour combines the best of outdoor adventure and culture, making it a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to experience Puerto Plata’s wild beauty firsthand.