Punta Cana: Cayo Levantado & El Limón Waterfall Day Trip

Imagine a day filled with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush jungle scenery—all just a few hours from Punta Cana. This full-day tour, offered by Tickets Whales, takes you on an adventure through Samaná Province, blending relaxation with adventure. For around 11 hours, you’ll explore Cayo Levantado (commonly called Bacardí Island), enjoy a beachside lunch, then saddle up for a horseback ride leading to the stunning El Limón Waterfall, where you can take a refreshing dip at its base.

What we love about this tour is the variety of experiences packed into a single day—it’s not just sightseeing but a chance to connect with nature, enjoy scenic boat rides, and experience local scenery up close. The speedboat rides across turquoise waters are exhilarating and give you an authentic tropical feel. Plus, the horseback ride through the jungle brings a quiet, almost meditative dimension to the day. However, the tour does involve quite a bit of walking and physical activity, so it might not be perfect for those with mobility concerns or back problems.

This trip is best suited for travelers who appreciate authentic natural beauty and are comfortable with some moderate physical activity. If you’re looking for a day that combines adventure with leisure and want a well-structured itinerary that hits key highlights of Samaná, this tour could be just right. Keep in mind that it’s a long day, so if you’re not a fan of early mornings or full schedules, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Expect incredible views across Samaná Bay, lush jungle, and the dramatic El Limón Waterfall.
• Active & Relaxing: A combination of boat rides, beach lounging, and horseback riding offers a well-balanced experience.
• Authentic Experiences: Horseback riding through the jungle and swimming at the waterfall are memorable highlights.
• Value for Money: With transportation, guided commentary, a beachside lunch, and diverse activities, it’s a comprehensive day trip.
• Comfort & Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and designed for private groups, but involves some physical activity.
• Weather & Prep: Bring swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes to fully enjoy all activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: From Punta Cana to Samaná

The adventure kicks off early, with a pickup from your hotel in Punta Cana or Bayahibe. This early start lets you maximize your day while enjoying scenic views during the bus ride to Las Cañitas, the port from which your water-bound journey begins. The drive itself is pleasant, offering a glimpse of the Dominican countryside—not as touristy as Punta Cana, but full of character.

Speedboat Ride to Cayo Levantado

Once at the port, you’ll board a speedboat to Cayo Levantado. This is the part of the tour that many travelers rave about—the thrill of racing across turquoise waters, with the wind in your hair. The boat ride takes about 20 minutes, covering the calm, clear waters of Samaná Bay. Expect excellent views of the coastline and nearby islands, perfect for snapping some photos.

Cayo Levantado, or Bacardí Island, is a small but gorgeous island with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. You’ll have some free time here, which is ideal for lounging, swimming, or simply soaking in the scenery. Many reviews highlight how idyllic the setting is, describing it as a perfect tropical escape.

Beachside Lunch & Relaxation

A highlight is the lunch served directly on the beach, giving you a true island-feel. The menu typically features local seafood, fresh fruits, and classic Dominican dishes. We appreciate the casual, laid-back vibe—no need to dress up or leave the beach to enjoy a satisfying meal with stunning views.

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Return to the Mainland & Jungle Horseback Ride

After a couple of hours, it’s back on the boat to the mainland. The next adventure involves hopping onto a safari truck—an open-air vehicle that whisks you away through the lush landscape to a ranch. Here, your horseback riding begins, lasting around 30 minutes, guiding you through tropical jungle toward the awe-inspiring El Limón Waterfall.

Many reviews mention how the horseback ride offers a peaceful way to see the jungle and how your guide ensures everyone is comfortable, regardless of experience. The trail is generally gentle but involves some uneven terrain, so wearing suitable shoes is wise.

The Waterfall & Swimming

Reaching the base of El Limón Waterfall is a rewarding moment—standing beneath a 60-meter cascade of water, with a natural pool at the bottom perfect for swimming. The water is surprisingly refreshing after the hike, and the scenery is striking—this is what makes the tour truly special. Cameras capture stunning shots of the waterfall, especially with sunlight filtering through the jungle canopy.

Some travelers note that the swim at the waterfall is a highlight, bringing a sense of accomplishment and cooling relief after the hike. It’s worth noting that the tour advises bringing swimwear and towels.

Returning & Overall Flow

After enjoying some free time at the waterfall, you’ll retrace your steps—horseback back to the ranch, safari truck to the pier, and a speedboat back across the bay to Las Cañitas. From there, a bus takes you back to your original pickup point in Punta Cana or Bayahibe.

While the schedule might seem packed, many travelers find the balance of activities perfect—enough time to relax while experiencing Samaná’s highlights. The tour’s length (11 hours) means it’s a full day, but the variety ensures you return with a wealth of memories.

Authenticity and Practicalities

The tour is conducted in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Italian, French, and German, making it accessible to many travelers. It’s also a private group experience, which tends to be more relaxed and personalized.

Transportation is comfortable, with pickups arranged from key locations. The tour provider emphasizes the importance of bringing sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable shoes, and swimwear, enabling you to enjoy every part fully.

What Past Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the “stunning views” and “beautiful scenery,” emphasizing how memorable the waterfall and beach are. One reviewer described the boat ride as “a great way to see the bay,” adding that the lunch on the beach was “delicious and laid-back.” Others appreciated the horseback ride as a peaceful way to experience the jungle, with one noting, “The scenery was breathtaking, and the guide made sure I was comfortable on the horse.”

Some travelers mentioned that the water at the waterfall is very refreshing, and the natural pool is a perfect spot for cooling off. A few found the day somewhat physically demanding, especially the horseback riding, so it’s best for active travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip offers a well-rounded taste of Samaná—combining boat rides, beaches, waterfalls, and jungle scenery—in a single day. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers keen on exploring beyond Punta Cana’s typical resorts, especially those who enjoy natural landscapes and authentic outdoor activities.

If you’re someone who appreciates beautiful views, unique experiences like horseback riding, and doesn’t mind a full day of activity, this tour is likely to leave you with lasting memories. However, if mobility is an issue or you prefer more relaxed, less physically demanding outings, you might want to consider other options.

The tour provides great value for the diverse experiences packed into a day, all while offering a good balance of comfort, adventure, and scenic beauty.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes bus transportation from Punta Cana or Bayahibe to the port, as well as boat rides and safari truck transfers during the day.

How long is the entire trip?
The full experience lasts approximately 11 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While it is designed for private groups and is wheelchair accessible, the tour involves some walking, horseback riding, and water activities, which might not suit everyone with mobility issues or health concerns.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended to make the most of your day.

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

Is food included?
Yes, a beachside lunch is included, usually featuring local dishes and fresh seafood, adding great value to your experience.

This Punta Cana day trip to Samaná offers a fantastic opportunity to see some of the Dominican Republic’s most beautiful sights in one well-organized, active, and scenic package. Whether lounging on the beach, swimming beneath a waterfall, or riding through lush jungle, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the island’s natural charm—and plenty of stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby