Higuey might not be the first place travelers think of for boat tours and cruises, but it offers some surprisingly authentic and memorable options. Whether you’re interested in interacting with playful monkeys or exploring sacred shrines along the river, the area provides experiences that stand out for their local flavor. The Monkey Jungle Tour is a perfect example—it’s a quick yet rewarding trip into the Dominican jungle where you can actually play with squirrel monkeys, making it ideal for animal lovers. On the other hand, the Full-Day Tour with River Boat, Lunch, & Voodoo Show offers a full immersion into the island’s culture, landscape, and traditions, perfect for those who want a well-rounded day out. These tours give you a taste of Higuey’s rich environment and heritage, all with the convenience of pickup and transportation included.
If you’re planning your trip, it’s helpful to know the kind of experience you want. Do you prefer the wildlife encounter of the Monkey Jungle? Or are you more interested in cultural sights and local traditions with a scenic cruise? To help decide, here’s a quick overview of the top boat tours and adventures in Higuey.
1. Monkey jungle tour + Transportation from cruise/hotel
At number one, the Monkey Jungle Tour offers a 3-hour adventure in Monte Plata Province that focuses on interacting with squirrel monkeys. This guided tour includes hotel or cruise pickup and drop-off, making it a stress-free experience. The tour takes you into a well-maintained monkeyland, where you can see these playful animals up close and even feed or hold them—an experience that delights wildlife enthusiasts and families alike. The guides are experienced and knowledgeable, sharing insights into the monkeys’ behavior and habitat. The transportation is comfortable, and the small-group setting ensures a personalized experience.
This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want to enjoy a close encounter with nature. It’s rated 5/5 based on 2 reviews, with travelers praising its friendly guides and the chance to interact with animals in a safe, well-organized setting. The main appeal is the opportunity to connect with nature in a relaxed environment and leave with photos and memories that last.
Bottom Line: The Monkey Jungle Tour is a quick, family-friendly, and engaging wildlife experience that’s easy to add to your itinerary if you’re staying in Higuey or on a cruise.
2. Higuey: Full-Day Tour with River Boat, Lunch, & Voodoo Show
For around 8 hours, the Full-Day Tour with River Boat, Lunch, & Voodoo Show offers a comprehensive look at the Dominican Republic’s agriculture, culture, and spirituality. The tour kicks off with a visit to sugarcane plantations, where you’ll learn about local farming and try juicy tropical fruits. Afterward, you’ll explore the lively Higuey market, snapping photos of colorful produce and busy stalls. The boat ride along the River Yuma offers a chance to spot exotic Caribbean flora and fauna, with the guide sharing insights into the region’s ecosystem.
The afternoon features a unique voodoo show, where you’ll witness traditional Haitian rituals, and meet local sugarcane farmers at a batey—a communal farm area. This tour is led by an expert local guide with deep knowledge of the area’s history and traditions. The combination of landscape, culture, and authentic experiences makes it stand out among other excursions. Reviewers mention the opportunity to taste local fruits and learn about agriculture as highlights, though some note the full-day format may be tiring for very young children.
Bottom Line: This full-day adventure is ideal for travelers interested in culture, history, and scenic boat rides. It offers a well-rounded experience that immerses you in the heritage and natural beauty of the Dominican Republic.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider what kind of experience appeals most. The Monkey Jungle Tour (see details here) is best if you want a quick, hands-on wildlife encounter without a lot of travel. It’s perfect for families or animal lovers short on time. Meanwhile, the Full-Day Tour (find out more here) suits those who want a deeper culture combined with scenic river cruising.
Think about your interests—if you’re especially curious about local traditions and landscapes, the longer tour offers more variety. For travelers on a tight schedule or with limited mobility, the shorter, more focused monkey experience is a better fit. Both tours include practical details like transportation, but booking early is recommended during peak travel seasons.
In summary, Higuey offers a range of engaging boat and cultural tours that cater to different interests and timeframes. If wildlife encounters are your priority, the Monkey Jungle Tour will delight. For a comprehensive taste of Dominican culture, landscape, and tradition, the Full-Day Tour is hard to beat. Both provide authentic experiences that showcase the island’s natural beauty and local character. Booking early helps ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable adventures—so pick your experience and get ready for a good story to tell back home.