tour to Saona Island in Punta Cana with buggies

Experience the best of Punta Cana with a two-day adventure that combines exhilarating buggy rides with the tranquil beauty of Saona Island. For $80 per person, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of off-road excitement, cultural insights, and beach relaxation. Your journey starts with a thrilling drive through tropical trails, stops at scenic beaches, and visits to local villages before heading out to the pristine sands and turquoise waters of Saona Island.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to drive your own buggy, weaving through lush landscapes and stopping at Macao Beach to soak up the sun and snap unforgettable photos. The second day’s highlight is the scenic boat ride to Saona Island, topped with a delicious buffet lunch, a natural pool with starfish, and ample free time to explore the island’s stunning surroundings.

A possible consideration is the need for some physical flexibility—getting in and out of the buggies and boat might be a bit tricky for those with mobility issues. Also, while the tour is well-organized, it’s a fairly full schedule, so patience and a relaxed attitude will help you enjoy every moment.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, cultural stops, and beach downtime. If you’re looking for an active day with a taste of local flavor and a splash of Caribbean paradise, this package is a smart choice.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining off-road buggy fun with relaxing island beach time.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with friendly, informative commentary.
• All transportation included, offering peace of mind and convenience.
• Multiple stops including Macao Beach and local village visits enrich the cultural experience.
• Natural pool and starfish sanctuary give a unique glimpse into marine life.
• Value-packed for $80, with included lunch, drinks, and free samples.

A Deep Dive into the Punta Cana Saona Island & Buggy Tour

What’s Included and How It All Comes Together

For $80, this tour offers a full two days of activity, making it a competitive option for travelers eager to maximize their time in Punta Cana. The roundtrip transportation on both days ensures you don’t need to worry about logistics—your guides take care of that, leaving you free to soak in the scenery or chat with fellow travelers. The lunch, drinks, and free samples of cacao, coffee, mamajuana, and green tea add local flavor to your day, helping you feel connected to Dominican culture.

Day 1: Off-Road Adventures and Cultural Stops

Your first day kicks off with a visit to the buggy ranch, where a friendly guide will brief you on the day’s activities. The real fun begins as you take the wheel of your buggy, racing along tropical trails that wind through lush foliage and open up to scenic vistas.

Driving your own buggy is arguably the highlight here. It’s a chance to get a little dirt under your nails and enjoy a sense of freedom that larger bus tours rarely offer. The stops at Macao Beach and a traditional house provide moments of relaxation and insight into local life.

At Macao Beach, we loved the opportunity to sunbathe and swim in the crystal-clear waters. The beach’s raw beauty is a stark reminder of why Punta Cana’s natural scenery draws so many visitors. Our guide, James, was especially enthusiastic about sharing tidbits about the area’s flora and fauna, making the stop both scenic and educational.

The visit to the local house, where you can sample cacao, coffee, mamajuana, and green tea, is a delightful way to experience Dominican flavors firsthand. You can also browse souvenirs if you’re in the mood for a keepsake.

Day 2: Idyllic Saona Island and Marine Encounters

The next morning starts with pickup from your accommodation and a scenic boat ride to Saona Island. The boat trip itself offers great views of the coastline, and you’ll likely see marine life along the way, adding a splash of excitement.

One of the tour’s standout moments is the stop at the natural pool, a shallow, clear spot in the ocean where you can stand and watch starfish. We loved the opportunity to wade through calm waters and see these gentle creatures up close. It’s a quirky, memorable part of the day that appeals especially to nature lovers.

Once on Saona Island, you’re free to explore at your own pace for about three hours. The island’s white sand beaches and turquoise waters are postcard-perfect. The included buffet lunch offers a generous selection of local dishes and fruit salad—a simple but satisfying meal after your morning adventure.

In the late afternoon, everyone gathers for some music, dancing, and laid-back fun during the boat ride back. It’s a lively, communal atmosphere that caps off the trip on a high note.

The Experience Guides and Group Size

Throughout the tour, guides like James and others are attentive and knowledgeable, eager to share insights about local history, culture, and natural features. We found that small group sizes (max 100 people) helped keep the experience personal and engaging, avoiding the feeling of rushing through stops.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is well-organized, it’s worth noting that water shoes are not included, so if you plan to wade in the natural pool or the shallow waters, bringing or purchasing some is advisable. Also, expect some physical activity—getting in and out of buggies, boats, and walking around on uneven surfaces.

The cost of $80 includes most essentials: transportation, lunch, drinks, and samples. Tips are not included, but tipping guides and staff is customary if you’re happy with the service. Also, some might find the scheduled timing a bit packed, but it’s designed to give you a comprehensive experience without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a little adventure along with cultural and natural sights. If you love scenic drives, exploring local flavors, and relaxing on a gorgeous Caribbean beach, you’ll find this tour well worth the price. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate guides who are friendly and knowledgeable, making the journey more meaningful.

However, if you prefer a more laid-back, less full schedule, or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider other options. The tour involves some physical movement and balance, but overall it’s designed to be accessible with some effort.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For those seeking a blend of off-road fun and beach relaxation, this two-day Saona Island and buggy tour from Punta Cana hits many high notes. The opportunity to drive your own buggy across tropical trails offers a sense of adventure not always available on standard sightseeing trips. Meanwhile, the second day’s boat ride and time on Saona Island provide a well-earned respite in a stunning setting.

The included amenities—lunch, drinks, natural pool experience, and cultural samples—add value and authenticity. Guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience both fun and informative. The small group size helps keep the experience personal and engaging.

This tour suits travelers who want to combine adventure and culture with some well-deserved beach time. It’s a solid choice for families, couples, or groups of friends eager to see both the land and sea of Punta Cana in a single, memorable package.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, roundtrip transportation is provided both days, making the logistics hassle-free.

What’s the cost of the tour? The price is $80 per person, covering most activities, lunch, and drinks.

Are there any age restrictions for alcohol? Yes, alcoholic beverages are only served to those over 21; under 21, you won’t receive alcohol.

How long is each day’s activity? Day 1 is approximately 4 hours including stops, while Day 2 with boat rides, beach time, and lunch is about 5 hours.

Are the stops at beaches free of charge? Yes, the stops at Macao Beach and Saona Island are free; you just need to bring your own essentials like sunscreen and water shoes if desired.

Is it suitable for non-drivers? The tour emphasizes self-driving buggies, so participants should be comfortable operating or at least riding in a buggy.

What should I bring? Water shoes if you want to wade in the natural pool, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel for beach stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

To sum it up, this Saona Island and buggy tour offers a lively, diverse day that balances adventure, cultural insights, and relaxation. It’s a fantastic way to see a different side of Punta Cana beyond the resorts, enjoying the natural beauty and local flavor of the Dominican Republic.