Los Haitises National Park and Cayo Levantado Island Day Trip From Samana

Discover the natural wonders of the Dominican Republic on a day trip from Samana. Explore the captivating Los Haitises National Park, where ancient pictographs adorn caves and diverse bird species nest. Then, unwind on the pristine beaches of Cayo Levantado Island, also known as Bacardi Island. This all-inclusive tour provides a seamless experience, from scenic boat rides to a delectable buffet lunch. Enjoy the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage that make this region truly exceptional.

Key Points

• This guided day trip explores the natural wonders of Los Haitises National Park and Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island) in the Dominican Republic.
• Visitors can discover ancient cave pictographs, observe bird nesting sites, and navigate mangrove swamps during the tour.
• The itinerary includes a boat ride across Samana Bay and time for swimming and relaxing on the beaches.
• The tour package covers national park fees, a buffet lunch, beverages, and hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience.
• The tour is not recommended for those with limited mobility or serious medical conditions due to the moderate physical activity involved.

Tour Overview

The guided tour of Los Haitises National Park and Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardi Island, allows visitors to explore the natural wonders of this region.

Guests will discover caves with ancient pictographs, navigate through mangrove swamps, and observe bird nesting sites. A small boat ride across Samana Bay is included, providing stunning views.

In the afternoon, travelers can enjoy swimming and relaxing on the beaches.

The tour includes national park fees, a buffet lunch with vegetarian options, beverages, a driver/guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and souvenir photos available for purchase.

Inclusions

This guided tour includes several amenities to enhance the experience.

The national park fees are covered, ensuring hassle-free access to the protected areas. A tasty buffet lunch with a vegetarian option is provided, along with beverages to stay hydrated.

A knowledgeable driver/guide accompanies the group, sharing insights and navigating the itinerary. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for added convenience.

Gratuities are also taken care of, so travelers can focus on enjoying the tour. Souvenir photos are available for purchase, capturing memorable moments from the day.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for this tour is located at Av. La Marina 4 in Samaná, Dominican Republic.

Pickup is available upon request, with the tour starting at 8:45 am. The experience ends back at the same meeting point.

Participants should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

It’s important to have a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the activities throughout the day.

Health and Safety Restrictions

Although not recommended for travelers with back problems, the tour does require a moderate level of physical fitness to fully participate in the day’s activities.

The itinerary involves exploring caves, navigating mangrove swamps, and walking on beaches. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions are advised against joining.

Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Travelers should carefully consider their physical abilities before booking this excursion to ensure they can safely and comfortably enjoy the National Park and beach experiences.

Pricing and Reviews

The tour costs $99.99 per person and is non-refundable, with no refunds for cancellations.

Based on 19 reviews, the tour has an average rating of 3.7 out of 5. Travelers praised the knowledgeable staff and guide, but some expressed concerns about spending more time in the mangroves than on the beach.

Exploring Los Haitises National Park

Nestled within the verdant expanse of the Dominican Republic’s northeast region, Los Haitises National Park captivates visitors with its remarkable natural wonders.

The guided tour leads adventurers through a labyrinth of caves adorned with ancient pictographs, offering a glimpse into the area’s indigenous past.

Venturing through the park’s mangrove swamps, guests observe diverse bird species nesting amidst the tangled roots.

A boat ride across the serene Samana Bay provides a scenic transition to the white sand beaches of Cayo Levantado, where travelers can swim and relax, completing this immersive exploration of the park’s exceptional natural beauty.

Visiting Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island)

After exploring the rugged landscapes of Los Haitises National Park, the tour transitions to the picturesque Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardi Island.

Transitioning from the rugged landscapes of Los Haitises National Park to the picturesque Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardi Island.

Visitors can look forward to:

• Relaxing on the island’s pristine white-sand beaches

• Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters

• Spotting diverse wildlife, including iguanas and tropical birds

• Strolling through the lush palm tree groves

• Enjoying a delicious buffet lunch featuring local Dominican cuisine

The tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty of Cayo Levantado provide a perfect contrast to the earlier exploration of the park’s caves and mangrove forests, offering a well-rounded day of adventure and relaxation.

Samana Bay Boat Ride

A short boat ride across the serene waters of Samana Bay transports visitors from the mainland to the lush Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardi Island.

The small boat cruise offers stunning views of the surrounding mangrove forests and coastal landscapes. During the crossing, guests can enjoy the salty sea breeze and spot various bird species.

The 15-20 minute boat trip is a peaceful interlude before arriving at the picturesque island, where travelers can spend the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the tranquil beaches and trails.

Ask Away

What Type of Transportation Is Provided for the Tour?

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and a small boat ride across Samana Bay to access the national park and island. Travelers will be transported by driver/guide throughout the day.

Can Participants Stop for Additional Sightseeing or Activities?

Unfortunately, the tour does not allow for participants to stop for additional sightseeing or activities. The itinerary is set, and the day is fully booked with the scheduled tour stops and activities.

Is Photography Equipment Allowed During the Tour?

Photography equipment is allowed on the tour, as visitors are encouraged to capture the natural beauty of the national park and island. However, participants should be mindful of any restrictions in sensitive areas.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is not suitable for young children or travelers with serious medical conditions that could be exacerbated by the physical activity.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for hiking. Swimwear and a change of clothes are recommended for swimming on the beach.

Final Words

This day trip to Los Haitises National Park and Cayo Levantado Island from Samana promises an unforgettable adventure. Explore ancient caves, navigate mangrove swamps, and relax on pristine beaches, all while enjoying a scenic boat ride, delicious buffet lunch, and knowledgeable guidance. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn about the natural wonders of the Dominican Republic.