Did you just book your vacation to Punta Cana? Or are you still dreaming of doing it?

Are you wondering what you could do in this tropical paradise (well, except for stuffing your face with delicious food and cocktails and lazing by the pool or at the beach, that is)?

There are a ton of Punta Cana excursions you can participate in, either joining a group or organising everything by yourself. And while you don’t need a guide or a list of tours in order to just do nothing, you better read the below lines and make your pick among all the amazing activities you could do in Punta Cana.

Why? Because the better prepared you are, the lesser the chances you are going to miss the best Punta Cana Excursions or you end up doing a crappy tour and regretting spending your precious time and money.

So are you ready to find out what to do in Punta Cana? I promise you, there are great activities and tours for every possible taste in this tropical paradise.

Just scroll down and pick your favourite category of excursions in Punta Cana and the region. Don’t miss the rest of the categories, though, as travelling is best done when you leave your comfort zone and challenge yourself to try new things. Tips for best organising your tours in Punta Cana are at the end of this post.

Ready to dig in? Then go!

Adventure & Action Excursions In Punta Cana: Feel The Adrenaline Rush

You want to feel an adrenaline rush? You’re not afraid to get a little dirty?

Then join one of the many adventure and action Punta Cana excursions!

You don’t need to be a fitness maniac in order to participate in these tours, but your physical level should at least allow you to trek for half an hour in the sweaty tropical jungle and climb a flight of stairs for most of these Punta Cana tours.

For some activities, though, you better check with a physician if your body can take the stress.

Necessary equipment is provided for all Punta Cana excursions. I’ve also added a few tips on what you should bring, in case you didn’t think of it.

Climb Down Into The Depths Of The Earth

Excursions from Punta Cana to Cueva Fun Fun, a beautiful cave in the heart of the Dominican Republic, take the whole day but the memories will last a lifetime.

A mini-bus will take you to Rancho Capote in about 4 hours. After a small breakfast, you’ll get on the horses. The last part of the way to the cave is a hike though the Dominican jungle.

If you’re afraid of the dark, you’re in trouble. The cave has no electricity and the only light comes from the headlamps on your and your companions’ helmets. Climb down into the cave where the guides will be waiting for you. Then enjoy the cooling water of the underground river as you walk for about 90 min through the cave to exit from the other side into the day light.

The horses and a refreshing drink will wait for you outside. You’ll ride back to the ranch for your well-deserved lunch. Another 4 hours in the mini-bus through the Dominican countryside and you’ll be back at your resort with a story to tell for years to come about one of the best Punta Cana excursions.

What to bring: extra pair of socks and a swim suite.

Where to go: you’ll be picked from your hotel.

Tip: take your water shoes or any other shoes, which you don’t mind getting wet. Make sure you can comfortably walk for ~45 min in them. If you don’t bring any, rubber boots will be provided, but they’re heavy and rather uncomfortable.

Zip-Line Over The Jungle

Zip-line Punta Cana excursions allow you to fly or swing over the tree tops of the Dominican jungle. The guides will not only ensure your safety but will also give you interesting information about the forest while you walk from one platform to the next.

Rise your adrenaline levels and enjoy the incredible views from platforms built within centenary trees. All while feeling perfectly safe and secure.

What to bring: mosquito repellent.

Where to go: Canopy Adventures will pick you up and drop you at your hotel.

Ride A Buggy Or A Quad

Feel the speed of the open buggies or quads, go off the main street and onto the dirt roads through Dominican villages, plantations and farms. Reach your destination on a secluded beach, take a dip into the water and then head back to your hotel to wash off the dust and relax your bones.

What to bring: bandana or scarf to protect your face from the sand and dust, (sun)-glasses to protect your eyes.

Where to go: excursion organisers will pick you up from your hotel and take you to a gathering place where you’ll get on your buggy or quad.

Tip: after a break, don’t try to sit on your seat before cooling it with a splash of water. The dark seats attract the sun and they’ll heat up quickly.

Ride a Speedboat

Speedboat riding are great Punta Cana excursions for the speed lovers. Feel the boat jump up and down the waves and the salt water splash on your face. Take a swim, relax for a bit and work on your tan while letting the engine rest.

What to bring: a long-sleeved shirt or a hoodie as it can get chilly from the wind while speeding over the water.

Where to go: the most convenient place to find a tour or rent a speed boat (license required!) is the tour agents at your hotel’s beach as you won’t need an extra transfer and can go into the water right away.

Tip: don’t go on a full stomach. I think you get the picture what will happen after a few jumps.

Learn To Kite-Surf

Opposed to other surf types, you don’t need strong winds or big waves to ride a kite-surf.

According to instructors, most people need about 20 hours of training to learn how to kite-surf.

You’ll start with a smaller kite at the beach and move to a larger one once you’ve learned how to control it. Then go in the water and feel the waves under your board and the power of the wind in your kite.

When you’re ready, make a few jumps in the air and don’t forget to ask someone to record it for you.

Where to go: depending on your hotel’s location, you might get lucky and be able to start training at your beach. If not, a transfer to a kite-surfing suitable beach will be provided.

Learn To Scuba Dive

A lot of resorts offer scuba diving certificates. You’ll start your practice at the resort’s swimming pool and then go out in the open waters.

Don’t neglect the rules and instructions, as diving can be detrimental to your health when done wrong.

Where to go: at most hotel beaches you’ll find scuba diving lessons with theoretical and practical exercises. If you already have a certificate, it won’t be a problem to just rent the equipment.

Tip: Scuba diving courses are cheaper here than at home and the learning material and the certificate are the same. You’ll need to spend several hours of learning the theory and taking the test before being able to dive, though. So make sure you’re willing to sacrifice your precious vacation time.

Beach And Sea Tours In Punta Cana: Don’t Get Too Lazy

After all, that’s why you chose to come to Punta Cana – for the beaches and the warm Caribbean waters! Don’t be one of these people, who spend their vacation on the sunbed, though.

Get up, visit other cool places around Punta Cana or do some beach sports. Nobody has been able to tell a great travel story by reading a book at the beach! But you’ll sure want to tell your friends back home about these Punta Cana excursions.

Visit The Other Beaches

You didn’t think the only beach is the stretch of sand in front of your hotel, did you?

Punta Cana beach and Bavaro beach are some of the most spectacular beaches in the Dominican Republic, but that’s also the reason they’re so developed and crowded.

For a more relaxed and intimate experience, do some beach hopping. Be the only person on a spectacular hidden stretch of sand lined with coconut palms. Listen to the ocean, swim in the waves, get rid of your tan lines, and do whatever you want – nobody’s watching!

Where to go: rent a car or hire a taxi for the day. Drive parallel to the sea coast in any direction. Visit as many secluded Dominican Republic beaches as possible. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Tip: bring snacks and drinks, as some of the beaches don’t have any facilities. If you rent a car, go for a 4WD, as the roads are bumpy or unpaved once you get off the highway.

Tour The Islands

Well, technically you’re already on an island. But you still don’t feel the Robinson Crusoe vibe, do you?

Punta Cana excursions to Saona Island or Isla Catalina will give you exactly that.

The white sand island beaches and the turquoise water are easily accessible by a catamaran or speed boat. Once there, dip into the crystal clear water of the natural pool and order a drink from the sandbar.

Then go snorkelling and enjoy the gorgeous underwater world.

What to bring: if you’re snorkelling, wear a T-Shirt so your back doesn’t get a sunburn.

Go Snorkelling

The coral reefs around the Hispaniola Island are spectacular. Hop on a boat which will take you to one of the amazing underwater spots.

Watch, but do not touch, the colourful corals and fishes.

What to bring: if going on a full-day tour, bring a swim T-Shirt and possibly a bandana for your head, otherwise your skin will burn badly.

Tip: choose the time and the type of tour carefully. Some Punta Cana excursions consist of more drinking and partying than snorkelling.

Go On A Boat Tour

Different boat tours are offered for every taste.

You can party, drink and meet other vacationers. You can watch the coral reef from the safety of your boat through a glass bottom. Or you can go fishing. Or even sailing.

Whatever your perfect day at sea looks like, I’m sure you’ll find a boat tour to make it happen :-)

What to bring: don’t forget a long-sleeved shirt or a hoodie as the wind may bring you chills even in the tropical heat.

Do Some Sports

A lot of hotels and resorts offer a variety of sports at their beaches for free or for a small fee.

These might include body boarding, beach volleyball, kayaking, football, yoga or exercising.

You can also do exercises on your own, take a long beach walk or jog at the beach at sunrise.

And in the evenings, don’t miss the chance to learn the Bachata and Merengue moves, so you can impress your friends back home next time you go dancing.

Dominican Republic is also known for its perfect golf courses. If that’s your sport, you’ll sure find a perfect spot to practise your shots around Punta Cana.

Where to go: check at the reception or at the beach for times and locations of the organised sport activities and other Punta Cana excursions.

Tip: you can make some good friends (but also foes!) during group sports.

Amazing Nature Around Punta Cana: Visit The Magnificent Natural Sites

Deep caves with incredible limestone formations, lagoons with rich wildlife, and mesmerising views over the coast can all be found near Punta Cana.

Excursions might take a little bit of planning and research, if doing them on your own, but the effort is well worth it. Because you’ll have the advantage of admiring nature’s beauty without a crowd of other tourists.

Watch Wildlife At The Lagoons

Visit the mangroves at Laguna Limón or Laguna Redonda and watch the birds in their habitat. Both lagoons are protected reserves.

Hire a boat or rent a kayak and move slowly through the mangroves. The guides will give you all the information you need about the rural fishing communities, the lagoons, the flora and fauna. They’ll also help you spot tropical birds, like herons and egrets, to make this a unique experience.

What to bring: mosquito repellent.

View The World From The Mountain Top

If you’ve rented an SUV, drive right to the top of the 600 m high Montaña Redonda. If not, you’ll have to climb all the way up. And the hike is not an easy one, as the road is very steep.

The 360° view from the top, however, is extremely rewarding. On one side you’ll see Laguna Redonda and on the other side Laguna Limón and Playa Limón in the distance.

What to bring: there’s a small picnic area and a bathroom at the top, so make sure to bring some provisions for a picnic.

Tip: make your own perfect tailor-made Punta Cana excursions and visit the lagoons, Montaña Redonda and even a secluded beach or two. All are situated alongside the highway in the direction of Miches and are easily visited within one day.

Walk Inside Limestone Caves

The limestone caves Cueva de las Maravillas and Los Tres Ojos are both relatively near to Punta Cana and Bavaro.

In Cueva de las Maravillas (Cave of Wonders) you’ll see around 500 Taino wall paintings and engravings in black and red colours. The highlight of the cave is the Water Mirror Gallery, where the waters of the artificial lake reflect the beautiful ceiling of the cave.

Los Tres Ojos, on the other hand, is an open-air cave formation. As the name suggests, it consists of three lakes, called eyes. The lakes are filled by an underground river and are surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites. Their depth remains unexplored.

Where to go: many Punta Cana excursions to Santo Domingo or La Romana offer a visit to the caves as well.

Tip: swimming in the lakes is not allowed.

Get Wet At The Waterfalls

To visit waterfalls from Punta Cana is not an easy task, as the nearest ones are around 2:30 h drive away. Still, if you decide to visit Salto De Socoa or Salto La Jalda, you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent view and a refreshing dip in the waters.

What to bring: water shoes and mosquito repellent.

Dominican Life: Get A Glimpse Into The Everyday Life Of The Locals

Technically, there are no Punta Cana excursions which offer exactly this. Some offer one side of the story, but if you want to see more authentic sites than the usually visited by tourists, make your own itinerary.

There are organised Punta Cana excursions, which include a visit to Santo Domingo, La Romana or a short stop at a plantation, but if you want to experience these places deeper, better don’t join a group tour.

Visit Santo Domingo

Walk through the cobblestoned streets of Zona Colonial, the old town. Visit a museum or two and enjoy medieval and Renaissance art.

Admire the 16^th century buildings and the city’s architectural gem – the cathedral Santa María la Menor. It’s the first ever built in the New World.

Visit Higuey

Higuey was founded in the 16^th century. The cathedral Shrine of Our Lady of Altagracia dominates the city’s landscape and can be seen from afar.

Other interesting places to visit in Higuey include the city’s lively market and Museo de La Altagracia.

Visit Hato Mayor

Hato Mayor del Rey (King’s Great Herd) is a rural city, founded in 1520. The road to the city will take you through small villages, plantations and farm land. Watch everyday life as you pass by simple and colourful houses with the laundry hanging directly on the house fence.

Once you reach Hato Mayor, find the beautiful city centre and mingle with the locals in the gorgeous park.

Visit La Romana

In the centre of the sugar industry, La Romana, visit the downtown and admire the beautiful art deco tower of the town hall. Two blocks away is El Obelisco, a miniature reproduction of the Washington Monument. It’s covered with murals from the Taino culture and contemporary Dominican themes.

Drive Through The Villages Alongside The Highway

Start the day early in the morning in a rental or a taxi and try to visit as many Dominican villages as possible. Take the highway and every now and then exit it and follow the bumpy roads through the countryside.

Most buildings you’ll see are colourful simple sheds with the laundry hanging in front on the door, a small yard with a few plants and trees, and the friendly faces of the Dominicans.

Try to order lunch in Spanish, as outside the resorts and tourist areas most people don’t speak English. Watch the everyday activities of the Dominicans.

Where to go: none of the organised Punta Cana excursions I’ve seen include this kind of experience, but you can easily do a tailor-made itinerary. If driving yourself isn’t an option, hire a taxi for the day.

Visit A Plantation

See how tobacco, coffee or sugar cane are grown and cigars and rum are produced. Learn about the history and the problems these agricultures have brought with them.

Enjoy The Nightlife

Punta Cana is packed with night clubs and bars.

• Learn to dance Merengue and Bachata or simply watch the Dominicans do it.
• Go to a show or visit the one of a kind night club in a cave – Imagine Punta Cana.
• Join a bonfire beach party with live music.

Go Shopping

There are several great souvenirs you could bring home with you to help you revive your great memories at home.

• Cigars: even if you’re a non-smoker like me, puffing a flavoured cigar is a great experience.
• Rum: the best brands, according to locals, are Ron Barceló and Brugal. Go for extra añejo (aged) rums. You’ll thank me ;-)
• Coffee: quality and price ranges vary. I was happy with the supermarket coffee, but I’m sure the super expensive gourmet brands are even better. Not sure if their price is worth it, though.
• Cosmetics: for example, natural cocoa butter face creams for a couple of cents are a great bargain and something both useful and good for your skin.
• Jewelleries with amber or larimar stones: while you can find amber elsewhere, the Dominican Republic is the only producer of larimar stones. If the sky blue stones are your colour, get a nice piece of jewellery to remember your trip.

As in other touristy destinations, avoid shopping at souvenir shops. You can find coffee, rum and cosmetics at supermarkets. For cigars and jewelleries, ask your tour agent or reception desk to recommend a factory tour. This way you’ll be certain to buy from the source and avoid scams.

Especially for cigars, the storage is extremely important. Don’t ever buy from someone at the beach. Even if the quality of the cigars is good, they weren’t stored properly and are way too dry, making them a total waste of money.

Multiday Trips From Punta Cana: Don’t Rush Through The Sites, Take Your Time

Again, it’s best to make your own itinerary although Punta Cana excursions to Samaná, Dominican Republic, are widely offered. In my opinion, though, the tours are very rushed and you spend more time in transportation than enjoying the sites.

Go To Samaná

Sure, you can do a day excursion from Punta Cana to Samaná. But you’ll spend 2/3 of the day on the road and only a fraction of the time actually enjoying the beautiful sites of the peninsula.

Of course, if you decide to splurge a little bit and travel in style and comfort. You can fly to Samaná Airport and have enough time to visit the highlights.

But if your time allows you, you can do a multi-day road trip to Samaná for the cost of the flight and see much more in a more relaxed manner.

Try to book at least one night in Las Terrenas or Las Galleras, so you can visit the famous Cascada El Limón early in the morning before the crowds arrive.

You’ll also be able to enjoy the beautiful views of the peninsula as you drive through the hills. Don’t miss visiting a couple of secluded beaches instead of spending time on the overcrowded Cayo Levantado aka Bacardi island.

What to bring: whatever you need for spending a night. My advice: pack for an extra day, because you won’t want to leave Samaná!

Tip: have enough cash and gas. There are no gas stations between Samaná town and Las Galleras.

Take A Road Trip

If you’ve read this post carefully till now, you might already have a plan what you want to visit and do.

So should you rent a car and just do it?

Hell yeah!

There are no Punta Cana excursions which will fit everything you want to see and do on your visit to the tropical paradise. There are rarely tailor made tours, as everything is aimed at mass tourism.

What to bring: a printed map and a GPS capable device.

Where to go: check the suggestions in this list or leave me a comment below with activities you want to do or things you want to see and I’ll give you some additional tips.

Tip: cache Google Maps on your smartphone and you won’t need to use mobile data and pay excessive charges. Roads are in poor condition, so rent an SUV with full insurance coverage.

Punta Cana Excursions: How To Organise And Book The Greatest Tours

How to find the best Punta Cana excursions and the best way to book them? Here are a few tips:

• Check what activities your hotel offers for free.
• Check what tours you can book directly at the beach. You’ll save yourself time from the transfers. Usually the offered excursions are boat tours.
• Check at your hotel reception desk and/or your travel agent representative. Compare the prices AND what’s included in the tour.
• Ask other vacationers for prices and opinions.
• Ask the hotel staff, e.g. your favourite bartender or waiter, for recommendations.
• For a fixed price, you can hire a taxi for the day or for several hours only. You can find a price table in front of your hotel.
• Rent a car. A big, safe car. Pay for full-cover insurance. Drivers in Punta Cana and the rest of the Dominican Republic are crazy. Road accidents happen all the time.
• Search and book directly online. Read the reviews of other vacationers.

The diversity of excursions in Punta Cana is huge. It makes you wonder why would so many people simply do the same every day during their vacation – lay on the beach or by the pool and stuff their faces with enormous amounts of food and beverages.

Sure you can do just that. But there’s so much more to experience in a tropical paradise destination like Punta Cana.

But you know what? It’s probably better that way. Let the other tourists do nothing while you go on all those great adventures and excursions in Punta Cana :-)

Difficult to pick from this huge list of Punta Cana excursions? Well, that’s great, then you’ll have to revisit this tropical paradise and continue where you left off!

Now tell me one thing, which is the first tour you would like to go on?

The post 25 Punta Cana Excursions: The Greatest Tours In Paradise appeared first on NTripping.