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Punta Cana evening buggy tour with Dominican dinner

This experience has adventure stamped all over it. Off-road buggy or safari truck rides, traditional Taino ceremonies and swimming in underground pools make for an adrenaline-pumping evening from Punta Cana. Juan, one of our local guides, says ‘Caves and cenotes played an important role in the indigenous Taino culture. Despite looking so tempting with their cool aquamarine water, the Taino people never swam in the cenotes or used the water because of their belief that they were a gateway to the underworld.' Plus, you'll enjoy a Dominican dinner and an open bar followed by live music.To kick off your all-action evening, you'll power through the Dominican countryside, zoom along dirt tracks and watch as the landscape transforms from day to night. Guided by torchlight, you'll continue your journey to take a swim in a natural cave pool, known as a cenote, with atmospheric lighting. And if you choose the safari truck option, you'll also get to visit the eerie depths of Yara Cave.With flaming torches lighting the way, you'll make your way back to base for a well-earned drink and a tasty dinner of local cuisine. The restaurant staff pride themselves on creating classic Dominican dishes, freshly prepared with seasonal produce from the island. Rounding off the evening is a traditional Taino dance show and the chance to join in with a boogie or enjoy the open bar under the stars.

Saona Island highlights boat tour with buffet lunch

Total relaxation awaits on this full day cruise to Saona Island's dazzling shores. You'll explore this tropical daydream Caribbean Isle, soaking up the sun and the vibrant colours while you stroll along palm-shaded beaches. First up is a coastal tour of Cotubanama National Park, then you'll stop at a natural pool for a dip before heading to the beach for lunch and free time. Ramon, one of our expert guides, says, ‘Our priority is to protect our pristine environment and all the species that make Saona so special. We were the first country to protect manatees by law, and we have a turtle conservation programme here on the island, too.'After a relaxing cruise over to Saona, the sightseeing can begin in earnest. You'll cruise the shoreline of the Cotubanama National Park while your local guide points out the island wildlife. See the rocks of El Peñón, and then glide through the Catuano channel. Next, it's time to cool off in the azure water of the natural pools, formed by sandbanks in the open sea. The water is such a tempting shade of blue you won't be able to resist.Docking at one of Saona Island's fabulous beaches, you'll step off the boat for some beach time. There's the Caribbean for paddling, soft white sand to dip your toes in, and a volleyball pitch to play on. Or you could take the simplest option and just stretch out in the sun. After your tasty buffet lunch is served, there's more free time to enjoy the magical setting.

Punta Cana coral reef restoration and snorkelling experience

Dive into a world of difference with this eco-conscious tour in Punta Cana – a perfect blend of fun, learning, and hands-on action to help save our seas. Not only will you get to snorkel through the colourful underwater world, but you'll also play a pivotal role in coral restoration efforts, making every moment of your adventure count towards marine preservation. Maria, one of our local guides, says, 'You're not just a tourist here; you're part of the solution. Under the guidance of our expert team, you'll learn about and participate in cutting-edge techniques aimed at rehabilitating and restoring coral reefs'.Kick off your experience by joining our experts at the Scientific Interpretation Centre and Coral Lab, where you'll learn about coral gardening through methods like microfragmentation. This hands-on activity guided by our knowledgeable guides will help you to discover the intricate beauty and vital importance of these ecosystems. It's an eye-opening experience that highlights the urgency of protecting these underwater treasures.After doing your part for the planet, strap on your snorkel gear and plunge into two distinct coral gardens on a guided snorkelling tour, filled with tropical fish and sea creatures. Wind down your impactful day with some chill time at Coco beach, where refreshments like the ‘coco loco' – an ice-cold coconut drink – are as cool as the ocean breeze.

Punta Cana terra country 4x4 tour with tasting experience

Ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Dominican countryside? This tour promises to be as thrilling as it is enlightening. As you navigate through tropical landscapes on your 4x4 quad bike, you'll see glimpses of the authentic Dominican life. Our expert local guide Maria shares, “You'll connect with people, traditions, flavours, and natural wonders on this tour – like the sacred ‘La Seiba' tree, worshipped by the ancient Taino Indians – for a glimpse of the island's past.” Kick-start your day by visiting a typical Dominican home, where you'll get an intimate taste of rural life. Savour a traditional dish bursting with flavour after watching how to prepare it, then try fresh coffee and local chocolate. The quality of the organic products here are a reflection of local traditions and give Dominican cuisine its vibrant flavours. Then it's time to unwind at the riverside. Dive into the refreshing water of a country swimming pool with a backdrop of mountains or try your hand at river fishing under the guidance of local experts. Your tour concludes at a scenic countryside ranch where you can relish the opportunity to relax by the pool with an open bar of beer and rum. This extraordinary trip combines cultural immersion, thrilling adventure, culinary delights, and natural beauty.

Half-day spa cruise with massage and lunch from Punta Cana

Turn the pampering up to maximum when you step on board this indulgent spa cruise. Watch the Punta Cana coastline slip by as you enjoy massage and detox treatments on deck. What finer way to unwind and de-stress than with an energising wellness programme surrounded by the colours of the Caribbean? Agnes, one of our local guides, says, ‘There's lots of scientific proof that being by the ocean reduces stress, improves sleep and encourages the release of happy hormones. Swimming in the sea is great for your skin, too.'The relaxation begins the moment you board our swish double-decker catamaran and embark on a spa experience like no other. As we cruise along the shoreline, you'll revitalise body and soul with a variety of gentle spa treatments suitable for everyone. Start with an exfoliation treatment to boost the skin, followed by an individual massage in a private cubicle. Next, it's time for a detox with the ionisation machine.Finally, stretch and strengthen the body with Pilates and yoga sessions on the top deck – all served with a generous helping of beautiful Caribbean scenery. After the spa treatments are complete, give into the temptation to dive into the sea. You'll leave the boat for some in-water relaxation time on a floating mattress. Following an opportunity to meet sharks and stingrays, we'll round off the morning with a light lunch. It's pure holiday bliss from start to finish.

Full-day tour of Higuey with local lunch in a family home

This snapshot of Dominican life beyond the Coconut Coast has all the makings for a great day out. A sugarcane plantation and a cigar-rolling demonstration are just some of the highlights. But the star turn of the day has got to be lunch in a local family's home. As Ramon, one of our local guides, says, ‘I'm always proud to show off my heritage through our food. Like the island itself, Dominican cuisine has been influenced by Taino, Spanish and African flavours. There's even a hint of the Middle East in some dishes. You'll see, smell and taste a whole new side to our country.'We kick off early, with a trip to Higuey to see the famous Altagracia Basilica – a pilgrimage site because of its miraculous image of Our Lady. Then, make sure to have your camera at the ready as we take a scenic drive through rustic villages, on our way to the next stop – a coconut oil producer. You'll also visit a sugarcane plantation for a rum tasting session and watch a cigar-rolling demonstration with a master of his craft.After such a busy morning, you'll be ready for your lunch. Greeted by a Dominican family, you'll be welcomed into their home for a feast of typical dishes made with locally sourced produce. You'll also get to see the family's farm and coffee plantation, and taste freshly grown cocoa and fruit. We'll round the day of exploration with some time to relax in natural surroundings and maybe enjoy a swim.

Tour of the Dominican’s Altos de Chavon artist village

Take a STEP walking tour through the cobbled lanes and leafy squares of Altos de Chavon – a place that's like a little Italy, but in the middle of the Dominican Republic. Along with its art galleries, workshops and al fresco cafés, you can visit its archaeological museum and the amphitheatre that Frank Sinatra christened.Surrounded by pretty gardens, pavement cafés and some stunning scenery, this replica Mediterranean village looks like the real deal. But it's more than just a tourist attraction – it's a culture hub, too.Music megastars like Frank Sinatra, Carlos Santana and the Pet Shop Boys have all graced the stage of its Roman-style amphitheatre. And inside St. Stanislaus Church & Art Museum, you can admire works by local artists. Then there's the shopping. Enjoy free time to explore its boutiques, jewellers and craft shops for gifts and souvenirs you won't find anywhere else.

Half-day small group walking tour in the Anamuya Mountains

Take a walk on the wild side with a tour of the Dominican Republic's rugged Anamuya Mountains. See a snapshot of rural life as shown to you by an in-the-know local. Alex, one of our expert guides, says, ‘I'm a native and have been guiding tours here for more than 10 years. You'll learn about local history, plants and crops, and get to try home-grown coffee and fruit, too.'Fun facts, exotic wildlife and the chance to take a river swim – this tour has it all. After pick-up from your hotel, we'll head deep into the Dominican outback. And because we'll visit the less-travelled parts of the country, it helps support areas that don't usually benefit from tourism. What's more, you'll be part of a small group of just 16 guests, minimising our carbon footprint. ‘It's a great way to get in touch with nature and give back to the rural community,' says Alex. Rolling through the forest-carpeted countryside, we'll arrive at a ranch, where we begin with complimentary drinks and the lowdown on the day ahead.Set off trekking through luxuriant, peaked landscapes as your friendly guide shows you around. You'll meet the locals and taste locally grown seasonal products – from farm to fork, it doesn't get much fresher. Be sure to keep an eye out for rare plants, birds and wildlife, too. Being part of this experience is a boost to wildlife conservation efforts in the region. Finally, we'll head to the River Anamuya, where you can cool off with a well-earned swim and a thirst-quenching coconut water.

Higuey and River Yuma full-day tour with lunch and Voodoo show

Sugarcane, sacred shrines, a riverboat trip and even a voodoo show. This exclusive excursion has a bit of everything that makes the Dominican Republic so fascinating. Expect to meet plenty of locals and explore inland around the River. Get off the beaten track for a true flavour of Dominican culture and society when you visit a fruit farm, a fishing village and a market. Luis, one of our expert guides, says, ‘Higuey is where most of the local resort staff live, and it's an enriching experience to see daily life in full swing. At the market, you can buy all sorts, from a bottle of rum to a live chicken.'You'll get a real taste for the country straight away with a visit to a plantation. Savour tropical fruits such as papaya and pineapple as well as coffee and cocoa. Up next is Higuey, the provincial capital, where you'll get to poke around for spices in the market and see locals stocking up on fresh produce. You'll also pass by the lamdark modern basilica – an important shrine.Next, we head south through tropical countryside to the little fishing village of Boca de Yuma. After a leisurely lunch of Caribbean dishes prepared with local ingredients, you'll set off on a boat ride on the River Yuma. Afterwards, discover the complicated history of Dominican sugarcane plantations at a ‘batey'. These plantation camps are home to communities of sugarcane-harvesting Haitians. Meet and chat with the community, and then watch as they put on a voodoo show.

Half-day tour to Xploration Animal Park with local guide

This half-day trip to Xploration Animal Park has family fun stamped all over it. Don't believe us? One of our guides, Noel, gives it his own seal of approval. ‘I'm a father of four, and because we live close to the park, it's one of our favourite places to visit. Whenever I'm guiding this tour, I arrive with a smile on my face, knowing I'll be spending the day surrounded by beautiful landscapes and incredible animals.' You'll be picked up and taken on a scenic voyage into the hills of Nisibon in the northeast of the Dominican Republic. On arrival at Xploration, there's a presentation on the park from one of our expert guides. It's Noel's favourite part of the tour. ‘I love explaining the differences between our animals and how they help us work the land,' he says.Jump aboard the bus for a panoramic drive around the park, or head out on foot to find your own hidden viewpoints over the landscape. You'll spot the likes of rabbit, deer, ostrich and emu, plus see cows being milked. Enjoy a drink and snack as well as time to meet the farm animals, including goats, sheep and pigs. What's more, all visits support the park's dog rescue shelter. And, as the heat ramps up, cool down with the option to kayak, paddleboard or bamboo raft. For Noel, this part of the experience brings back great memories. He says, ‘When I was younger, my family and I used to come and fish at the River Maimon. I remember those days well and want guests to make memories with their own families here, too.'