Tucked along the Dominican Republic’s coast, Sabana de la Mar serves as an outstanding base for kayak and canoe adventures. The town’s location provides direct access to pristine mangrove waterways and protected coves, perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
The half-day mangrove tours stand out as the best value, offering close encounters with local birds and marine life while gliding through narrow water passages. For a full-day experience, I especially love the combined kayak-hiking packages that let you explore both the waterways and surrounding rainforest trails – you get two distinctive ecosystems in one memorable outing.
These are my recommended paddle tours for experiencing the best of Sabana de la Mar’s natural treasures.
Key Points
- The Sabana De La Mar area offers several kayaking and canoeing tours, including a 2-hour boat tour with a bilingual guide in Los Haitises National Park.
- Kayaking experiences allow visitors to explore the mangrove swamps and potentially spot wildlife like manatees, crustaceans, and dolphins.
- Adventure packages combine kayaking with other activities like zip lining and visits to natural pools, providing a diverse outdoor experience.
- Guided hikes and kayaking tours can be booked separately or as a combined 5-10 hour excursion, with options to focus on either activity.
- Private and group tours are available, with flexible booking options and free cancellation, catering to different group sizes and preferences.
Santo Domingo: Los Haitises Guided Hike and Kayaking
Departing from Santo Dominican, adventurers embark on a captivating 10-hour excursion to explore the natural wonders of Los Haitises National Park.
This guided hike and kayaking tour provides an opportunity to learn about local medicinal plants and Taino culture while trekking through the humid forest.
After the 3-hour hike, participants can kayak through mangrove swamps for 2 hours, potentially spotting manatees, crustaceans, and dolphins.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers flexibility and convenience.
Priced at $185 per person, the experience includes all necessary equipment, transportation, lunch, and even alcoholic drinks.
Read our full review: Santo Domingo: Los Haitises Guided Hike and Kayaking Review
Book now: Check availability
Airbnb Sabana De La Mar + Kayaking Tour Los Haitises
Travelers looking to extend their adventure beyond the guided hike and kayaking in Los Haitises National Park can opt for the Airbnb Sabana de la Mar + Kayaking Tour Los Haitises package.
This 2-day experience offers a private room accommodation with basic necessities, just a short drive from the port and the national park. The package includes a 2-hour boat tour in Los Haitises, with an expert guide available in English and Spanish.
Transportation to the national park is provided, and the accommodation is located in a quiet, safe area close to the center.
With free cancellation and no upfront payment, this package allows travelers to reserve their spot with flexibility.
Read our full review: Airbnb Sabana De La Mar + Kayaking Tour Los Haitises Review
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Los Haitises: Zip Line, Kayaking and Natural Pools
This 6-hour adventure in Los Haitises National Park combines thrilling zip lining, serene kayaking through mangrove-lined waterways, and a refreshing visit to natural pools.
Participants can explore the park’s diverse wildlife, from birds in the mangroves to potential sightings of manatees and dolphins.
The zip line excursion offers a bird’s-eye view of the lush rainforest, while the kayaking portion allows for up-close encounters with the park’s natural beauty.
The tour concludes at natural pools, where travelers can relax and enjoy local cuisine.
Safety equipment, hotel transportation, and gratuities are all included in the €80.97 per person price, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Los Haitises: Zip Line, Kayaking and Natural Pools Review
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Sabana De La Mar: Los Haitises Guided Hike and Kayaking
The Sabana de la Mar-based Los Haitises Guided Hike and Kayaking adventure provides visitors with an immersive exploration of the park’s diverse natural wonders.
Priced from $67 per person, the 5-10 hour excursion offers a guided 3-hour hike through the lush forests, where travelers can learn about local medicinal plants and Taino culture.
The 2-hour kayaking portion allows guests to observe wildlife like manatees and dolphins in the mangrove swamps.
Alternatively, visitors can opt for just the hiking or kayaking experience.
With provided equipment and safety measures, this well-organized tour promises an unforgettable encounter with the park’s rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Read our full review: Sabana De La Mar: Los Haitises Guided Hike and Kayaking Review
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Juan Dolio: Los Haitises Guided Hike and Kayaking
Although the Sabana de la Mar-based Los Haitises Guided Hike and Kayaking adventure offers an immersive exploration of the park’s diverse natural wonders, the Juan Dolio-based tour provides a different perspective.
This 10-hour experience starts from the coastal town of Juan Dolio, allowing participants to hike through the humid forests of Los Haitises National Park and paddle through the mangrove swamps and San Lorenzo Bay.
Along the way, they’ll learn about the Taino heritage, spot wildlife like manatees and dolphins, and enjoy a provided lunch and drinks.
Priced from $185 per person, this tour is available in English and Spanish with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Juan Dolio: Los Haitises Guided Hike and Kayaking Review
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Boca Chica: Los Haitises Guided Hike and Kayaking
Exploring the unique ecosystem of Los Haitises National Park from the coastal town of Boca Chica, this guided adventure offers visitors an immersive experience blending a scenic hike and invigorating kayak tour.
Priced from $185 per person, the 10-hour excursion includes a 3-hour trek through humid forests, opportunities to spot wildlife, and a 2-hour paddle through mangrove swamps.
Though a reviewer noted disappointment about an inability to hike due to flooding, the overall experience is well-rated, with praise for the knowledgeable guide.
Boasting flexible booking options and complimentary transportation from Boca Chica, this activity provides travelers an in-depth look at the area’s natural and cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Boca Chica: Los Haitises Guided Hike and Kayaking Review
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Los Haitises Rain Forest and Kayaking
Embarking on an unforgettable adventure, visitors to the coastal town of Sabana de la Mar can enjoy the lush rainforest and serene mangrove waterways of Los Haitises National Park.
This guided tour offers a 4-10 hour experience, with a starting price of $67 per person. Visitors can hike for 2 hours through the humid forest, learning about local plants and Taino culture, then kayak for 2 hours through the bird-filled mangroves.
Alternatively, they can opt for just the hiking or kayaking portions. The tour includes kayaks, guides, safety equipment, and a water bottle, with the option to enjoy alcoholic drinks.
Pickup and drop-off are provided, with flexible meeting points.
Read our full review: Los Haitises Rain Forest and Kayaking Review
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Sabana De La Mar: Private Los Haitises Hike and Kayak
Visitors seeking a more private and immersive experience in Los Haitises National Park can opt for the Sabana De La Mar: Private Los Haitises Hike and Kayak tour.
This 6-hour excursion offers a scenic trek through the humid forest followed by kayaking through mangrove swamps. Led by expert guides, the tour highlights the park’s endemic species and Taino culture.
Participants can expect to see manatees, crustaceans, birds, and dolphins during the kayaking portion. With complimentary kayaks, life jackets, and water, this private tour provides a personalized adventure for $75 per person.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and guests can reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Sabana De La Mar: Private Los Haitises Hike and Kayak Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Sabana de la Mar offers various canoe and kayak experiences in the stunning Los Haitises National Park. Visitors can enjoy guided hikes, zip lining, natural pools, and kayaking tours through the lush rainforest. From Santo Domingo to Boca Chica, these outdoor adventures provide a unique opportunity to explore the park’s diverse ecosystem and natural beauty.