Full-day tours in the Dominican Republic pack serious value and authentic experiences. The standout Xtreme Buggy adventure gets you off-the-beaten-path through rugged terrain and local villages – it’s refreshingly non-touristy. Saona Island tours deserve their popularity, especially the small-group options that avoid the crowds and give you quality beach time. Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone tours offer the best bang-for-your-buck with expert guides who bring the oldest European settlement in the Americas to life.
Let’s explore my favorite full-day Dominican tours and what makes them special.
Key Points
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The Small Group Saona Island Tour, with a maximum of 12 participants, offers a highly rated (4.9 stars) and personalized island experience with snorkeling, turtle conservation, and scenic beaches.
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The ATV, Coffee, Chocolate & Party Boat Adventure provides a versatile full-day tour, combining adrenaline-fueled ATV rides, cultural coffee/chocolate exploration, and a lively party boat cruise.
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The Catalina Island Excursion, with an open bar and tropical buffet lunch, boasts a high customer rating of 4.7/5 and includes snorkeling equipment for a comprehensive island experience.
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Private tour options, such as the Full Day Private Tour to Isla Saona, offer a personalized and flexible experience with amenities like a scenic drive, turtle sanctuary visit, and private buffet.
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While some full-day tours, like the Saona Island Full Day Tour, receive mixed reviews due to long travel times and crowded conditions, other options provide a more intimate and enjoyable experience.
The Original Xtreme Buggy Full Day Adventure! Small Groups, VW Engine!!
Although the dune buggy adventure may not be suitable for all travelers, it offers an exhilarating and immersive experience for those seeking an off-road experience in the Dominican Republic.
This full-day tour takes participants through rice fields, forests, and scenic roads, culminating in a visit to Playa La Vacama. With a maximum group size of 12, the tour provides personalized attention.
Included in the experience are a boat cruise, a short horseback ride, lunch, refreshments, and snacks.
Drivers must be at least 18 with a valid license and proficient in manual transmission. While the buggies have limited storage and adjustability, the overall tour highlights the natural beauty and cultural aspects of the Dominican Republic.
Read our full review: The Original Xtreme Buggy Full Day Adventure! Small Groups, VW Engine!! Review
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Saona Island Full Day Catamaran Food and Drink Included
For travelers seeking a more relaxed and scenic experience in the Dominican Republic, the Saona Island Full Day Catamaran Food and Drink Included tour offers an excellent option.
Priced from $75 per person, this full-day excursion includes round-trip transportation, an open bar, and a delicious buffet lunch on the beautiful Saona Island.
Guests will navigate the Caribbean Sea by catamaran or fast boat, visit a natural pool, and enjoy activities like volleyball and merengue dancing.
While the transportation experience may vary, the overall value and positive reviews highlight the stunning beauty of Isla Saona and the enjoyable boat ride.
Travelers are advised to bring essentials like sunscreen and a change of clothes.
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Small Group: Saona Island Full Day Tour
This small group tour to Saona Island from Punta Cana offers travelers a personalized and immersive experience in the Dominican Republic.
With a maximum of 12 participants, the tour provides an intimate setting to explore the island’s highlights, including the turtle conservation area, secret beach, and the stunning Abanico and Palmilla Beaches.
The tour includes breakfast, a buffet lunch, and snorkeling equipment, ensuring a well-rounded day.
Praised for the knowledgeable guide and early access to the beaches, this tour is a must-do for those seeking to avoid crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of Saona Island.
The tour’s overall 4.9-star rating based on traveler reviews underscores its excellence.
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Saona Island – Full Day Open Bar, Lunch and Round Trip!
The Saona Island – Full Day Open Bar, Lunch and Round Trip! offers a more inclusive and budget-friendly option compared to the personalized small group tour. Priced from $64 per person, the 10-hour excursion includes round-trip transportation, a stop at a natural pool, over 3.5 hours on the island, and lunch with limited drink options.
While the overall rating is only 1/5 based on a single review citing issues like delayed pickup and poor island conditions, the tour provides an opportunity to explore Saona Island’s white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, with activities like swimming, sunbathing, and entertainment on the return catamaran trip.
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Saona Island Full Day Tour Lunch and Transportation Included
Convenience and value define the Saona Island Full Day Tour, which includes lunch, transportation, and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Recommended by 93% of travelers and boasting a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a must-see experience. The air-conditioned vehicle provides a comfortable start at 8:00 am, with a maximum of 100 travelers per tour.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly. Travelers can expect mixed reviews on crowding and organization, but praise the food quality and respectful staff.
Notable wait times for loading and unloading on the catamaran may be a consideration. This tour offers an excellent opportunity to explore the renowned Saona Island.
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Santo Domingo: Full Day Tour to Paradise Island – Cayo Arena
Embarking on a full-day adventure, the Santo Domingo: Full Day Tour to Paradise Island – Cayo Arena offers visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic.
Priced from $220 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, breakfast, and a buffet lunch.
Highlights include snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Cayo Arena, exploring the Punta Rucias Mangrove, and spotting abundant marine life.
With a duration of 15 hours and available in English and Spanish, the tour provides a tropical and relaxing experience.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and the reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: Santo Domingo: Full Day Tour to Paradise Island – Cayo Arena Review
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Saona Island VIP – Full Day Excursion
Saona Island VIP – Full Day Excursion offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic.
This full-day tour includes a scenic drive past sugarcane plantations, a boat trip to Mano Juan, and a visit to a turtle sanctuary. Guests can relax at a natural pool and Canto de la Playa beach, and enjoy a private buffet with local delicacies, including lobster.
The tour is operated by Vacation On RD and has a rating of 4.5 stars from 17 reviews. Priced from $97.00 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, and alcoholic beverages.
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Full Day Private Tour in Puerto Plata
Travelers often praise the Full Day Private Tour in Puerto Plata as an immersive way to experience the diverse sights and activities the region has to offer.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 with 100% of travelers recommending it, the tour includes private transportation, snacks, and soft drinks.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers. Priced from $55 per person with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before, the tour allows travelers to customize their experience by choosing a preferred meeting point.
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable and accommodating guides, safety, and overall family-friendly experience.
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Full Day Private Tour to Isla Saona
Embracing the allure of the Dominican Republic’s Isla Saona, a private full-day tour takes visitors on an unforgettable journey.
Starting at 7:00 am, the tour includes pickup from the hotel lobby or designated meeting points.
During the day, guests will enjoy a lunch, alcoholic beverages, and snacks as they explore the stunning natural beauty of the island.
While the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on reviews, this private tour offers a personalized experience with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for booking flexibility.
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Full Day Excursion to Isla Saona From Punta Cana
Departing from Punta Cana, a full-day excursion takes adventurers to the picturesque Isla Saona.
The journey begins aboard a catamaran and speedboat, allowing guests to soak up the sun and swim in a natural pool at Palmilla.
Once on the island, travelers can sunbathe, relax on sun loungers, and enjoy a buffet lunch featuring white rice, grilled chicken, salad, and fruits.
An open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages is included.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly, but not recommended for those with back problems.
With an overall rating of 4.2, this excursion offers a day of beauty, fun, and relaxation in the Dominican Republic.
Read our full review: Full Day Excursion to Isla Saona From Punta Cana Review
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Saona Island VIP – Full Day Lunch Open Bar
The Saona Island VIP – Full Day Lunch Open Bar excursion offers an immersive experience for visitors to the Dominican Republic.
This 7-10 hour tour takes travelers on a catamaran ride to the stunning Saona Island, where they can enjoy an all-inclusive day filled with natural beauty and relaxation.
Guests will have access to an open bar, a delicious buffet lunch, and opportunities to swim, sunbathe, and explore the island’s pristine beaches and clear waters.
With a high customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 256 reviews, this tour is a popular choice for those seeking a full-day escape in the Caribbean.
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Full Day Excursion to Catalina Island From Bavaro / Punta Cana.
This full-day excursion to Catalina Island offers visitors a chance to explore the pristine beaches and vibrant marine life of the Dominican Republic’s Caribbean waters.
Operated by Sunset Caribbean, the tour includes snorkeling equipment, a tropical buffet lunch, and an open bar of Dominican rum.
Pickup is available from hotels or Airbnbs in Bavaro/Punta Cana, with the meeting point at a KFC in front of the Sunix pump. The tour starts at 7:00 AM and ends at the same location.
While most travelers can participate, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Reviews mention some delays in pickup and limited snorkeling, but praise the staff’s friendliness and the boat’s quality.
Read our full review: Full Day Excursion to Catalina Island From Bavaro / Punta Cana. Review
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Full Day ATV, Coffee, Chocolate Tasting & Party Boat
Embark on an exhilarating full-day adventure that combines thrilling ATV rides, an immersive exploration of a coffee and chocolate house, and a lively party boat excursion.
Based in the Dominican Republic, this 5-star rated tour offers round-trip transportation, snorkeling equipment, and an open bar with snacks and lunch on the boat.
Suitable for most travelers, except those with back problems or pregnant guests, the tour can accommodate up to 95 people.
Priced from $110 per person, this experience allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a pay-later option available.
Explore the cenote, relax on Macao Beach, and learn about the vibrant Dominican culture.
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Saona Island Full Day Tour From Punta Cana and Bayahibe – All Inclusive
Departing from Punta Cana and Bayahibe, this all-inclusive Saona Island full-day tour offers an immersive experience in the Dominican Republic’s picturesque landscapes.
Travelers can enjoy round-trip transportation, a visit to the natural pool, a delicious buffet lunch, and unlimited alcoholic beverages. The tour is operated by GO PARADISE RD and can accommodate up to 150 guests.
While the tour has received mixed reviews, with some noting long travel times and crowded conditions, many praised the beautiful island and excellent service.
Travelers should be aware of potential issues with unprofessional guide behavior during the return trip and consider the impact of large group sizes on their experience.
Read our full review: Saona Island Full Day Tour From Punta Cana and Bayahibe – All Inclusive Review
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Saona Island Full Day Tour From Santo Domingo
A Saona Island full-day tour from Santo Domingo allows travelers to explore the Dominican Republic’s stunning natural landscapes.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a buffet lunch with lobster, alcoholic beverages for adults, and access to towels. While the tour can accommodate up to 150 people, the reviews indicate some issues with timing and communication.
Customers have reported problems with the departure time and lack of response from the driver. However, the tour company has committed to improving customer service based on this feedback.
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Santo Domingo Full Day Tour From Boca Chica
This full-day group tour from Boca Chica allows travelers to explore the historic heart of Santo Domingo.
The tour visits key locations like the Colonial Zone, El Conde Street, and the Colon Lighthouse. Round-trip hotel transfers from Boca Chica are included, ensuring a smooth experience.
While snacks are provided, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. With a maximum of 40 travelers, the tour has received just one review, which was negative, citing issues with professionalism, communication, and the tour guide’s limited English proficiency.
At $110, some travelers felt the tour lacked value. This Santo Domingo tour may not be the best option based on the limited feedback.
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Full Day Caribbean Santo Domingo City Tour
Travelers can enjoy the rich history and vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic’s capital city on this Full Day Caribbean Santo Domingo City Tour.
The comprehensive tour includes a walking tour of the Colonial Zone with a professional guide, visits to Three Eyes National Park and the Columbus Lighthouse, and a typical Dominican buffet lunch.
Roundtrip transportation from Punta Cana and hotel pickup/drop-off are provided.
While not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with back problems, the tour is suitable for travelers in moderate physical condition.
Reviews suggest the tour is well-organized, with knowledgeable guides, though some guests have expressed concerns about language accessibility and bus comfort.
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All-Inclusive Saona Island Full Day Trip and Catamaran Cruise From Santo Domingo
Whisking guests away from the bustling city of Santo Domingo, this all-inclusive Saona Island full-day trip and catamaran cruise promises an unforgettable Caribbean adventure.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a multi-stop beach excursion to Boca Chica, and a buffet lunch with an open bar.
Travelers can enjoy activities like volleyball and sunbathing on Saona Island, as well as a scenic boat ride to and from the island.
With a maximum of 15 guests, this tour offers an intimate experience.
Though not wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, except for infants who must sit on laps.
The overall rating of 2.7 out of 6 reviews suggests room for improvement, but the included activities and amenities make it a promising option.
Read our full review: All-Inclusive Saona Island Full Day Trip and Catamaran Cruise From Santo Domingo Review
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Santo Domingo & Alto De Chavon Full Day Small Group Experience
Departing from Punta Cana or Bavaro, this full-day small-group tour takes travelers on an immersive exploration of Santo Domingo, the oldest city in the Americas, and the stunning Altos de Chavon, a replica of a 16th-century European village.
Operated by Visita Republica Dominicana Tour Operator, the tour offers a convenient hotel pickup, comfortable air-conditioned transportation, and a traditional Dominican lunch.
Highlights include visiting museums, discovering landmarks in the Colonial Zone, and exploring the natural wonder of Three Eyes National Park.
With a maximum group size of 10, this personalized experience has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from travelers, praised for its knowledgeable guides and diverse itinerary.
Read our full review: Santo Domingo & Alto De Chavon Full Day Small Group Experience Review
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The Sum Up
The Dominican Republic offers a variety of full-day tours that cater to different interests. From exploring the Saona Island and Santo Domingo’s rich history to adrenaline-filled buggy adventures, there’s something for all. Travelers can choose from small-group experiences, all-inclusive packages, or customized tours to make the most of their visit to this Caribbean paradise.