For lunch in Higuey, skip the tourist traps and go straight to the authentic experiences. The local food scene offers real Dominican cooking through several standout tours. I’m especially fond of the truck safari tours – they get you into the countryside where the best traditional dishes are served family-style. The Punta Cana coffee and cocoa tour is another winner, combining food education with a satisfying Dominican buffet lunch.
The Monkeyland experience stands out by pairing a home-cooked meal with a visit to a local family’s house – it’s the kind of authentic interaction that creates lasting memories. For those with a full day to spare, the island tour from Punta Cana delivers a genuine Dominican lunch in a family home setting.
Check out these top-rated lunch tours that showcase the best of Higuey’s culinary traditions.
Key Points
-
The Punta Cana Coffee and Cocoa Tasting Tour includes a Dominican buffet lunch, providing an authentic dining experience in Higuey.
-
The Full-Day Island Tour features an authentic Dominican lunch prepared in a local family’s home, offering a unique cultural culinary experience.
-
The Saona Island & Chavon River Tour includes a private buffet lunch with an open bar, providing a satisfying and indulgent lunch option.
-
The Half-Day Truck Safari tour includes a visit to a local ranch, where visitors can taste local coffee, cocoa, and fruits, complementing the overall experience.
-
The Monkeyland Experience tour includes a visit to a local countryside home, where visitors can learn about cultural traditions and potentially enjoy a traditional Dominican meal.
Higuey: Half-Day Truck Safari With Buffet Lunch
For those seeking an immersive cultural experience during their time in Higuey, the Half-Day Truck Safari With Buffet Lunch offers a compelling excursion. Priced from $64 per person, this 6-hour tour provides a guided journey through the city, culminating in a visit to a local ranch for a delectable buffet lunch.
The itinerary highlights include a truck safari through Higuey, a stop at the local market and a traditional Dominican house, and a tasting of coffee, cocoa, and local fruits. Guests will also enjoy horseback riding, a river walk, and a refreshing visit to the beach at El Macao.
Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide, driver, and cantinero will share insights into the region’s culture and history. Inclusions such as panoramic views of Higuey, a souvenir store visit, and a handmade cigar demonstration round out the experience.
Comfortable attire, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. With English, Spanish, and French language options available, this tour caters to a diverse audience seeking an immersive and enjoyable day in Higuey.
Read our full review: Higuey: Half-Day Truck Safari With Buffet Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Saona Island & Chavon River Tour With Lunch & Drinks
This immersive Saona Island & Chavon River Tour with Lunch & Drinks provides an exhilarating day-long excursion from Punta Cana or Bávaro.
At $125 per person, travelers can explore the Chavón River, Casa De Campo Marina, and Saona Island’s exclusive beaches over 12 hours. The tour includes roundtrip transportation, a guided tour, swimming, sailing, and a private buffet lunch with an open bar.
Highlights include visiting Mano Juan and the Saona Island Natural Pool. With a multilingual guide, this excursion caters to diverse language needs.
However, pregnant travelers and those under 5 years old can’t participate. While hotels in Cap Cana and Uvero Alto incur an additional $15 fee, the tour’s flexibility with a reserve now, pay later option, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, makes it an attractive option for those seeking an immersive Dominican Republic experience.
Read our full review: Saona Island & Chavon River Tour With Lunch & Drinks Review
Book now: Check availability
Punta Cana: Higuey, Coffee and Cocoa Tasting Tour With Lunch
Travelers often embark on the Punta Cana: Higuey, Coffee and Cocoa Tasting Tour with Lunch, an immersive excursion that showcases the cultural richness of the Dominican Republic. Priced at $48 per person, this tour promises a full day of exploration and activities, with a satisfaction rate of 99%.
The itinerary includes a picturesque journey to Higuey, where guests can marvel at the Basilica, browse a local market, and savor a delectable Dominican buffet lunch. The highlight of the tour is the coffee and cocoa tasting experience, where visitors learn about the region’s renowned agricultural products.
Complementing the culture is a visit to a cigar factory and relaxation at the stunning Macao Beach. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers excellent value and a seamless opportunity to discover the heart of the Dominican Republic.
Read our full review: Punta Cana: Higuey, Coffee and Cocoa Tasting Tour With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Monkeyland Experience + Lunch and Transportation
The Monkeyland Experience + Lunch and Transportation tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the captivating world of squirrel monkeys. This guided 4-hour tour in the Dominican Republic’s Monkeyland allows you to interact with these lively creatures under the supervision of experienced staff.
The tour includes hotel/cruise pickup and drop-off, as well as comfortable transportation. You’ll also visit a local countryside home in Puerto Plata to learn about life without modern amenities and explore the region’s history and cultural traditions.
Zip lines and souvenirs are included as well.
Priced at $151.05 per person, the tour can be booked with no upfront payment, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. Rated 5/5 by past travelers, this experience is recommended for couples, groups, solo visitors, and families seeking an unforgettable wildlife encounter combined with a culture.
Read our full review: Monkeyland Experience + Lunch and Transportation Review
Book now: Check availability
From Punta Cana: Full-Day Island Tour With Lunch
Embark on an immersive full-day island adventure from Punta Cana, exploring the cultural riches of Higuey. At just $99 per person, this 8-hour tour offers exceptional value.
Begin your day at the Altagracia Basilica, a pilgrimage site known for its miraculous image. Next, venture to a sugarcane plantation, where you’ll enjoy a rum-tasting session and witness a cigar-rolling demonstration.
Indulge in an authentic Dominican lunch prepared in a local family’s home, savoring the flavors of Taino, Spanish, African, and Middle Eastern influences. Complement your meal by tasting freshly grown cocoa and fruit from the family’s farm and coffee plantation.
Relax and swim at the picturesque Macao Beach, but note that this activity may be limited for those with mobility concerns or pregnant women.
With complimentary pickup and drop-off, this tour provides a comprehensive culture, though some travelers have reported the beach time as too short for swimming.
Read our full review: From Punta Cana: Full-Day Island Tour With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Lunch Experiences?
The dress code for these lunch experiences is generally casual. Diners don’t need to dress up, but they should avoid overly informal attire like shorts or flip-flops. Smart casual wear like collared shirts and slacks is typically appropriate.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated During the Lunches?
Most restaurants accommodate common dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, during their lunch services. Guests are encouraged to inform the staff of any special dietary needs when making their reservations.
Can I Purchase Additional Food or Drinks During the Lunch?
Yes, you can purchase additional food or drinks during the lunch. Most restaurants in the area offer a wide selection of a la carte items that you can order to complement your meal.
Are There Any Special Activities or Entertainment During the Lunch?
Many lunch spots in the area offer special activities and entertainment to enhance the dining experience. Guests can often enjoy live music, cultural performances, or interactive cooking demonstrations during their meal.
What Is the Duration of the Lunch Portion of the Experiences?
The lunch portion of these experiences typically lasts 1-2 hours. Diners can expect a leisurely, multi-course meal with local specialities and ample time to savor the flavors and ambiance of the dining hotel.
Recap
Higuey offers a range of exceptional lunch experiences. From the half-day truck safari with a buffet to the Saona Island and Chavon River tour with lunch and drinks, there’s something to suit every taste. Those seeking a more immersive experience can opt for the coffee and cocoa tasting tour or the Monkeyland adventure with lunch. Whichever option you choose, you’re in for a delightful and satisfying midday meal.