Three safari tours stand out in the Dominican town of Higuey, each offering distinct cultural experiences. The practical Half-Day Truck Safari efficiently packs market visits and local crafts into a morning adventure, capped with a satisfying mountain buffet lunch. For history buffs, the Dominican Safari from Punta Cana combines the magnificent Basilica of Higüey with an informative market tour and authentic food tastings. Most impressive is the comprehensive Safari Tour from Punta Cana, which thoughtfully balances cultural highlights like the Basilica with outdoor activities including horseback riding and river swimming.
These well-organized excursions excel at showcasing both Dominican traditions and natural beauty. Let’s examine our favorite safari tours in detail.
Key Points
- The Higuey: Half-Day Truck Safari With Buffet Lunch offers a 6-hour guided truck safari showcasing local markets and artisans, including a buffet lunch in the Higuey mountains.
- The Dominican Safari From Punta Cana provides a 5-hour immersive experience that includes a visit to the Basilica of Higüey and a guided tour of the local Dominican market with cuisine sampling.
- The Safari Tour From Punta Cana is a 6-hour tour that explores Higuey, including the Basilica Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia and the municipal market, with activities like horseback riding and swimming in a crystal-clear river.
- The Punta Cana: Historical and Cultural Tour Half-Day Safari offers a 6-hour tour that visits the Basilica of Higüey and a local market, with traditional Dominican cuisine tastings and activities like horseback riding and swimming at Macao Beach.
- The Samaná: Monkeyland and Open-Air Safari Truck Tour provides a 4-hour experience that includes a guided tour of Monkeyland with monkey feeding and a scenic open-air safari truck ride through the tropical jungle and mountains.
Samaná: Monkeyland and Open-Air Safari Truck Tour
The Samaná: Monkeyland and Open-Air Safari Truck Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to interact with friendly squirrel monkeys and explore the Dominican countryside. Priced at €61.50 per person, this 4-hour experience includes a guided tour of Monkeyland, where guests can feed the monkeys by hand, as well as a scenic open-air safari truck ride through the tropical jungle and mountain landscapes.
The tour is available in English, Spanish, and French, and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Pickup and drop-off are included for hotels in the area or designated meeting points, with pickups 45-60 minutes before the activity starts.
While the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with animal allergies, it provides a memorable adventure for those looking to connect with nature and wildlife.
Participants are advised to bring a hat, comfortable clothing, walking shoes, and a camera, and to keep shiny objects secure to avoid attracting the curious monkeys.
Read our full review: Samaná: Monkeyland and Open-Air Safari Truck Tour Review
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Punta Cana: Historical and Cultural Tour Half-Day Safari
Punta Cana’s half-day historical and cultural safari tour offers visitors a well-rounded immersion into the Dominican Republic’s rich heritage. Priced at €65.29 per person, the 6-hour excursion provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests are transported by safari truck, accompanied by a guide, driver, and bartender, to key sites like the Basilica of Higüey and a local market.
During the tour, participants can savor traditional Dominican cuisine and indulge in tastings of coffee, vanilla, cocoa, and fresh fruits. The experience also includes horseback riding, a riverside walk, and a swim at Macao Beach.
Beyond the activities, the tour delves into the country’s culture, allowing visitors to explore a typical Dominican home and witness a handmade cigar demonstration.
With panoramic views of the Higüey Mountains and local schools, this safari offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s history and daily life.
Advance reservations are recommended to secure availability.
Read our full review: Punta Cana: Historical and Cultural Tour Half-Day Safari Review
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Higuey: Half-Day Truck Safari With Buffet Lunch
Higuey, a vibrant city in the Dominican Republic, offers travelers an immersive half-day truck safari experience that showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage. Priced from $64 per person, this 6-hour tour allows visitors to explore Higuey‘s local markets, witness coffee and cocoa processing, and enjoy a buffet lunch in the Higuey mountains.
The tour includes a guided truck safari through the city, providing panoramic views of the Basilica and opportunities to interact with local artisans. Participants can also look forward to horseback riding, a riverside walk, and swimming at the picturesque El Macao beach. Refreshments, including water, rum, and juice, are provided throughout the day.
To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, the tour guides recommend wearing suitable attire and packing essential items like sunscreen and insect repellent.
While the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, it offers a perfect blend of cultural, historical, and natural exploration for adventurous travelers.
Read our full review: Higuey: Half-Day Truck Safari With Buffet Lunch Review
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Dominican Safari From Punta Cana
Frequently, travelers visiting Punta Cana opt for the captivating Dominican Safari, an excursion that whisks them away to the vibrant city of Higuey. Priced from $68.70 per person, this 5-hour experience offers a comprehensive look into the region’s culture and natural beauty.
The tour includes pickup from Punta Cana, a visit to the Basilica of Higüey, and an immersive guided tour of the local Dominican market, where visitors can shop for crafts and sample traditional cuisine. Travelers can also relax by the serene Anamuya River and enjoy tastings of local coffee, vanilla, cocoa, and tropical fruits.
With a 5/5 rating based on customer feedback, the Dominican Safari is a well-organized and engaging tour that provides an authentic glimpse into the heart of the Dominican Republic. Adventurous travelers can even explore Macao Beach, renowned for its unspoiled beauty and crystal-clear waters.
Read our full review: Dominican Safari From Punta Cana Review
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Safari Tour From Punta Cana
Those seeking an immersive safari experience during their Punta Cana getaway can embark on a captivating 6-hour tour that showcases the vibrant city of Higuey and its surrounding natural wonders.
Priced at $65 per person, the safari tour includes round-trip transportation, a typical Dominican lunch, and alcoholic beverages and soda.
The tour begins with exploring Higuey, where visitors can admire the Basilica Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia and stroll through the municipal market.
Next, a safari truck whisks them away to a private ranch for horseback riding and a swim in a crystal-clear river.
Travelers then enjoy a handcraft demonstration and cigar show before relaxing at the beautiful Macao Beach.
While the tour has received mixed reviews, with one traveler reporting a scam, the majority of customers praise the attentive and hospitable tour guides, who offer the experience in multiple languages, including Spanish, English, French, German, Italian, and Russian.
Read our full review: Safari Tour From Punta Cana Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for Safari Tours in Higuey?
The dress code for safari tours in Higuey is typically casual and comfortable. Visitors should wear lightweight, breathable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and bring sun protection like hats and sunglasses. Dressing in neutral colors is also recommended to blend in with the natural environment.
How Do I Prepare for a Hot and Humid Safari Environment?
To prepare for a hot and humid safari environment, one should wear lightweight, breathable clothing, bring plenty of water, apply sunscreen, and pack insect repellent. Wearing a hat and comfortable shoes is also recommended to stay cool and comfortable.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari Tour?
Yes, you can typically bring your own food and drinks on safari tours. However, it’s important to check with the tour operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or recommendations. Staying hydrated and having snacks on hand can enhance your safari experience.
Are There Any Restrictions on What I Can Bring on the Safari?
Yes, most safari tours allow guests to bring their own food and drinks. However, there may be restrictions on items like glass containers or items that could disturb the wildlife. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand.
What Should I Do if I Encounter Wildlife During the Tour?
If you encounter wildlife during the tour, stay calm and avoid sudden movements. Follow the instructions of your guide, who will advise you on the best way to safely observe the animals without disturbing them.
Recap
The best safari tours in Higuey offer a variety of experiences. Visitors can explore Monkeyland and take an open-air safari truck tour in Samaná, or opt for a historical and cultural half-day safari in Punta Cana. For a more immersive experience, they can choose the half-day truck safari with a buffet lunch in Higuey or join a Dominican safari from Punta Cana. These tours provide an excellent way to discover the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.