Samana’s top tours showcase the Dominican Republic’s finest natural attractions. Local tour operators offer exceptional whale watching excursions from January through March, when humpback whales visit the bay. The Los Haitises National Park boat tours stand out for their pristine mangroves and ancient cave drawings. I especially love the El Limón Waterfall trip – the horseback ride through the jungle followed by a refreshing swim is worth every minute. For beach lovers, nothing beats a catamaran cruise to Cayo Levantado Island, with its powder-white sand and crystal-clear waters. While the Santo Domingo city tours provide historical context, they’re best for travelers with extra time.
Let’s explore the most worthwhile tours in detail…
Key Points
- Whale watching and snorkeling tours in Samana Bay offer opportunities to observe humpback whales in their natural habitat, with options for intimate group experiences.
- Nature and adventure tours, including boat excursions in Los Haitises National Park and horseback riding to El Limón Waterfall, provide immersive outdoor experiences.
- Cultural tours of Santo Domingo showcase the historical and architectural highlights of the capital city, complemented by traditional Dominican cuisine.
- Comprehensive tours combining city sightseeing with visits to Cayo Levantado and Los Haitises National Park offer a well-rounded exploration of Samana’s natural and cultural attractions.
- Cayo Levantado Island tours provide opportunities for birdwatching, discovering indigenous petroglyphs, and enjoying the island’s scenic beaches and buffet lunch.
Samana Full-Day Tour With Whale Watching and Horse Riding
For those seeking an immersive day in the Samaná region of the Dominican Republic, the Samana Full-Day Tour with Whale Watching and Horse Riding offers a comprehensive experience. Rated 3.8 out of 5 based on 20 reviews, this full-day excursion promises a diverse range of activities, including whale watching, horseback riding, and visits to local farms and landmarks.
While the tour provides round-trip transportation, reviews suggest potential overcrowding and discomfort due to a lack of regulations. The whale watching experience allows for close encounters with humpback whales, though some travelers noted difficulty in seeing and photographing the animals due to overcrowding on the boats.
The horseback riding activity has received mixed reviews, with concerns raised about the condition of the horses and pressure from guides for tips. The tour also includes a visit to the Salto el Limon waterfall, which involves a challenging hike with numerous stairs, potentially limiting accessibility.
Feedback indicates the need for better organization and communication from the tour guides, as well as opportunities to improve the quality of the provided meals and refreshments.
Read our full review: Samana Full-Day Tour With Whale Watching and Horse Riding Review
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Cana Punta: Samana Full Day Tour Limon Waterfall
The Cana Punta: Samana Full Day Tour Limon Waterfall offers an immersive excursion to the scenic Samaná region of the Dominican Republic. Priced at $127 per person, this 10-hour tour includes a bus transfer to Bayahibe, a 4.5-hour sailing to Saona Island, and a guided tour of the island.
Visitors will also enjoy a Dominican lunch, a safari truck ride, horseback riding to the 67-meter-high Limon Waterfall, and a visit to Cayo Raised, also known as Bacardí Island.
Despite these activities, the tour has received a low overall rating of 1/5 based on a single review. The reviewer, Hector from Puerto Rico, reported that the tour was canceled on the same day with no refund, expressing dissatisfaction with the customer service after planning the excursion a month in advance.
Prospective travelers should consider this feedback carefully before booking the Cana Punta: Samana Full Day Tour Limon Waterfall.
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Full-Day Cultural Adventure Tour of Santo Domingo From Samana
Visitors seeking a comprehensive cultural experience in the Dominican Republic can embark on the Full-Day Cultural Adventure Tour of Santo Domingo from Samaná, operated by Conexion Viajes.
Priced at $140.00 per person, this full-day tour accommodates up to 40 travelers, with pickup available from various locations. The tour includes a complimentary lunch and starts at 7:00 am.
While the schedule is an approximation, the operator offers flexibility in pickup times based on guests’ accommodations.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. However, most travelers can participate. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Guests also have the option to reserve now and pay later.
This cultural adventure provides an opportunity to explore the historic city of Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, from the picturesque Samaná peninsula.
Read our full review: Full-Day Cultural Adventure Tour of Santo Domingo From Samana Review
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Los Haitises: Boat Excursion and Walking Tour With Lunch
Exploring the stunning natural landscapes of the Dominican Republic, the Los Haitises: Boat Excursion and Walking Tour with Lunch offers visitors a captivating adventure. Priced from $65.00 per person, this 7-hour tour transports guests through the mangroves to observe diverse bird species before visiting the historic caves adorned with indigenous pictographs and petroglyphs.
The experience also includes a stop at the idyllic Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardi Island, where guests can relax on the warm beaches and indulge in a buffet lunch of typical Dominican fare.
With knowledgeable guides fluent in multiple languages, the tour provides a comprehensive look at the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
While not suitable for pregnant women, the tour can be booked as a private group experience.
Though customer reviews are mixed, with some concerns about communication and food quality, the overall experience is generally satisfactory, with suggestions for improvement noted.
Visitors are advised to check availability and book in advance to secure their spot on this immersive Los Haitises adventure.
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Tour to El Limón Waterfall With Lunch Included From Saman Special for Cruisers
Offering a chance to discover one of Samaná’s natural gems, the Tour to El Limón Waterfall With Lunch Included From Saman Special for Cruisers whisks travelers away to witness the captivating 120-foot cascading falls.
Operated by Shelting Tours, this excursion is perfect for cruisers visiting the Dominican Republic, providing round-trip transportation from your hotel or accommodation.
During the tour, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch as well as complimentary coffee and tea. With a maximum group size of 40, this intimate experience allows you to fully learn about the stunning natural surroundings.
The tour starts at 9:00 am, and you can take advantage of the flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start time.
However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers, and it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Tour to El Limón Waterfall With Lunch Included From Saman Special for Cruisers Review
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Samaná: Catamaran Boat Tour With Snorkeling and Lunch
The Samaná: Catamaran Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Lunch takes adventurous travelers on a captivating 7-hour excursion to explore the stunning waters around Samaná. Priced from $90 per person, this tour includes snorkeling at two locations, a delicious lunch on board, and an open bar with local rum, soft drinks, and water.
Guests can expect to see the sunken ferry and Cayo La Farola, while enjoying snacks like coconut, pineapple, and creole coconut bread. With a 4.2/5 overall rating based on 26 reviews, the tour provides excellent value for money, with highlights including discovering underwater life and admiring the crystal-clear waters of Cayo Levantado.
The tour’s professional staff ensures safety and a fun atmosphere throughout the experience. Pickup is available at a private dock, and the tour is available in English, French, German, and Spanish.
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Humpback Whales Excursion in Samana
Travelers seeking to witness the awe-inspiring annual migration of humpback whales can embark on a captivating 6:30 am to 8:30 pm excursion in the waters surrounding Samaná, Dominican Republic.
This tour offers 40 minutes of whale watching, along with a morning snack, lunch at 3:30 pm, and transportation via air-conditioned vehicle. Priced at $180 per person, the tour accommodates up to 50 travelers and provides free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
However, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions. While stroller-accessible, it isn’t wheelchair-friendly.
Reviewers have noted issues with communication around tour details, including unexpected additional costs. The Humpback Whales Excursion in Samaná offers a unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures, but travelers should be aware of the tour’s limitations and potential challenges.
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From Samana: Los Haitises Boat and Walking Tour With Lunch
Though nestled within the sprawling Los Haitises National Park, this boat and walking tour provides travelers with an immersive experience exploring the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Priced at £54.16 per person, the tour lasts 7-10 hours and includes a guided boat journey, cave exploration, and a Dominican buffet lunch on Cayo Levantado island.
Guests can observe a variety of bird species, including pelicans and the rare Ridgways hawk, while navigating through mangroves and winding islets.
The tour also features indigenous pictographs and petroglyphs within the caves.
While some reviewers noted delays and mixed food quality, the tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off service, wheelchair accessibility, and an expert multilingual guide.
With a flexible cancellation policy and pay later option, this Los Haitises excursion provides an immersive look at the natural wonders of Samana.
Read our full review: From Samana: Los Haitises Boat and Walking Tour With Lunch Review
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Dominican Republic: El Limón Waterfall Horseback Riding Tour
For those seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure in Samana, the El Limón Waterfall Horseback Riding Tour offers an immersive experience exploring the region’s natural wonders.
Priced at Kč 1,475 per person, the 4-hour tour includes a horseback ride through tropical forests and country landscapes, culminating in a 197-foot climb to the stunning El Limón waterfall. Visitors can take a refreshing dip in the natural pool at the waterfall’s base and enjoy a typical Dominican lunch.
While the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, mobility issues, or non-swimmers, it provides an opportunity to purchase souvenirs, including the local Mamajuana.
With a 4.2/5 rating based on 9 reviews, the tour receives positive feedback on its picturesque path and delicious lunch, though notes caution about additional costs for mules and guides, as well as tips not included in the price.
Adhering to environmental considerations, visitors are encouraged to use biodegradable sunscreen and arrive 15 minutes early.
Read our full review: Dominican Republic: El Limón Waterfall Horseback Riding Tour Review
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Full-Day Whale Watching Tour in Samana Bay From Santo Domingo
Departing from Santo Domingo, the Full-Day Whale Watching Tour in Samana Bay offers an opportunity to observe the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat.
Operated by Shelting Tours, this tour provides round-trip transportation, a professional guide, lunch, and snacks for $200 per person. The tour has a maximum capacity of 40 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.
During the tour, visitors will have the chance to witness the captivating humpback whales in Samana Bay, as well as explore the picturesque Cayo Levantado island and enjoy panoramic views of the bay.
The tour starts at 7:00 am, and confirmation is provided upon booking. Cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
This full-day excursion promises an unforgettable encounter with the magnificent marine life of the Dominican Republic.
Read our full review: Full-Day Whale Watching Tour in Samana Bay From Santo Domingo Review
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Samana: Whale Watching and Cayo Levantado Full Day Tour
The Samana: Whale Watching and Cayo Levantado Full Day Tour offers an affordable and immersive experience for visitors seeking to witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat.
Priced from $39.99 per person, the tour lasts between 4 hours to a full day, with convenient English, French, and Spanish-speaking guides. Guests can expect up-close whale sightings during the scenic cruise, followed by a lunch on the beautiful Cayo Levantado Island.
The tour also provides free time to explore the island, relax on the beach, or play volleyball. Notably, swimming or touching the whales is prohibited.
Inclusions cover the typical Dominican lunch, tour tickets, and optional hotel pickup from select locations at an additional cost. Private group options are available upon request.
Whale watching excursions can also be booked from Punta Cana or Sabana de la Mar/Miches at an extra charge. This tour offers an exceptional opportunity to encounter the wonders of Samana’s marine life.
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From Samaná: Whale Watching and Cayo Levantado Boat Tour
Although the Samana: Whale Watching and Cayo Levantado Full Day Tour offers an immersive experience to witness the majestic humpback whales, the From Samaná: Whale Watching and Cayo Levantado Boat Tour provides a more affordable option starting at Kč 983 per person.
This 4-hour to 1-day tour departs from the Malecon in Samaná at 8:30 AM, allowing participants to spot whales in their natural habitat before enjoying a typical Dominican lunch on Cayo Levantado Island.
While the tour doesn’t guarantee extensive whale sightings, especially outside the peak season, it still offers a chance to observe these magnificent creatures.
Customers have provided mixed reviews, praising the knowledgeable guide but expressing disappointment with limited whale encounters and finding the time on the island less captivating than the whale watching.
Visitors can also opt for private group tours or explore alternative whale watching locations in Punta Cana or Sabana de la Mar/Miches at an extra cost.
Read our full review: From Samaná: Whale Watching and Cayo Levantado Boat Tour Review
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Samaná: City Tour + Los Haitises & Cayo Levantado Island
For travelers seeking a more comprehensive exploration of Samaná’s highlights, the Samaná: City Tour + Los Haitises & Cayo Levantado Island tour offers an immersive experience. Priced from $68 per person, this 6-8 hour tour combines a guided city tour with visits to the stunning Los Haitises National Park and the picturesque Cayo Levantado Island.
The tour begins with a free city tour to learn about Samaná’s history, followed by a journey across tropical waters to the rock islands and Taíno cave paintings of Los Haitises. Guests will also explore the Cueva de la Larena Cave and enjoy a traditional Dominican buffet lunch on Cayo Levantado Beach.
The tour includes transportation, a multilingual guide, park entries, and highlights such as ancient cave art and the area’s diverse flora and fauna.
While recent reviews praise the tour guides and overall experience, some guests have suggested improvements to the city tour timing and more variety in the included lunch. Nonetheless, this comprehensive tour offers an engaging way to discover Samaná’s natural and cultural wonders.
Read our full review: Samaná: City Tour + Los Haitises & Cayo Levantado Island Review
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Samana: City Tour + Whale Watching + Cayo Levantado
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Samaná’s highlights, the Samana: City Tour + Whale Watching + Cayo Levantado tour provides travelers an engaging experience.
Priced from $39.99 per person, this 4-hour to 1-day tour is available in English, French, and Spanish. The tour starts at 8:30 AM on the Malecon in Samana, with optional hotel pickup available.
Guests will enjoy a city tour of Samana, followed by a scenic boat trip for whale watching with locals. The tour includes lunch on Cayo Levantado Island and free time to explore the island, enjoy the beach, or relax.
With a cancellation policy allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers flexibility.
Customer reviews praise the knowledgeable tour guide and the sighting of 6 whales, though some concerns were raised about pricing and timing.
Read our full review: Samana: City Tour + Whale Watching + Cayo Levantado Review
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From Samana: Baiguate Waterfall and Jarabacoa Buggy Tour
Venturing beyond the whale watching experiences, travelers can embark on the From Samana: Baiguate Waterfall and Jarabacoa Buggy Tour.
This full-day adventure takes visitors to the Baiguate Waterfall, one of the region’s natural gems. After admiring the cascading waters, guests hop on a buggy for an exciting off-road journey through the lush landscapes of Jarabacoa.
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and is priced at €83.88 per person.
Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars from 61 reviews, this tour provides an immersive experience blending natural beauty and thrilling activities.
Travelers can expect to witness the stunning Baiguate Waterfall, explore the scenic Jarabacoa region, and enjoy the adrenaline-pumping buggy ride.
The tour is a great option for those seeking to venture beyond the traditional whale watching offerings and discover the diverse attractions of Samana.
Read our full review: From Samana: Baiguate Waterfall and Jarabacoa Buggy Tour Review
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Salto El Limón Waterfalls & Cayo Levantado Tour
Travelers seeking to enjoy Samana’s natural wonders can embark on the Salto El Limón Waterfalls & Cayo Levantado Tour. This 10-12 hour excursion from Punta Cana provides pickup and explores two of Samana’s top attractions.
First, visitors will marvel at the cascading waters of the majestic El Limón Waterfall, accessible via a scenic horseback ride or hike. After, the tour transports guests to the idyllic Cayo Levantado, a private island boasting pristine beaches and lush landscapes.
With availability and certified guides, this full-day adventure earns a 4.4 rating from 51 customers, who praise its value at $99 per person. Combining sightseeing and immersive experiences, the Salto El Limón Waterfalls & Cayo Levantado Tour offers travelers an unforgettable glimpse into Samana’s natural beauty.
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Samana: Los Haitises National Park & Cayo Levantado Tour
Although primarily known for its stunning beaches, Samana also boasts the breathtaking natural wonder of Los Haitises National Park. The “Samana: Los Haitises National Park & Cayo Levantado Tour” offers travelers a chance to explore this unique eco-system, as well as the picturesque Cayo Levantado island.
Priced at $60 per person, the 7-hour tour includes a guided exploration of Los Haitises, where visitors can marvel at the rock islands and learn about the Taino people. The tour also features a visit to the Linea Cave to see ancient Taino paintings.
After, guests can relax on the white sandy beaches of Cayo Levantado and enjoy a traditional Dominican buffet.
While the tour has received mixed reviews, mostly due to communication issues, it remains a popular option for those seeking to enjoy Samana’s natural beauty.
Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and be mindful of any health conditions that may be impacted by the boat ride.
Read our full review: Samana: Los Haitises National Park & Cayo Levantado Tour Review
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Whale Watching Tour in Samana
For visitors seeking to witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat, the Whale Watching Tour in Samaná is an unparalleled experience. Priced at Kč 3,197 per person, the 6-hour tour offers the opportunity to observe the whales’ captivating behaviors, including singing, tail wagging, and flapping.
Multilingual guides enhance the experience, with languages spanning Spanish, English, French, German, Italian, and Russian. The tour also includes a visit to the picturesque Cayo Levantado, renowned for its white sand and crystal clear turquoise waters.
A delicious Dominican lunch is provided, ensuring a complete and satisfying excursion. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, the Whale Watching Tour in Samaná is a flexible and convenient choice.
Round-trip transportation from your hotel or accommodation is included, making the logistics seamless.
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The Sum Up
Samana offers an array of captivating tours to explore its natural wonders. From whale watching and horse riding to waterfall hikes and national park excursions, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re interested in cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, Samana provides ample opportunities to learn about the Dominican Republic’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage.