Ecological Park & Boat Ride on the River

Exploring the lush Dominican Republic landscape, the Ecological Park and Boat Ride on the River promises an immersive adventure into the region’s rich biodiversity. Visitors embark on a guided nature walk through the Ruddy Martínez Juma botanical gardens, discovering a vibrant array of local flora and fauna. This serene experience is followed by a peaceful boat cruise along the Yasica and Jacqueline Rivers, offering a unique perspective of the estuary’s tranquil beauty. As the journey unfolds, one can’t help but wonder what other hidden gems this tour has in store.

This experience made our list of the 22 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Puerto Plata.

About Your Stay

• Guided nature walk and boat cruise through the Yasica and Jacqueline Rivers, showcasing the ecological richness of the Dominican Republic.
• Visit to the Ruddy Martínez Juma botanical gardens, featuring a diverse collection of local fruits, herbs, and medicinal plants.
• Boat tour to the estuary where the Yasica River meets the ocean, providing access to secluded areas for immersive experiences.
• Knowledgeable local guide Richard sharing insights about the area’s ecology and traditional uses of the flora.
• Moderate physical fitness required for the activities, which include guided nature walks and boarding/disembarking the boat.

Tour Overview

The Ecological Park & Boat Ride in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, offers visitors a guided nature walk and boat cruise through the Yasica and Jacqueline Rivers.

This tour accommodates a maximum of 14 travelers and costs from $79 per person. Confirmation is provided at booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.

The experience includes a visit to the Ruddy Martínez Juma botanical gardens, an informative look at local flora, and a boat tour to the estuary where the Yasica meets the ocean.

Pickup and drop-off service is available for an additional $10 per person, with an 8 AM start time.

Ecological Park and Botanical Gardens

Visitors to the Ecological Park & Boat Ride can explore the Ruddy Martínez Juma botanical gardens, which feature an informative collection of local fruits, herbs, and medicinal plants.

The gardens offer a glimpse into the diverse flora of the Dominican Republic, allowing visitors to learn about the region’s ecological richness.

Key features of the botanical gardens include:

• Diverse array of tropical fruits, herbs, and plants used for medicinal purposes
• Knowledgeable local guide to provide insights into the garden’s flora and its traditional uses
• Opportunity to connect with the natural heritage and learn about sustainable practices

The botanical garden visit is a highlight of the tour, complementing the immersive boat ride along the Yasica and Jacqueline Rivers.

Yasica River Boat Cruise

After exploring the lush botanical gardens, the tour takes visitors on a captivating boat cruise along the Yasica and Jacqueline Rivers.

The guided tour offers access to secluded areas often unseen by visitors, allowing them to enjoy the region’s natural wonders.

During the boat ride, travelers will witness the estuary where the Yasica River meets the ocean, exploring the unique swamp ecosystem.

The knowledgeable local guide, Richard from Eric Tours International, shares insights about the area’s ecology, enhancing the overall experience.

Lunch and drinks are provided, ensuring a complete and enjoyable eco-adventure on the river.

Highlights of the Itinerary

A highlight of the itinerary is the informative visit to the Ruddy Martínez Juma botanical gardens, where travelers can explore a variety of fruits, herbs, and medicinal plants.

The tour also includes:

• A boat tour to the estuary where the Yasica River meets the ocean, offering a chance to explore the serene swamps.
• Access to secluded areas often unseen by visitors, providing a unique and immersive experience.
• Lunch and drinks included, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable day in the Dominican Republic’s ecological wonderland.

Pickup and Transportation Options

Pickup and drop-off service is available for an additional $10 per person, providing convenient transportation to and from the tour’s starting point. The tour operates with a start time of 8:00 am, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness.

The transportation options are as follows:

Pickup Point	Location
Puerto Plata City Center	Central Plaza
Sosua	Hotel Entrance
Cabarete	Main Beach Area
Costambar	Park Entrance
Playa Dorada	Hotel Lobby

Appropriate attire is recommended, as the tour operates in all weather conditions and includes both a guided nature walk and boat cruise.

Physical Fitness Requirements

The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness to fully participate. This is due to the nature of the activities involved, which include:

• A guided nature walk through the botanical gardens

• Navigating uneven terrain and hiking trails

• Boarding and disembarking the boat for the river cruise

Participants should be able to walk for extended periods, navigate rough paths, and maintain their balance on the boat.

While the tour isn’t overly strenuous, a reasonable level of physical ability is necessary to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Weather and Attire

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so participants should come prepared with appropriate attire.

Rainy or sunny, the excursion will go on, so wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear. Layers are recommended, as the temperature can vary along the river.

Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are advisable to protect against the sun. Mosquito repellent is also a good idea, especially near the swamps.

While the boat provides some shelter, participants should be prepared to get a bit wet.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Based on the provided details, customers have given overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Ecological Park & Boat Ride tour.

The tour has an impressive overall rating of 5.0 out of 1 review on the platform.

Some key highlights from the customer feedback include:

• Praise for the informative botanical garden visit, where guests could learn about the diverse local flora
• Enjoyment of the relaxing boat tour, which allowed exploration of the estuary and swamps
• Appreciation for the knowledgeable local guide, Richard, who’s extensive experience in the Dominican Republic

This feedback suggests the tour offers a well-rounded and enriching experience for nature enthusiasts visiting Puerto Plata.

Questions About Your Stay

What Types of Animals Can Be Seen on the Tour?

Visitors may spot a variety of wildlife, including birds like herons, egrets, and hawks, as well as reptiles like crocodiles and iguanas. The knowledgeable local guide can provide insights into the diverse ecosystem found along the Yasica River.

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

This tour is generally suitable for children, though they’ll need a moderate level of physical fitness. The boat cruise and informative botanical garden visit may appeal to families, but young children may require close supervision.

Can I Take Photographs During the Boat Cruise?

Yes, you can take photographs during the boat cruise. The tour specifically mentions that it provides access to secluded areas often unseen by visitors, making it an excellent opportunity to capture scenic river and wildlife shots.

Is There a Dress Code for This Tour?

There’s no formal dress code for this tour, but participants should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Casual, breathable attire is recommended, as the boat ride may involve some exposure to the elements.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on this tour. The tour includes lunch and drinks, and outside food and beverages aren’t allowed. The guide will provide all necessary sustenance during the experience.

Booking Your Stay

The Ecological Park and Boat Ride on the River offers an immersive experience into the Dominican Republic’s rich biodiversity. Participants explore the Ruddy Martínez Juma botanical gardens and embark on a picturesque boat cruise along the Yasica and Jacqueline Rivers, enjoying a provided lunch and drinks. With knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an opportunity to learn about the local flora and fauna in a serene natural setting.