Top 5 Punta Cana Day Trips This Winter

Last Updated 12 months ago

Punta Cana is one of the most versatile destinations in the Caribbean and is home to an array of attractions. From its award-winning white-sand beaches to massive all-inclusive resorts complete with infinity pools and water parks, visitors can spend days exploring everything the tropical destination has to offer. On the other hand, Punta Cana is also a great home base for exploring other nearby destinations. In this article, we’ve rounded up the top 5 Punta Cana day trips this winter.

aerial view of boat in the dominican republic crystal clear blue waters

A Taste Of Paradise: Saona Island Boat Tour

Saona is a stunning Caribbean island located just one and a half hours from Punta Cana. The island is home to one of the most pristine national parks in the Dominican Republic, where travelers can enjoy untouched nature and catch a glimpse of native wildlife. Saona is one of the most popular day trips from Punta Cana, and multiple tour companies offer guided excursions there.

tourists in the ocean in punta cana next to a sailboat that reads "viva dominicus"

This $ 71-day trip from Punta Cana includes transportation on a speedboat – a thrilling experience in itself – as well as a whole day to explore the island’s natural wonders. An open bar and buffet-style lunch complete the experience, which also includes return transportation to Punta Cana.

Santo Domingo Cultural Escape

Those looking for a taste of local culture and history can head to Santo Domingo, the country’s bustling capital. Santo Domingo is one of the oldest cities in the Americas, and its Colonial District is home to several impressive buildings, including the Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, its massive cathedral.

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Outdoor seating at a restaurant in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic with guests awaiting food

This 10-hour $65 per-person guided tour takes travelers from Punta Cana all the way to Santo Domingo, where travelers get to experience the vibrant lifestyle of the Dominican capital. Travelers can save money and time by booking the tour, which includes detailed explanations of the city’s history and culture, as well as visiting its main attractions. A delicious lunch is also served.

Birds flying above a tree in a historic square in Santo Domingo, dominican republic

Escape The Crowds With This Countryside Tour

If packed beaches and crowded resorts aren’t your things, then this top-rated outdoor tour is perfect for you. The tour lasts for around 7 hours and includes everything from riding a Jeep in the Dominican countryside to horseback riding in a local jungle.

The tour is specifically designed to give travelers a taste of authentic Dominican nature far from tourist hotspots. The activity wraps up with a cigar-rolling lesson in a local rancho. The $145 per person tour also includes a photographer who helps ensure lasting memories during the unique experience.

view of a balcony with a hammock in foreground and the ocean of the dominican republic in background

Discover Local Nature And Go Island Hopping

This nature-focused day trip takes travelers to the heart of local nature and wildlife. The 10 to 11-hour tour includes multiple stops around some of the area’s top nature sites, including waterfalls and beaches.

The highlight of the tour is getting to explore Bacardí island, one of the smallest yet most stunning tropical islands the Dominican Republic has to offer. The guided activity allows travelers to try out horseback riding as well as hop on a catamaran to sail the Caribbean sea. The paradisical island is home to one of the best resorts in the country, which is expected to re-open sometime next summer.

Dominican Republic palm trees on a beach with blue waters and blue skies in background

Get An Adrenaline Rush At Scape Park

Cap Cana’s Scape Park is the perfect experience for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike. The massive natural park offers guests a series of thrilling activities, from ziplining to splash hammocks.

A waterfall in the dominican republic flows in the background with pool of water in foreground

Travelers can book tickets starting at $129 per person directly through the website, but we highly recommend a guided tour which includes transportation and admission. Travelers can easily spend an entire afternoon at the park, and the location is also suitable for families with smaller children. Everyone should visit the Hoyo Azul, a stunningly blue freshwater pool and a true Caribbean highlight.