Tourism in the Dominican Republic is booming, according to research there was over 6.2 million tourists that visited in 2018. With stunning beaches and the best Dominican Republic excursions, it is no surprise that people are choosing this sizzling hot spot for their vacation getaways.
The Dominican Republic offers something for every style of visitor, from stunning tropical beaches and cruises for the relaxed people, to incredible wildlife watching experiences for the nature lovers, and even thrilling outdoor adventure excursions for the adrenaline junkies. No matter what your style of vacationing is, there are Dominican Republic tours for you.
The only problem is, how do you know which tours to go on and which ones are a waste of money? The last thing you want to do is waste your precious vacation time (and money) on an excursion that was not worth your time!
Keep on reading to learn about all the best Dominican Republic excursions available today!
1. Saona Island Helicopter VIP Excursion
Saona island is a protected nature reserve and is one of the most exotic places in the Dominican Republic. Most people who visit Saona island from Punta Cana have to endure a 12 hour long bus and boat journey, but with this helicopter excursion, you will get the royal treatment in under 5 hours!
Nothing says “tropical getaway” more than your own private helicopter excursion! Imagine taking off in a helicopter, and for as far as the eye can see is crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches along the eastern coastline of the Dominican Republic. Then you land down on your own secluded spot of the beach for a delicious lunch and relaxation, with no one else around.
Because of the secluded atmosphere and helicopter experience, people label this as one of the best Dominican Republic excursions that we have to offer, and all for a good reason!
2. Punta Cana Party Boat Experience
This is by far the most popular excursion in Punta Cana, and all for a good reason! Imagine partying on board a large catamaran boat while sipping on cocktails made by your own private bartender in an all-you-can-drink open bar, all while you admire the incredible scenes of the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic.
The party begins in El Cortecito, then heads down the coast partying along the way to the amazing clear waters of Cabeza de Toro. Here you will have the opportunity to snorkel in the crystal clear water with coral reefs like you have never seen before.
After 45 minutes of feeding the tropical fish and spending time admiring the scenery, you head off to a natural pool where the party continues. Eventually you will return to your resort with a great warmup for the rest of the night!
3. Punta Cana Sea Fishing Tour
With this fishing tour, you have the opportunity to customize your experience as a full private charter, group charter, or meet awesome like-minded guests as you sail the seas in search for the big catch!
You will have the opportunity to catch fish such as:
- Mahi Mahi
- Barracuda
- Sailfish
- Wahoo
- Blue Marlin
- White Marlin
- Yellowfin Tuna
This excursion is so popular that fisherman from around the world come to join, making it the number one tropical fishing destination.
4. Coco Bongo Punta Cana
According to CNN, MTV, Rolling Stone Magazine, and Billboard Magazine, Coco Bongo is an experience not to be missed! The entire night is a full performance, from swinging acrobatics, dancing, over 40 actors, gymnasts, movies played on the big screens, incredible music, and much more.
This wild and fun excursion includes an open bar with beer, liquor, soft drinks, and water, as well as transportation to and from your resort.
5. MonkeyLand Tour in Punta Cana
This tour takes you away from the beaches and towns to a unique experience deep in the jungles of the Dominican Republic.
The tour begins with an off-roading adventure to the jungle where you will meet and greet with local Dominican farmers and learn about their farming traditions where they cultivate cacao, coffee, cinnamon, and vanilla. Then you will head to MonkeyLand where a Canadian couple has been raising these adorable squirrel monkeys.
You will get an up-close-and-personal experience with these intelligent monkeys while you feed them out of your hand, hold them on your shoulder, and even take some selfies with them. Afterwards you will explore the stunning botanical gardens before you hop back on the air-conditioned transportation back to your resort.
6. MonkeyLand and Zip-line Tour in Punta Cana
This excursion has all the perks of the Monkeyland tour, but instead of heading straight to the meet the monkeys, you first head into the forest canopy to soar like a bird on multiple zip-lines deep within the jungle.
After getting fitted with your harness, you will be introduced to 18 platforms including 12 zip-lines with one that is over 2600 feet long!
7. Zip Line Tour in Punta Cana
This half-day, zip-lining excursion is perfect for those adrenaline-seekers who are wanting to add some excitement to their Dominican Republic vacation.
You will leave your resort in an air-conditioned safari truck as you drive deep into the jungle where you are fitted into your harnesses. Then you will experience the thrills of a lifetime as you soar above the tree canopy on 12 zip-lines, including two of the longest zip-lines in all of the Caribbean!
8. Horseback Riding in Punta Cana
Fulfilling your dream of riding a horse along a tropical beach is fully possible with this tour! Horseback riding is one of the top things to do in the Dominican Republic because of the rare experience of riding through the serene beaches and lush, tropical jungle.
After your level of experience is assessed, you are off to experience the stunning Uvero Alto beach from the views of your new four-legged friend. Once you are in the beach, you have the choice to go swimming and take photos in this breathtakingly beautiful and secluded beach.
9. Santo Domingo City Tour
This excursion takes you to the UNESCO world heritage site of Santo Domingo, which is the oldest European-settled city in the Western Hemisphere.
This tour includes an educated guide who will teach you all about the history and geography of this magical area. Your guide will take you to walk the footsteps of Christopher Columbus, the Alcázar de Colón, Plaza de España, Iglesia De Los Jesuitas, Museo De La Casas Reales, and the Catedral Primada De America which is the oldest Cathedral in the Americas.
After you visit this stunning and historical city, you get admission to the 3-Eyes National Park which is full of deep culture, history and stunning scenery.
10. Private Party On a Catamaran
If you are in the Dominican Republic with a large group of friends, such as a wedding for example, you need to find a good way to entertain your guests. Look no further than your own private boat party in the seductive seas of the Dominican!
This tour package includes free booze with your own private bartender, snorkeling through the stunning coral reefs, a boat with a slide to use at your own leisure, and the most incredible catered dinner. If you picture yourself eating steak and lobster on a boat with all your friends, then this should be your choice of all the best Dominican Republic excursions.
11. Imagine Punta Cana, the Party in a Cave
Experience a party like you have never seen before, in a centuries-old cave that was transformed into a giant nightclub. Dance to the latest top-dance singles as you take in the awe-inspiring scenery of being in not one-but three large caves!
The main cave is known as the Latin cave as it plays Salsa, Bachata, Reggaeton, Merengue, Hip-Hop, and R&B. The Electro cave will play EDM on the most powerful sound systems of the entire Punta Cana nightlife.
The best part about this tour is that you do not have to worry about your transportation, it is all taken care of so you can focus on having fun and dancing the night away!
12. Swimming With the Dolphins
If you have ever dreamed of swimming with the dolphins, this tour will make your dreams come true! Here you will get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with the dolphins in one of three unique tour packages:
- Dolphin Funtastic- 30 People, 30 minutes with the dolphins, and 1 dolphin per group.
- Dolphin Explorer- 20 people, 45 minutes with the dolphins, and 2 dolphins per group,
- Dolphin Excellence- 10 people, 60 minutes with the dolphins, and 2 dolphins per group. *Most popular choice*
Here you will experience a rare opportunity to receive a dolphin kiss, hug, belly rides and foot pushes, depending on the package that you select.
13. Punta Cana Buggies For Two
This exciting tour takes you on a wild adventure up into the mountains as you backroad in buggies across rugged terrain amongst some incredible scenery.
After riding, you will visit the incredible cave El Hoyo where you will stop and swim, then you will meet the local farmers to experience their methods of farming with vanilla, coffee, cacao, and tropical fruits.
14. Bavaro Splash Speedboat Tour with SNUBA
If you are a thrill seeker that loves the sea, then this is the perfect excursion for you. Buckle up and enjoy the adrenaline-pumping speed-boat ride of the tropical Caribbean ocean scenery.
Then you will suit up for either a snorkeling adventure, or try your hands at at SNUBA which is a 20-foot long air hose attached to a helmet, giving you the experience of scuba diving without the need for your PADI!
15. Day Trip to Saona Island of Paradise
Leave the resort behind you for the day as you take off to the most desired Dominican location of Saona Island. Imagine walking on the purest white sandy beaches, with the clearest crystal blue water and lush palm trees for shade.
While you are there, you can play some volleyball, soak up the sun, go bird-watching, drinking local rum and beer, and swimming in a natural pool in the middle of the sea.
Learn More About the Best Dominican Republic Excursions
The best Dominican Republic excursions are just a portion of the amazing memories you will make when visiting the Dominican Republic. There is so much to do and see, no matter where you decide to go within this incredible country!
If you would like to learn more about the Dominican Republic, check out our article about the 10 Dominican foods you must try when visiting!