El Limón Waterfall & Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island) Day Trip from Santo Domingo
Embark on a full-day adventure that blends Samaná’s iconic waterfall with the beauty of its most famous island: El Limón Waterfall & Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island).
The journey begins with an early pickup in Santo Domingo and a scenic drive through the Dominican countryside towards Samaná. Upon arrival, get ready for the highlight of the morning: El Limón Waterfall. Reaching the falls requires either a moderate hike or a guided horseback ride through lush tropical forest. The reward is breathtaking — a 130-foot cascade plunging into a turquoise pool where you can swim, cool off, and take unforgettable photos.
After your waterfall adventure, enjoy a traditional Dominican lunch featuring rice, beans, plantains, and fresh local dishes. This is the perfect way to recharge before heading to the second part of the journey: Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardi Island.
This small island in Samaná Bay is world-renowned for its powdery white sands, turquoise waters, and iconic palm trees that once starred in Bacardi rum commercials. Here, you’ll have free time to relax, swim, or stroll along the shoreline. Unlike crowded tourist beaches, Cayo Levantado maintains a sense of Caribbean paradise that balances authenticity and comfort.
Your guides will ensure everything runs smoothly, from logistics to timing, so you can focus on the experience. This tour is perfect for travelers who want the best of both worlds: adventure in nature and relaxation by the sea.
Book now to experience one of the Dominican Republic’s most iconic combinations in a single day.
- Duration: Full-day (≈12–13 hrs including transfers)
- Departure: 6:00 AM pickup from Santo Domingo hotels
- Tour Type: Nature + Adventure + Beach Escape
- Physical Requirement: Moderate (hike/horseback to waterfall)
- Group Size: Small groups for comfort and exclusivity
Tour Highlights
- Full-day trip from Santo Domingo to Samaná Province
- Hike or horseback ride to El Limón Waterfall (130 ft)
- Swim in the turquoise natural pool at the falls
- Traditional Dominican lunch included
- Relax on Cayo Levantado (Bacardi Island) white-sand beach
- Scenic drive through Dominican countryside
Itinerary Overview
- 5:30 AM – Pickup from Santo Domingo hotels
- 9:30 AM – Arrival in Samaná, transfer to El Limón
- 10:00 – 12:00 PM – Guided hike/horseback + waterfall swim & exploration
- 12:30 PM – Dominican lunch at local restaurant
- 1:30 – 3:30 PM – Transfer & free time at Cayo Levantado beach
- 3:30 PM – Departure from Samaná
- 6:30 – 7:00 PM – Arrival back in Santo Domingo
⚠️ Disclaimer: Itinerary may vary depending on weather, group size, and logistics.
What's included
- Round-trip transportation from Santo Domingo
- Certified bilingual guide
- Entrance fees to El Limón Waterfall & Cayo Levantado
- Horseback ride or guided hike to the waterfall
- Dominican lunch (local cuisine)
- Bottled water
What’s Not Included
- Alcoholic beverages
- Swimwear & towel
- Sunscreen & insect repellent
- Tips for guides/drivers
- Souvenirs or optional extras
Know Before You Go
- Difficulty: Moderate (hike/horseback)
- What to bring: Comfortable shoes, swimsuit, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, camera, extra cash
- Not recommended for: Travelers with mobility issues, heart conditions, or low fitness levels
- Good to know: Horses are optional — you may choose to hike if you prefer