All-Inclusive Samaná Day Trip by Air from Punta Cana

Start your day with early morning hotel pickup in Punta Cana and head to a nearby airport, where you’ll be greeted with drinks and music before you climb aboard a turboprop aircraft. Take a short flight north over the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic and admire the aerial views of white sand beaches and the sparkling Samaná Bay.

Upon arrival in Samaná, hop into a safari truck and rumble up into the Sierra de Samaná mountains. Enjoy lush landscapes during the drive and disembark at a local plantation. Your guide escorts you about the grounds, pointing out the native fruits and plants, in addition to agricultural products made in the region like coffee and cacao. Taste the freshness of these products, as well as honey and casabe, or cassava bread.

After about an hour at the plantation, move on to a horseback-riding ranch in El Limón. After a safety briefing, clop off and follow your guide into a dense tropical forest along the Arroyo Chico River. Arrive at El Limón Waterfall, sheeting 165 feet (50 meters) of water into a turquoise-colored swimming hole at the base. Spend about 35 minutes here, splashing around in the hole and taking pictures.

Return to the stables and then head to Samaná’s pier for a brief tour of the port town, formally called Santa Bárbara de Samaná. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant with panoramic views of the bay, and tuck into delicious Dominican gourmet fare, washing it down with beer, wine and select cocktails (included).

Refueled, climb aboard your catamaran at the pier and speed on to Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardi Island. Step off the boat and dig your toes into the velvety white sand, swim or snorkel in the warm green-blue waters, or seek shade under coconut palms and sip a cool drink (provided).

After a laid-back hour on the island, return to Samaná and take transport to your turboprop aircraft. Fly back to Punta Cana and arrive at your hotel in the early evening.