Adventure between Caribbean coast and wild North
Yaque, Lagoons & Mangroves 8 days Charm & Character

Adventure between Caribbean coast and wild North

From the turquoise waters of Saona to the mysterious mangroves of the Haitises, an authentic República Dominicana.

From€1,650per person
16 years of local expertise5/5 (49 reviews including 49 Google)

Duration

8 days

From

€1,650/pers.

Ideal seasons

Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Nov, Dec

Style

Guided tour

Comfort

Charm & Character

Travelers

Couple, Solo, With friends

The spirit of travel

Discover the east of République Dominicaine with attentive English-speaking guidance and stops designed for your comfort. Between relaxation in Bayahibe/Dominicus, a catamaran outing to Saona Island in a small group, encounters in the countryside (sugar cane fields, Higüey market, cigar workshop) and an urban break in Saint-Domingue(Cueva de los Tres Ojos, colonial zone, cable car view), you alternate between peaceful moments and cultural discoveries. The end of your journey in Caño Hondo, in the heart of Los Haitises National Park, opens onto a morning exploration of mangroves and Taíno caves, with a stop on an isolated beach. Private transfers, meals organized at the right stages and on-the-ground advice ensure a smooth experience, respectful of places and encounters.

The stages of your journey

D1–5
Bayahíbeappartement de standing
D6
Los Haitisesappartement de standing
D7
Los Haitises Éco-lodge
D8
Départ

Highlights

Small group outings: catamaran to Saona, private boat to Los Haitises
Meetings and expertise: village of cutters, Higüey market, artisanal cigars
Capital in private: Cueva de los Tres Ojos, colonial zone, cable car
Eco-lodge at Caño Hondo: natural waterfalls and direct access to the park

Day-by-day itinerary

Jour 1
D1

Arrival in Punta Cana and private transfer to Bayahibe / Dominicus

You land at Punta Cana international airport, the main gateway to eastern République Dominicaine.

Upon exit, our driver welcomes you and takes you in a private transfer to your residence in Bayahibe / Dominicus, a charming coastal town appreciated for its calm waters and proximity to the East National Park.

Check-in to your one-bedroom apartment, fully equipped, with access to a residential pool perfect for relaxing after your flight.

Upon arrival, Joy, your English-speaking representative, welcomes you, shows you around the accommodation and remains available to answer your questions, share practical advice and ensure your comfort - a local presence at your service from day one.

In the evening, we have reserved dinner at one of our partner restaurants. You will discover a first selection of local flavors, in a friendly setting, to begin your stay smoothly and with confidence.

appartement de standingDinner
Jour 2
D2

Free day in Bayahibe

Today, it's time to unwind. You have a free day to relax at your own pace in your residence in Bayahibe / Dominicus: relax by the pool or take a stroll to the beach, located about 5 minutes on foot.

In the morning, breakfast is offered to you in one of our partner restaurants, near your accommodation, to start your day off right.

Lunch is free according to your preferences.

In the evening, our private taxi picks you up and takes you to Bayahibe, where a table awaits you in a typical restaurant loved by locals. On the menu: seafood, an authentic setting and a warm atmosphere, for a gentle immersion in local life.

appartement de standingBreakfastDinner
Jour 3
D3

Saona Island by catamaran from Bayahibe

BayahíbeSaona Island

1h4525 km

After breakfast at one of our partner restaurants, located just steps away from your residence, our driver will pick you up around 8:15 a.m. for a short transfer to the port of Bayahibe.

You will board a catamaran designed for comfort and intimacy. No crowds or loud music: we prioritize a relaxed atmosphere, in small groups, to discover Saona while respecting the location and your pace.

The program, in this order:

  • Guided snorkeling with your English-speaking guide to observe tropical wildlife in clear waters.

  • Relaxation break on a private beach, away from tourist areas.

  • Lunch aboard the catamaran, prepared with fresh local produce, served during navigation.

  • Stop at the Palmillas natural pool, a sandbank in the open sea, to admire starfish in a preserved space, far from other boats.

Saona IslandBayahíbe

1h4525 km

Return to your residence in the late afternoon.

Dinner is free in the evening, so you can explore at your own pace the local flavors of Bayahibe.

appartement de standingBreakfastLunch
Jour 4
D4

Cultural Safari in Dominican Republic

This day immerses you in the heart of Dominican local life, in a small group and alongside your English-speaking guide. We prioritize respectful encounters and exchange, in keeping with the human and professional support of our local agency.

You first set off to discover the vast sugarcane fields and the village of cutters. You meet the families and children who live there: a simple moment, conducive to dialogue. If you wish, you can bring some candies or school supplies, always received with a smile.

The morning continues in a artisanal cigar factory, where master rollers present you with the manufacturing stages. Then heading to Higüey, the provincial capital, to stroll through its lively and colorful local market.

The morning ends with a visit to a local resident in the Dominican countryside. You discover tropical fruit trees, cacao, coffee and spices, before sharing a typical lunch, prepared on site over a wood fire, in a convivial atmosphere.

A change of scenery: you board a river barge for a cruise on the Chavón river. Between appetizers, music, dancing and swimming, you enjoy a time of relaxation amid jungle scenery and green hills.

End of day

Return to your accommodation around 5:00 PM.

Free dinner to continue exploring local restaurants according to your preferences.

appartement de standingBreakfastLunch
Jour 5
D5

Private Visit of Santo Domingo

Start your day with breakfast included at a restaurant near your accommodation. Your guide will pick you up around 8:00 AM for a personalized discovery of the capital.

First stop: the open-air cave of Cueva de los Tres Ojos. You will observe three freshwater lagoons with contrasting hues, surrounded by rock formations and dense vegetation, a perfect setting for a peaceful introduction to your day.

Next, head to the colonial zone to explore its iconic monuments, including the cathedral and the National Pantheon, as well as other significant sites retracing important pages of Dominican history. Your guide will adjust the pace and share cultural insights to encourage a mindful and respectful visit.

After a typical lunch, you take the cable car of Saint-Domingue for an overview of the city, an opportunity to appreciate its neighborhoods and contrasts from above.

The late afternoon is dedicated to free time on the shopping street of the colonial zone: strolling, shopping and taking breaks as you wish.

Return to your accommodation at the end of the day (around 5:00 PM). Dinner is on your own to choose the restaurant that suits you.

Throughout the day, we remain attentive to your comfort: careful organization, simple and warm exchanges, and close support from our local team.

appartement de standingBreakfastLunch
Jour 6
D6

Transfer to Caño Hondo: eco-lodge in the heart of Los Haitises National Park

BayahíbeLos Haitises

3h140 km

After a final breakfast in the Bayahibe / Dominicus area, you will check out around noon. Your private driver will take you for the next leg of your journey.

Head to Sabana de la Mar (approximately 2.5 hours drive), the gateway to Los Haitises National Park. Your new accommodation, in Caño Hondo, is an eco-lodge integrated into a pristine natural environment. You will find a simple yet warm atmosphere, surrounded by tropical forests, waterfalls and remarkable biodiversity.

This stage emphasizes simple comfort, proximity to nature and the continuity of our local support — availability, practical advice and attention to your pace.

Meals: we have arranged for you a full meal plan (breakfast / lunch / dinner) on site, to facilitate your settling in and to fully enjoy the setting.

appartement de standingBreakfastLunchDinner
Jour 7
D7

Los Haitises by Private Boat

Early departure (07h45–08h00).

Your breakfast is prepared to take away so you can enjoy it during the excursion. You then board a typical speedboat for a private day discovering the Parc national Los Haitises

You begin with navigation through the mangroves, then explore several caves, including Cueva Arena, decorated with Taïno drawings bearing witness to pre-Columbian culture, as well as a more wild cave where you also observe the richness of the local vegetation.

To finish, a stop is planned on a deserted beach to enjoy the setting in complete peace. The early departure allows you to experience the site before other visitors arrive and generally calm sea conditions.

Return to the hotel expected around noon/1:00 PM, with lunch organized by the establishment.

The afternoon is free for you to relax and enjoy the waterfalls of your eco-lodge. Dinner in the evening is also organized with the establishment. Our local team remains available throughout the day for discreet, attentive and professional support.

Éco-lodgeBreakfastLunchDinner
Jour 8
D8

Private departure and transfer to Punta Cana airport

Last breakfast at your establishment before departure.

You check out at 1:00 PM, then enjoy one last meal on site. Depending on your flight schedule, you can still access the hotel facilities and relax by the waterfalls to end your stay gently.

We coordinate your private transfer to Punta Cana International Airport with your driver. Our team remains available to adjust schedules, facilitate formalities and ensure that your departure goes smoothly and peacefully.

BreakfastLunch

Price per person

2 pers.€1,650/pers.

Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.

This trip can be tailored to your preferences

This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.

Not included

  • International Flights
  • Insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips

Included

  • Airport transfers from Punta Cana round trip in private vehicle
  • 5 nights in a 1-bedroom upscale apartment in Bayahibe / Dominicus
  • 2 nights in eco-lodge, Suite-type room with a view of Samaná Bay, all-inclusive
  • Half-board++ package: all meals included except 3 dinners and 1 lunch free
  • 4 private or small group activities
  • 7/7 assistance by our English-speaking local team
  • Detailed Travel Journal

Practical Information

Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.

The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.

See our specific terms of sale for full details.

In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:

  • Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
  • Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
  • Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total

We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.

The information below applies to travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to the Dominican Republic for tourism purposes. Entry requirements may change, so we recommend verifying information with official authorities before departure.

Passport

To enter the Dominican Republic, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay and must have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages). However, it is recommended that your passport remain valid for at least six months after your entry date into the country.

Tourist stay without visa

Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada benefit from visa exemption for tourist stays in the Dominican Republic.

This exemption allows a stay of up to 30 days upon entry into the territory. An extension can be requested on site from the Dominican General Directorate of Migration, for a period of up to 60 additional days.

Authorities may also request:

  • an exit ticket from the territory (return or connecting flight),

  • proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,

  • an accommodation address in the country.

Tourist Card (E-Ticket)

Before your arrival, you must complete the online form E-Ticket República Dominicana, established by Dominican authorities. This digital document combines both immigration and customs procedures.

The form must be completed before departure and allows you to provide immigration services with the following information:

  • passport information

  • flight details

  • address of your first accommodation in the Dominican Republic

  • customs declaration

A QR code is generated upon completion and must be presented, in digital or printed format, when passing through immigration upon arrival and departure.

Health

No vaccines are mandatory to enter the Dominican Republic. However, certain vaccinations are recommended depending on the areas visited and the traveler's profile:

  • vaccination against typhoid fever and hepatitis A is commonly advised,

  • an antimalarial treatment may be recommended for stays in rural or isolated areas.

It is advised to consult a doctor or international vaccination center before departure.

Traveling with children

Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.

When a minor travels without one or both parents, a parental authorization for exit from the territory, accompanied by a copy of the absent parent(s)' passport, may be required by Dominican authorities.

In certain European countries, an exit authorization may also be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.

Other nationalities

Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Concerned travelers should inquire with the embassy or consulate of the Dominican Republic in their country of residence.

To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation and repatriation assistance insurance and foreign medical expense coverage.

Your local agency encourages you to familiarize yourself with the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.

CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!

Choose the plan that best suits your needs:

  • Explorer'Multirisque

  • Explorer'Annulation

  • Explorer'Assistance

  • Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire

Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and the procedures for filing a claim are available on the insurer's website.

Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the procedures for reporting any claim. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.

Chapka — Cap Explorer

Our insurance partner

Travel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.

Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insurance

Frequently asked questions

To stay in the Dominican Republic, you must have a valid passport. A tourist card is now often included in your airline ticket; if not, it can be obtained upon arrival for approximately USD 10. Before booking your trip, check the entry requirements applicable to your nationality with the consular authorities of the Dominican Republic.

Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.

You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.

For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 170 and 290 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (600-1000 euros round-trip) are additional. The country offers a wide range, from boutique hotels to all-inclusive resorts.

Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.

Absolutely. We tailor each itinerary to match travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, educational and fun activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.

It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your entire trip.

In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.

Payment is generally made in two installments.

Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.

Joy, Dominican escape creator
16years of expertise

Let's talk about your adventure — Punta Cana East Coast

Dominican escape creator, based in Bayahibe

I discovered the Dominican Republic from the sea, then fell in love with it through its lands, villages and people. It's this complete island that I love to share with others.

Joy

APST Guarantee Secure Payment 24/7 Assistance5/5