Rainforest Trek to Natural Pool: Amber Cove waterfall hike

Walk to a waterfall and swim in a forest pool without arranging the route yourself

A rainforest trek from Amber Cove port to a natural waterfall and swimming pool, with air-conditioned van transport, English-speaking guide, safety briefing and equipment provided. The hike crosses streams and a suspension bridge through tropical forest on uneven terrain, taking about 1.5 hours to reach the pool. The full outing runs 4 to 4.5 hours including transport and return to the port. Minimum age is 10. Participants need good balance and physical fitness, and appropriate footwear (water shoes or sneakers that can get wet).

Step-by-step itinerary

Trek to waterfall and natural pool

• Meet guide at Taino Bay Cruise Center
• Board mini-bus for narrated drive
• Receive orientation and safety briefing
• Begin trek through tropical forest
• Cross streams and observe flora and fauna
• Swim at waterfall and natural pool
• Return trek to start-point
• Free time at start-point
• Reboard vehicle for return to port

The experience

You're picked up at the Amber Cove cruise center and driven in an air-conditioned van to the trailhead, where your guide walks you through a safety briefing and hands out the gear you'll need. The trek itself is moderate: about 1.5 hours of walking on uneven surfaces, crossing small streams and a suspension bridge as you move deeper into the Dominican forest. Along the way, your guide points out tropical birds, plants and the medicinal uses of roots, leaves and flowers you pass.

The payoff is the natural pool at the base of a waterfall and cascade. You can swim in the refreshing water or just take in the spot, then make the return hike back to the start-point. There's time to change clothes and use the facilities before you reboard the van for the drive back to port, where complimentary rum punch and merengue music mark the end of the day.

The hike demands good balance and the ability to navigate slippery surfaces and sandy areas. Participants in good physical condition handle it best. Bring water shoes, sneakers that can get wet, or sport sandals with a back strap. If you don't have them, you can rent shoes at the trailhead for $2. Bottled water is provided throughout, and the guide is English-speaking.

What’s included

• Air-conditioned van transport to and from the trailhead.
• port pickup and drop-off at Amber Cove.
• safety briefing and equipment.
• English-speaking guide.
• bottled water.
• complimentary rum punch on the return ride.
• live narrated commentary during transport.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (10 to 89 years) · Under 10: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 16

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 4 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 6 days ago

Good to know

Demanding physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Puerto Plata Adventures

Is this one for you?Your ship's schedule dictates the timing: guides and transport coordinate around your arrival and departure so you can swim in a forest waterfall without logistics headaches.

Traveler reviews

4.55★★★★★★★★★★

56 verified traveler reviews

5 ★47

4 ★2

3 ★2

2 ★1

1 ★4

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

How much walking is involved in this rainforest trek?

The hike to the waterfall pool takes approximately 1.5 hours on uneven surfaces, including stream crossings and a suspension bridge. The full tour, including van transport to and from Amber Cove port, runs 4 to 4.5 hours.

Can I swim in the natural pool at the waterfall?

Yes, you can choose to take a dip in the refreshing water at the natural forest pool and cascade. Bring water shoes or sneakers that can get wet so you're ready to splash through streams on the way there.

What's included in the price?

The tour includes air-conditioned van transport from Amber Cove port, a fully narrated drive to the trailhead, safety briefing and equipment, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, and complimentary rum punch on the return ride. Port pickup and drop-off are included.

Is this hike suitable for someone who isn't very fit?

The hike is moderate and described as "easy," but you'll need good physical fitness, balance and the ability to navigate uneven terrain and slippery surfaces. It's not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart complaints, respiratory issues or other serious medical conditions, or for pregnant women.

What should I wear on this trek?

Wear water shoes, sneakers that can get wet, or sport sandals with a back strap. You'll be crossing streams and walking on uneven, slippery surfaces. If you don't arrive with appropriate footwear, shoes can be rented at the trailhead for $2.

What's the minimum age for this tour?

The minimum age is 10 years old. Children must be in good physical condition and able to handle the moderate hike on uneven terrain.