Amber Cove & Taino Bay: Super Buggy Tour, Villages & Beach Swim

Summary

Puerto Plata buggy ride with village stops, cigar tasting and beach swim

You’ll race buggies through Puerto Plata’s muddy trails with a local guide, wave at village kids along the way, stop for mamajuana shots and fresh coffee at a cigar factory, then cool off in Teco’s turquoise waters before heading back to Amber Cove or Taino Bay—muddy, happy, and probably craving more plantains.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the sound—buggies revving, somewhere between a growl and a laugh, echoing off the hills around Amber Cove. We squeezed into our helmets (mine was a bit crooked) and our guide, Luis, grinned like he knew what was coming. The air smelled thick with earth after last night’s rain, and I could already see mud splattered on everyone’s shoes. I didn’t expect to care about that so soon.

We tore off down narrow tracks past Puerto Plata countryside—kids waved from porches, roosters darted out of the way (barely), and every turn felt like we might tip but somehow never did. Luis pointed out a tiny shop selling fried plantains; we didn’t stop but I caught the scent for half a second. When we pulled up at the cigar place, my hands were shaking from the ride or maybe just excitement. Inside was all wood smoke and laughter. They poured us tiny shots of mamajuana—sweet, herbal, strong enough to make me cough—and then coffee so fresh it almost tasted green.

I lost track of time after that. The buggy ride kept getting wilder—streams splashing right up over our knees, mud in my teeth (don’t laugh), but honestly it felt good to just let go for once. At Teco’s Beach, everything slowed down. The water really is that blue; not sure how else to say it. We jumped in fully clothed because why not? Someone’s bandana floated away but nobody seemed bothered.

On the drive back toward Taino Bay cruise port I realized I’d stopped worrying about my phone or my shoes or anything else. Sometimes you need mud under your nails to remember where you are—or who you’re with.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Dominican villages and Teco's Beach

• Visit Dominican villages in countryside
• Drive through streams and muddy puddles
• Stop at cigar factory for tasting
• Continue buggy ride around Teco's Beach
• Take photos and swim in turquoise water

Top questions

Is pickup included from Amber Cove or Taino Bay cruise ports?

Yes, round-trip transportation is included from both Amber Cove and Taino Bay cruise ship ports.

What is the minimum age for the Super Buggy Tour?

The minimum age to participate is 5 years old.

Are drinks or snacks provided during the tour?

You’ll get mamajuana shots plus tastings of fresh coffee or hot chocolate at the cigar factory. Soft drinks are also provided during pickup.

Is swimming at Teco's Beach part of the tour?

Yes, there’s time for swimming and taking photos at Teco's Beach during your buggy tour.

Are helmets and safety gear included?

Helmets and goggles are provided for all participants free of charge.

Do I need to bring a waterproof case for my phone?

No need—a waterproof phone case is included per buggy as part of your tour package.

Can infants or seniors join this buggy tour?

Infants can wait comfortably in a bar-waiting room area; seniors can also use this space if they prefer not to ride.

Is this tour suitable for people with health concerns?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues; moderate fitness is needed due to bumpy terrain.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation from Amber Cove or Taino Bay cruise ports in an air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking local guide throughout, helmets and goggles for safety, one waterproof phone case per buggy plus a Dominican flag bandana for each person. You’ll enjoy mamajuana shots along with hot chocolate or coffee tasting at a local cigar factory before heading out for a swim at Teco's Beach—all entry fees covered before returning comfortably to port.