Dominican Countryside & Higuey Tour with Beach and Lunch

Summary

Punta Cana Day Trip: Local Culture, Plantations & Beach Escape

You’ll get to see real Dominican life—from bustling markets to peaceful countryside—and visit landmarks like Altagracia Basilica. There’s time for tasting local treats and relaxing by the sea too. If you want more than just resort beaches, this day trip shows you what’s beyond Punta Cana.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed as we rolled out of Punta Cana was the warm air—sticky but not uncomfortable—and the way it carried the scent of sugarcane. Our guide, Luis, kept us laughing with stories about growing up nearby. He pointed out the rice paddies and grazing cattle as we passed; you could see kids waving from a small schoolyard, their uniforms bright against the green fields. We stopped at a roadside stand for fresh coconut water—honestly, nothing tastes quite like it when you’re sweating a bit in the late morning sun.

Higuey’s market was next. It’s loud, colorful, and full of life—vendors calling out prices for avocados and plantains, someone frying empanadas just around the corner. The Altagracia Basilica is impossible to miss; its arches rise above everything else. Inside felt cool and quiet compared to the street outside. Luis explained why locals come here on pilgrimage days—he even showed us a small photo he keeps in his wallet for luck.

Later on, we toured a cigar workshop where you can actually smell the tobacco leaves before they’re rolled—earthy and sweet at once. Out in the sugarcane fields, I tried chewing a piece straight from the stalk (sticky fingers guaranteed). By early afternoon we were hungry enough to eat anything, so lunch at a family-run spot near Macao Beach hit just right: grilled fish, rice and beans, plus a cold Presidente beer. The waves were gentle that day; some folks napped under palm trees while others waded in for a swim before heading back.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dominican Republic Countryside Tour

• Visit Altagracia Basilica and market in Higuey
• Tour cigar factory and sugarcane fields
• Enjoy long lunch at local restaurant

Top questions

Is lunch included in this tour?

Yes, lunch and local drinks are included at a beachside restaurant.

Do I need to bring anything special?

We recommend bringing swimwear, sunblock, a hat, insect repellent (biodegradable), and comfy shoes.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?

This experience isn’t ideal for guests with reduced mobility or certain health conditions due to uneven terrain and walking involved.

Are transfers from Cap Cana or Bayahibe included?

Transfers are available but there’s an extra $15 supplement from Cap Cana or Bayahibe hotels.

What languages does the guide speak?

The guides usually speak English and Spanish fluently.

What’s included

Your roundtrip transport from Punta Cana hotels is covered. You’ll get guided visits through Higuey’s market and basilica, plantation stops (coffee, cocoa, sugarcane), entry fees paid up front, plus lunch with local drinks at a beachside spot. There’s also welcome drinks and tastings of regional specialties along the way.