Los Haitises & Bacardí Island Day Trip from Santo Domingo

Boat Tour: Los Haitises National Park & Cayo Levantado Experience

You’ll get up close with ancient Taíno art in hidden caves, swim in clear waters off Bacardí Island, and enjoy a local lunch—all in one easy day trip from Santo Domingo.

Step-by-step itinerary

Boat Trip and Island Relaxation

• Boat trip to Los Haitises, explore Taíno art and natural pool
• Buffet lunch and swim at Cayo Levantado (Bacardí Island)

The Experience

Salt in the air, a little breeze on my face—our boat left Samaná’s dock just after breakfast. The water looked like it couldn’t decide what color to be; I counted at least five shades between turquoise and deep blue. Our guide, José, pointed out the mangroves as we skimmed past them—he said they’re home to tiny crabs you’ll only spot if you look close. We slowed down near a limestone cave where the walls are covered with old Taíno symbols. The smell inside was damp and earthy, almost like wet clay. José explained how these drawings have survived hurricanes for centuries.

After exploring the caves, we headed toward Cayo Levantado—locals call it Bacardí Island because of that famous ad filmed here ages ago. Lunch was ready when we arrived: grilled fish, rice with coconut, and fresh pineapple juice that tasted way better than anything back home. I found a quiet patch of sand under a palm tree and just listened to the waves for a while. Some folks went swimming right away; others wandered off taking photos of the pelicans perched on fishing boats nearby. There’s plenty of time to swim or just do nothing at all before heading back.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip boat transport from Samaná, a buffet lunch with drinks on Cayo Levantado, life vests for safety, plus guidance from friendly locals who know every corner of these islands.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for back problems

Operated by Sunset Caribbean

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Top questions

How long does the whole tour take?

The experience usually lasts about 3-4 hours once you leave Samaná by boat, not counting travel time from Santo Domingo.

Is lunch included?

Yes! A buffet lunch with drinks is part of your package on Cayo Levantado.

Can I swim during the tour?

Absolutely—you’ll have free time to swim both at Los Haitises’ natural pool and on Bacardí Island’s beaches.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?

The trip isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries. You should be moderately fit since there’s some walking and getting in/out of boats.