Puerto Plata City & Damajagua Falls Tour Experience

Summary

Guided City Sights & Waterfall Adventure in Puerto Plata

You’ll jump and slide down waterfalls, stroll colorful city streets, roll your own cigar, and catch ocean views from a centuries-old fort—all in one day. If you want adventure mixed with real Dominican culture, this tour’s got it.

What’s the experience like?

The day kicked off with a bumpy ride out to Damajagua Falls—locals call it “27 Charcos.” The air felt thick and warm, with the scent of wet earth everywhere. Our guide, José, handed out helmets and life vests, joking about who’d chicken out first. The walk up took about 35 minutes through tangled trees and over a couple of wobbly wooden bridges. You hear the water before you see it—kind of a low roar mixed with birdsong. At the top, José showed us how to slide down the first waterfall. The water’s colder than you’d expect, but after the first jump, you just want to keep going. We did seven falls—some jumps, some slides—laughing the whole way down.

Back in the city, we wandered down Umbrella Street. It’s not just for photos—though everyone stops for one. There’s this tiny ice cream shop on the corner (can’t remember the name, but the coconut flavor’s worth it), and the shade from the umbrellas is a relief after the sun at the falls. Next up was the pink street—Paseo de Doña Blanca. Locals were chatting outside their doors, and you could smell coffee drifting from a nearby café. The colors are unreal; you’ll want to take a bunch of pictures.

We stopped by a cigar factory—never thought I’d roll my own cigar, but the staff showed us how. The tobacco smell fills the place, and you can buy brands you won’t find back home. There’s also a shop with larimar and amber jewelry—Dominican stones, blue and honey-colored, each with its own story. The guide explained how larimar comes from Barahona and amber from the hills around Puerto Plata.

The last stop was Fort San Felipe. It’s right on the water, built back in the 1500s to keep pirates away. You can still see the old cannons pointing out to sea. Inside, it’s cool and echoey—lots of stone walls and hidden corners. Locals hang out at La Puntilla park nearby, especially around sunset. We sat on the grass for a bit, watching the sky turn orange over the Atlantic.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Waterfalls and City Highlights

• Damajagua Falls walk and descent
• Visit Umbrella Street
• Explore Paseo de Doña Blanca
• Tour cigar factory and roll cigar
• See larimar and amber gems
• Visit San Felipe Fortress

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids?

Kids can join, but they should be comfortable with water and some hiking. Infants can ride in a stroller for the city part.

Do I need to bring special gear for the waterfalls?

No need—helmets and life vests are provided. Just wear water shoes or sneakers you don’t mind getting wet.

How much walking is involved?

The hike to the waterfalls takes about 35 minutes. In the city, it’s mostly flat with short walks between stops.

Can I buy souvenirs on this tour?

Yes, there are shops for cigars, larimar, amber, and other local crafts during the city portion.

Is lunch included?

No lunch included, but you’ll find cafés and snack spots along the way—especially on Umbrella Street.

What’s included

Your ride’s private and comfy, with WiFi onboard if you want to share pics right away. Bottled water and sodas are included to keep you cool between stops.