Puerto Plata: Damajagua Waterfalls Private Tour & Cruise Pickup

Summary

Private taxi to Damajagua Falls with cruise pickup and local guide

You’ll get picked up right at your cruise terminal in Puerto Plata by a local driver who knows every shortcut in town. Climb and slide down Damajagua Waterfalls with all safety gear provided, guided by someone who actually grew up nearby. Cold drinks, laughs with locals, and round-trip comfort mean you can focus on that rush of cool water — and maybe even surprise yourself.

What’s the experience like?

We were already laughing by the time Hugo pulled up outside the cruise terminal in Puerto Plata — he’d texted us a photo of his car so we’d know exactly where to find him. The air was sticky but not too hot, and I remember the smell of salt clinging to my shirt from the port. Hugo greeted us like old friends, which helped because I was a bit nervous about this whole 27 Waterfalls thing. He handed us cold bottled water (felt amazing on my hands), cranked up the AC, and off we went through these winding roads that looked almost painted green after last night’s rain.

The drive wasn’t long — maybe 40 minutes? — but Hugo kept pointing out things I would’ve missed: a woman balancing plantains on her head, kids playing baseball with a stick. My Spanish is terrible, but he switched between English and Spanish so easily it felt like he was translating the island for us. When we got to Damajagua Falls, helmets and life jackets were waiting. Our guide there (I think his name was Luis) gave us this quick rundown in both languages about what to expect. I tried not to look down when we started climbing — it’s steeper than it looks in photos — but Luis kept cracking jokes about how “the rocks are friendlier when they’re wet.”

I’ll be honest: sliding down that first waterfall made my heart jump into my throat. You hear nothing but rushing water for a second, then you’re underwater, eyes stinging from the minerals (or maybe just surprise). There’s this earthy smell everywhere — mossy and fresh, not like chlorine pools back home. At one point I caught Hugo watching from above with this proud grin; he said later he always loves seeing people’s faces after that first drop. We stopped halfway for soda under some trees while trying to wring out our shirts — I still think about how sweet that tasted after all the splashing around.

The way back felt quieter somehow. Maybe it was just tiredness or maybe everyone was replaying their favorite jump in their heads. Hugo had towels ready in the van and asked if we wanted music or just silence (we picked silence). He got us back right on time for boarding, no stress at all. Honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so connected to a place just from a day trip out of Puerto Plata — but something about those waterfalls sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private taxi service in Puerto Plata

• Meet professional driver
• Enjoy comfortable vehicle
• Travel safely and punctually
• Explore Puerto Plata destinations
• Receive personalized transportation

Top questions

How long does the drive from Puerto Plata to Damajagua Falls take?

It usually takes about 40 minutes each way by private taxi.

Is pickup included from the cruise terminal?

Yes, round-trip transportation from your cruise terminal in Puerto Plata is included.

Do they provide safety equipment for the waterfalls?

Yes, helmets and life jackets are provided for all participants.

Is there a local guide during the waterfall climb?

Yes, you'll have a local guide leading you through Damajagua Falls.

Are drinks included during the tour?

Bottled water and soda are included during your day trip.

Is this tour suitable for people with health issues?

No, it's not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnancy, or poor cardiovascular health.

What should I bring or wear for Damajagua Falls?

You should wear comfortable clothes you don't mind getting wet; safety gear is provided.

What’s included

Your day includes private round-trip transportation from your cruise terminal in Puerto Plata with an air-conditioned vehicle and friendly local driver; all safety equipment like helmet and life jacket; guided climb up Damajagua Waterfalls; plus bottled water and soda along the way before returning comfortably back to port.