Punta Cana: ATV, Cave Swim & Macao Beach with Tasting

Summary

ATV rides through forest trails to cave swims and Macao Beach

You’ll ride an ATV through Punta Cana’s wild trails, taste fresh coffee and chocolate at a local farm, swim in a deep natural cave, then unwind on Macao Beach’s soft sand before heading back. Expect laughter, muddy shoes, and little moments you’ll remember long after you’ve rinsed off.

What’s the experience like?

We kicked up red dust as soon as we left the ATV ranch outside Punta Cana — I could smell the earth and something sweet in the air, maybe sugarcane. Our guide, Juan, grinned back at us from his own quad, shouting reminders about brakes and “no racing!” (which made everyone laugh because someone always tries). The trail was rough but honestly that’s half the fun — palms whipping past, sun on your arms, everything just loud and bright. I didn’t expect to get splattered so fast, but that’s what old sneakers are for.

Somewhere between two muddy puddles we stopped at this family-run farm. They handed us tiny cups of Dominican coffee (strong enough to wake the dead) and broke off pieces of chocolate that tasted almost fruity. Juan explained how they make mamajuana — he tried teaching me the word but Li laughed when I butchered it in Spanish. The smell of roasting beans mixed with damp leaves stuck to my shirt for hours after. Not complaining.

The cave was next — cool air rushing out even before we parked our ATVs. I hesitated at the edge (it’s deeper than it looks), but ended up jumping in anyway. Water cold enough to sting your skin awake. Some folks just floated quietly under the rocks while others shouted echoes into the dark. It felt weirdly peaceful down there, like time slowed up for a minute.

Last stop was Macao Beach — white sand with cliffs at both ends and kids playing soccer near the waterline. We rinsed off most of the mud in the sea and just sat there watching waves crash over each other. Juan pointed out where local fishermen come in at dawn; he said if you’re lucky you’ll see them pulling nets right up on shore. We didn’t want to leave yet but eventually had to head back — sand still between my toes all through the ride home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 4x4 ATV tour with cave and beach

• Pickup and transport to ATV ranch
• Health and safety briefing
• ATV ride through forest and gardens
• Stop at organic farm for tasting
• Continue ATV ride to water cave
• Swim and explore water cave
• ATV ride to Macao Beach
• Relax and swim at Macao Beach
• Return to ATV ranch and transport back

Top questions

How long is the Punta Cana ATV tour?

The tour lasts about half a day including pickup and drop-off.

Is hotel pickup included for this ATV tour?

Yes, round-trip transportation from your pickup location is included.

Can kids join the ATV & cave tour?

The minimum age is 8 years old; infants are not permitted due to safety regulations.

Do you need previous ATV experience?

No previous experience needed; guides provide safety instructions before starting.

What should I bring for swimming in the cave?

Bring swimwear and a towel; changing facilities may be basic.

Are food or drinks provided on this tour?

You’ll get tastings of Dominican coffee, chocolate, mamajuana and cigars at the organic farm stop.

Is Macao Beach crowded during this tour?

Macao Beach can have visitors but there’s usually plenty of space to relax or swim.

Are there health restrictions for this activity?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation from Punta Cana hotels or nearby spots, an ATV ride led by a local guide through forest trails, tastings of Dominican coffee and chocolate at an organic farm, entry to a natural water cave for swimming, plus free time to enjoy Macao Beach before heading back home muddy and happy.