Punta Cana Buggy & Horseback Tour: Macao Beach, Cenote, Local Flavors

Summary

Off-Road Adventure & Local Tastings in Punta Cana

You’ll drive buggies through Punta Cana’s countryside, swim at Macao Beach, taste real Dominican chocolate and coffee at a local house, cool off in a blue cenote, then finish with a relaxed horseback ride—all with friendly guides who know every shortcut and story along the way.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed stepping off the shuttle at the ranch was the smell—earthy and sweet, a mix of wet soil and roasting coffee beans from somewhere nearby. Our guide, José, handed out helmets with a grin and ran through the basics. The buggies looked rugged but comfy enough; I swapped my sneakers for old sandals (trust me, your shoes will get muddy). Ten minutes later, we were bouncing down a red dirt trail lined with palm trees and the occasional rooster darting across our path.

The ride to Macao Beach was pure fun—wind whipping past, a little grit in my teeth from laughing too hard. When we rolled up to the shore, it was busy but not crowded. Vendors called out selling fresh coconut water; I grabbed one just to cool off. The sand here is soft and pale, almost powdery. Some folks waded right in while others just sat on driftwood watching local kids play soccer by the surf.

Next stop: a small farmhouse painted bright blue where we tried thick hot chocolate (even though it was warm out), sipped strong Dominican coffee, and watched a guy hand-roll cigars at an old wooden table. The smell of vanilla hung in the air—someone had just split open a pod for us to sniff. It felt like visiting someone’s home more than a tourist stop.

The cenote was cooler than I expected—literally. The water’s shockingly clear and cold after all that sun. You can jump right in or just dip your feet if you’re not feeling brave. There were tiny fish darting around my toes; one of the guides said locals believe these springs have healing powers.

Back at the ranch, we switched gears for horseback riding through shady trails behind the property. My horse was mellow but stubborn—kept stopping to munch on grass until José clicked his tongue. By then I was covered in dust but didn’t care; it felt good to slow down after all that adrenaline.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Punta Cana Buggy & Horseback Tour

• Pickup and safety briefing at ranch
• Cowboy buggy tour to Macao Beach
• Stop and relax at Macao Beach
• Tasting of coffee, chocolate, vanilla, cigars
• Swim at blue cenote
• Return to ranch and hotel drop-off

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or families?

This tour is best for adults or older teens due to bumpy rides and physical activity. Kids over 12 usually enjoy it if they’re comfortable outdoors.

What should I wear or bring?

Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty (mud happens!), closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps, sunscreen, swimsuit under your clothes, towel, cash for snacks or souvenirs.

Are there vegetarian food options?

The main tastings are coffee, chocolate, vanilla and cigars—no full meal included—but you’ll find snacks like fruit or coconut water at Macao Beach vendors.

How long does the whole experience last?

The tour takes about half a day including pick-up and drop-off—plan on 4-5 hours total depending on traffic and group size.

What’s included

You’ll get hotel pick-up and drop-off in Punta Cana area; guided buggy ride through tropical trails (single or double); time at Macao Beach; tastings of cocoa, chocolate, coffee and cigars at a local house; swimming stop at a cenote; plus horseback riding back at the ranch—all led by friendly local guides who make sure everyone feels welcome.