Punta Cana Half-Day Safari Tour: Higüey, Ranch & Macao Beach

Summary

Dominican Safari Experience: Local Markets, Culture & Macao Beach

You’ll get to ride horses through sugarcane fields, explore Higüey’s famous basilica, taste fresh local food by the river, meet artisans in their homes—and finish with a swim at Macao Beach. This tour is for anyone curious about real Dominican life beyond resort walls.

What’s the experience like?

The day kicked off with the sound of roosters and the earthy scent of morning dew as we climbed into the open-air safari truck. Our guide, José, had that easy laugh you hear a lot in the Dominican countryside. First stop: a horse ranch tucked between fields of sugarcane. The horses looked relaxed—one even tried to nibble my shirt while I waited my turn. Riding through the trails, I caught glimpses of bright blue motmots darting between palm trees and could hear distant merengue from a neighbor’s radio.

Next up was the Basilica in Higüey. Even if you’re not religious, it’s hard not to be impressed by its towering arches and the way sunlight filters through stained glass onto cool stone floors. Outside, vendors sold little bags of roasted cashews and fresh coconut water—perfect for a quick snack before heading to the local market. The market was pure energy: piles of avocados, plantains stacked high, and women bargaining over tomatoes. José pointed out a stall where they grind their own coffee beans; the smell alone was worth the stop.

Lunch happened at a ranch by the Ana Mulla river—nothing fancy, just honest Dominican food: rice, beans, chicken with that hint of lime and oregano. We ate under a thatched roof while river breezes kept us cool. Afterward, we visited a typical house where we watched cocoa beans roasting on an old pan and sampled Mama Juana (it’s sweet but packs a punch). A quick look inside a small tobacco workshop followed—one man rolled cigars with hands stained deep brown from years of work—and then we stopped at an art school where kids painted colorful scenes of village life.

Our last stop was Macao Beach. The sand squeaked underfoot and waves crashed hard enough to drown out any other noise. I grabbed one of the cold sodas from our truck’s cooler and just let myself float for a bit—no rush here. By late afternoon, we were sun-warmed and sandy as we headed back to our hotels.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Safari Adventure and Beach Relaxation

• Horse riding at ranch
• Visit Higüey Basilica
• Explore local market
• Lunch by Ana Mulla river
• Visit typical Dominican house
• Tour tobacco factory
• Visit art school
• Swim at Macao Beach

Top questions

Is this safari tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes! Kids can join in—there are prams or strollers allowed on board and infants can sit on an adult’s lap during transfers.

Do I need previous horseback riding experience?

No experience needed—the horses are gentle and guides help everyone get comfortable before setting off.

What should I bring for this Punta Cana safari adventure?

Bring sunscreen, comfy shoes (it can get muddy), swimwear for Macao Beach, and maybe some cash for snacks or souvenirs at local markets.

Are drinks included during the tour?

Yes! Beverages are provided throughout—including soft drinks at Macao Beach and water during stops.

What’s included

Your hotel pickup and drop-off are covered. You’ll visit local markets, see Higüey Basilica up close, enjoy lunch by Ana Mulla river, meet artisans in their homes, go horseback riding (if you want), and relax with drinks at Macao Beach—all with an experienced guide leading the way.