Punta Cana: Monkeyland & Plantation Tour with Pickup

Summary

Monkeyland squirrel monkeys, cacao tasting and farm life in Punta Cana

You’ll feed friendly squirrel monkeys in their jungle home near Punta Cana, sample fresh cacao and coffee at a working plantation, chat with local farmers about their daily life, and taste tropical fruit right off the tree. Expect laughter, earthy smells and real moments you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed when we pulled up to Monkeyland from Punta Cana was the sound — not just birds, but these high-pitched little monkey chirps that made everyone laugh before we’d even stepped out of the van. Our guide, Rosa, handed out bottled water (it was already sticky-warm) and led us straight into the trees. She knew every monkey by name — or at least she pretended to — and I swear one of them winked at me when she called him “El Jefe.”

I didn’t expect to get so close to the squirrel monkeys. They’re lighter than you think — like holding a bag of flour with tiny hands clinging to your shirt. One tried to steal my sunglasses (Rosa said they love shiny things), and another just sat on my shoulder eating banana like it was totally normal. The air smelled kind of earthy-sweet, with hints of fruit and something almost floral drifting from the botanical garden nearby.

Afterwards, we walked over to the plantation where local farmers were cracking open cacao pods right in front of us. I tried fresh cacao pulp for the first time — weirdly tangy but good — and watched as they roasted beans over a fire. The coffee was strong enough to wake up anyone who’d nodded off in the van earlier. There was a moment when one farmer sliced open a mango for us, juice dripping down his hands, and I realized I hadn’t tasted fruit that fresh since I was a kid. It’s funny how those small things stick with you.

We had some time to wander through the garden before heading back toward Bavaro. Someone in our group asked about farming seasons here, and Rosa explained how everything depends on rain (she glanced up at the sky like she could will it not to pour). The ride back felt quieter — maybe everyone was thinking about monkeys or maybe just sleepy from all that sun. Either way, it’s one of those days you keep replaying in your head for a while.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Monkeyland and Plantation Safari

• Travel from Punta Cana hotel
• Explore Monkeyland natural habitat
• Visit on-site botanical garden
• Tour coffee and cacao plantation
• Chat with local farmers
• Taste fresh tropical fruit
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long does the Monkeyland & Plantation Safari Tour from Punta Cana last?

The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours including transport from Punta Cana or Bavaro.

Is hotel pickup included for this Monkeyland day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in Punta Cana and Bavaro areas.

Can you interact directly with the squirrel monkeys?

Yes, participants can feed and interact closely with squirrel monkeys unless they have cold or flu symptoms.

Is lunch provided during this tour?

No lunch is included but you will taste tropical fruits, coffee, and cacao at the plantation.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap; all fitness levels are suitable except pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What should I bring on this day trip from Punta Cana?

Comfortable shoes, camera, cash for souvenirs are recommended; bottled water is provided.

Is Monkeyland wheelchair accessible?

No, unfortunately Monkeyland is not wheelchair accessible.

Does the tour operate if it rains?

The tour operates rain or shine except during extreme weather events like hurricanes or tropical storms.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Punta Cana or Bavaro, entry to Monkeyland park and plantation areas, guided visits throughout with plenty of chances to chat with locals, plus bottled water along the way before heading back in comfort.