Punta Cana Safari Day Tour: River Lunch, Macao Beach & Culture

Summary

Discover Dominican Life: Safari Adventure & River Lunch

If you want more than just resort life in Punta Cana, this safari tour gets you out into real Dominican towns and countryside—with horseback riding, market visits, a riverside lunch buffet, coffee tasting at a plantation, and time to relax at Macao Beach. It’s one packed day full of stories you’ll remember long after your tan fades.

What’s the experience like?

The day started early—our van rolled up just after 8, and the air was already warm with that sticky Caribbean breeze. We headed out of Punta Cana’s hotel zone, leaving the big resorts behind for a peek at the real Dominican Republic. First stop: Rancho Papito. I’d never been on a horse before, but the guides made it easy—just a quick loop around the ranch, nothing too wild. The smell of fresh tobacco hung in the air near the cigar shop. We watched a guy roll cigars by hand—he moved so fast it almost looked like magic.

Afterwards, we wound through little villages—kids waving from doorways, roosters crowing somewhere close by. We paused outside an elementary school; our guide, Miguel, explained how classes work here and why some kids walk miles to get there. If you’re lucky and school’s not in session, you might get to peek inside.

The sugar cane fields went on forever—green as far as you could see. Miguel handed us a piece to chew on (sticky sweet) while he talked about how sugar shapes life here. Next up was Higuey’s public market. It’s loud and busy—vendors calling out prices, piles of fruit everywhere, and that sharp smell of fresh herbs mixed with fried snacks from a nearby stall. I grabbed some passionfruit for less than a dollar.

We stopped by the Higüey Basilica too—a huge modern church that draws people from all over the country. Even if you’re not religious, it’s hard not to be impressed by those soaring arches and stained glass windows catching the sun just right.

Lunchtime came at El Salto de Anamuya Ranch up in the hills. Buffet style—rice, chicken stew, salad, fruit—and we ate outside under shady trees with the sound of the river nearby. Some folks took a dip; I just kicked off my shoes and let my feet cool off in the water while sipping strong Dominican coffee.

The afternoon brought us to a coffee and cocoa plantation tucked into green hillsides. You’ll learn how they roast beans here (the scent is unreal), and there are plenty of samples to try if you’re curious about local flavors. We also visited a family home—a simple place where everyone seemed happy to chat about daily life and show us their kitchen garden.

Last stop: Macao Beach. The sand’s soft but watch your step—the sun heats it up quick! Vendors wander by selling hats or carved bowls; nobody’s pushy if you say no thanks. There aren’t changing rooms so wear your swimsuit under your clothes if you want to swim (the water’s perfect for cooling off). After about 45 minutes soaking it all in, we piled back into the van—tired but grinning.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Punta Cana Safari and Cultural Tour

• Horseback riding and cigar shop visit at Rancho Papito
• Visit local elementary school and sugar cane plantations
• Explore Higuey market and Higüey Basilica
• Lunch and river relaxation at El Salto de Anamuya Ranch
• Tour coffee and cocoa plantation and Dominican house visit
• Relax and swim at Macao Beach

Top questions

How long is each activity during the Punta Cana safari tour?

The horseback ride lasts about 10–15 minutes; most stops range from 30–60 minutes each depending on group size and timing.

Is lunch included? What kind of food is served?

Yes! Lunch is buffet style at El Salto de Anamuya Ranch with rice, pasta, beef or chicken dishes, salads, fruit and coffee—all typical Dominican fare.

Can I swim at Macao Beach? Are there changing rooms?

You can swim near shore but there aren’t any changing facilities onsite—best to wear your swimsuit under your clothes before arriving at Macao Beach.

Is this tour suitable for kids or people with mobility issues?

The tour involves walking on uneven ground and getting in/out of vehicles; it's best for those with moderate fitness levels—not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pick-up/drop-off in Punta Cana; multi-language guide; horseback riding at Rancho Papito; visits to Higuey Basilica & local market; cocoa/coffee plantation tour; buffet lunch by Anamuya River (with drinks); time at Macao Beach; plus all transport between stops. Just bring comfy shoes, swimsuit under your clothes, sunscreen—and maybe some cash for souvenirs or tips!