Punta Cana: Sunset Horseback Riding Tour & Macao Beach Swim

Summary

Horseback ride to Macao Beach at sunset with local flavors

You’ll ride through Punta Cana’s countryside with a local guide, cross tropical forest trails to Boca de Maimón where river meets ocean, then reach Macao Beach just as sunset colors hit the waves. Taste Mamajuana at the ranch and end your day feeling both relaxed and oddly connected to this place.

What’s the experience like?

“You sure you’ve ridden before?” our guide, Juan, grinned as he handed me the reins. I just laughed — I hadn’t been on a horse since I was twelve, but somehow it felt right in Punta Cana. The ranch was quieter than I expected, just the soft clink of tack and a couple of roosters somewhere behind the stables. There was this earthy smell — horses, yes, but also coffee beans roasting nearby. It’s weird what you notice when you’re a bit nervous.

We set off just as the sun started to dip, heading out from Rancho Un Regalo De Dios with Juan leading the way and telling stories about his childhood here. He pointed out trees I’d never seen before (I forgot half their names), and every so often we’d pass someone waving from a porch or walking home along the dirt road. The air got cooler as we reached Boca de Maimón, where the river meets the sea — there’s this hush when fresh water hits saltwater that I didn’t expect. Juan let us stop for photos, but honestly I just wanted to stand there and listen for a minute.

The last stretch took us onto Macao Beach itself. The sand felt softer than any beach I’ve walked on — maybe it’s the horses’ hooves mixing things up? Anyway, some people jumped straight into the water (I hesitated; my jeans were not swim-ready), but watching that orange-pink sky over the waves was enough for me. We all tried Mamajuana back at the ranch — sweet and spicy, kind of like cinnamon with a kick. Juan laughed when I coughed (it’s stronger than it looks). On the drive back, everyone was quiet in that good way after something real. I still think about that light on the water sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset horseback riding tour

• Pickup from hotel in Punta Cana
• Travel to Rancho un Regalo de Dios
• Meet guide and get riding equipment
• Ride along beach and countryside
• Pass by Boca de Maimón river mouth
• Stop at Macao beach to enjoy scenery
• Enjoy beautiful sunset views

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Punta Cana horseback riding tour?

Yes, round-trip hotel transfer is included from Punta Cana and Uvero Alto hotels.

Can beginners join this sunset horseback riding tour?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and no prior riding experience is required.

Do we get to swim at Macao Beach during the tour?

You can choose to swim at Macao Beach or simply relax and enjoy the view.

What local products are tasted during this tour?

You’ll have tastings of Dominican coffee, cocoa, and Mamajuana (for guests 18+).

How long does this horseback riding experience last?

The tour lasts about two hours from start to finish.

Are guides provided throughout the horseback ride?

Yes, professional guides accompany you along the route.

What should I wear for horseback riding in Punta Cana?

Comfortable clothes and closed shoes are recommended; bring swimwear if you want to swim at Macao Beach.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes round-trip hotel pickup from Punta Cana or Uvero Alto, bottled water to keep you cool, a friendly professional guide leading your ride through forest trails and along Macao Beach at sunset, plus tastings of Dominican coffee, cocoa, and Mamajuana back at Rancho Un Regalo De Dios before heading home.