Punta Cana: Zipline, Dune Buggy & Horseback with Local Lunch

Summary

Zip through treetops ride muddy trails and meet locals on this full-day

You’ll feel adrenaline on carbon zip lines high above Punta Cana’s forests, splash through muddy trails in a dune buggy with locals waving you on, then slow down for horseback riding past cocoa groves before sharing fresh fruit and lunch together — it’s a day that sticks with you long after you’re back home.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound — that sharp zip as I stepped off the platform, wind slapping my cheeks. Punta Cana looked different from up there, all green folds and flashes of river far below. Our guide, José, grinned at me from the next tower and shouted something I only half caught over the birds. My hands were shaking a little (not sure if it was nerves or excitement), but honestly? The view made me forget everything else for a second.

After we peeled off our helmets, there was this earthy smell in the air — wet leaves and something sweet I couldn’t place. We climbed into these battered dune buggies (mine had a stubborn seatbelt) and tore off down muddy tracks. Mud splattered everywhere; I got some in my mouth by accident and just started laughing. José led us through river crossings where local kids waved at us, their feet dangling in the water. It felt like we were crashing through someone’s backyard — in a good way.

I didn’t expect to enjoy the horseback riding as much as I did. The horses were calm but stubborn; mine kept stopping to sniff at cocoa pods along the trail. We passed a tiny country house tucked under palm trees — an older woman waved from her porch while peeling fruit. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for hooves on soft ground and distant voices from somewhere behind us. I still think about that silence sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zipline, dune buggy, and horseback riding

• Start zip lining tour
• Cross suspension bridge
• Enjoy panoramic mountain views
• Begin off-road dune buggy adventure
• Explore rugged trails and river crossings
• Ride horseback through mountain trails
• Visit cocoa plantation and country home

Top questions

How many zip lines are included in this Punta Cana tour?

The tour features 8 zip lines across 16 towers and platforms.

Is lunch included during the adventure activities?

Yes, lunch is provided as part of your experience.

Are guides present during all parts of the tour?

Yes, local guides lead each activity throughout the day.

What should I wear for the dune buggy ride?

Wear clothes you don’t mind getting muddy or wet; closed shoes are best.

Is hotel pickup available for this Punta Cana adventure?

The tour includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Are infants allowed on this tour?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Is this suitable for travelers with health issues?

This tour isn’t recommended for those with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnancy.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, all necessary equipment and helmets for each activity, guidance from friendly local instructors throughout ziplining, dune buggy driving and horseback riding, plus fresh fruit when you finish and a full lunch before heading back to your hotel.