Ride through tropical forest to a thunderous waterfall, then cross the bay to a powder-white island for lunch and swimming. This full-day Samaná loop combines horseback trail, river stairs and a beachside meal for a complete Dominican outing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the van where the road narrows and the sound changes — tires on pavement give way to horse hooves and a green hush. A short horseback ride threads through a recovering tropical forest, palms and thorny scrub opening to a high ridge that looks down on the river valley where El Limón runs like a promise. The horses leave you at a trailhead; from there a shady path and a set of wooden stairs dip toward a rock amphitheater where the waterfall arrives with a private kind of ferocity. Water barrels over limestone, carving pools you can swim into; spray cools the air and pushes the heat back toward the coast.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average shape who can manage short horseback rides, wet stairs and 10–30 minute walks on uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
Samaná has long been a crossroads of indigenous Taino history, colonial trade routes and modern fishing communities; Cayo Levantado acquired the nickname 'Bacardí Island' after a rum commercial in the 1980s.
Conservation
Reef health is sensitive to sunscreen and plastic — choose reef-safe products, avoid stepping on coral, and pack out trash to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Full-day El Limon Waterfall and Cayo Levantado Tour with Lunch today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear quick-dry footwear
Bring water shoes or sandals with straps — you’ll ford the river and climb wet steps, and regular sneakers stay soggy.
Bring a dry bag
Store electronics and documents in a small dry bag for the boat ride and splash zone at the falls.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect coral and your skin: choose mineral-based sunscreen and reapply after swimming.
Carry small local cash
Tipping guides, buying snacks or souvenirs is easiest with pesos; some remote stops won’t take cards.
Water shoes
Provide grip on wet rocks and on the boat; protect feet when wading.
Dry bag (small)
Keeps phone, wallet and camera dry during boat transfers and at the falls.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and nearby coral when swimming off the island.
summer
Light quick-dry towel
Dries off after swims and doubles as a ground sheet on the beach.