Glide through mangrove cathedrals and light-dappled caves, then cool off in the natural pools of Caño Hondo—this private, guided day tour pairs slow boat exploration of Los Haitises with a local shore lunch and swim at Sabana de la Mar.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The motor hums low as the boat slips out of Sabana de la Mar harbor, the town’s clapboard roofs shrinking behind you and a green wall of mangrove branches reaching for the sky. Inside Los Haitises, the water narrows into channels that force you to lean forward—roots and trunks press close enough to see barnacles and fiddler crabs at eye level, and light slices through like a spotlight on the limestone ribs of distant islands. Your guide, a local trained alongside biologists, points to a dark lip where a cave mouth yawns and says, simply, “There are pictographs here.”
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with average mobility; involves short boat transfers and easy, occasionally slippery shore landings.
Wildlife
History
The park contains Taino petroglyphs and archaeological sites; its sheltered bays once offered refuge to indigenous communities and later colonial-era sailors.
Conservation
Los Haitises is a protected area—stay in designated channels, avoid touching cave art, and use reef-safe products to limit impact on mangroves and marine habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Private Los Haitises National Park and Caño Hondo Guided Tour with Lunch today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring water-friendly shoes
Landings and stepping stones at Caño Hondo are slippery; closed-toe water shoes protect feet and improve traction.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Mangrove and marine ecosystems are fragile—choose biodegradable sunscreen to protect coral and sea life.
Pack a dry bag for valuables
Phones and wallets can get wet during transfers and shoreings; a small dry bag keeps them safe.
Tip locally in cash
Lunch is included, but the guide and boat crew appreciate modest cash tips for exemplary service.
Closed‑toe water shoes
Protect your feet on wet rocks and during boat/shore transitions.
Dry bag (small)
Keep electronics and documents dry during boat travel and in caves.
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects skin while minimizing harm to marine life.
summer
Light rain shell
Sudden tropical showers are common—pack something lightweight to stay comfortable.
fall