
moderate
8 hours
Good for travelers who can handle short hikes (20–40 minutes), stairs and brief periods standing on a boat; not technically demanding.
Cover Las Terrenas’ Atlantic viewpoints, hike to the 45-meter El Limón waterfall, and swim at Cayo Levantado (Bacardí Island) on an eight‑hour tour from Boca Chica. Expect ocean vistas, a forested trail to a cold plunge pool, and a relaxed island swim.
You step onto the minibus in Boca Chica before dawn and the air already tastes of salt and citrus — a long ribbon of highway will pull you across the northern shoulder of the Dominican Republic toward Samaná Bay. The first pause, a brief pull-off at the Mirador del Atlántico, lets the ocean stretch out in impossible blue; waves fold over hidden sandbars and the Atlantic seems to dare you to get closer.

Sturdy water shoes make the slippery trail to El Limón and shallow reef snorkeling far more comfortable and safe.
You’ll be spending time on boat decks and sandy shores — use reef‑safe sunscreen to protect coral and comply with local conservation efforts.
Protect phone, camera and extra clothes from spray during the boat ride and waterfall swims.
Small restaurants, local guides and boat crews often prefer peso tips or small USD; bring small bills.
Samaná Bay has long been a crossroads — from indigenous Taíno settlements to 19th‑century strategic importance; Cayo Levantado later earned the ‘Bacardí’ nickname through popular culture and tourism.
Mangroves and coral reefs around Samaná are vulnerable; travelers should use reef‑safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral, and follow guide rules to reduce impact.
Protects feet on rocky trails, river approaches and shallow reef snorkeling.
You’ll swim at El Limón and Cayo Levantado; a quick‑dry towel speeds transition between activities.
Protects skin during long sun exposure and reduces harm to coral ecosystems.
summer specific
Afternoon showers are possible—bring a packable layer for comfort on the boat and transfers.
fall specific