Full-Day Samaná Adventure: Horseback to Salto El Limón and Bacardi Island
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
Approximately 10 hours (full day)
Fitness Level
Suitable for moderately fit travelers comfortable riding for 30–60 minutes and short hikes over uneven terrain
Overview
Ride through rainforest trails to Salto El Limón, swim beneath a 52-meter waterfall, then unwind on the sandy shores of Bacardi (Cayo Levantado) Island—an active, full-day loop from Punta Cana into Samaná Bay.
Full-Day Samaná Adventure: Horseback to Salto El Limón and Bacardi Island
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You step off the boat onto a rocky jetty and the scent of salt and coconut oil rises off the bay. The day begins in motion—pickup from Punta Cana, a coastal drive, then a short boat run into the wide sweep of Samaná Bay where the peninsula’s green spine leans toward the sea. Guides hand out life jackets and tack; the horses wait with patient flanks and sure-footed hooves. From this vantage, the island’s ribs of limestone and rainforest feel as if they could push you back inland.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Wear closed-toe shoes
Riding and scrambling on wet rocks at the waterfall require stable footwear that can get muddy or wet.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
You’ll be swimming off Bacardi Island and spending hours in sun-reflective water—use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral and skin.
Hydrate and carry a small daypack
Ten hours on the move means water and a few snacks; a compact pack keeps hands free for photos and horse reins.
Prepare for boat motion
If you get seasick, take medication before the boat segments—waves can be choppy depending on weather.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Brown pelicans feeding along the bay
- Herds of local horses and occasional iguanas near rocky outcrops
History
Samaná Bay was a key harbor during colonial and 19th-century maritime trade; nearby towns reflect a mix of Taíno, European, and Afro-Caribbean influences.
Conservation
Cayo Levantado and the bay’s reefs are sensitive—use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid stepping on coral, and follow guides to minimize erosion and litter.
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Adventure Hotspots in Samaná
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe trail shoes or riding boots
Protects feet during the horse ride and on slippery rocks at the waterfall.
Reusable water bottle (1–2 L)
Keeps you hydrated during the long, sunny day—refill options provided by guides.
Reef-safe sunscreen and hat
Protects skin during boat transfers and time on Bacardi Island while minimizing reef impact.
summer specific
Light rain shell or windbreaker
Quick showers can appear in the wet season; a lightweight shell packs small.
spring specific