Spend a full day moving from ranchland and river walks to Higüey’s basilica and the surf of Macao Beach. This guided safari blends light outdoor activity with market visits, local food and cultural demonstrations.
Spend a full day moving from ranchland and river walks to Higüey’s basilica and the surf of Macao Beach. This guided safari blends light outdoor activity with market visits, local food and cultural demonstrations.
You climb into a safari truck as the sun leans over sugarcane fields, dust rising in thin ribbons while the driver navigates toward low green hills and a rocky riverbed. The soundscape shifts from highway hum to birdcalls and the slap of hooves as the tour moves from a working ranch to a basilica-topped town, then down to wind-buffed Macao Beach.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by JHORAJI · Punta Cana, La Altagracia
You climb into a safari truck as the sun leans over sugarcane fields, dust rising in thin ribbons while the driver navigates toward low green hills and a rocky riverbed. The soundscape shifts from highway hum to birdcalls and the slap of hooves as the tour moves from a working ranch to a basilica-topped town, then down to wind-buffed Macao Beach.
The route threads local culture and landscape: Salvaleón de Higüey’s modern basilica honors the island’s colonial-era devotion to the Virgin of Altagracia, while surrounding plains sit on carbonate rock that channels the short, clear rivers that feed rural agriculture. Markets brim with plantains, spices and hand-carved souvenirs; tobacco, cocoa and smallholder coffee are still processed by family operations in this province.
Expect a mix of gentle activity—brief horseback riding, a guided walk along a river—and accessible cultural stops: a typical Dominican house demonstration, a tobacco workshop and an art school visit. The day ends with a swim at Macao, an Atlantic-facing beach known for stronger surf and wide sand.
Practical guidance: wear closed-toe shoes for ranch and river sections, bring reef-safe sunscreen and a lightweight rain layer during summer storms. Hotel pickup makes logistics easy, but carry local cash for market purchases and tips. If you’re after a single-day primer on eastern Dominican life with a splash of beach time, this safari stitches together cultural insight and outdoor moments with minimal fuss.
easy.
8 hours.
Suitable for travelers in average physical condition; includes short walks and a gentle horseback ride.
Yes—hotel pickup and drop-off are included for the main Punta Cana/Bávaro resort area; confirm your pickup point when booking.
Yes—swimming is available but be mindful of stronger surf and follow guide instructions; lifeguards may not be present.
The tour is family-friendly and labeled physically easy; infants must sit on laps and operators generally accommodate children.
A typical Dominican lunch is included, often served riverside at a ranch or local eatery as part of the itinerary.
The Basilica of Higüey is a major pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin of Altagracia; the region’s towns grew around colonial-era agricultural estates and trade routes.
Stick to marked paths and avoid trampling riverbanks; choose reef-safe sunscreen at Macao to reduce local marine impact and support small rural businesses when buying souvenirs.
JHORAJI operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




You climb into a safari truck as the sun leans over sugarcane fields, dust rising in thin ribbons while the driver navigates toward low green hills and a rocky riverbed. The soundscape shifts from highway hum to birdcalls and the slap of hooves as the tour moves from a working ranch to a basilica-topped town, then down to wind-buffed Macao Beach.
You climb into a safari truck as the sun leans over sugarcane fields, dust rising in thin ribbons while the driver navigates toward low green hills and a rocky riverbed. The soundscape shifts from highway hum to birdcalls and the slap of hooves as the tour moves from a working ranch to a basilica-topped town, then down to wind-buffed Macao Beach.
The route threads local culture and landscape: Salvaleón de Higüey’s modern basilica honors the island’s colonial-era devotion to the Virgin of Altagracia, while surrounding plains sit on carbonate rock that channels the short, clear rivers that feed rural agriculture. Markets brim with plantains, spices and hand-carved souvenirs; tobacco, cocoa and smallholder coffee are still processed by family operations in this province.
Expect a mix of gentle activity—brief horseback riding, a guided walk along a river—and accessible cultural stops: a typical Dominican house demonstration, a tobacco workshop and an art school visit. The day ends with a swim at Macao, an Atlantic-facing beach known for stronger surf and wide sand.
Practical guidance: wear closed-toe shoes for ranch and river sections, bring reef-safe sunscreen and a lightweight rain layer during summer storms. Hotel pickup makes logistics easy, but carry local cash for market purchases and tips. If you’re after a single-day primer on eastern Dominican life with a splash of beach time, this safari stitches together cultural insight and outdoor moments with minimal fuss.