Board a boat from Punta Cana for three hours on Saona’s turquoise beaches, a stop at a shallow natural pool and a photo walk through Altos de Chavón. Expect a full-day outing with lunch, open bar and easy walking.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The day opens as the minivan pulls away from Punta Cana hotels and the Atlantic airs itself into the glass of the coach—salt, diesel and the promise of white sand. By mid-morning the landscape shifts: low coastal scrub gives way to the hand-built stone streets of Altos de Chavón, a replica Mediterranean village perched above the Chavón River where stucco facades and cobbled plazas frame panoramic river valley views.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—requires boarding a boat and short walks on sand and cobbles.
Wildlife
History
Altos de Chavón was constructed in the 1970s as a cultural and artistic center inspired by historic Mediterranean and colonial architecture; the Chavón River valley has long been a corridor for agricultural settlements.
Conservation
Saona’s reefs are vulnerable to tourism pressure—use reef-safe products, avoid touching corals and follow local guides’ rules to limit impact.
Reserve your spot on the From Punta Cana: Saona Island & Altos de Chavon Day Trip with Lunch and Open Bar today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Confirm pickup the day before
Operators require a call or WhatsApp confirmation the day before to set exact pickup times; failure to confirm can delay your start.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Saona’s shallow reefs are sensitive—use reef-safe SPF and reapply frequently under tropical sun.
Wear water-friendly shoes
Shallow sandbars and rocky sections at the shore are easier to navigate with water shoes or old trainers.
Carry small cash
Vendors and photo sellers accept cash for souvenirs and tips—small bills are preferred.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and coral; reapply after swimming.
summer
Water shoes
Protects feet on sandbars, rocky shorelines and boat ramps.
summer
Dry bag or waterproof phone pouch
Keeps electronics and documents safe from spray and beach sand.
Light packable rain jacket or windbreaker
Useful if a brief squall appears during transit or for cooler boat breezes.
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