Savvy travelers exploring the Dominican Republic’s cruise ports have several worthwhile shore excursions to consider.
The 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua stands out as the island’s premier adventure, featuring natural water slides and refreshing pools.
Puerto Plata’s Victorian architecture and cable car ride offer an authentic glimpse into local history, while the Tropical Forest Trek delivers a peaceful escape into pristine nature.
I’m particularly fond of the Resort Beach Escape – it’s a no-hassle way to experience the Caribbean’s finest beaches with all amenities included.
Let’s get straight to the best excursions worth your vacation time and money.
Key Points
- The Damajagua Waterfalls Adventure offers a thrilling 3-hour jungle hike and exploration of 12 waterfalls, with a 96% recommendation rate.
- The Amber Cove Port to Damajagua Falls and Zipline excursion provides an adrenaline-fueled adventure with hiking, swimming, sliding, and ziplining.
- The 7 Waterfalls & 5 Zip Lines Shore Excursion features a half-day adventure with hiking, jumping, sliding, and swimming through 27 waterfalls and five ziplines.
- The Explore Puerto Plata’s Best With Cable Car tour offers an immersive experience, including a cable car ride, historical sights, and complimentary rum punch.
- The Taino Bay Shore Excursion – 2 Person Buggy Tour provides a guided, small-group buggy adventure through Dominican Republic scenery.
Damajagua Waterfalls Adventure – Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers
The Damajagua Waterfalls Adventure is a thrilling shore excursion for cruise passengers visiting the Amber Cove and Taino Bay ports in the Dominican Republic.
With a 96% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this 3-hour tour offers an exciting opportunity to hike through the jungle and jump or slide down 12 stunning waterfalls under the supervision of experienced guides.
Included in the low starting price of $79 are national park fees, bottled water, snacks, and even complimentary rum punch.
While the tour requires strong physical fitness and isn’t wheelchair accessible, positive reviews highlight the guides’ attentiveness and the overall fun experience.
Read our full review: Damajagua Waterfalls Adventure – Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers Review
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Explore Puerto Platas Best With Cable Car – Shore Excursion
Explore Puerto Plata’s Best – an exciting shore excursion that takes cruise passengers on a journey through the scenic landscapes of this vibrant Dominican Republic destination.
The tour, operated by Puerto Plata Adventures, earns high praise from travelers, with 92% recommending it. Guests can expect live commentary, national park fees, complimentary rum punch, and more, all while being transported by air-conditioned minivan or mini-bus.
The experience includes stops at botanical gardens and historical sites, though the cable car ride may not be operational. While the tour requires a moderate fitness level, it’s suitable for most, with the exception of those with limited mobility.
Priced at $89 per person, this shore excursion offers an immersive look at Puerto Plata’s best attractions.
Read our full review: Explore Puerto Platas Best With Cable Car – Shore Excursion Review
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Amber Cove Port to Damajagua Falls and Zipline Shore Excursion – Dominican Republic
For those seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure at the Amber Cove port in the Dominican Republic, the Quick Zip and Waterfalls of Damajagua Adventure shore excursion offers an unparalleled experience.
This flexible-schedule tour combines waterfall exploration and ziplining, with activities like hiking to the Damajagua waterfalls, swimming and sliding down natural waterslides, and a zipline adventure on three certified lines.
The experience includes a stop at a Country House Bar for a traditional Dominican lunch.
While participants must meet certain physical requirements, the tour provides a thrilling opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the Dominican landscape.
Read our full review: Amber Cove Port to Damajagua Falls and Zipline Shore Excursion – Dominican Republic Review
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Historic Puerto Plata and Resort Beach Shore Excursion
Conveniently departing from the Amber Cove or Taino Bay ports, this half-day Historic Puerto Plata and Resort Beach Shore Excursion provides a captivating blend of cultural exploration and relaxation.
Guests will embark on a guided historical tour of Puerto Plata, followed by time to unwind at the Golden Beach resort.
The tour includes roundtrip transportation, a complimentary bottle of water, and even signature rum punch.
While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate physical activity is suitable for guests aged 6 and up.
With a 4.5-star rating and a Badge of Excellence, this excursion offers excellent value and a memorable experience.
Read our full review: Historic Puerto Plata and Resort Beach Shore Excursion Review
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Shore Excursion 7 Waterfalls &5 Zip Lines Amber Cove & Taino Bay
This half-day shore excursion to the Damajagua Waterfalls whisks travelers on a thrilling adventure through the lush tropical rainforest near Puerto Plata.
Featuring 27 cascading falls, the experience includes hiking, five ziplines, and activities like jumping, sliding, and swimming. A buffet lunch is provided, and the excursion is recommended by 100% of travelers.
With national park and zipline fees included, as well as shared transportation from the cruise port, this excursion offers a full day of fun and adventure.
While not wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, with a minimum age requirement of 8 years.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion 7 Waterfalls &5 Zip Lines Amber Cove & Taino Bay Review
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Resort Beach Escape Shore Excursion Puerto Plata
Travelers seeking a leisurely beach getaway can indulge in the Resort Beach Escape Shore Excursion in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
This half-day excursion offers a 5-star rated experience, with 92% of travelers recommending it. The tour includes complimentary beach loungers, bottled water, rum punch, and port pickup and drop-off.
Travelers will enjoy live commentary and guidance from local experts. While food isn’t included, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 16 travelers and requires a moderate fitness level. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.
With stunning beaches and convenient amenities, this shore excursion provides the perfect retreat during a Caribbean cruise.
Read our full review: Resort Beach Escape Shore Excursion Puerto Plata Review
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Amber Cove & Taino Bay Shore Excursion – Puerto Plata City Tour
For cruise passengers docking at Amber Cove or Taino Bay, the Puerto Plata City Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the area’s renowned landmarks.
This 4-hour private tour allows visitors to discover Umbrella Street, the Malecon waterfront, and other famous sites. Inclusive of round-trip transfers, a professional guide, and a cable car experience, the tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Puerto Plata.
Lunch and beverages are included, ensuring a refreshing outing. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, excluding those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
With positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides and memorable photo opportunities, this shore excursion is an excellent way to make the most of time in port.
Read our full review: Amber Cove & Taino Bay Shore Excursion – Puerto Plata City Tour Review
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7 Waterfalls & 5 Zip Lines Shore Excursion Amber Cove & Taino Bay
Departing from Amber Cove or Taino Bay, the 7 Waterfalls & 5 Zip Lines Shore Excursion immerses visitors in the natural wonders of the Dominican Republic.
Priced from $149, this full-day tour includes safety gear, lunch, and all park and activity fees. Guests will explore seven stunning waterfalls and zip across five lines, with a professional guide leading the way.
However, certain restrictions apply – the tour isn’t recommended for those with medical conditions, and pregnant travelers or children under 8 aren’t permitted.
With a maximum group size of 20, this adventure offers an intimate experience amidst the country’s lush landscapes.
Read our full review: 7 Waterfalls & 5 Zip Lines Shore Excursion Amber Cove & Taino Bay Review
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Taino Bay Shore Excursion – 2 Person Buggy Tour
Adventurous vacationers can explore the less-visited areas of the Dominican Republic on the Taino Bay Shore Excursion – 2 Person Buggy Tour. This guided tour is suitable for beginners and features a small group size of 10 people or fewer for personalized attention.
The tour includes a buggy rental, bottled water, guide services, and pickup at the Taino Bay Cruise Port. Priced at $126 per group (up to 2 people), it offers a low-cost way to experience the Dominican Republic’s beautiful scenery.
With an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 2 reviews, the tour promises a great experience, according to past participants.
Read our full review: Taino Bay Shore Excursion – 2 Person Buggy Tour Review
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Taino Bay Shore Excursion – ATV Adventure
Thrill-seekers can rev up their Dominican Republic adventure with the Taino Bay Shore Excursion – ATV Adventure. This thrilling tour takes participants through jungles, dirt roads, sugarcane fields, villages, and beaches.
Along the way, they’ll stop for a refreshing swim and break. All safety equipment and ATV instruction are provided, and bottled water and soft drinks are offered during the tour.
With a small group size, travelers can expect personalized attention from the guide. The excursion includes port pickup and drop-off, and it’s not recommended for those with back problems or pregnant travelers.
Read our full review: Taino Bay Shore Excursion – ATV Adventure Review
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Amber Cove Shore Excursion Puerto Plata
The Amber Cove Shore Excursion in Puerto Plata offers travelers an immersive cultural experience.
Over three hours, a local guide will take visitors to Central Park, the cathedral, and the Dominican Amber Museum. They’ll also see one of the oldest military fortresses in the Americas and tour rum and cigar factories.
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, skip-the-line admission tickets, and free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
With a starting price of $83.39, this excursion provides an excellent introduction to Dominican culture and history.
Read our full review: Amber Cove Shore Excursion Puerto Plata Review
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Tropical Forest Nature Trek to Natural Pool – Shore Excursion
Visitors can enjoy the lush, tropical beauty of the Dominican Republic with the Rainforest Trek to Natural Pool shore excursion. This 45-minute departure takes travelers through the stunning landscapes of Taino Bay or Amber Cove.
Participants will enjoy air-conditioned transportation, live commentary, and a complimentary rum punch after the hike. Strong physical fitness is required, as the trek involves navigating uneven, slippery terrain. Proper footwear is a must, but rentals are available.
This excursion accommodates up to 16 participants aged 12 and older, making it a perfect adventure for active travelers. Guests should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant women or those with certain medical conditions.
Read our full review: Tropical Forest Nature Trek to Natural Pool – Shore Excursion Review
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The Sum Up
The Dominican Republic offers a wealth of shore excursions for cruise passengers. From thrilling zip-line and waterfall adventures to relaxing beach days and cultural tours, there’s something for all. With so many options, travelers can easily find activities that suit their interests and fitness levels. Whether seeking adrenaline-pumping fun or a more leisurely experience, the Dominican Republic’s shore excursions provide a fantastic way to explore the island’s natural beauty and vibrant history.