Shore Excursion Cruise ship Waterfalls y Buggys

If you’re visiting Puerto Plata via cruise and looking for an adventure-packed excursion, this Waterfalls y Buggys tour might just fit the bill. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on numerous reviews and detailed descriptions, it promises a lively mix of natural beauty, adrenaline, and local culture.

What we love: First, the chance to explore Damajagua’s stunning waterfalls—a highlight for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Second, the personalized private transportation ensures a comfortable, tailored experience that beats crowded group tours.

A word of caution: the buggy ride can be muddy and messy, which might not appeal to everyone, and some reviews mention long waits or less-than-ideal organization. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy active outings and don’t mind getting a little dirty. If you’re after a relaxed, scenery-only experience, this might not be the perfect fit.

This excursion is ideal for those who want a full day of adventure, enjoy natural scenery, and appreciate local touches like authentic Dominican lunch. It’s particularly good for active travelers, families with older kids, or anyone craving an authentic, energetic day outside the cruise port.

Key Points

• Adventure-filled day with waterfalls, buggy rides, and scenic hikes
• Private transportation offers comfort and a personalized pace
• Includes lunch, drinks, Wi-Fi, making it a convenient package
• Moderate physical activity required, suitable for active travelers
• Longer duration (around 6-7 hours) provides a full experience
• Mixed reviews on organization, so flexibility and patience are needed

What’s Included and How It Matters for You

This tour costs $139 per person, a price that appears to offer decent value considering the comprehensive experience it promises. Included are lunch, Wi-Fi onboard, private transport, and alcoholic beverages after the buggy activity, making it a fairly all-in-one package. You won’t need to worry about extra costs for meals or drinks, and the private transport means you skip the hassle of large group buses.

However, water shoes and face coverings or bandanas aren’t included, so packing these essentials is recommended. Some reviews note the muddy, messy nature of the buggy ride, and in some cases, previous guests found the mud and water splashes quite intense. If you prefer a cleaner, less chaotic experience, this might be a consideration.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Puerto Plata

Your day begins with a pickup from the cruise terminal—conveniently outside the port—so no long walks or confusing meeting points. Expect a quick drive (about 35 minutes) to Damajagua Park, setting the tone for a day of adventure.

Stop 2: Damajagua Waterfalls

This is the tour’s star attraction. After a brief safety briefing, you’ll follow a guided hike through lush tropical forest, leading to the famous waterfalls—up to seven in number. Reviews describe this part as both exciting and physically demanding, with some mentioning the long uphill walk (around 30-40 minutes) that’s moderate in difficulty.

Many guests highlight the water slide and jumping opportunities—“The waterfalls were beautiful and made for an invigorating jump and swim,” says one. Others appreciate the surroundings: “The waterfalls were stunning,” and note that photographers are on hand to capture the memories, adding value for those who want pictures without fussing with their phones.

Some guests, like Kristen_G, loved the customer service and felt the experience was worth the money, emphasizing the clear organization and personalized touches. But a few note the crowds or the crowded nature of the initial hike, so patience is key.

Stop 3: Lunch at a Local Restaurant

After the water adventure, guests are treated to a typical Dominican lunch—a welcome break after physical exertion. Many reviews praise the delicious, authentic dishes—think chicken, ribs, rice, and beans. This makes the tour not just about adventure but also about tasting local flavors, adding a cultural dimension.

Stop 4: Buggy Ride

Post-lunch, the mood shifts to off-road fun. The buggies are rugged, all-terrain vehicles, perfect for exploring countryside dirt roads. The ride lasts about 45 minutes, but reviews suggest it can be messy and muddy, especially if it rained beforehand.

Guests like Adolfo and Yulissa_N describe the buggy as “a blast” and “the grand finale,” while others, like Betsy_M, found it less enjoyable due to the muddy water and poor planning—“the buggy ride was just going through mud puddles.” Some guests report issues with the goggles not fitting well or water seeping in, which can detract from the fun.

Additional Notes

The tour ends with a chance to relax, look through photos, and enjoy a drink or two—rum or beer—before heading back to the cruise port. The entire day can run around 6-7 hours, making it a full but rewarding experience.

Real Guest Experiences: What’s the Buzz?

The reviews offer a spectrum—some rave about the adventure and scenery, describing it as “the best tour ever” or “amazing and unforgettable”. Guests especially praise knowledgeable guides and the authenticity of the food and local guides.

Others express frustration over organization issues, like long waits, poor communication, or overly crowded waterfalls. A few mention the muddy, messy buggy ride and wish the experience were better explained beforehand.

One consistent theme among positive reviews: the guides and staff make a difference. Whether it’s Richard, Raul, or Alexander, guests feel well cared for, and their enthusiasm elevates the whole day.

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is private and air-conditioned, which is a real plus after a humid day exploring tropical waterfalls. Given the maximum group size of 150 travelers, the tour maintains a good balance between intimacy and social atmosphere. Reviews indicate most guests are cruise ship passengers, making timing and logistics smooth—“You won’t need to worry about missing your ship,” as one guest pointed out.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $139 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive, adventure-rich day. The inclusion of lunch, drinks, Wi-Fi, and private transport adds convenience, especially in a foreign country. For active travelers craving a mix of nature, culture, and fun, many reviews suggest this provides good value.

However, some guests mention that long waits or organizational hiccups can reduce the overall experience. If you’re flexible and prepared for some messiness, this tour is likely to deliver memorable moments.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is perfect for adventurous souls looking to experience the waterfalls of Damajagua and off-road buggy fun in a single day. It’s best suited for those who enjoy physical activity and don’t mind getting muddy or sweaty. Families with older children, active couples, or groups seeking an authentic Dominican outing will find plenty to love here.

For travelers who value personalized service, local flavor, and a mix of scenic beauty and adrenaline, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just be prepared for some long walks, water splashes, and a bit of chaos—those are part of the charm for many.

In the end, this tour offers a genuine taste of Puerto Plata’s natural beauty and local life, wrapped in an energetic and memorable experience.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides private, air-conditioned transportation from the cruise port, making logistics hassle-free.

What should I bring? Pack water shoes or running shoes, sun protection, mosquito repellent, and a bandana or face covering. These help manage the muddy, humid conditions.

How physically demanding is the tour? Expect a moderate hike of about 35-40 minutes to the waterfalls, with some uphill walking. The activity suits those with a moderate fitness level.

Are drinks and lunch included? Yes, a lunch with Dominican dishes and alcoholic beverages after the buggies are part of the package, along with bottled water and Wi-Fi.

Can kids do the tour? Kids under 8 are limited to the first waterfall and should be prepared for physical activity. The tour is best suited for older children and active adults.

What if I don’t want to do the buggy ride? The tour is designed as a full experience, but if you prefer not to participate in the buggy segment, discuss options with the guide beforehand.

How long does the tour last? Expect around 5.5 to 7 hours, including pickup, travel, activities, and return to the ship.

This Waterfalls y Buggys trip offers a good balance of adventure, authenticity, and convenience. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling day out or a way to see local natural beauty, it’s worth considering—just pack your sense of humor and your water shoes.