Punta Cana: Saona Island and Altos de Chavón Day Trip

Punta Cana is a picturesque town that attracts visitors from all over the world. If you are planning a trip to Punta Cana, you might have some questions regarding the best activities and excursions to do while you’re there. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the Punta Cana: Saona Island and Altos de Chavón Day Trip, one of the must-do activities, and answering some of the most frequently asked questions travelers have.

What is the Punta Cana: Saona Island and Altos de Chavón Day Trip?

The Punta Cana: Saona Island and Altos de Chavón Day Trip is a full-day excursion that takes you to two of the most incredible destinations in the Dominican Republic. The trip includes a visit to the idyllic Saona Island, where you can relax on the white sand beaches and swim in crystal clear waters. Later in the day, you will visit the medieval-style village of Altos de Chavón, perched on a cliff overlooking the Chavón River. You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and dropped back off in the evening.

What is included in the tour?

The tour includes transportation to and from your hotel, a catamaran ride to Saona Island, a visit to a natural pool in the middle of the ocean, lunch, and a visit to Altos de Chavón. Snorkeling gear and life jackets are also provided.

What can I expect on Saona Island?

Saona Island is a natural paradise, where you can find unspoiled white sand beaches and turquoise waters. While on the island, you can enjoy lounging on the beach, swimming, playing volleyball, or exploring the surrounding area. The island also has a natural pool where you can swim and interact with starfish. There is also a bar on the island where you can purchase drinks and snacks.

What is Altos de Chavón?

Altos de Chavón is a replica of a medieval European town, built in the 1970s. The town is perched on a cliff, overlooking the Chavón River, and features cobblestone streets, stunning views, and Dominican culture. The town houses a number of shops, restaurants, a church, and an archaeological museum.

What should I bring on the tour?

You should bring your swimwear, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes and scenery. Don’t forget a towel, as you’ll need it to dry off after snorkeling and swimming.

Is the Punta Cana: Saona Island and Altos de Chavón Day Trip suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is suitable for children; the catamaran boat ride to Saona Island is especially popular with kids. There are also children’s life jackets provided.

How much does the tour cost?

The cost of the tour depends on the number of people in your group and the season you plan to visit. You can check the latest prices and availability for the tour using this link.

Final Thoughts

The Punta Cana: Saona Island and Altos de Chavón Day Trip is a must-do activity if you’re visiting Punta Cana. It combines relaxation, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, all in one day. Whether you’re traveling alone, with friends or family, this tour is an excellent choice that won’t disappoint. Book your tour now and get ready to enjoy one of the best experiences you’ll ever have in Punta Cana!

Insider’s Guide to Punta Cana: Saona Island and Altos de Chavón Day Trip

Punta Cana is a stunning resort town located in the eastern part of the Dominican Republic. Known for its pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, Punta Cana is a paradise that offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. With so much to see and do in this amazing city, it is important to plan your trip carefully. One must-visit destination in Punta Cana is the Saona Island and Altos de Chavón. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a deep dive into this iconic day trip, along with other local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Saona Island & Altos de Chavón Day Trip

Saona Island is a protected nature reserve and a designated park that is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Punta Cana. The island is a tropical paradise situated off the south-eastern coast of the Dominican Republic. Visitors can take a catamaran or speedboat trip to the island, where they can enjoy swimming in the natural swimming pool, a stunning stretch of knee-deep water surrounded by white sandy beaches, and palm trees. The snorkeling and diving opportunities are also excellent. Witnessing the picturesque scenery of the saltwater lagoon of Los Flamencos will be one unforgettable experience.

Altos de Chavón is a recreated 16th-century Mediterranean village that boasts cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and restaurants. Its unique architecture and beautiful views of the Chavón River make it an amazing place to explore and a favorite among tourists. The amphitheater hosts many cultural events, music festivals, and concerts, and is a perfect place for a romantic date or family bonding.

Local Attractions

Apart from the Saona Island and Altos de Chavón, Punta Cana also has several other amazing attractions that visitors can explore. The Hoyo Azul Cenote dive is a beautiful natural attraction located in Scape Park. The freshwater lake is surrounded by lush greenery and is a great spot for snorkeling. Dolphin Explorer offers visitors the chance to swim with dolphins, a must-try activity for animal lovers. Bavaro Adventure Park offers a wide range of activities, including ziplining, horseback riding and buggies, and Safari tours. In short, Punta Cana has a wide range of enjoyable activities that visitors can indulge in.

Dining Spots

Punta Cana boasts some of the best dining spots in the Caribbean. Visitors can choose from a wide range of restaurants serving fresh seafood, local cuisine, and international specialties. Passion by Martin Berasategui is an outstanding dining spot that offers guests a seven-course tasting menu of fine Basque cuisine. At the Bamboo Restaurant, guests can enjoy a beach-side dining experience. La Palapa offers an excellent menu of traditional dishes, while Little John Beach Bar serves fresh seafood in a laid-back atmosphere. Punta Cana is a culinary paradise; there is something for everyone’s preference.

Cultural Experiences

Punta Cana offers several cultural experiences that visitors can partake in. The Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park & Reserve offers an interactive and educational experience, with walking tours that showcase flora and fauna along with the cultural history of the region. The National Park of the East is another exciting cultural experience, as it hosts old turtle nesting grounds and ancient Taíno caves. At the ChocoMuseo, visitors can learn about the traditional process of chocolate-making, an essential part of Dominican culture.

Local History

Punta Cana has a rich and diverse history, with many historical sites that visitors can explore. The Altos de Chavón showcases cultural and historical relics, including the Chavón Archaeological Museum. The Saona Island Wildlife Park and Sanctuary preserves the island’s natural beauty, while the La Cana Golf Course houses 16th-century relics. Visitors can explore the Taino Museum in the nearby town of Higuey to learn about the ancient Taino culture.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For the more adventurous travelers, Punta Cana offers some off-the-beaten-path suggestions. The Marinarium Marine Park offers snorkeling and diving in an enclosed marine area, while Monkey Land is a fascinating place to see the local macaques. The Santo Domingo day trip offers visitors a chance to explore the vibrant and bustling capital city of the Dominican Republic.

In conclusion, Punta Cana is full of activities, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation destination or an action-packed adventure, Punta Cana is the perfect place to be. A visit to the iconic Saona Island and Altos de Chavón is a must, and there is so much more to explore in this tropical paradise.