Adventures on the Samaná Peninsula
Best activities & excursions in Samaná
Punta Cana and Puerto Plata have long been the vacation darlings of the Dominican Republic, with good reason, but now’s the time to uncover the Caribbean country’s wilder side, over on its northeastern shore. This is where you’ll find Samaná, a stunning peninsula where secluded beaches and jungle-set adventures await. Here’s what to do on your first trip to this exciting region.
Trek through rainforests & mangroves
The Dominican Republic’s hidden gem contains one of the country’s only rainforests, part of the absolute wonder that is Los Haitises National Park. A definite must-see for all eco-tourists!
Best reached by boat from the town of Samaná, the park is home to the endangered Ridgway’s hawks (found nowhere else in the world!), as well as a colourful array of exotic flora and fauna. Hike through a dense woodland of cacao, calabash and guava trees or kayak through tangled mangroves. While traipsing around the park’s incredible rock formations and caves, keep your eyes peeled for ancient Taíno petroglyphs and pictographs.
Seek out whales & waterfalls
Sun-seekers aren’t the only ones setting out to this beautiful slice of the Dominican. From January to March, thousands of humpback whales populate the crystalline waters of Samaná Bay, which was officially declared a Marine Mammal Sanctuary in 1986. Whale-watching should be high on your bucket list if visiting Samaná in winter—you’re pretty much guaranteed jaw-dropping sightings of their annual migratory song and dance.
More into land mammals? Well, giddy up! Horseback riding is the best way to commute between the quaint town of Limón and the waterfall of the same name. Trot along a winding trail that takes you through a tropical forest buzzing with wildlife to the cascading waters of the El Limón waterfall, where a natural pool welcomes a cool-down dip.
Hit the streets, ride the waves
European-tinged Las Terrenas, a former fishing village turned chic resort town, livens up the peninsula with a surprising dining scene revolving around Spanish-influenced dishes and fresh seafood. Let blaring bachata and merengue jams take you from dinner to dancefloor at the countless seafront lounges, venues and dance clubs.
From sundown to surf’s up! Work out yesterday’s indulgences at the beaches of Las Terrenas, a prime spot for surfing. Try kite surfing along the shores of Punta Popy, while all levels are invited to line up, paddle fast and take off at Playa Bonita, home to various surf schools (and perfect waves).
Pro-tip: for water-bound thrills, Samaná is also a top sport fishing destination. On the menu: barracuda, marlin, mahi-mahi, tuna and more!
What’s next
Ready for your own Samaná adventure? We’re here to help you plan your trip around our selection of all-inclusive packages perfect for all types of travellers.
See you in Samaná!