Overview
? Departing early from Santo Domingo, this one-day adventure takes you into the lush forest surroundings of Bonao where you’ll hike, explore and refresh in a hidden river.
Highlights
• Discover the town of Bonao and its countryside scenery.
• Hike through forest trails and varied vegetation of the region.
• Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear pools of a hidden river.
• Enjoy a typical Dominican lunch in a nearby local restaurant.
Full Description
At 7:00 AM, you’ll be picked up from Santo Domingo in an air-conditioned vehicle. The drive to Bonao takes about 2 hours, giving you time to admire the changing scenery and forest vegetation along the way.
On arrival, the tour includes a stop in Bonao for a taste of traditional local sweets and a short cultural insight. Then you’ll head to the hidden river (La Jaiba River region) where you’ll hike along trails, explore several natural pools, and enjoy snorkelling and swimming in clear waters.
Afterward, you’ll break for a typical Dominican lunch at a nearby restaurant (around 1:00 PM). Once lunch is finished, you’ll return to the original pickup point in Santo Domingo, concluding your day of nature and adventure.
What’s Included
• Hotel pickup in Santo Domingo and return transport in air-conditioned vehicle.
• Guide service throughout the tour.
• Bottled water.
• Use of snorkelling equipment and life-jackets for river/pool activities.
• Lunch: a typical Dominican lunch at a local restaurant.
• Parking fees and all included logistics.
What to Bring
• Comfortable hiking shoes or closed-toe footwear — you’ll cross rocks and join trails.
• Swimwear and a change of clothes for river/pool time.
• Biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent.
• A small day-pack for water, snacks and a towel.
• Light clothes that can get wet, plus maybe a rain jacket (forest/humidity conditions).
Not recommended for pregnant travellers; moderate fitness level required.
Duration & Price
Duration: Approx. 7-8 hours.
Price: From approx US $110 per adult.
Meeting Point
Pickup in front of your Santo Domingo hotel or Airbnb door; the guide will meet you at the hotel main entrance wearing a black t-shirt and cap. The start time is 7:00 AM.
Why Travelers Love It
• A refreshing break from the city: escape into nature, hike through forest trails and cool off in hidden river pools.
• A mix of adventure and local culture: hiking, snorkelling + a taste of traditional Dominican sweets and lunch.
• Well-organized: early start means full day of exploration; small group size enhances the experience (guide attention).
• Ideal for travellers looking to discover the lesser-known landscapes of the Dominican Republic rather than the usual beach tours.