Excursions

I can't help but hopefully one of our members from the area will help you.

Bacardi Island is better known as Cayo Levantado - I actually had to google it because I had never heard Bacardi Island. We've not been, but we passed by while whale watching last month and it was gorgeous! We're planning to visit when my son is here in June.

Are you on the Everything Las Terrenas page on Facebook? That's a great place to ask for recommendations for tours.

We've not done the touristy things - although I did finally get to go whale watching - because on our previous trips we were focused on seeing what it's like to live here. Then we moved down right in the midst of COVID and curfews!

Most of the tour companies are operating at reduced capacity, but now that we're out of high season, getting into one shouldn't be too hard!

The hotel should also have information on all the different excursions.

Be aware two thirds of Cayo Levantafo is a private AI hotel and you only get to see the public part which can get crowded.

I would get a private boat hire at the jetty for the short crossing and that way you don't get stranded for hours there with a group tour. Most whale sight seeing trips stopped there on the way home and for me once was enough. Now staying at Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado for a few nights might be better.

I am the same with Salto Limon having been there several times and prefer to visit independently and have picked up a horse/mule with guide at one of the paradas on the road between Limon and Samana with a meal ready on the return from the falls which too can get busy.

There are many companies located around Las Terrenas and the Ballenas Beach area. If you feel comfortable doing so, work directly with the people who have the horses at El Limon falls. If you drive to the town of El Limon you will see them out by the road holding signs or waving you in. You won't run into crowds during the week. A few groups on the weekend maybe.

Again, you'll see many tour companies around LT that will take you to the island. Or you can drive to the dock in Samana and pay about $25 to the many small boat owners there. They'll take you out there and wait for you all day. There are many gift shops and restaurants on the island and the beach is beautiful. It has not been crowded during the weekdays. There are a few dive companies in Las Terrenas that offer snorkel tours which take you to a few areas in the Samana Bay and then finish the day on the island with food and drink on the beach. Just thought I'd make you aware of that option.