Top Puerto Plata Day Trips - page 5

I would recommend this experience to anyone and everyone (with average or better fitness levels). Communication was clear and reassuring. I had questions after booking and used the messaging system through viator. The company replied within minutes. The night before, we were also texted instructions for the next day. We got off the cruise ship and walked exactly where he told us to meet him (about a 10 min. brisk walk - not a lot of shade). We met our guide and driver and were off in a private, clean van. We were given tons of information about the area on the way to the falls and what to expect once we arrived. It was all very reassuring as I was a little stressed about the unknown. We were able to leave everything in the van which was kept locked and watched by the driver. We were added to another group - given helmets, life jackets, and a bottle of water and we were off. The hike had a lot of stairs and uneven ground. We wore harder soled water shoes and still could feel all the pebbles and rocks, but once we got to the water they were nice because they had drainage holes. They do stop and provide a couple breaks along the way. I'd like to think I'm in pretty good shape, but my cardio is lacking and that was very evident on this hike. But I'd still 100% recommend it. Once you get to the water, it is so refreshing and unlike anything I've ever had the opportunity to do. We only got to slide/jump into 7 falls. Most of them you have to slide into, but for the last 2 you have the option to jump (it's super high) or slide, or go down a ladder. I wear glasses (I'm pretty lind without them), so i wore them for the hike, but once I started sliding and jumping, iur guide said I had to give him my glasses for safety. He stored them in a water safe bag along with peoples' phones/watches, etc. We didn't get the picture package, but another group did and they stopped for a lot of pictures and videos at each stage. Afterwards lunch was included and it's right at the gate of the falls - a little buffet. Food was got and good and there was a good variety. Afterwards we went to a little place to learn about all the things they grow, how they make coffee and chocolate from plant to product. We saw a cigar making demonstration and tasted the manajuana drink. From there we were taken right back to where we were picked up and made the 10 min walk back to the ship (with way more shade). This tour was highly organized, informative, so much fun, and a great mini introduction to Puerto Plata. I will 100% book with this company again.