Itineraries for Your Trip to Punta Cana
3 Days in Punta Cana for First Timers
While my typical trip to the Dominican Republic includes a drive through Punta Cana to reach my beach resort, I love it when I can explore some of the local city life. Rum drinks and platters of mofongo are always on the menu, and I never visit without spending some time going ziplining or doing something else adventurous.
When you have three days in Punta Cana, you'll have plenty of time to book a sailing excursion that will take you out to snorkel in the clear, blue water. Don't miss the chance to visit a cenote like Hoyo Azul.
If you only have time for one thing, visit Bavaro Beach.
The tropical climate means you'll have hot and humid weather year-round, with wet months in fall.
Whether this is your first visit to the Dominican Republic or you fly there regularly, you'll enjoy visiting the market and the Basilica. Another popular stop is the Anamuya River, where you can hop in for a swim. See it all on a tour where you'll also learn about the coffee, vanilla, and cocoa industries.
For an epic first-night adventure, head out on this sunset horseback ride on the beach. All experience levels are welcome, and the ride can vary based on your needs. You'll get picked up and dropped off at your Punta Cana resort.
On your second day in Punta Cana, get out on the water for some sailing and snorkeling adventures. A catamaran boat tour takes you to a nature reserve to explore the creatures under the sea. Anchor at the sandbar and enjoy tropical drinks in paradise.
Once you are back on land, it's time to see how the locals live. Sample homemade empanadas and drink coco de agua as you walk through the streets. End your tour at a local market to buy souvenirs to take home.
Ready for an adrenaline rush? A dune buggy adventure offers that and a first-person look at the region. Your group will caravan to a local farm to taste Dominican coffee and chocolate. Other stops include Macao Beach and a cenote where you can go for a swim.
Monkey around on your last afternoon in Punta Cana with a visit to the Monkeyland sanctuary and its botanical gardens. Learn about organic growing practices and what grows in this area on a tour, and sample local products before you are dropped at your hotel.
