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Private Half Day Tour in Dominican Republic with Local Guide

Recommended by 100% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Dominican Republic
  • 3 to 4 hours (approx.)
  • Pickup offered
  • Group discounts
  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English

Overview

    What's Included

    • Vehicle with air conditioning and wifi on board
    • Professional Private Guide
    • Visit the Basilica of Higüey and the church San Dionisio
    • Visit a typical Dominican house
    • Visit to de Cafe plantation, Cocoa and cigar factory.
    • See how coffee, cocoa and cigars are made, and you can make your own cigar
    • Stop at the market to take your memories of Punta Cana.
    • tips
    • Lunch (available with extra price)

    Meeting and Pickup

    Pickup points

    Select a pickup point

    Pickup details

    Enjoy this tour when you book with us, our professional guide will be waiting in the lobby of your hotel or AIRBNB, this service is available for the areas of Punta Cana, Bávaro, Cabeza de Toro, Macao and Uvero Alto. (For hotels in the Cap Cana area we have a special option to select.)

    Itinerary

    1

    Punta Cana

    15 minutesAdmission Ticket Free

    2

    Casa típica. "Café cacao vainilla”

    40 minutesAdmission Ticket Included

    3

    CEIBA TOWN

    15 minutesAdmission Ticket Included

    4

    Rancho Real Cigars

    30 minutesAdmission Ticket Included

    5

    Otra Banda

    15 minutesAdmission Ticket Free

    6

    Mercado Municipal

    5 minutesAdmission Ticket Free

    7

    Monumento Histórico Iglesia Parroquial San Dionisio

    5 minutesAdmission Ticket Included

    8

    Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia

    30 minutesAdmission Ticket Included

    9

    Carretera Higüey - Miches

    40 minutesAdmission Ticket Free

    10

    WORLD MART SOUVENIRS

    30 minutesAdmission Ticket Free

    11

    Punta Cana

    1 minuteAdmission Ticket Free

    Additional Info

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • Not wheelchair accessible
    • Stroller accessible
    • Infant seats available
    • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
    • Most travelers can participate
    • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

    Traveler Photos

    Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)
    Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

    Reviews

    5.0
    based on 51 reviews
    Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

    Exceptional Experience

    Nicole_T, Dec 2024
    Summit Punta Cana Tours is exceptional. Edwin our tour guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and made us feel safe the entire time. We booked the private Dominican lifestyle tour and was impressed. First we visited a cigar factory where we were greeted with a complimentary cigar to smoke on the premises. Then we went into the factory where we rolled our own small cigar to take home with us. They allowed us to sample the different alcohols they sell along with tasting candies made locally. They had a gift shop with a huge selection of reasonably priced souvenirs, cigars, and alcohol. Next we went to a gorgeous plantation where we saw a home, sampled local coffee, received an education on all the herbs and fruit grown on the plantation. We sampled fresh fruits, cocoa, and coffee. We experienced how the coffee and chocolate are made and were able to purchase goods supporting local business. From there we went to the city of Higuey, busy city life seeing how the locals live day to day. Drove buy local farmers markets and businesses where Edwin explained everything so we had a good understanding of what life is like there. We opted to not go to the Basilica since we have already been and instead had lunch at a local diner. The food was AMAZING and the establishment was clean. After lunch we went to a souvenir shop but we did not purchase anything because it was over priced. My advice is so skip the souvenir shop and buy your souvenirs at the cigar factory. The only thing I wish we did was go in one of the markets in downtown Higuey. If you skip the souvenir shop as to go to the market instead. Edwin spoke English really well and I never had a hard time understanding what he was saying. The experience was great for My husband, two older kids, and myself. Would highly recommend booking this half day trip.

    Response from Host, Jan 2025

    Hi Nicole! 😊 Thank you so much for your beautiful words. It was truly a pleasure sharing a bit of our Dominican culture with you! I'm so happy to hear that you enjoyed the tour and felt the authenticity of every stop we made — from the cigar-making to the delicious coffee and, of course, the visit to Higuey’s church. It's experiences like yours that inspire us to keep doing what we love! I'm especially glad that I could make you feel safe and comfortable throughout the journey — laughter and good vibes are always included in our tours! 😄 Whenever you're back in the Dominican Republic, I’d be more than happy to take you on another adventure. There’s still so much more to explore! 🌴 Until then, take care and keep those wonderful memories alive. Looking forward to seeing you again! Warm regards, Summit Punta Cana Tours

    Dominican culture experience

    Michelle_S, Oct 2024
    We had a fantastic time on our tour! Edwin gave us an amazing insight into life in the Dominican Republic beyond the resorts, sharing his knowledge and passion for the local culture. We especially loved the cigar-making experience, coffee tasting, and visiting the beautiful church in Higuey. Lunch was delicious, and every stop felt authentic and special. Edwin is a true professional! He was friendly, knowledgeable, and made us laugh and feel comfortable, safe, and happy throughout the entire tour. We would definitely recommend this experience and look forward to booking more tours with him when we return!

    Response from Host, Nov 2024

    Hi, Michell! Thank you so much for your amazing review! 😊 We’re overjoyed to hear that you had such a fantastic time on your Private Half Day Tour and that Edwin made your experience both memorable and meaningful. It’s wonderful to know that you enjoyed the cigar-making experience, coffee tasting, and the visit to the beautiful church in Higüey. Those stops are designed to highlight the rich culture and authenticity of the Dominican Republic, and it means a lot to us that you found them special. Edwin truly is a gem—his passion and professionalism shine through in every tour, and he’ll be so happy to hear how much you appreciated his efforts to make you feel safe, comfortable, and entertained. We’re thrilled to know you’re already thinking about booking more tours with us when you return. We can’t wait to welcome you back for more unforgettable experiences in paradise! Warm regards, The Summit Punta Cana Tours Team

    Professional organized tour nice to get out of the resort

    feihong, Apr 2024
    The entire experience was very professional. A representative contacted me before the tour and made sure that we found we tour guide Henry at the lobby. It was nice to get out of the resort and take a look of what DR has to offer.

    Response from Host, Apr 2024

    It sounds like you had a wonderful experience, and we're thrilled to hear that you found our service to be very professional. Providing excellent customer service is our top priority, and we're delighted that our representative ensured a smooth start to your tour by contacting you beforehand and assisting you in finding your tour guide, Henry, at the lobby. Exploring beyond the confines of the resort and experiencing the beauty and culture of the Dominican Republic is what our tours are all about. We're glad that you had the opportunity to do just that and that you enjoyed discovering what the DR has to offer. Thank you for choosing us for your excursion, and we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back for more adventures in the future!

    Take this tour. It will not disappoint.

    Jodi_B, Mar 2024
    We had a great experience with Edwin! The tour was informative and we were able to go at our own pace. Kids had a great time too.

    Response from Host, Apr 2024

    Dear Jodi Bohr, Thank you so much for sharing your positive experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that you had a great time with Edwin on our tour. Providing informative and enjoyable experiences for our customers is our top priority, and we're delighted that you found the tour informative and were able to go at your own pace. It's fantastic to hear that the kids had a great time too! We'll be sure to pass along your kind words to Edwin. He'll be delighted to know that he made your tour memorable. Once again, thank you for choosing Top Punta Cana Transfer and City Tours. We hope to have the pleasure of serving you and your family again in the future!

    Great day in the DR

    Jeffrey_S, Feb 2024
    Henry is an excellent guide and driver, and this tour is an excellent way to truly learn how Dominicans live outside the hotel zones. While most of the country does not live an affluent life, we were warmly welcomed into shops, factories and a country home. We finally were able to better appreciate the culture of the island and its wonderful people.

    Response from Host, Mar 2024

    Dear Jeffrey, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that you found our tour to be an excellent way to truly immerse yourself in the authentic Dominican lifestyle beyond the hotel zones. We're delighted to hear that Henry provided excellent guidance and driving throughout the tour. Our goal is to provide enriching experiences that allow our customers to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local culture, and we're glad to hear that Henry's expertise contributed to that. It's heartening to know that you felt warmly welcomed into shops, factories, and a country home, providing you with a genuine glimpse into the lives of the Dominican people. Connecting with the local community is an integral part of our tours, and we're glad that you were able to experience the warmth and hospitality of the island firsthand. Thank you for highlighting the cultural appreciation gained from the tour. It's our hope that each of our customers leaves with a newfound understanding and respect for the rich cultural heritage of the Dominican Republic. We truly appreciate your kind words and recommendation. If you ever find yourself back in the Dominican Republic or if there's anything else we can assist you with, please don't hesitate to reach out. We would be honored to welcome you again for another immersive tour experience.

    Edwin is family now

    Amanda_W, Feb 2024
    Edwin was AMAZING … from the family farm tour to the cigar factory and Dominican lunch …. We had an amazing time everyone needs to experience this at least once to get outside the tourist spots and really see the real DR

    Response from Host, Feb 2024

    Thank you so much for your amazing review! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a great time on the tour with Edwin, exploring everything from the family farm to the cigar factory and enjoying a Dominican lunch. We're delighted we could take you off the beaten path and show you the real Dominican Republic. We look forward to welcoming you back soon for more authentic adventures! Thanks for sharing your experience!

    Awesome experience!!

    MaDonna_S, Feb 2024
    Carlos was amazing!!! He took us all around!! We met locals and went to see some history and beautiful waters!!! We would definitely recommend Carlos and the tour!!!

    Response from Host, Feb 2024

    Thank you so much for your kind review! We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed your tour with Carlos and that you were able to experience both the history and the natural beauty of our region, as well as meet some locals. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to having you back soon for another incredible adventure with us. Thanks again for sharing your experience!

    Half day Dominican trip

    Janine_L, Jan 2024
    Our guide Silverio picked us up early. Mini bus spotlessly clean. Tour included Basillica, cigar experience & visiting a family home, where our host/ home owner Miguel was welcoming and very entertaining. Silverio was a lovely person, very thoughtful, treated us to local cheese & coconut water, as a treat. He said it was his gift to the family ( our party of 6) An absolute bargain too, at a 3rd of the cost of the hotel/ tour operator prices. Would recommend this trip 100%. Phil, Phil, Sherry, Shelley & Janine aka the Family

    Response from Host, Jan 2024

    We take great pride in ensuring our mini buses are spotlessly clean, and it's wonderful to know that you were picked up early and enjoyed a comfortable ride throughout the tour. It's heartwarming to read about your positive experiences during the tour, from the Basilica visit to the cigar experience and the warm welcome you received at the family home with Miguel. We aim to provide not just a tour but a unique and entertaining experience for our guests. Silverio is indeed a gem among our guides, and we're thrilled to hear that he treated you to local cheese and coconut water as a special gesture. His thoughtfulness truly adds to the overall experience, and we're grateful for his dedication to making your tour unforgettable. We greatly appreciate your recommendation and are thrilled that you found our tour to be an absolute bargain compared to other options. Your feedback means the world to us, and we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you and your family back for more incredible adventures in the future. Once again, thank you for choosing us, and please don't hesitate to recommend our tours to friends and family.

    Great experience, but get the details

    Reginald_S, Jan 2024
    We had a great time and our tour guide Manny was amazing! I do recommend asking questions about your experience prior to booking. We booked a private tour in an excursion and prior to me saying something to the organizer, they were going to pick us up in a van, which is not the experience that we paid for. Also, you do not stop for food on this tour unless you pay extra.

    Response from Host, Jan 2024

    Reginal Thank you for booking with us, we are very happy that our guide Manny did a good job with you, sorry to refute your words. We are an honest company with a 100% good rating from our users, for example, you booked the VIP transport option which means that we do not send a bus that is not so comfortable, instead we send a 2022 Honda Odyssey van, which is a very comfortable vehicle, or failing that, we send a suburban depending on availability. The other issue is that you say that we charge extra money for restaurant stops, that is true, but it is also true that I told you that we have the option in our product list "Half-day tour with local guide and lunch (this option is more expensive than the price you paid for 6 people) I apologize but I think we did nothing wrong that's why from the moment of the reservation we sent you a message to organize everything.

    Great value for your Money

    Karla_S, Dec 2023
    a fantastic tour of part of the Dominican Republic. Eddie was so nice and answered all our questions. On the first part of the tour you drive and stop, drive and stop at some very interesting places. The family home and cacao plantation was our favourite. We definitely could have spent more time there. You are taken to places that have displays/gift shops but Eddie was very very low pressure with regard to selling. We were very please with the tour and would recommend it to anyone.

    Response from Host, Jan 2024

    Karla, thank you for your words, it was a pleasure to be with you and show you the reality of my country, its customs, and how ordinary Dominicans live.

    Best tour for private small groups

    MELISSA_R, Sep 2023
    We had the best driver. During the whole tour we talked and learned lots of thing about the country and how locals live. We were not rushed in any part of the tour. He took the time to teach us aswell as learning a little from us. The places we visited went above and beyond to make us feel welcomed. Rolled our own cigars, tried samples of many new foods not available in states. Top tour of all. My husband and I have been 3 times to punta cana and this time we are here with 7 other people. You won't regret booking with Viator.

    Response from Host, Nov 2023

    Thank you so much MRS Melissa.

    Enjoyed

    Deirdre_D, Jul 2023
    We had a great time. The van had great AC on a really hot day. Edwin was very informative. We will recommend to others.

    Response from Host, Jul 2023

    Thank you so much!!!!

    From $100.00

    per person

    up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)

    Book ahead!
    On average, this is booked 23 days in advance.

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