The El Limon Waterfalls Tour in Samaná is one of the most popular shore excursions for cruise ship passengers visiting the Dominican Republic. This unforgettable horseback or hiking adventure takes you through lush tropical countryside to the famous El Limón Waterfall, where you can swim in the natural pool and experience one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the region — all scheduled to fit comfortably within your ship’s port time.
Your experience begins with pickup near the cruise port in Samaná. Our team monitors ship arrival times and organizes departures so you can enjoy the excursion without worrying about getting back to your ship on time. After a scenic drive into the countryside, you will begin your journey along shaded jungle trails surrounded by coconut palms, tropical vegetation, and mountain views.
You can choose to ride a calm local horse or hike with your guide. Both options follow the same beautiful trail and are suitable for most visitors. Along the way, your guide will share information about local culture, nature, and everyday life in the region.
When you arrive at the breathtaking El Limón Waterfall, you will have time to relax, take photos, and swim in the refreshing natural pool beneath the 40-meter cascade. Many visitors also enjoy walking behind the waterfall and capturing unforgettable photos of this spectacular natural setting.
This shore excursion is ideal for cruise passengers looking to experience the natural beauty of the Samaná Peninsula in a safe, well-organized tour designed specifically for ship schedules. Whether you choose horseback riding or hiking, the El Limon Waterfalls tour offers an unforgettable combination of adventure, nature, and relaxation during your day in port.
Tour duration: 4-5 hours.
Tour begins: 1 hour after first tender arrives at the pier
Tour ends: At at the pier at least 30 min before the last tender of the day.
We offer a tour to the El Limon waterfalls each cruise ship day. You will have the option of going on horses or going on foot.
All excursions include: a typical Dominican buffet lunch and all your drinks including Local Soft Drinks & Water.
This tour also includes: a couple of stops along the way to see some awesome panoramic views from 1475 feet (450 meters) above the bay, and a small country town with a coral church, hand rolled cigar factory and a quaint gift shop with clean bathrooms.
ONCE AT THE PARK:
Some say this falls is 120 feet tall but I believe it is around 90 feet tall. One thing can’t be argued though, it’s awesome and fun.
The National Park is about a 30 min horseback ride. Don’t be too afraid of the horses, (No one under the influence of alcohol or drugs may ride the horses) they are experts at traversing the crazy looking trail, with a couple steep inclines, that you take to get in and out. There also is a local horse handler who will walk alongside each horse in the group. Once we arrive at the precipice of the waterfalls we will dismount and then you walk down a steep mountainside the last 300 yards which includes walking on some uneven surfaces that can also become muddy. It is worth it though. You have now arrived at the base of the spectacular El Limon Waterfalls. Spend some time swimming in the refreshing waters of the waterfall’s large pool. If you are game you should swim into the falls and see the cave underneath. We take our customers personally under the falls and into the cave. You should be a good swimmer though. (Any guests taking part in any water activities do so at their own risk and responsibility.) After your swim and picture taking you will walk back up the steep steeps to the top of the falls where, after a short break, you will mount back up on the horses for your ride back out. Once you arrive at the ranch you can wash up, use the restrooms and enjoy the delicious healthy home cooked, entirely over a wood fire, buffet lunch. We even have been complimented on these meals by vegetarians so there is something for everyone. Even glass bottled coke made with real sugar!
The horseback ride lasts for around 30 min to get into the falls and about 30 min to get back out.
This tour is not recommended for wheelchair guests, those with mobility concerns, recent back or neck injuries, people with heart problems or pregnant women.
What to Wear:
Flat shoes with a non-slip sole and closed toes are recommended or a hiking sandal – no flip flops. Light, comfortable clothing, cap, sunglasses and sun screen are recommended. Weight limit for horseback ride is 250 pounds.
Note: The price does not include a tip for the horse handler who walks alongside your horse. They do a good job controlling the horses at all times and only receive tips as payment, which each rider would have to take care of. I recommend around $10 US but if you enjoyed their service and would like to give more that is not a problem. The government has stipulated that every horseback rider that goes in must have a handler with them. These are local people who in many cases own the horse you will ride. They are not employees of our company although I do try to hand pick the best ones available. Very few speak English but they are very helpful and hard working.
We never cancel our tours as long as we have 2 people going. To help us maintain a minimum participant level
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