If you think the eastern Dominican Republic is only white sand and all-inclusive resorts, you’re about to discover the best activities in Higüey in La Altagracia province.
Just 40 minutes from the coast, a landscape of emerald mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and untouched jungle unfolds. Higüey is not only the spiritual capital of the country; it is truly the green lung of Punta Cana. In this guide, we show you the best options for travelers who want to trade ocean waves for the adrenaline of the mountains.
Activities in Higüey: beyond the basilica
As you move away from the urban center, the scenery transforms. The coastal plains give way to the Anamuya Mountains, a vibrant ecosystem where the air smells like freshly roasted coffee and the green of the vegetation becomes almost electric. This is where the real adventure begins.
What adventure activities can you do in Higüey?
If you’re wondering what to do in Higüey, Dominican Republic, the answer lies in its geography. The region offers a wide range of ecotourism experiences in La Altagracia province that are hard to find along the coast:
Buggy and ATV routes:
The red dirt roads of Anamuya provide the perfect off-road setting. Crossing puddles and muddy trails is part of the thrill.
Hiking and river exploration:
The area is home to some of the best rivers in Higüey, such as the Anamuya River, whose cool waters offer the perfect refuge after a hike through the jungle.
Connection with rural life:
Visiting small local communities allows you to discover cacao and coffee plantations up close, understanding why this land is the agricultural heart of the region.
The logistical challenge: how to make the most of your time
Planning excursions in Higüey from Punta Cana independently can be challenging. The distances between rivers, coffee farms, and buggy trails are not always well marked, and private transportation can be expensive and difficult to coordinate in a single day.
Expert tip:
If you want to experience the full spirit of Higüey without logistical complications, you need an “operations center” that brings together the best of the region in a safe environment.
La Hacienda Park: the best of Higüey in one place
La Hacienda Park zipline circuit
For travelers looking to maximize their adventure experience in the Anamuya Mountains, La Hacienda Park represents the perfect synthesis of the region. Instead of spending hours on the road, this private park concentrates the most exciting activities in a single protected natural environment.
Why choose La Hacienda for your adventure?
The only chairlift in the region:
Fly above the jungle of the Anamuya mountains on the only chairlift in the area and enjoy a completely different perspective of the landscape. From above, you’ll admire the mountains of Higüey, the deep green of the tropical vegetation, and the river that flows through the valley. It’s a calm and panoramic experience that allows you to appreciate the scale and beauty of Dominican nature before continuing with the rest of the adventure activities.
Wild buggies:
Experience an exciting off-road drive on a circuit designed for pure adrenaline. The private red-dirt trails, muddy puddles, and winding paths through lush vegetation create the perfect setting to release energy and have fun. Because the route runs inside a private property, it is free from public traffic, allowing visitors to enjoy the adventure with greater safety and excitement.
Kilometer-long ziplines:
Glide above the tropical forest canopy on one of the longest and most exciting zipline circuits on the island. Each platform offers spectacular views of the jungle and the Anamuya mountains, while the sensation of speed and height makes this one of the most memorable experiences in the park. It’s the perfect combination of nature, adrenaline, and breathtaking scenery.
Cultural Safari:
Discover the most authentic side of Dominican culture through a journey that brings you closer to rural life in the region. During the safari, you’ll visit a traditional Dominican house, experience local hospitality, and learn how iconic products such as coffee and cacao are grown and processed. It’s a unique opportunity to understand the agricultural traditions and cultural roots of the area.
Horseback riding through the jungle:
Enjoy a horseback ride along scenic trails surrounded by tropical jungle and untouched nature. This relaxing experience lets you explore the landscapes of the Anamuya mountains at a gentle pace, riding between lush vegetation and the natural sounds of the forest. It’s the perfect activity for those who want to slow down and connect with nature while still being part of the adventure.
The flavor of the land: an authentic Dominican buffet
No list of activities in Higüey would be complete without gastronomy. At La Hacienda, the adventure culminates with an authentic Dominican buffet lunch. Here you can try the famous “Dominican Flag” (rice, beans, and meat), sweet plantains, and other local delicacies that will recharge your energy for the rest of the day.
Practical tips for your visit to the activities in Higüey
Transportation:
The smartest option is to book a tour that includes hotel pick-up from Punta Cana or Bávaro.
Clothing:
Wear closed-toe shoes (sneakers or boots) that you don’t mind getting dirty. The mud of Anamuya is part of the memory.
Weather:
In the mountains the climate is cooler, but tropical rain showers are common. Don’t worry — rain only makes the buggy route even more fun.
Higüey is the soul of the province and the perfect complement to your sunny beach days. It’s the place where history meets the wildest nature. Come for the culture, stay for the adventure.
Ready to discover the green lung of Punta Cana? Book your full day at La Hacienda Park and experience all the activities of Higüey in one place, with the safety and quality your trip deserves.
