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The Samaná peninsula in the Dominican Republic is not your typical tropical destination. Located halfway between Punta Cana and Puerto Plata on the north coast of the island, it invites travellers to tap into their sense of adventure and discovery. Imagine walking hand in hand with your loved one, exploring pristine beaches, lush forests and stunning waterfalls. It’s a picture postcard of the Caribbean!
This trip is the perfect opportunity to share special moments, reconnect and create unique memories that will brighten your day when you’re back home. Whether it’s watching the sunset on a secluded beach, dining under the stars or exploring the lush natural surroundings, each location in Samaná offers a unique adventure that will strengthen your bond.
To make this getaway even more magical, Transat offers several luxurious properties exclusively for adults in Samaná. These hotels provide the perfect setting to explore the region in comfort and tranquillity. In a lush environment, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, you can enjoy every moment to the fullest. Whether it’s relaxation on a secluded beach, exciting adventures or simply quality time together, Samaná has everything you need for an unforgettable experience.
For lovers of nature and adventure, the province of Samaná is a dream destination that promises unforgettable eco-tourism experiences.
Underwater: Diving off the Samaná Peninsula
Samaná is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, particularly scuba diving, offering crystal clear waters, rich marine biodiversity and stunning underwater landscapes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Samaná promises an unforgettable experience among colourful coral reefs, mysterious shipwrecks and fascinating caves.
- For beginners: Portillo – A shallow dive site with colourful coral reefs and diverse marine life, ideal for beginners.
- Intermediate: Creole Reef – Dive into clear waters to explore coral formations at 25 metres, home to a variety of gorgonians and often visited by large Atlantic stingrays.
- For experienced divers: Piedra Bonita – A deeper site at 60 metres with a rock covered in sponges, giant gorgonians and corals where you can see turtles, wrasses, porcupinefish and trunkfish.
In the forest: Trekking in Los Haitises National Park
Los Haitises National Park is a real treasure and offers travellers a unique hiking experience. As you explore its trails, you’ll discover extraordinary panoramas of Samaná Bay, with its sparkling waters and lush surroundings. The park is known for its exceptional biodiversity, with a rich variety of tropical plants, dense mangroves and humid forests that provide a thriving habitat for numerous bird species, some of which are endemic to the Dominican Republic. This makes it a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers alike.
One of the highlights of the park is its ancient caves and rock formations, decorated with pictograms and petroglyphs left by the Taíno people, the original inhabitants of the island. Sites such as Cueva de la Arena and Cueva de la Línea offer a fascinating glimpse into a distant and mysterious past, telling stories of the Taíno culture and its relationship with the natural world. Exploring these historical treasures offers a deep sense of connection with the island’s heritage and an appreciation of its rich cultural history that predates modern times.
The park’s lush landscapes and tranquil surroundings provide the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Dominican Republic’s wild side. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual explorer, a visit to Los Haitises National Park promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with lasting memories. Well worth the effort!
Up high: Hiking to El Limón waterfall
Nestled in the heart of a lush jungle, the majestic 55-metre El Limón waterfall is the perfect destination for an unforgettable forest adventure. The hike to El Limón takes you through diverse and beautiful landscapes, including enchanting bamboo groves, thriving cocoa plantations and wild mango and pineapple trees. As you trek through this vibrant tropical forest, you’ll be immersed in the rich biodiversity that defines this stunning region.
The ultimate reward for your trek is the breathtaking view of El Limón waterfall cascading into a tranquil natural pool. The sheer power and beauty of the water cascading into the pool below is a sight to behold. After marvelling at the grandeur of the waterfall, crown this magical experience with a refreshing swim beneath the falls. The cool, clear waters provide the perfect respite from the tropical heat, making it a rejuvenating experience that connects you directly to the wonders of nature.
This excursion is offered by Transat at some of the all-inclusive resorts in Samaná. To make the most of your stay, simply book this adventure at your hotel’s reception. The staff will arrange everything for you, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish. Exploring El Limón Waterfall is more than just a hike; it’s an immersion into the heart of Samaná’s natural beauty and a chance to create lasting memories.
Offshore: Whale watching in Samaná Bay
Looking for an aquatic adventure? Every year between January and March, the peninsula of Samaná hosts an extraordinary natural spectacle: the arrival of thousands of humpback whales. These giants of the sea come from the cold waters of the North Atlantic to mate and give birth in the warm waters of the bay.
Joining a whale watching excursion is the best way to see these incredible mammals in their natural habitat. Local operators offer boat trips from most hotels in high season, often accompanied by a naturalist guide who will help you understand whale behaviour.
The boats are equipped to ensure a respectful viewing without disturbing the animals. On the water you may hear the males singing, see breaching displays or see a mother whale with her calf.
The Bay of Samaná is one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales. Don’t miss this extraordinary experience while you are in Samaná.
Stay at sumptuous all-inclusive resorts in Samaná, Dominican Republic
Transat offers travellers five luxurious partner hotels in Samaná peninsula, each offering a unique experience. These hotels are the perfect place to rest between nature adventures, enjoy intimate moments and create unforgettable memories.
Imagine yourself, cocktail in hand, a gentle breeze on your face, losing track of time as you admire the beauty of the Caribbean and share moments of pure joy with your loved one. All this is possible in Samaná.
Cayo Levantado Resort
Located on the entirely private island of Cayo Levantado in Samaná Bay, this charming 5-star all-inclusive resort is accessible only by boat and offers the ultimate in luxury and tranquillity. Surrounded by water, it’s easy to go kayaking or snorkelling to explore the crystal clear waters and colourful reefs.
Viva V Samaná by Wyndham
Located on the pristine shores of Coson Beach, this human-scale resort is exclusively for adults. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be enchanted by the gentle Dominican warmth of this seaside paradise.
Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo
A luxurious resort nestled in a tropical jungle overlooking a stunning beach of calm waters lined with palm trees. Perfect for relaxing in a soothing and sophisticated environment, with your feet in the golden sand.
Wyndham Alltra Samaná
Located on the magnificent white sand beach of Las Galeras in Samaná Bay, this hotel offers the perfect blend of beach and nature. With unobstructed mountain and ocean views, its luxurious suites allow you to enjoy both the jungle of Los Haitises National Park and the turquoise, shallow waters of the beach.
Bahia Principe Grand Samaná
This adults-only 5-star resort is ideal for a romantic getaway. Situated on a rocky promontory with access to a small secret beach surrounded by tropical forest, this hotel offers an immersion in nature, completely off the beaten tourist track.
