When looking for an excursion to Damajagua Waterfalls (also known as 27 Waterfalls), you will see prices ranging from $20 to $100. This huge difference is due to the services included. To help you avoid feeling overcharged (or missing something vital), here we explain what to expect from each modality.
1. Basic Entry (If you go on your own)
If you arrive in your own car, this is what you buy at the official ticket window of the Natural Monument:
- Park Entry: Official access to the protected area.
- Safety Equipment: Approved helmet and life jacket (mandatory).
- Certified Local Guide: You will be assigned a guide for each group of 8-10 people.
- Accident Insurance: Basic coverage within the park facilities.
What is NOT included: Transportation, food, drinks, lockers, or shoe rental.
2. Organized Tour (All-Inclusive)
This is the option most tourists book through platforms like Viator or hotel agencies. A standard package of US$ 65-80 usually includes:
- Door-to-Door Transportation: Pickup and return at your hotel, Airbnb, or cruise port in an air-conditioned vehicle.
- Monument Entry Fees: Generally for the 12-waterfall circuit (you can pay an extra fee there to upgrade to the 27 if time permits).
- Dominican Buffet Lunch: Rice, beans, stewed chicken, salads, and fruits. Coffee and dessert are sometimes included.
- Drinks: Unlimited water and sodas during the journey. Some tours include rum and beer after leaving the river (never before for safety reasons).
- Escort Guide: In addition to the river guides, an agency guide accompanies you from the hotel to explain things about Dominican culture and landscape during the trip.
3. What is almost NEVER included?
Even in the most expensive tours, be prepared to pay separately for:
- Water Shoe Rental: If you don’t bring your own, rental costs about US$ 3.
- Locker Use: About US$ 2-4 to leave your dry belongings outside the vehicle.
- Photos and Videos: Digital photo packages offered by local photographers (approx. US$ 30-45).
- Tips: It is recommended to leave a tip for the driver and the river guides.
4. Checklist to Compare Tours
Before clicking the “Book” button, verify these 5 points:
- Is pickup in my area?: Some cheap tours only pick up in Puerto Plata city center and charge extra for SosĂşa or Cabarete.
- How many waterfalls are visited?: Many tours only do the first 7. If you want the 12 or 27, confirm that the itinerary allows it.
- Back to Ship Guarantee?: If you are a cruise passenger, this is mandatory. Do not book a tour that does not explicitly mention it.
- Rain Policy?: Do they refund your money if the river is closed or take you to another activity?
- Group Size?: A tour of 15 people is much more agile than one of 50.
Verdict: If you don’t have your own car, the All-Inclusive Tour is the smartest option. You save time coordinating transportation and ensure a buffet lunch, which is the best part after 2 hours of intense exercise.
Ready to see real options? Check our selection of Recommended Tours with Viator.