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nature · Samana

Los Haitises National Park: Mangroves, Caves & Cave Art

Glide through cathedral mangrove tunnels and into pre-Columbian Taíno cave galleries inside one of the Caribbean's most dramatic national parks. Towering limestone mogotes rise from a mirror-flat bay, home to frigate birds and manatees.

What to expect

A private lancha departs from the Samaná waterfront and crosses the bay to the protected park boundary, where towering mogote islands emerge from jade-green water. You enter hand-carved Taíno caves adorned with petroglyphs and pictographs dating back over 500 years, guided by a bilingual naturalist who decodes the ancient symbolism. The boat then threads through dense red-mangrove tunnels alive with herons, egrets, and kingfishers. Snorkeling stops and a freshly prepared Dominican picnic lunch are included on private departures.

Book it with
Sublime Samana (official local operator)
USD 125 per adult (private boat tour, park fee included)
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Good to know

The park is accessible only by boat — approximately 45 minutes from the Samaná pier. Wear reef-safe sunscreen and light layers; the cave interior is cool. Private departures allow flexible timing, giving comfortable all-aboard buffer. Book the private option for the most immersive experience.

Sail there

Luxury cruises that call at Samana — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.

Celebrity · Celebrity Summit
9 nights · calls at Samana
from $806
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Celebrity · Celebrity Beyond
7 nights · calls at Samana
from $1,416
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Royal Caribbean · Adventure of the Seas
6 nights · calls at Samana
from $479
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Royal Caribbean · Freedom of the Seas
7 nights · calls at Samana
from $626
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