Higuey in 1 Day for Couples - Private luxury transportation and guide
In Collaboration with Summit Punta Cana Tours. Updated on February 21, 2026.
Private half-day guided tour from Punta Cana to Higüey and nearby cultural sites. Includes private luxury transport, a coffee & chocolate tasting at a local plantation, visits to a souvenir shop and cigar workshop, time in a local market, a brief stop at Iglesia San Dionisio, and a guided visit to the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia. Pickup and drop-off at your Punta Cana hotel; fully
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Summit Punta Cana Tours, inspired by the tour Tour Privado De Medio Día Desde Punta Cana . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Private luxury transportation and guide
- Coffee and chocolate tasting at a local plantation
- Visit to Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia (Higüey)
- Local market visit and authentic craft souvenirs
- Artisanal cigar workshop visit
Itinerary
Day 1
Private half-day itinerary from hotel pickup in Punta Cana, through souvenir shopping, a plantation visit with tastings, local crafts and markets, to a guided visit of the iconic basilica in Higüey, then return to your hotel.
Hotel pickup in Punta Cana
Your driver and guide will meet you at your Punta Cana accommodation to begin the private half-day cultural experience toward Higüey.
Tips from local experts:
- Driver will display a sign with the reservation holder's name; be ready in the hotel lobby 5–10 minutes before pickup.
- Confirm your exact hotel name and room number with the operator ahead of time to avoid delays.
- Have a small daypack with sunscreen, water, and any personal ID or medical items you may need during short stops.
First stop: World Mart Souvenirs
Visit one of the larger souvenir shops in the area to browse Dominican crafts, typical products and authentic keepsakes.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep small bills handy for purchases and quick transactions.
- Ask the guide for recommended items produced locally (handmade crafts, local rum-based souvenirs).
- If you want to try items later, request wrapped packaging for transport back to your hotel.
Coffee & cocoa plantation and typical house visit
Learn the traditional process of Dominican coffee and cacao production on a local plantation and visit a typical rural house to see local daily life. Includes coffee and chocolate tasting.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes and a hat—plantation paths may be uneven and exposed to sun.
- Photography is usually welcome; ask before photographing people inside the family home.
- Try small sips during the tasting to appreciate different roast/profile notes; bring motion-sickness remedies if you are sensitive to bumpy rural roads.
Rancho Real Cigars (artisanal cigar workshop)
Explore a small artisan cigar workshop to learn about Dominican cigar production and see hand-rolling techniques; opportunity to purchase direct from the producer.
Tips from local experts:
- If you plan to purchase cigars, request a sealed box for travel and check your airline's carriage rules.
- Ask the roller questions about tobacco origin and curing—local makers are usually happy to explain.
- Keep in mind this stop is short; inspect products quickly if you plan to buy.
Local market of Higüey (Las Carreras)
Immerse yourself in local life at a popular market with fresh produce, tropical fruits and everyday goods—good for short strolls and photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry small change and avoid displaying large amounts of cash; bargaining is common for some items.
- Stay close to your guide in crowded areas and store purchases in a secure bag.
- Try a small local fruit sample if offered, but avoid unpeeled items if you have a sensitive stomach.
Iglesia San Dionisio (brief stop)
Short stop in front of a local historic church with cultural and historical relevance to the Higüey community.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a brief roadside stop—if you wish to enter, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
- Keep noise low and be respectful of worshippers if services are in progress.
- Ask your guide about local customs or history related to the site before taking photos.
Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia (guided visit)
Guided visit and photo stop at the iconic basilica, one of the region's most important religious sites. Time allotted for exterior and interior viewing where permitted.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear modest clothing for indoor access; many visitors remove hats inside the basilica.
- Large crowds are possible; keep personal items secure and follow the guide's route to avoid blocking pilgrims.
- Photography rules may vary—follow posted signs and the guide's instructions for interior photos.
Return transfer to your Punta Cana hotel
End of the private tour with a comfortable transfer back to your hotel in Punta Cana where the guide will say farewell.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm with your guide the exact drop-off location at your hotel to avoid delays.
- If you bought perishable items, store them in a cool place on return to the hotel.
- Tipping for the guide and driver is appreciated; prepare cash in local currency if you wish to tip.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Shopping, Attraction, Neighborhood, Culture |
