Punta Cana in 1 Day for Friends - Drive your own buggy on scenic off-road trails
In Collaboration with GDP Excursions. Updated on February 24, 2026.
(Hotel pickup included) Drive your own buggy on off-road trails to a traditional Dominican house for local tastings, then to Macao Beach for seaside time and a nearby hidden cenote for a refreshing swim. Guides and mechanics accompany the group; buggies and attraction tickets are included. At the end of the route you will be returned to your hotel.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with GDP Excursions, inspired by the tour Buggy Tour Punta Cana: MagicalCaves ,Dream Beaches & Culture. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Drive your own buggy on scenic off-road trails
- Tasting of local products (cacao, coffee, mamajuana) at a traditional Dominican stop
- Relax at Playa Macao — one of the area’s best beaches
- Swim in a clear cenote (Hoyo Azul / hidden cenote)
- Guides and on-route mechanics provided; attraction tickets included
Itinerary
Day 1
Buggy adventure in Punta Cana. Explore off-road paths and discover three must-visit stops: 1) Traditional Dominican House – tastings of organic coffee, cacao, and mamajuana. 2) Macao Beach – free time to relax. 3) Hidden cenote – swim in crystal-clear waters.
Hotel pickup & safety briefing (approx.)
We’ll pick you up from your hotel. Pickup begins approximately 1.5 hours before the selected excursion start time — confirm your exact pickup time with the operator. On pickup you’ll be taken through a short safety briefing, hand signals, and buggy orientation.
Tips from local experts:
- Be ready at your hotel’s designated pickup point (lobby/main entrance) at least 5 minutes before the confirmed pickup time.
- Have a photo ID handy for the pickup; drivers will confirm passenger names and room numbers.
- Wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing — brief safety briefing will cover helmet fit and basic controls.
Traditional Dominican house – local tastings
Short drive to a local traditional house where you’ll sample 100% organic coffee, cacao products, and mamajuana. Guides will explain production and local culinary context during the tasting.
Tips from local experts:
- If you have any allergies (nuts, dairy), tell the guide before tasting so they can advise which samples to avoid.
- Bring a small bottle of water and use sunscreen — some tasting spots have limited shaded seating.
- Keep your camera ready for a quick photoshoot of the traditional setup; tastings are brief so plan shots between samples.
Transfer by buggy through off-road trails to Macao Beach
Enjoy scenic off-road driving en route to Playa Macao. The route includes short, sandy tracks and coastal views — drivers should follow the guide’s pace and instructions.
Tips from local experts:
- Follow your guide’s instructions and stick to the convoy — off-road paths can be narrow and dusty.
- Wear sunglasses and a bandana or buff to reduce dust while driving in the group.
- Secure loose items (phones, hats); consider a small dry bag for essentials during the ride.
Playa Macao — beach stop
Free time to relax on Macao Beach, walk the sand, or take photos. This stop is a good short beach break to enjoy the ocean and coastal scenery.
Tips from local experts:
- Macao has natural surf and can have strong waves — swim with caution and follow guide advice about safe areas.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a towel; shaded facilities are limited at public sections.
- If you plan photos of the group or drone use, check local regulations and ask your guide first.
Hidden cenote (freshwater swim)
A short drive from the beach brings you to a crystal-clear cenote (natural sinkhole) for a refreshing swim. Time allocated for a relaxed dip and photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Leave valuables on the buggy or in a zipped, waterproof bag; bring shoes that can get wet for the short approach to the water.
- Rinse off sand before entering the cenote where freshwater is delicate — avoid lotions and oils if possible.
- Follow guide instructions for safe entry and exit points; some cenotes have slippery rocks.
Return transfer and hotel drop-off
Drive the convoy back toward Punta Cana hotels. Guides will handle navigation and any final vehicle checks before dropping guests at their original pickup point.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep personal items gathered before leaving the cenote — guides will do a final headcount at the meeting point.
- If you want photos from the trip, ask the guide during return; they may be able to share or suggest where to get group shots.
- Confirm your exact hotel drop-off location with the driver as you board for the return.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 4 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Culture, Experience, Outdoor, Attraction |
