How to Get to Los Haitises National Park
From Sabana de la Mar
Sabana de la Mar sits on the southern edge of Samana Bay and has the shortest boat ride into the mangrove channels, often under thirty minutes. Boats leave from the small marina near the national park visitor area. If you are driving the Dominican Republic independently, this is the most direct gateway and parking is straightforward.
From Samana town
Departures from Santa Barbara de Samana cross the bay and usually combine the park with Cayo Levantado or El Limon waterfall. The crossing is longer and more scenic, and Samana town has more hotels, restaurants and tour desks if you want to base yourself near the water for a few nights.
From Punta Cana and Bavaro
From the eastern resorts the practical option is an organized full day trip that handles the long road transfer and the boat. Pickups start early, around six to seven in the morning, and many tours pair Los Haitises with Montana Redonda or a waterfall to make the long day worthwhile. Bring motion sickness tablets if you are prone to it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drive into Los Haitises National Park?
No. The park is a maze of mangroves, islets and limestone caves only accessible by boat. You drive to a launch point such as Sabana de la Mar or Samana and continue by boat.
How long is the trip from Punta Cana?
Plan a full day. Road transfer each way is roughly three hours, plus the boat tour and stops, so most Punta Cana itineraries run from early morning until evening.