A Splash of Adventure: Our Family’s Waterfall Quest

As a family that thrives on adventure, we were beyond excited to embark on the 7 Waterfalls Adventure in Puerto Plata. The idea of jumping, sliding, and swimming through a series of natural waterfalls was too thrilling to pass up. Our two-week Caribbean cruise had been filled with incredible shore excursions, but this one promised to be the highlight.

The day began with a short walk from our ship, moored at Amber Cove, to the highway pickup location. The anticipation was palpable as we joined a couple from a local resort in the tour van. The drive to the waterfalls was a scenic 20-minute journey through lush landscapes that felt like a scene from Jurassic Park. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a well-developed base area complete with showers, changing rooms, and lockers. We left our belongings in the secured van, eager to start our adventure.

After a quick restroom break, we donned our life vests and helmets, joining a larger group of about 40 people. The hike to the first waterfall was a 45-minute trek through a shaded trail, complete with a cool bridge over a river and informative signs about the local flora. The climb was strenuous, with several long sets of stairs, but the excitement of what lay ahead kept us moving at a brisk pace.

The Thrill of the Falls

Reaching the top of the climb, we took a moment to catch our breath and hydrate before descending into the canyon. The steep stairs led us to the first jumping platform, where the real fun began. The guides were efficient and encouraging, helping everyone decide whether to jump, slide, or take the stairs into the cool, refreshing water below.

Our kids, aged 10 and 12, were fearless, opting for the jumps and slides at every opportunity. Their laughter echoed through the canyon as they splashed into the pools, and I couldn’t help but join in the fun. The natural waterslides were exhilarating, and the beauty of the canyon walls and tropical vegetation added to the magic of the experience.

We continued downstream, swimming and hiking through the river, each waterfall offering a new thrill. The operation was well-organized, with guides ensuring everyone had a safe and enjoyable time. As we exited the canyon, we hiked back to the base area, passing other groups eagerly awaiting their turn.

A Taste of Local Culture

Back at the base, we were treated to a delicious buffet lunch featuring local Dominican cuisine. The food was a delightful end to our waterfall adventure, and we took the opportunity to browse the souvenir shop for mementos of our day.

The final stop of the tour was a visit to a small shop where we learned about local cigar-making and the unique amber and onyx-like stones found only in Hispaniola. The shop offered a variety of local products, from cigars and chocolate to jewelry and crafts. We couldn’t resist purchasing some beautiful jewelry and a box of cigars as special treats.

Reflecting on the day, it was clear that this excursion was a five-star experience. The combination of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion made it a standout on our cruise. We returned to Amber Cove with plenty of time to enjoy the pools and waterslides before boarding our ship, our hearts full of memories from a fabulous day in the Dominican Republic.