Fun Fun Cueva - Cave
Fun Fun Cueva - Cave
5
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About
This adventure goes beyond the limits of what we know, taking us back to the Stone Age. There, your dreams and reality will be combined to lead you down to Fun-Fun Cave. Climb down, fully equipped, to one of the largest Caves in the world and discover the beauty of darkness, the cave's colored tunnels, its gigantic corridors, its cave painting art and the enchanted trickling sounds produced by its underground rivers. This adventure also includes hiking in Los Haitises National Park, horseback riding and the best of the local cuisine.
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Fun Fun Cueva - Cave
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
5.0
138 reviews
Excellent
122
Very good
12
Average
2
Poor
0
Terrible
2
Alex F
Berkeley, CA5 contributions
Mar 2018 • Couples
This was definitely the highlight of our trip. We were picked up early in the morning and taken to a ranch a few hours away. There we mounted horses and rode to the boundary with the national park, then hiked for an hour to the entry to the cave. We rapelled down about 20 ft, then made out way about 2km through the cave. At times we had to crawl on all fours. At times we were knee deep in water, then we were wast deep in water; at one point we even had to duck fully underwater through a short tunnel.
The guides are professional and everything is safe, but it is also refreshingly low key. The guides gave us a brief guide to rapelling, then set us loose. Ditto for sloshing through the water in the cave. We galloped on horseback through the countryside.
The trip from Punta Cana is quite long - it took us about 4 hours including picking several other guests up - and the second half is windy and bumpy. But that really just adds to the adventure, and it's definitely worth it.
It felt like a true cave adventure, and together with hiking and horseback riding through beautiful countryside, was a memorable trip.
The guides are professional and everything is safe, but it is also refreshingly low key. The guides gave us a brief guide to rapelling, then set us loose. Ditto for sloshing through the water in the cave. We galloped on horseback through the countryside.
The trip from Punta Cana is quite long - it took us about 4 hours including picking several other guests up - and the second half is windy and bumpy. But that really just adds to the adventure, and it's definitely worth it.
It felt like a true cave adventure, and together with hiking and horseback riding through beautiful countryside, was a memorable trip.
Written March 24, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KristinaJHarris
Gaffney, SC9 contributions
Jun 2018 • Couples
I'll put this at the beginning in case you do not read the whole review. BRING SOCKS (high socks recommended) AND BUG SPRAY.
My husband and I enjoyed our trip to the Fun Fun Cave, pronounced Foon Foon (because that is the noise the bats make when they flap their wings). It was actually just the two of us on the excursion, so our experience is probably a bit different than if you went with a large group. Our hotel (Palladium TRS Turquesa) was not listed as a pick up location. We had to call and confirm and they did get lost trying to find us that morning. We had to wait about 45 minutes before they showed up. The bus ride is long. It took three hours to get there. The two people that picked us up swapped out with about five people half way through, which included 2 of our tour guides for the trip. On the way back they swap out again and the same people that picked us up brought us back to the hotel. Everyone was really friendly!
Once we arrived we ate breakfast at the ranch, which included ham and cheese sandwiches and a fresh homemade cherry drink. We then changed to get ready for the cave. This included a jumpsuit, boots and rappelling gear. I mentioned bringing socks earlier because you have to wear the boots they provide. My husband went without socks and said he was fine. I borrowed some because I was worried about blisters. They were used socks, so again bring some of your own and even an extra pair if you want some dry ones for later.
We got on our horses next and went on about a 30 minute horse back ride. Then we got off and had to hike the rest of the way to the cave entrance. This hike took about 45 minutes and was very strenuous. It was fun but you really should be in good physical shape. You go up and down hills and climb over rocks and it is very hot. Our tour guide, Carlos, gave us a plant to rub on us that repels mosquitos because we forgot bug spray. It really must have worked because we only had about 2 bug bites. But try not to forget your bug spray!
Rappelling was easy and fun. They set you all up and one of the guides waits at the bottom for you. You can go down as slowly as you would like. We got into the cave and they began telling us the history of it and different cave facts. Walking through it was great. And depending on how high the river is, you might be able to go underwater for a brief moment like we did. Gary, our other guide waited at an opening in the water and one at a time we took his hand and dipped under the water to the other side. It was a very refreshing experience! We also got to see bats while in the cave. They didn't bother us or really pay any attention to us. When we made it to the end of the cave, we walked up a few steps and rested for a minute before we got back on our horses and headed back to the ranch (other people brought our horses to that location).
The horse ride back was beautiful. We went through the Dominican country side. It was so lush, full of trees and hills. There were a lot of goats around as well. When we got back we changed and had lunch. It was delicious. I am a vegetarian and they told me if I had let them know beforehand they would have accommodated me. But the beans and rice and their version of a potato salad was delicious enough! They also had chicken. We filled up and headed back to our hotel.
Overall, it was a wonderful experience that we will never forget! Definitely worth going! And remember to bring tip money.
My husband and I enjoyed our trip to the Fun Fun Cave, pronounced Foon Foon (because that is the noise the bats make when they flap their wings). It was actually just the two of us on the excursion, so our experience is probably a bit different than if you went with a large group. Our hotel (Palladium TRS Turquesa) was not listed as a pick up location. We had to call and confirm and they did get lost trying to find us that morning. We had to wait about 45 minutes before they showed up. The bus ride is long. It took three hours to get there. The two people that picked us up swapped out with about five people half way through, which included 2 of our tour guides for the trip. On the way back they swap out again and the same people that picked us up brought us back to the hotel. Everyone was really friendly!
Once we arrived we ate breakfast at the ranch, which included ham and cheese sandwiches and a fresh homemade cherry drink. We then changed to get ready for the cave. This included a jumpsuit, boots and rappelling gear. I mentioned bringing socks earlier because you have to wear the boots they provide. My husband went without socks and said he was fine. I borrowed some because I was worried about blisters. They were used socks, so again bring some of your own and even an extra pair if you want some dry ones for later.
We got on our horses next and went on about a 30 minute horse back ride. Then we got off and had to hike the rest of the way to the cave entrance. This hike took about 45 minutes and was very strenuous. It was fun but you really should be in good physical shape. You go up and down hills and climb over rocks and it is very hot. Our tour guide, Carlos, gave us a plant to rub on us that repels mosquitos because we forgot bug spray. It really must have worked because we only had about 2 bug bites. But try not to forget your bug spray!
Rappelling was easy and fun. They set you all up and one of the guides waits at the bottom for you. You can go down as slowly as you would like. We got into the cave and they began telling us the history of it and different cave facts. Walking through it was great. And depending on how high the river is, you might be able to go underwater for a brief moment like we did. Gary, our other guide waited at an opening in the water and one at a time we took his hand and dipped under the water to the other side. It was a very refreshing experience! We also got to see bats while in the cave. They didn't bother us or really pay any attention to us. When we made it to the end of the cave, we walked up a few steps and rested for a minute before we got back on our horses and headed back to the ranch (other people brought our horses to that location).
The horse ride back was beautiful. We went through the Dominican country side. It was so lush, full of trees and hills. There were a lot of goats around as well. When we got back we changed and had lunch. It was delicious. I am a vegetarian and they told me if I had let them know beforehand they would have accommodated me. But the beans and rice and their version of a potato salad was delicious enough! They also had chicken. We filled up and headed back to our hotel.
Overall, it was a wonderful experience that we will never forget! Definitely worth going! And remember to bring tip money.
Written June 15, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Mrs Harris:
We are delighted that you enjoyed your experience with us. Please remember to tell your friends all about it and come back again soon!
Thanks for sharing!
Written July 9, 2018
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Calonghorn11
Arlington, TX52 contributions
Two words: Do it!
If you’re looking for a unique, exciting excursion while you’re in the DR that will leave you with everlasting memories then this is your excursion!
I went on this excursion this past Monday February 25, 2019. I’d discovered this activity while looking into excursions & tours to try during my first visit to the Dominican Republic. So, I was aware and must reiterate as others have: 1) this is a full day tour (11 hours for me), 2) this is physically demanding (I have a decent level of physical fitness & though I was still recovering from a prior ankle injury I was able to do the excursion with an ankle wrapped with athletic tape lol), 3) essentials to use/bring- bug spray, sunglasses &/or a hat, a towel (to dry off &/or to shower at the end of the excursion), a swimsuit, a long pair of socks (if you’re going to use their rubber boots) + extra socks for after you change, a waterproof case for your phone (I had a small waterproof Fanny pack that allowed me to bring my phone and Fitbit along for the journey), and money for tips + if you want to buy the pictures & video ($25- totally recommend it).
My day started very early with a hotel pickup at 0620am (Riu complex in Bávaro, Punta Cana)! I was picked up in a small air conditioned autobús, my driver was Reynaldo/Reyneldo (very nice, spoke a little English, but I got to practice my Spanish with him so it worked for me). It was a lucky day for the tour because we stopped only once to pick up a Canadian couple before heading out to the excursion. 3 people=small tour and much smoother flow!
We stopped along the way at least once for bathroom breaks and enjoyed the opportunity to see the difference between the resorts area vs typical Dominican countryside. It was about 2hrs out to Hato Mayor and another hour to Rancho Capote/Los Haitises Nat’l Park (where the cave is located) due to a long, hilly, unsurfaced road. This driving part of the excursion is not narrated, but again I enjoyed speaking to the driver and then communicating relevant info to the other 2 people on the tour. Our group didn’t have issues with the long drive; we just included it in the experience. Dominican traffic and driving are something else, the livelihood of everyday people is humbling, and some of the sights are just amazing along the way (you will spot the Basilica Catedral along the way, plenty of mountains, and many rivers).
We picked up our team right before we took the unsurfaced road. Our tour guides were Carlos, Hendrick, and guide/cameraman Johan; all were very enjoyable and made sure we had fun on the tour. We were provided breakfast by some women once we got to the ranch (I didn’t catch their names), which included eggs, ham, coffee, juice, and I believe a traditional Dominican dish called mangú. Light, yet sufficient for the activity ahead of us.
Next, we were offered restroom use before going to the provided areas to change into our swimsuits and then the colorful jumpsuits. They give you a lock & key for a locker to store your items for during the excursion; no charge unless you lose your key. I used their rubber boots and didn’t find them super uncomfortable with the socks I wore with them. Though, they do allow you to wear swim shoes instead.
After gearing up, taking pictures, and receiving instructions for the day, we received our horses and set off on our journey. The horses already knew what to do and they allowed you to trot & lope on them per your comfort level, which was nice. They appeared well fed and were allowed to drink and graze after we transitioned to the hiking part of the excursion.
The hike was definitely a hike! It wasn’t terribly hot, but a little humid. You are provided a bottle of water along the hike to the cave and stopping breaks offered (which luckily our small group didn’t really need, which helped us move quicker). We went up and down some intimidating rocky hills, but safety was maintained the whole time. We enjoyed learning about the Nat’l park along the hike, seeing many different types of plants and critters (including small snakes, butterflies, termite nests, lizards).
After receiving safety instructions when we arrived to the mouth of the cave, the exciting rappel ~60ft down into the cave came next. What a rush! We then trekked along different terrains in the cave (smooth, to rocky, to dirt, to wet) and admired the surroundings while getting historical education and fun facts. Mostly walking, with a spot that required brief crawling, and then a very brief dip underwater to get through one portion of the trek before using the provided rope to continue along. That water was fairly cold to me so be aware! The dip underwater was not scary at all, one of the guides will pull you through to the other side. There is an option to climb over this portion if you are scared, I wish I knew that tidbit before (my friend didn’t want to do the excursion because of the underwater and water-rope portion).
Bats are spotted as you near the end of the cave; we got to see some crawfish, crabs, fish, and centipedes as well. Lucky for me, no cave spiders that day!
We took a non-scary rope-bridge back to a resting area where we received another bottle of water. Our horses were already waiting for us there; we mounted them and rode back a brief distance to the ranch house. You’re allowed to shower and change back into your clothes before sitting down to a nice traditional Dominican meal for lunch: pork/chicken, rice with beans, veggies, and a coconut-based dessert. All delicious!
Another ~3hr drive back to Bávaro/Punta Cana (restroom breaks were offered) and the adventure was over! You will be tired, but content with your day!
**Tips:
-The tour is offered in English I believe only Mon, Wed, and Fri so be aware of this when planning to go.
-Make sure to reconfirm your reservation & resort pickup with them before your actual excursion date.
-Cash is easier for tips and to pay for pics/video, but you can use a credit card to pay for the pics/video as well.
If you’re looking for a unique, exciting excursion while you’re in the DR that will leave you with everlasting memories then this is your excursion!
I went on this excursion this past Monday February 25, 2019. I’d discovered this activity while looking into excursions & tours to try during my first visit to the Dominican Republic. So, I was aware and must reiterate as others have: 1) this is a full day tour (11 hours for me), 2) this is physically demanding (I have a decent level of physical fitness & though I was still recovering from a prior ankle injury I was able to do the excursion with an ankle wrapped with athletic tape lol), 3) essentials to use/bring- bug spray, sunglasses &/or a hat, a towel (to dry off &/or to shower at the end of the excursion), a swimsuit, a long pair of socks (if you’re going to use their rubber boots) + extra socks for after you change, a waterproof case for your phone (I had a small waterproof Fanny pack that allowed me to bring my phone and Fitbit along for the journey), and money for tips + if you want to buy the pictures & video ($25- totally recommend it).
My day started very early with a hotel pickup at 0620am (Riu complex in Bávaro, Punta Cana)! I was picked up in a small air conditioned autobús, my driver was Reynaldo/Reyneldo (very nice, spoke a little English, but I got to practice my Spanish with him so it worked for me). It was a lucky day for the tour because we stopped only once to pick up a Canadian couple before heading out to the excursion. 3 people=small tour and much smoother flow!
We stopped along the way at least once for bathroom breaks and enjoyed the opportunity to see the difference between the resorts area vs typical Dominican countryside. It was about 2hrs out to Hato Mayor and another hour to Rancho Capote/Los Haitises Nat’l Park (where the cave is located) due to a long, hilly, unsurfaced road. This driving part of the excursion is not narrated, but again I enjoyed speaking to the driver and then communicating relevant info to the other 2 people on the tour. Our group didn’t have issues with the long drive; we just included it in the experience. Dominican traffic and driving are something else, the livelihood of everyday people is humbling, and some of the sights are just amazing along the way (you will spot the Basilica Catedral along the way, plenty of mountains, and many rivers).
We picked up our team right before we took the unsurfaced road. Our tour guides were Carlos, Hendrick, and guide/cameraman Johan; all were very enjoyable and made sure we had fun on the tour. We were provided breakfast by some women once we got to the ranch (I didn’t catch their names), which included eggs, ham, coffee, juice, and I believe a traditional Dominican dish called mangú. Light, yet sufficient for the activity ahead of us.
Next, we were offered restroom use before going to the provided areas to change into our swimsuits and then the colorful jumpsuits. They give you a lock & key for a locker to store your items for during the excursion; no charge unless you lose your key. I used their rubber boots and didn’t find them super uncomfortable with the socks I wore with them. Though, they do allow you to wear swim shoes instead.
After gearing up, taking pictures, and receiving instructions for the day, we received our horses and set off on our journey. The horses already knew what to do and they allowed you to trot & lope on them per your comfort level, which was nice. They appeared well fed and were allowed to drink and graze after we transitioned to the hiking part of the excursion.
The hike was definitely a hike! It wasn’t terribly hot, but a little humid. You are provided a bottle of water along the hike to the cave and stopping breaks offered (which luckily our small group didn’t really need, which helped us move quicker). We went up and down some intimidating rocky hills, but safety was maintained the whole time. We enjoyed learning about the Nat’l park along the hike, seeing many different types of plants and critters (including small snakes, butterflies, termite nests, lizards).
After receiving safety instructions when we arrived to the mouth of the cave, the exciting rappel ~60ft down into the cave came next. What a rush! We then trekked along different terrains in the cave (smooth, to rocky, to dirt, to wet) and admired the surroundings while getting historical education and fun facts. Mostly walking, with a spot that required brief crawling, and then a very brief dip underwater to get through one portion of the trek before using the provided rope to continue along. That water was fairly cold to me so be aware! The dip underwater was not scary at all, one of the guides will pull you through to the other side. There is an option to climb over this portion if you are scared, I wish I knew that tidbit before (my friend didn’t want to do the excursion because of the underwater and water-rope portion).
Bats are spotted as you near the end of the cave; we got to see some crawfish, crabs, fish, and centipedes as well. Lucky for me, no cave spiders that day!
We took a non-scary rope-bridge back to a resting area where we received another bottle of water. Our horses were already waiting for us there; we mounted them and rode back a brief distance to the ranch house. You’re allowed to shower and change back into your clothes before sitting down to a nice traditional Dominican meal for lunch: pork/chicken, rice with beans, veggies, and a coconut-based dessert. All delicious!
Another ~3hr drive back to Bávaro/Punta Cana (restroom breaks were offered) and the adventure was over! You will be tired, but content with your day!
**Tips:
-The tour is offered in English I believe only Mon, Wed, and Fri so be aware of this when planning to go.
-Make sure to reconfirm your reservation & resort pickup with them before your actual excursion date.
-Cash is easier for tips and to pay for pics/video, but you can use a credit card to pay for the pics/video as well.
Written February 28, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for this amazing review! Come back soon!
Written June 21, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ks c
Los Angeles, Ca.24 contributions
Jul 2017 • Family
I actually took this tour 11/2 years ago and I hear it's still going strong. You definitely need to be in shape to have FUN on this trip, if not your going to be miserable. Comfortable fitted quick drying work out clothes, good wet/dry camera, don't be afraid of the dark! Or bugs you've never seen before. Think of the movies The Cave and The Descent. But really it's a great trip that when your done you'll be glad you did it. The food was very good, so don't miss out. It's a long bus ride so be patient. Watching the traffic drive through the cities is part of the tour.
Written March 29, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for sharing your experience. We would love for you to come back again to see if it is still as hard as you remember it. Come back soon!
Written July 9, 2018
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Blair A
Florida1 contribution
Feb 2015 • Friends
The Fun Fun cave (pronounced foon foon for the sound of bats flying) was awesome. It is the best value I have found in an adventure tour. One of its unique aspects is the variety of activities that comprise the tour.
You begin with a three hour minibus ride to mountains in the interior of the island where you get to see how and where the people live. Upon arrival at the ranch you get a briefing and suit up. Then you mount horses for a 30 minute ride to the edge of the forest. Then you dismount for a 45-60 minute hike that is moderate to challenging (depending on your fitness level) to the cave entrance which is a small hole in the ground. Then you rappel about 50 feet down into the cave through its ceiling.
The walk through the cave varies from beach-like surface, loose rocky terrain, and water ranging from ankle to chest high deep, depending on your height. You move through large caverns as well as slots and crawl spaces. At one point you must briefly swim underwater through a rock opening.
When you exit the cave, your horses are waiting for a 20 minute ride back to the ranch. Upon arrival you are served a nice lunch and then its back on the bus for the three hour ride back to the starting point. All in all its about a 10 hour day, but something you will never forget. The guides are great and you will thoroughly enjoy this trip.
Now for some qualifiers.
This is not a trip for children, the elderly, or those who are overweight. As the synopsis above indicates the day is long and physically demanding. You need to be healthy and in good physical condition. There were about 15 people in our group. Most were young people of college age or slightly older. There were a few perhaps in their 50s. I appeared to be the oldest at 68, but I have no health issues and train in the gym regularly.
Make sure you have a good breakfast before you come. You will be fully submerged in water for part of the cave trip so wear or bring a bathing suit, and do not bring anything that is not waterproof. A jump suit and rubber boots are provided along with a miner’s hat and harness. Bring socks for the boots to avoid blisters.
The boots have no support and are not great for hiking on terrain with sharp rocks. I have sensitive feet so by about two thirds the way through the cave my feet were in excruciating pain making it difficult to walk. However, I was not aware of anyone else with this problem. Nevertheless you will be much more comfortable if you wear hiking shoes or boots that you don’t mind being submerged in water.
This is a wonderful experience for the fit and adventurous traveler that will provide an interesting story to tell and many fond memories.
You begin with a three hour minibus ride to mountains in the interior of the island where you get to see how and where the people live. Upon arrival at the ranch you get a briefing and suit up. Then you mount horses for a 30 minute ride to the edge of the forest. Then you dismount for a 45-60 minute hike that is moderate to challenging (depending on your fitness level) to the cave entrance which is a small hole in the ground. Then you rappel about 50 feet down into the cave through its ceiling.
The walk through the cave varies from beach-like surface, loose rocky terrain, and water ranging from ankle to chest high deep, depending on your height. You move through large caverns as well as slots and crawl spaces. At one point you must briefly swim underwater through a rock opening.
When you exit the cave, your horses are waiting for a 20 minute ride back to the ranch. Upon arrival you are served a nice lunch and then its back on the bus for the three hour ride back to the starting point. All in all its about a 10 hour day, but something you will never forget. The guides are great and you will thoroughly enjoy this trip.
Now for some qualifiers.
This is not a trip for children, the elderly, or those who are overweight. As the synopsis above indicates the day is long and physically demanding. You need to be healthy and in good physical condition. There were about 15 people in our group. Most were young people of college age or slightly older. There were a few perhaps in their 50s. I appeared to be the oldest at 68, but I have no health issues and train in the gym regularly.
Make sure you have a good breakfast before you come. You will be fully submerged in water for part of the cave trip so wear or bring a bathing suit, and do not bring anything that is not waterproof. A jump suit and rubber boots are provided along with a miner’s hat and harness. Bring socks for the boots to avoid blisters.
The boots have no support and are not great for hiking on terrain with sharp rocks. I have sensitive feet so by about two thirds the way through the cave my feet were in excruciating pain making it difficult to walk. However, I was not aware of anyone else with this problem. Nevertheless you will be much more comfortable if you wear hiking shoes or boots that you don’t mind being submerged in water.
This is a wonderful experience for the fit and adventurous traveler that will provide an interesting story to tell and many fond memories.
Written March 2, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi! Thank you so muy for your extensive and very good comments. We are very happy to receive all your comments and see that you enjoyed our tour. We hope to see you soon again at Fun Fun Cave. Regards from all of us!
Written March 4, 2015
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lynn A
1 contribution
I cant recomment this trip enough to anyone who is visiting DR it was an amazing experience from start to finish thanks to the amazing team of guys running the tour. They do everything they can to make sure the trip is enjoyable for everyone and work so hard. I was picked up from punta cana and it takes about 2 1/2 hours on the bus to get to the ranch which was exremely worth it. The guide made the journey really interesting and described all the different places we passed through. The horses are extremely well cared for and well trained and were amazing. After the ride you have a 45 minute hike which can be quite slippy but is not extremely hard in my opinion although I have previously done hill walking back home so i dont know if that made it seem easier. After the hike you repell into a cave which was an amazing experience and the guides made sure you felt comfortable and were really patient at showing you what to do. There is about an hour spent hiking through the cave which was absolutely amazing and so interesting. One thing you are glad of is the underwater "dunk" you have to do which was cold and refreshing after all the walking in the heat. After you get out the cave the horses are waiting there for you and you get given ice cold beer which was so refreshing and well needed. Then back on the horses to the ranch where there is a traditional dominican lunch provided which was really nice. This was the best trip I have ever done and is a lifetime experience I will never forget but it is definetely not for people who dont like excercise or mind sitting on a bus for a few hours as it is a long day and extremely tireing. If you choose to go make sure you take socks, bug repellant and money for tips and extra to buy the video which only costs $25 and is so worth it. I cant recommend this trip enough to anyone who likes horses and the outdoors! It was amazing from the beginning to the end all thanks to the amazing guides who work so hard to make this experience so memorable. Thank you to all the guys! I will definetely be back if im ever back in DR.
Written July 27, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sogo
Atlanta90 contributions
Dec 2015 • Solo
This is adventure to say the least. I was picked up in an air-conditioned bus at my resort at 6:15 AM. I joined the rest of the group after about 30-45 minutes and we were off. The bus ride was about 2-3 hours but afforded me an opportunity to see the rural areas of the DR. When we arrived at Rancho Capote, we were greeted and offered water and juice as well as ham/cheese sandwiches. We were then given locker keys, rubber boots and overalls and went into small dark quarters to prepare for our adventure. Fortunately I brought socks (make the boots more comfortable), sunscreen (arms were exposed during the horseback riding) and bug repellent (I didn't really see any bugs but suspect it's highly likely). Carlos "The Best" was our lead guide. He is entertaining, knowledgable and did an excellent job. He was assisted by Gary and Hendrix both extremely capable in their own right. In fact, Hendrix personally aided an older and apparently infirmed gentleman navigate this entire excursion. He is to be commended.
Munchie was our camera man and was present at every turn in the trail, cave, road. I ordered a video since I did not have a camera. It cost $40 and would have been worth it. However, it is not compatible with my Mac computer. Not really certain how it is formatted. It is a huge disappointment as I wanted to share my adventure with family and friends. That said, the day included a 45 minute horseback ride, a hike up a rocky and sometimes slick wash, a 60 foot rappel, a climb (sometimes on all 4) through a cave, a swim through some pretty chilly water, an ascent out of the cave, cold water or beer before mounting the horses to return to the ranch where we enjoyed a typical DR meal of chicken, pork, beans and rice, salad and plantains. The day was long (i didn't get back to my resort until 8:30 but what a memorable day!
It would be a great trip for al size groups and all ages (assuming a certain level of fitness)
Munchie was our camera man and was present at every turn in the trail, cave, road. I ordered a video since I did not have a camera. It cost $40 and would have been worth it. However, it is not compatible with my Mac computer. Not really certain how it is formatted. It is a huge disappointment as I wanted to share my adventure with family and friends. That said, the day included a 45 minute horseback ride, a hike up a rocky and sometimes slick wash, a 60 foot rappel, a climb (sometimes on all 4) through a cave, a swim through some pretty chilly water, an ascent out of the cave, cold water or beer before mounting the horses to return to the ranch where we enjoyed a typical DR meal of chicken, pork, beans and rice, salad and plantains. The day was long (i didn't get back to my resort until 8:30 but what a memorable day!
It would be a great trip for al size groups and all ages (assuming a certain level of fitness)
Written January 6, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, Fun Fun Cave wants to thank you for your comments. We are very happy to read that you enjoyed our tour from the begining. We are very sorry to see that you cannot view our video on your mac. Please, sent us an email with the specifications you need and We will do our best to send you a new one. We hope you come again to DR and visit us. Regards,
Written January 25, 2016
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Scholzdog
1 contribution
Jul 2014
My girl and I took the trip this past Monday 7/28/14 and we had an amazing time. We both absolutely loved it. The way the other reviewers described the day was exactly how we experienced it...3 hour drive in a comfortable bus, breakfast, horses through the countryside to the jungle's edge followed by a nice, long hike through the jungle to the cave's entrance into which we all repelled down. Then we were underground in a 30 million year old cave for 1.5 km. When we emerged, it was right back to the horses again which took us back to the ranch for a traditional, tasty Dominican lunch. One thing that bothered us is that they spoke Spanish most of the time on our particular tour because my girlfriend and I were the only ones that didn't speak Spanish. However, all of the Spanish-speaking people on our tour understood English perfectly so, again, it was a little frustrating. And, it was really upsetting that we never got a copy of the videotape for our trip. The guides told us that it would be dropped off at our hotel the next morning at 11am and we waited around as long as we could...until 12:30, but then we had to leave for the airport as our flight was departing at 2pm. It's sad that we had such an amazing time, but we will never have the video to remind us of our adventure at rancho capote's cueva fun fun tour. So do not wait until the end of your trip to take this tour because you may not be able to get a copy of the video. I sent them an email about it when we got back and I'm still hoping I may be able to get a copy of it because I really want to preserve the memory. All in all, it was the best excursion we went on in the Dominican Republic. Oh, and bring a change of clothes...don't forget extra socks.
Written July 31, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, Fun Fun Cave's staff wants to thank you for your comments. First of all, we want to apologize because you didn't have the whole tour in english. It is not right and we wont do that again. We are happy to see that however you enjoyed our tour a lot. We are very sorry too because your video didn't come on time. I will try to see if we have a copy of the video for that day and I will sent it to you. Let me know if you paid it. Regards,
Written December 10, 2014
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
William V
Brookville, PA86 contributions
Jul 2013 • Couples
I saw something on the web about Fun Fun cave in Hato Mayor Dominican Republic and decided that it might be a cool place to see. According to their website they had a restaurant, rooms (hotel) and a great cave tour. My wife and I went to Hato Mayor on our way from Punta Cana in July and had an extremely difficult time finding the place. We even had help from the Policia National. It is not in Hato Mayor at all but is a 2 hour drive up and down a very bad road in the middle of nowhere. There were no signs pointing us in the right direction or anything. We asked several locals who had heard of "Cueva Capote" which was the old name of the cave. We had to cross through several gates ford a small stream and finally found it.
Well the rooms they advertised were no more than crappy wooden shacks with tin roofs, the restaurant had no food and we were told we could take the tour but it would cost us $85.00 US each and that it was a 45 minute walk through a hot and humid rain forest. I let them know how I felt and left. The people there just didn't seem to care. The cave is located in the Los Haitises National Park. I believe that the person running the tours doesn't have the proper ownership or rights to run tours in the national park.
Aviod this "attraction" at all costs. They should be taught a lesson about what I feel was a scam. Beware!!!!
Well the rooms they advertised were no more than crappy wooden shacks with tin roofs, the restaurant had no food and we were told we could take the tour but it would cost us $85.00 US each and that it was a 45 minute walk through a hot and humid rain forest. I let them know how I felt and left. The people there just didn't seem to care. The cave is located in the Los Haitises National Park. I believe that the person running the tours doesn't have the proper ownership or rights to run tours in the national park.
Aviod this "attraction" at all costs. They should be taught a lesson about what I feel was a scam. Beware!!!!
Written September 17, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear friend, first of all we want to thank you for your comments because we take care about all comments that we receive from our customers. We are very sorry to see that you didn’t make the tour and there were a lot of confusions on your trip. We want to know, please, where you read about a restaurant and rooms at Fun Fun Cave because we don’t have rooms at all. What you see is a house where the family who takes care about the farm lives, another one where you have all the equipment you need to do the tour and another one where we have the gift shop, then you have the kitchen, bathrooms and tables and chairs to take the breakfast and lunch.
This is a tour that you have to buy before you go or pay it directly at the Ranch. You can buy it by Internet or at the hotels with the tour operators. When you buy the tour, you can come with our transport (a bus) or you can come with your own car but we wait for you at Hato Mayor to take you directly to Fun Fun Cave.
It’s a very safety tour and we are operating since 1996. It’s an all day tour. Here you have the details:
• Adventurers are picked up from their hotels at the pre-arranged times by our qualified staff.
• Later, fully equipped buses will drive the adventurers to Capote Ranch (approximate journey time is 2 hours 30 minutes).
• 10-minute stop to a tourist stop on the road to Rancho Capote.
• Arrival at Capote Ranch, where the adventurers have an afternoon snack of ham and cheese sandwiches, fruit juices, fresh fruits, coffee and milk.
• Equipment with appropriate clothes for the excursion: special clothing, Wellington boots, a harness and a crash helmet with a miner´s lamp.
• Horse riding transportation for about 30 minutes, always overlooked and helped by expert professional guides.
• A long walk through the natural forest (Haitises National Park) for aprox. 40 minutes to the Cave’s mouth.
• The adventurers will then come down the cave by Rappelling (abseiling). They will be helped, at all times, by expert professional guides who constantly keep “Safety measures” for the adventurer to feel secure and comfortable. The height from the Cave’s mouth to the bottom is approximately 18 meters.
• A walk inside the Cave lasting approximately 1.4 km out of a total of 8km that has yet to be explored. During this walk an expert guide will give detailed information about all the wonders to be found in the Cave.
• The Cave has a subterranean river which the adventurer will go through a few times during the trip, but once we arrive at the canyon we can swim to reach the other bank of the river. However, the adventurers will decide if they want to swim or take an alternative route.
• Arriving on foot, at the Cave’s mouth, where the adventurer will enjoy a typical National drink. Afterwards the adventurers will ride a horse back to the Ranch. The approximate time of this journey is 15 minutes.
• On arrival at the Ranch, the Adventurer has the option to have a shower or bathe in the nearby river. After that, the adventurer will enjoy a Dominican succulent lunch that includes rice, kidney beans, chicken stew and/or young goat (kid) stew, steak “al carbon” (charcoal grilled steak), salad, fried bananas, fresh fruit, coffee and milk. All of it accompanied by a typical national drink. If you take more than one drink, you have to pay for it, except water.
• Time to digest the food and for the adventurers to go back to their hotels.
As you can see, it is a completely tour made with 3 specialized trained guides for groups and they speak Spanish, English, French, German and Russian too.
We hope you are still in Dominican Republic and we invite you to come to visit us for free, so you can experience our tour.
If you need more information or you want to contact us, please, fell free to send me an email to margabarcelob@cuevafunfun.net and I will be very happy to assist you.
Best regards,
Margarita Barceló
Written September 20, 2013
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Cocozelle
Soldiers Grove, WI18 contributions
Aug 2019
We booked the day trip to the cave weeks ahead of time, and the manager was very helpful (via email) in accomodating our special requests, i.e. pick up and drop at Sabana de la Mar instead of the usual. Our driver Edwin was punctual, helpful, friendly, professional, and an excellent driver on those rough roads. We loved the ride!
The cave tour was awesome, wish we could do it again! The breakfast sandwiches were just OK, but everything else was super. First, they tell you to change your clothes in a locker room (with bathroom and showers) into a swimsuit and a big orange jumpsuit that they provide. They provide lockers for putting all your stuff in, and then you strap the key to your suit. They suggested we wear their rubber boots but they were OK with us keeping our old sneakers on. Then they put rapelling harnesses and hard hats on us and put us on some very nice, gentle horses (whose name you have to remember for later!).
The horse ride goes through the farm, and you see some agricultural stuff and people working. After about 1/2 hour, the horses could go no further and we had to get off. We each got a water bottle and then hiked through the jungle for a mile or two. There were some ups and downs but not too much elevation change. The guide pointed out interesting plants and animals along the way. The jungle was awesome - very jungly, though not quite like the rain forests in Costa Rica. There were a ton of mosquitoes, and of course I forgot to put on bug spray despite all the TripAdvisor advice, but our guide gave us some leaves from a citronella-like plant that we rubbed on our skin. The mosquitoes were huge and everywhere but not aggressive at all (not like in Wisconsin!).
When we got to the cave opening, the guides showed us how to strap on, position ourselves, and then slowly let ourselves down. It was easy. I instantly forgot all the instructions because I was nervous but made it down just fine anyway. The cave itself is huge and long and has some cool formations. We couldn't see everything because the lights on our helmets weren't that bright, but it was amazing. We hiked along the length of the cave for quite a while, then got so low that the bottom of the cave had water in it (surprising clean and quite cool). We continued through the river, walking in just a few feet of water. Then the river goes under some rocks and you had to duck down all the way into the water and go underneath it. It's only a few feet long and the guide takes your hand and pulls you through. It all went so quick I didn't have time to panic or even get cold.
My son brought his GoPro along and took great videos. I brought my cell phone in a waterproof pouch, which I hung off my harness. Our second guide took lots of picture of us with the phone, he know all the photogenic spots along the way. (On that day, there was no option for a photographer to make the $25 photo package.)
Soon after, the cave opens up to the outside, and there is a swimming hole where local kids were having a blast. The horses were waiting for us there, as well as another bottle of water. Then a 15-20 min horse ride back to the ranch. They let you trot or gallup if you want.
Lunch was a treat! Nice dominican food with fresh lemonade and a coconut paste dessert. Note that there is a bucket for tips for the guides in the locker rooms.
This was the highlight of our trip to the DR! Thank you, Carmen!
The cave tour was awesome, wish we could do it again! The breakfast sandwiches were just OK, but everything else was super. First, they tell you to change your clothes in a locker room (with bathroom and showers) into a swimsuit and a big orange jumpsuit that they provide. They provide lockers for putting all your stuff in, and then you strap the key to your suit. They suggested we wear their rubber boots but they were OK with us keeping our old sneakers on. Then they put rapelling harnesses and hard hats on us and put us on some very nice, gentle horses (whose name you have to remember for later!).
The horse ride goes through the farm, and you see some agricultural stuff and people working. After about 1/2 hour, the horses could go no further and we had to get off. We each got a water bottle and then hiked through the jungle for a mile or two. There were some ups and downs but not too much elevation change. The guide pointed out interesting plants and animals along the way. The jungle was awesome - very jungly, though not quite like the rain forests in Costa Rica. There were a ton of mosquitoes, and of course I forgot to put on bug spray despite all the TripAdvisor advice, but our guide gave us some leaves from a citronella-like plant that we rubbed on our skin. The mosquitoes were huge and everywhere but not aggressive at all (not like in Wisconsin!).
When we got to the cave opening, the guides showed us how to strap on, position ourselves, and then slowly let ourselves down. It was easy. I instantly forgot all the instructions because I was nervous but made it down just fine anyway. The cave itself is huge and long and has some cool formations. We couldn't see everything because the lights on our helmets weren't that bright, but it was amazing. We hiked along the length of the cave for quite a while, then got so low that the bottom of the cave had water in it (surprising clean and quite cool). We continued through the river, walking in just a few feet of water. Then the river goes under some rocks and you had to duck down all the way into the water and go underneath it. It's only a few feet long and the guide takes your hand and pulls you through. It all went so quick I didn't have time to panic or even get cold.
My son brought his GoPro along and took great videos. I brought my cell phone in a waterproof pouch, which I hung off my harness. Our second guide took lots of picture of us with the phone, he know all the photogenic spots along the way. (On that day, there was no option for a photographer to make the $25 photo package.)
Soon after, the cave opens up to the outside, and there is a swimming hole where local kids were having a blast. The horses were waiting for us there, as well as another bottle of water. Then a 15-20 min horse ride back to the ranch. They let you trot or gallup if you want.
Lunch was a treat! Nice dominican food with fresh lemonade and a coconut paste dessert. Note that there is a bucket for tips for the guides in the locker rooms.
This was the highlight of our trip to the DR! Thank you, Carmen!
Written August 24, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Our pleasure! Thanks for your review!
Written August 28, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Does anyone know if this tour is still running? I couldn't contact them in 2018 but see reviews after that time. Tried again for our upcoming trip but the site is down and my email bounced back.
Written November 24, 2021
Сколько стоит экскурсия в пещеру Фун фун если брать ее на месте, доехав до ранчо на личном авто?
Written December 8, 2018
I read many times that you are in the water, sometimes until the knees or you even need to dive.
Is it possible to go through this tour as nonswimmer?
Written July 27, 2018
Hi Pascal:
You dont need to know how to swim for this tour. The swimming part is optional. However, you will get wet. The water level can go over your hip, giving you a refreshing sensation after the hike!
Written August 1, 2018
Are you able to bring a camera and take your own pictures if not what is the cost for photos
Written February 8, 2018
We would love to do this excursion but I'm not great with heights. How far do you repel? Is it tight quarters all the way? How long does it take to get to the floor of the cave? Can I close my eyes to do it?😳
Written January 7, 2018
Hi Cindy,
The rapel is 18 meters, but you dont see the ground because of the position you will be at. Its tight for the first 3 meters then it opens wide, but you'll always be touching one of the walls. It takes less than 3 minutes. You could close your eyes if you want. Our guides are trained to make you feel comfortable and safe all the time, if you need it they will handle the ropes to get you to the floor. We have had other guests with similar conditions and they have enjoyed the trip. Hope to see you soon.
Written January 10, 2018
jfam486
Greenville, North Carolina
How much is this? I am having trouble seeing the prices.
Written October 26, 2017
It is US$155.00 transportation included. We pick up from every hotel in Punta Cana, Uvero Alto, Bavaro, Bayahibe and Juan Dolio. Without transportation is US$135. Kid is US$110 + US$20 with transportation.
Written October 27, 2017
You recommend that children are to be 11 or older. Any reason for that? I realism the trip is long and lots of hiking but is that why? Or is it because of the rappelling? My daughter is 8 and really wants to go on this excursion. Thanks!
Written January 22, 2017
Hi Monica, it is for safery reasons.
Regards,
Written February 3, 2017
Is there pick up available from Majestic Elegance in Punta Cana? Also is there a size or weight limit? Lastly, how deep is the water in the cave? Do you have to know how to swim? We are hoping on taking the tour April 1, 2018 but wanted to ask these few questions before booking. Thank you!
Written December 15, 2016
Hi. Yes, we have pick-up service from Majestic Elegance hotel. You have to be at the lobby at 6:10 am. The weight limit is 300lb. About the water, don't worry because if you do not want to swim we have an alternative route and you can go walking. You can come on monday, wednesday or friday without any problem but if you want to come on weekend, we have to have at least 8 people to run the tour.
If you need more information, please, do not hesitate to contact us again.
Regards,
Margarita Barceló
Written December 19, 2016
My wife and I are thinking about going and would be driving there and not taking a bus (aka pickup from Punta Cana). Approximately what time should we arrive if we are meeting a tour group there?
Written October 26, 2016
Hi, you are about 2 hours and a half away from Hato Mayor. If you want to come with your car, we can meet you at Hato Mayor and then drive you to Fun Fun Cave. The diference with the Price with transport is only 20 USD per person. We recommend to come with our transport.
Just let me know what do you prefer and when do you want to come.
Awaiting for your answer, I remain with kind regards.
Margarita Barceló
Written October 31, 2016
Hola, tengo Unas vacaciones planeadas para Santo Domingo y me interesa mucho el tour, no obstante me quedare en la ciudad de Santo Domingo y no tendre a mi disposicion un vehiculo, hay alguna manera que ustedes me recojan en algun punto ya sea de la ciudad o de hato mayor que es donde tengo entendido esta la cueva.
Written September 17, 2016
Hola Elizabeth, podemos recogerte en Hato Mayor. Quedaríamos en un punto de encuentro y pasaríamos a recogerte ahí para llevarte hasta el Rancho. Podrías venir en lunes, miércoles o viernes. Qué día te va mejor?
Espero tus comentarios y/o preguntas de lugar.
Saludos,
Margarita Barceló
Written September 20, 2016
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