El Valle / Excursions

About El Valle

El Valle is a hidden gem on the Samaná Peninsula, known for its untouched beaches, waterfalls, and lush jungle landscapes. Far from mass tourism, it offers a rare balance of adventure and tranquility, where nature, culture, and community thrive together.

EXCURSIONS

Playa Ermitano

A secluded beach surrounded by turquoise water and jungle — wild, peaceful, and breathtakingly beautiful.

Cascada Catano

The secret waterfall of El Valle. A very authentic experience where you will hike to our beautiful waterfall and you will visit the local cacao farm, where you will have the chance to try raw cacao nibs and drink real hot chocolate.

Ziplinging

Soar above the jungle canopy and experience El Valle from a thrilling new perspective.

Quad tour

Explore hidden paths, beaches, and local scenery on an adventurous quad ride.

Horseriding at the beach

A magical experience riding along the shoreline, especially during sunset.

Playa Rincon

Often named one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean — wide, untouched, and unforgettable.

Cascada El Limon

A stunning waterfall hike leading to one of the region’s most iconic natural pools.

Cayo Levantado y Las Ballenas

Crystal-clear waters, white sand, and seasonal whale watching in Samaná Bay.

Los Haitises

A protected natural park featuring mangroves, caves, and dramatic limestone formations.

Playa Fronton

A dramatic beach surrounded by towering cliffs — perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

WELLNESS ACTIVITIES

Yoga classes

Grounding yoga sessions designed to restore balance and connect body and breath.

Bachata classes

Dance rooted in Dominican culture – playful, expressive, and joyful.

Sound Healing

Deep relaxation through sound vibrations, helping release stress and restore harmony.

Breathwork & Ice Bath

Powerful practices to reset the nervous system, build resilience, and reconnect with inner strength.

Restaurants & Dining

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El Valle Lodge Restaurant

All guests staying at Kauna enjoy breakfast included daily at the El Valle Lodge restaurant. The restaurant also offers dinner service, featuring a fresh, seasonal menu inspired by local ingredients and international flavors. Meals are thoughtfully prepared and enjoyed in a relaxed, jungle setting.

Leisy’s Garden

Leisy’s Garden offers a more intimate dining experience, rooted in simplicity, freshness, and connection to the land. This space highlights local produce as a farm to table restaurant, and createsnourishing meals in a tranquil garden environment.

Bésame Mucho

One of El Valle’s most loved restaurant experiences is stopping on the way to the beach for an authentic Argentinian empanada, well known throughout the valley.

Local Restaurants in El Valle

In addition, El Valle is home to several small, locally owned restaurants offering daily menus, fresh fish, and traditional Dominican dishes. These spots provide guests with an authentic taste of the region and the opportunity to support the local community.

RETREAT

Casa Caona is an ideal setting for retreats seeking true disconnection, nature, and presence. Located in a remote jungle environment just five minutes from the beach, Caona offers a peaceful and inspiring space away from crowds, noise, and distractions.

Our facilities include dedicated yoga domes, open-air shared spaces, and flexible accommodation layouts, allowing us to host both small, intimate retreats (1–10 participants) as well as larger groups of up to 50 participants through nearby affiliate accommodations within El Valle. This makes Casa Caona uniquely suited for facilitators who want a close-knit experience without sacrificing the ability to scale.

Caona regularly welcomes wellness, movement, and creative retreats throughout the year. With shared bungalows and sofa camas, we are able to accommodate individual bed arrangements while maintaining a sense of community and connection. Retreat hosts benefit from a setting that naturally supports grounding, focus, and meaningful group experiences.