Tips for Visiting Scape Park in Punta Cana [First Time Guide]

Scape Park in Cap Cana was one of our favorite things to do in Punta Cana! But I found there wasn’t much information on the internet about this visit. Here’s our guide on how to prepare, what to know, and the things to do at Scape Park in Punta Cana.

What is Scape Park Exactly?

This is a relaxing park with both natural wonders and man-made attractions. Perfect for either the chill or adventurous traveler. Listen, I don’t like adrenaline activities, yet I had fun at Scape Park. There’s so much to see and do here, from open cenote caves and waterfalls to zip lines and cave climbs.

You’ll need to set aside an entire day to experience all the Scape Park offers! My biggest regret was not getting there earlier! And here’s why.

Beginner Tips for Visiting

Despite what they say online about closing at 5:00 pm, the park actually closes earlier. By 4:00 pm, the workers are leading people out.
The ziplines is one of the most sought-after attractions, and everyone will rush to it when the park opens. So try saving this for a bit later when the lines have died down.
The same applies to Hoyo Azul, which was the highlight for us!
Be prepared for some walking. Scape Park is not small. For instance, the trail from the entrance to the Hoyo Azul can be about 20 minutes of walking. And from the waterfalls to the smaller cave is another 15 minutes of walking. This sounds easy, but the time walking adds up.
Also, the Hoyo Azul and the smaller swimmable cave have many steps.
Consider bringing a waterproof case to protect your valuables and close-toe water shoes.
You’ll want comfortable shoes when walking between places, especially since the trail to Hoyo Azul is natural (but very easy).
There are lockers at the front, which you can rent.

How to Book Your Tickets to Scape Park

Book a Hoyo Azul & Scape Park Tour with your entry fee included. [BOOK HERE]
In-person when you arrive at the entrance of the park.
Online through the Scape Park website.

How to Get to Scape Park

Taxi from the hotel: Dios Guia Punta Cana has excellent reviews for providing taxi services around Punta Cana.
Uber: Uber works in Punta Cana, and you can even book a ride in advance!
Scape Park Tours: The Hoyo Azule & Scape Park Tour above offers free hotel transport from select hotels, with pickup locations/times listed. [BOOK HERE]

History & Ecology of Scape Park

Scape Park Punta Cana is a thrilling natural park filled with cenotes, caves, and tropical scenic views spread across more than 247 acres of jungle. The park is located in the Dominican Republic’s Cap Cana, a private neighborhood in Punta Cana.

One of the main attractions is the Hoyo Azul Cenote Cave, a stunning natural blue pool/lagoon surrounded by limestone and botanical gardens that were once used by our native Taíno people.

While there are some random monkeys, iguanas, parrots, and other animals in Scape Park, look out for the national bird of the island–the Palmchat (Cigua Palmera), which has the most attractive red eyes.

Things to Do in Scape Park

1. Hoyo Azul Cenote Cave ★

Hoyo Azul Cenote Cave–also known as the ‘blue hole’–is by far the highlight of Scape Park Dominican Republic, and one of the most memorable things to do in Punta Cana. This cenote is an underground limestone sinkhole with stunning turquoise-colored waters. You can gaze upon the water from the walking bridge or bring your swim gear to take a dip (which I highly recommend you do, as these waters are so super clear).

2. Zip Line Eco Adventure

This is the largest of the Scape Park ziplines that take you flying through the jungle canopy. Zip Line Eco Adventure has eight lines spread among the cliff with fantastic mountain views. The highest platform is 250 feet, and the longest ride is 1,500 ft.

3. Saltos Azules (Blue Waterfalls) + Zipline Drop ★

Surrounded by serene waterfalls and ancient caverns, adventure seekers can get their fill of water fun at Saltos Azules! You can jump from the Mabo rope, ride the water hammocks, or zipline down into the cool blue water–all while surrounded by natural beauty. These water zip lines are an experience you won’t forget, but be prepared for the water to be a little chilly!

4. Iguanabonita Cave Tour

Travel under Cap Cana through a vast underground network of chambers on the Inguanabonita Cave Tour. This looks like a really exciting experience where you get to explore while learning about the natural geological limestone formations of the region. You must wear closed-toe shoes in this part of the park, per regulations.

The last tour here is at 2:00 PM. So I sadly did not make it on time to go. You’ll have to tell me in the comments if you liked it!

5. Cultural Route

I always recommend including cultural contexts in your itinerary when traveling to the Dominican Republic. This Cultural Route takes you back in time with replicas of different architectural homes that have been a part of Dominican heritage. You’ll get a chance to learn a little about the Taíno Indians, enslaved Africans, Spanish invaders, and the Dominican farmers who work these lands.

7. Smaller Cave Swim ★

The Cave Swim is a magical experience that lets you swim in an underground spring, also once used by the Taíno people before the Europeans committed a near genocide against them. This a unique experience, completely hidden from natural sunlight. It is lit up with colorful lights so you can swim in what looks like pink, purple, and blue water while surrounded by a natural cenote pool.

This tiny cave is at the end of the Cultural Route (listed above). After a very easy hiking trail and some steps, you enter the cave with a natural pool inside. I say you either leave this one for the very end or the beginning so you can have it all to yourself!

8. Iguanaland

Have you ever seen a rhinoceros iguana? Iguanaland has this amazing species that you can only find in this area of the world, making it a must-see on your list of things to do in the Dominican Republic. Park officials in this area are trained and ready with everything you need to know about these reptiles and teach you how to keep their habitat safe.

9. Sunshine Cruise

The Sunshine Cruise is an exclusive ride along the best beaches in Punta Cana along the private coastline of the Cap Cana Resort. On this catamaran ride, you’ll also get a chance to go snorkeling in the Becaneros reef before stopping by Juanillo Bay to enjoy some drinks at the open bar and sandbar swimming. The boat tour is about 2.5 hours and maxes out at 50 people, with the option for private boat tours.

10. Monkey Island

This is hard to miss as it’s located in the middle of everything. Here, you can simply walk by an “island” to see the squirrel and capuchin monkeys in their open-air environment aka Monkey Island. You get to watch the little guys jump and play around (cage-free), an interesting experience for kids and animal lovers. Beware: The monkeys will be close enough to jump on top of you!

11. Parrots Island

Did you know parrots are one of the most intelligent bird species? You can come to see for yourself at Parrots Island, located right next to Monkey Island. There’s an extra fee to interact with the parrots, and there’s plenty of staff around to help you have fun with these amazing creatures.

12. El Rancho

El Rancho is another interactive animal attraction where you can get up close to horses, donkeys, ponies, and goats. The property is designed to look like an authentic Dominican Republic ranch. It can get hot in this area of the park, so we recommend pairing El Rancho with a water activity after to cool off.

Costs & Fees to Enter Scape Park

Dominicans are offered a discounted price! This helps keep these attractions accessible to locals. A wonderful initiative!
- Full Admissions to the park- Adults $50.00; Kids $25.00
- Full Admissions to the park + Sunshine Cruise- Adults $90.00; Kids $55.00
- Full Admissions to the park + Buggies- Adults $90.00; Kids $55.00
Full Admissions to the park- Adults $129.00; Kids $69.00
Full Admissions to the park + Sunshine Cruise- Adults $169.00; Kids $129.00
Full Admissions to the park + Buggies- Adults $169.00; Kids $109.00

Scape Park Hours & Schedules

Scape Park is Open from Saturday to Wednesday. Remember that they start kicking you out y 4:00 PM! These are their “official” hours:

Saturday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sunday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Monday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Is it Worth Visiting Scape park in Punta Cana?

I had very low expectations for Scape Park. It seemed touristy, crowded, and possibly boring. But boy, was I surprised! It ended up being a lot of fun with attractions ranging from natural wonders (my favorite) to guided tours, ziplines and other unique experiences. I actually really do recommend Scape Park if you’re in the Punta Cana region. This hidden gem is a great destination for a day trip from Punta Cana. And if you like Scape Park, consider visiting Ojos Indigenas (also in Punta Cana) which is similar but smaller, even calmer, and with several natural cenotes.