This experience has adventure stamped all over it. Traditional Taino ceremonies and swimming in underground pools, topped off with safari lorry or off-road buggy rides, make for an adrenaline-pumping evening from Punta Cana. Juan, one of our local guides, says ‘Caves and cenotes played an important role in the indigenous Taino culture. Despite looking so tempting with their cool aquamarine water, the Taino people never swam in the cenotes or used the water because they believed these places were gateways to the underworld.’ Settle in for an authentic evening with a Dominican dinner and open bar, followed by live music and dancing around a bonfire.

To kick off your action-packed evening, you’ll power through the Dominican countryside, zoom along dirt tracks and watch as the landscape transforms from day to night. Guided by torchlight, you’ll continue your journey to a natural cave pool, known as a cenote, with atmospheric lighting. Swimming here will feel pretty different to paddling in your resort pool, so breathe in the spirit of the place as you soak in the cool waters. Here, you’ll begin to learn about the traditional ceremonies of Taino communities. Water held special significance, so expect to hear about cleansing and purification rites, as well as catching a glimpse of sacred cave art. If you choose the safari lorry option, you’ll also get to visit the eerie depths of Yara Cave, a second freshwater limestone cave containing a cenote.

With flaming torches lighting the way, you’ll make your way back to base for a well-earned drink and a tasty dinner of local cuisine. The team at the restaurant pride themselves on creating classic Dominican dishes, freshly prepared with seasonal produce from the island. Rounding off the evening is another highlight – a traditional Taino dance show, with the chance to join in with a boogie around the bonfire or enjoy the open bar under the stars.