This combination excursion was well-planned and executed. As noted, it is a very long day. You get to see the real DR. The only negative is that communication prior to arrival on what to expect was lacking. Some didn't know about the horse ride to the waterfall. This is not a horseback ride on the beach - it's up a mountain on a narrow, rocky, and very muddy/slippery trail. The horses are led by local guides who walk up and down this trail with regularity. Come to find out they work for tips only and though they certainly earn it providing local knowledge and taking pictures for you, we did not know to bring cash and could not leave them much. There are also 250 steps to climb on foot back from the waterfall. Not all were fit enough to make this trek. Recommend bringing a snack as lunch is pretty late. They do stop at a store for restrooms and souvenirs which sells some snacks/drinks. Overall would highly recommend (whales were awesome!), but not for children or elderly.