Welcome to Dominican Republic

One of the most appealing Caribbean islands – with its intriguing mix of colonial history and stunning scenery – the Dominican Republican is a perennial favorite of sun seekers.

A diverse geography lends itself to ample outdoor recreation opportunities, from the sparkling sand of Playa Rincon to the white water of Río Yaque del Norte. Busy tourist areas commingle with rural fishing villages, while Santo Domingo’s romantic Zona Colonial neighbors boisterous nightclubs, blasting merengue and salsa music.

Go whale watching off the Península de Samaná. Trek through the rain forest near Puerto Plata to the 27 waterfalls of Damajagua, accessible by wading, swimming and climbing rocks, ropes and ladders. Catch a winter baseball game between longtime rivals, the Tigres del Licey and Leones del Escogido, at Estadio Quisqueya in Santo Domingo.

Slip away to the sleepy village of Las Galeras, one of the prettiest spots on the entire island. Care to get even more remote? Take a boat to gorgeous Bahía de Las Águilas, seldom visited by tourists. A blend of Atlantic and Caribbean cultures, Dominican Republic has it all.

Unique Facts

• Samaná Bay is a humpback whale sanctuary from January to March.
• The oldest colonial settlement in the Americas, Santo Domingo, is in the Dominican Republic. The island is home to Christopher Columbus’s first New World landing point in 1492.
• Search for the Dominican Republic’s two precious endemic stones not found anywhere else in the world: Dominican Amber and Larimar.
• The island boasts the highest peak in the Caribbean, Pico Duarte, and has the lowest elevation in the region as well.
• The island’s hypersaline (very salty!) Lago Enriquillo hosts beautiful pink flamingos and a huge population of American crocodiles.

Language

The Dominican Republic’s official language is Spanish.

When To Go

The best time to visit for dry weather is between December and April. The wet season is from June to November. Shoulder seasons, with fewer crowds, are spring and fall.

Airports

Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)
Las Américas International Airport
Gregorio Luperón International Airport
La Romana International Airport
Cibao International Airport
Samaná El Catey International Airport
La Isabela International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for six months beyond date of arrival.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None for days of 30 days or less.

Vaccinations

None

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types A and B. Standard voltage:110V. Frequency: 60Hz.

Currency

Official currency: Dominican Peso

Getting Around

Driving conditions vary across the Dominican Republic. Use extreme caution when driving yourself or consider hiring a professional, licensed driver familiar with local roads and customs. You can hire one of these driers through a local car rental agency.

Public transportation options include a metro and public bus system as well as shared bus or van taxis known as guaguas (converted vans or microbuses that do not meet US safety standards).

Use a reputable taxi service, either one recommended by your hotel or a well-known, vetted company. Uber and other ride-share services are available in many parts of the country.

Private bus line service is available between large cities and to popular tourist destinations.

Driver’s License

A valid driver’s license from your country of residence is required.

US Embassy Info

US Embassy Santo Domingo
Av. Republica de Colombia #57
Santo Domingo
Dominican Republic
Tel: 809-567-7775

Local Visitor Info

Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism
Avenida Luperón, esquina Cayetano Germosén
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 1911
Fire: 1112

Safety and Security

Crime is a threat to tourists through the Dominican Republic. Take precautions, such as handing over personal belongings without resisting if you are robbed, not carrying valuables and traveling with a partner or in a group.