Dominican Republic Destination Guide
This essential guide will help you prepare for an unforgettable journey through the Dominican Republic.
Essential Travel Information for the Dominican Republic
Everything you need to know before your Dominican Republic adventure
Visa & Entry Requirements
- Tourist Card: Most visitors need to purchase a tourist card ($10 USD) valid for 30 days.
- Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.
- Proof of Onward Travel: Immigration may ask for proof of onward/return travel.
- Health Requirements: Check current vaccination and entry requirements before departure.
Currency & Payments
- Dominican Peso (DOP) is the official currency. 1 USD ≈ 56 DOP (check current rates).
- ATMs: Available in tourist areas. Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid blocked transactions.
- Credit Cards: Accepted in hotels and tourist areas, but cash is king in small towns.
- Tipping: 10% for restaurants and taxis; $1-2 USD per bag for porters.
Mobile & Internet
- SIM Cards: Claro and Altice offer affordable data packages. Purchase at the airport.
- WiFi: Available in hotels and resorts, but may be limited in remote areas.
- Power Adapters: Dominican Republic uses Type A and B plugs (same as USA/Canada).
Time Zone
- Dominican Republic follows Atlantic Standard Time (AST) – UTC -4.
- The Dominican Republic is 1 hour ahead of U.S. Eastern Standard Time (when US is not on daylight saving time).
- The country does not observe daylight saving time.
Climate & Weather
- Tropical Climate: Hot and humid year-round. Temperatures between 25°C - 32°C (77°F - 90°F).
- Dry Season: November – April (best time to visit)
- Hurricane Season: June – November (peak in August and September)
- Packing Tip: Light clothing, rain gear, and sun protection.
Emergency Contacts
- Tourist Police: 📞 911 or +1 809-200-3500
- U.S. Embassy: 📞 +1 809-567-7775
- UK Embassy: 📞 +1 809-472-7111
- Canadian Embassy: 📞 +1 809-262-3100
Water Safety
- Drinking Water: Tap water is not recommended for drinking.
- Tooth Brushing: It's okay to gargle after brushing teeth, but bottled water is preferred, especially for sensitive stomachs.
- Bottled Water: Most hotels provide free bottled water daily, and it's widely available at local stores (called colmados).
Dress Code
- Beachwear: Not appropriate for nightlife or city venues.
- Nightlife: While formal attire isn't necessary, avoid flip-flops and beach outfits when visiting bars or clubs.
- Recommendation: Smart casual clothing is ideal if you plan to enjoy the Dominican nightlife.
Packing Checklist for the Dominican Republic
Use this checklist to ensure you pack everything you need for your tropical getaway
Travel Documents & Essentials
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Flight itinerary & proof of onward travel
- Travel insurance details
- Credit/debit cards
- Cash for tourist card ($10 USD) and tips
- Travel wallet or money belt
- Copies of important documents (separate from originals)
- Emergency contact information
Clothing & Accessories
- T-shirts/light tops (moisture-wicking)
- Shorts/lightweight pants
- Swimwear (at least 2 sets)
- Beach cover-up or sarong
- Comfortable sandals and walking shoes
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Sunglasses & wide-brimmed hat
- One nicer outfit for restaurants/nightlife
Health & Safety
- Prescription medications (in original packaging)
- High SPF sunscreen (reef-safe)
- Insect repellent with DEET
- After-sun lotion or aloe vera
- Hand sanitizer/wet wipes
- Basic first-aid supplies
- Antidiarrheal medication
- Reusable water bottle
Electronics & Gadgets
- Phone & charger
- Camera/GoPro & charger
- Portable charger/power bank
- Waterproof phone case or dry bag
- Headphones
- E-reader or books for beach time
- Plug adapters (Type A/B - same as USA)
Packing Tips
- Pack light! Most hotels and resorts offer laundry services.
- Bring a small day bag for beach excursions and exploring.
- Don't forget reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral reefs during snorkeling or diving.
- Keep valuables in your carry-on luggage and use the hotel safe.
Top Destinations & Experiences
Discover the incredible places you'll visit during your Dominican Republic adventure
Santo Domingo
The oldest European city in the Americas, Santo Domingo blends colonial history with vibrant Dominican culture.
Must-See Attractions:
- Colonial Zone – UNESCO World Heritage Site with historic buildings and cobblestone streets.
- Alcázar de Colón – Columbus family palace built in 1510.
- Calle El Conde – Pedestrian shopping street with cafes and shops.
- Los Tres Ojos – Natural limestone caves with underground lakes.
Your trip includes a guided walking tour of the Colonial Zone with a local historian!
Punta Cana
Famous for its stunning beaches with white sand and turquoise waters, Punta Cana is the perfect tropical paradise.
Must-See Attractions:
- Bávaro Beach – One of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
- Hoyo Azul – Natural cenote with crystal-clear blue water.
- Scape Park – Eco-adventure park with zip lines and natural attractions.
- Catalina Island – A pristine island perfect for snorkeling.
Enjoy two free days in Punta Cana to relax on the beach or join optional excursions!
Samaná Peninsula
The Samaná Peninsula offers natural beauty, lush landscapes, and amazing wildlife viewing opportunities.
Must-See Attractions:
- El Limón Waterfall – Spectacular 52-meter waterfall in the jungle.
- Whale Watching – See humpback whales from January to March.
- Playa Rincón – Pristine beach with palm trees and crystal waters.
- Los Haitises National Park – Mangrove forests and limestone karst formations.
The Samaná excursion includes a boat trip and guided nature walks with expert local guides!
Must-Try Dominican Foods
Dominican cuisine blends Spanish, African, and Taíno influences into delicious dishes. Here are some foods you shouldn't miss:
La Bandera
The national dish consisting of rice, beans, and meat served with salad and plantains.
Empanadas
Deep-fried pastries filled with meat, cheese, or seafood.
Sancocho
Hearty stew made with various meats, vegetables, and root vegetables.
Tostones
Twice-fried plantain slices, crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Pescado con Coco
Fresh fish cooked in coconut milk with vegetables and spices.
Morir Soñando
Refreshing drink made with orange juice, milk, vanilla, and sugar.
Local Culture & Responsible Travel
Tips for respectful travel and cultural awareness during your adventure
Cultural Etiquette
- Greetings: Dominicans are warm and friendly. A handshake is common for first meetings, and friends often greet with a kiss on the cheek.
- Time: "Dominican time" is relaxed. Punctuality isn't always expected in social situations.
- Music & Dance: Merengue and bachata are an important part of the culture. Don't be shy about joining in!
- Language: Spanish is the official language. Learning a few basic phrases goes a long way.
- Photography: Always ask before taking photos of locals, especially in rural areas.
Responsible Tourism
- Environmental Impact: Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid single-use plastics.
- Support Local: Buy souvenirs from local artisans and eat at locally-owned restaurants.
- Water Conservation: The Dominican Republic faces water scarcity issues. Be mindful of your usage.
- Marine Life: Never touch coral or disturb marine animals while snorkeling or diving.
- Community Respect: Ask permission before entering private property or taking photos in communities.
⚠️ Important Safety Note
While the Dominican Republic is generally safe for tourists, take normal precautions. Stay in tourist areas, don't display valuables, and use hotel safes for important documents. Be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs and seek advice from your hotel before venturing to unfamiliar areas.
Tipping Guidelines
These tips are not included in your trip cost
| Service | Suggested Tip |
|---|---|
| Guides | USD $10 per person/day |
| Drivers | USD $10 per person/day |
| Restaurants | 10–20% of the total bill |
| Hotel Staff (Luggage Assistance) | USD $1–2 per bag |
| Housekeeping | USD $1–2 per person/day |
Tips are not mandatory, but greatly appreciated for good service.
Transportation
- Taxis: Affordable and common in major cities. Always ask your hotel or guide to help call a licensed cab.
- Uber: Operates in Santo Domingo, Santiago, and Puerto Plata.
- Public Transportation: Available but less reliable for tourists.
Final Travel Tips
- Currency: Have small bills for tips and street vendors.
- Transportation: Use registered taxis or trusted tour operators.
- Water: Drink bottled or filtered water only.
- Barter: Negotiate prices at markets, but be respectful.
- Sun Protection: Caribbean sun is intense! Reapply sunscreen often.
- Language: Learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience.
Luggage Restrictions
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