dominican republic mission trips

Coronavirus Update Learn more

01582 720056

Dominican Republic

Providing safe places to play.

• Project Overview

Country Information

• Trip Dates and Application

The Dominican Republic is a beautiful country with wonderful sandy beaches, vegetation, and friendly people. During your two-week trip you will have the unique opportunity to see the real Dominican Republic – not just the view that the tourists see of the beaches and palm trees. Sadly, life for many people involves serious poverty and hardship.

During your trip, you get the opportunity to help improve the lives of many people here. It is a varied and exciting program, with something for everyone.

Mission Trip Dates

The projects, what will you be doing in 2025.

Join us on an unforgettable mission trip to the Dominican Republic! This unique opportunity will allow you to make a meaningful impact on the lives of local communities while experiencing the rich culture and beauty of this vibrant country. Our mission trips focus on providing essential support typically through community development projects, housing and educational initiatives.

During your stay, you will work alongside local leaders and fellow volunteers, you will also have the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, forming meaningful connections with the people you serve and gaining a deeper understanding of their way of life.

This trip is more than just volunteer work; it’s an opportunity to grow personally and spiritually, to challenge yourself, and to see the world through a new lens. We welcome individuals, families, and groups to join us on this life-changing journey. Come with an open heart and leave with unforgettable memories and a renewed sense of purpose.

Make a difference in 2025! Join us in the Dominican Republic and be a part of something truly special.

Rest and Relaxation

As well as enjoying the beautiful white beaches and warm sea by your hotel – a visit to Rudy’s has something for everyone. From a walk through the beautiful garden filled with tropical fruits, to taking a lazy river boat ride; you’ll then end your visit with an amazing lunch prepared with ingredients from Rudy’s ecology garden.

Get Directions

Puerto Plata is in the north of the Dominican Republic

The time zone is gmt -4 hours, the local language is spanish, up to 35°c from mar-oct, the flight is approximately 9 hours., dominican-republic gallery, the impact so far.

The teams in Dominican Republic have been doing an incredible job. Here are a few of the most recent stories and stats from the projects...

Lunch is served in the DR

Raising funds for sister mercedes and her children.

families now have access to a clean waterline

village school classrooms built

Houses built

The contributions listed are a reduced amount, based on the assumption that Gift Aid will be declared.

Orientation and Reunion days

Orientation days and reunion days are included to help you get the most from your trip.

Orientation Day

Reunion day, like the facebook page.

For the latest updates, news and team dates, like our Facebook page for Dominican Republic

Need an account? Sign up

the Dominican Republic Country Overview

I'm interested in serving in the dominican republic.

Please send me more information.

the Dominican Republic

Open country menu, mission trips to the dominican republic.

If your church group, youth group, school group, medical group, or family wants to make a difference, group mission trips to the Dominican Republic provide the perfect opportunity. With several connections to churches, ministries, and communities throughout the DR, your team can make a significant impact with Bold Hope.

THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC SHORT-TERM MISSION TRIPS

When you partner with Bold Hope for a mission trip to the DR, your team will serve Haitian workers and their families who live in bateyes (bah-TAYs), small settlements in the centers of sugarcane plantations. These little villages lack basic resources such as stable housing, medical care, education, and water. While you are in the Dominican Republic, you will get to experience the beautiful landscape of a Caribbean Island and build meaningful connections with these incredible people. They are creatives, dreamers, and joyful hope givers, bearing many talents and gifts to give the world around them. Your life will forever be changed by hearing their stories and walking alongside them, even if, just for a brief time. 

Your team will work alongside our missionary partners who know where help is truly needed. From reinforcing structures to offering children/youth programs and events, you’ll not only have the opportunity to interact with locals, but you’ll provide encouragement to those who serve there year-round.

In addition to these projects, Bold Hope also books Dominican Republic medical mission trips for medical professionals looking to use their gifts and talents to serve internationally. There is great need for basic medical care and wellness visits as healthcare is often inaccessible for the communities we serve.

Bold Hope helps you and your team support impoverished communities in the DR. Spend time engaging and building relationships with our team members and the local community. Bring love and laughter to children by making crafts and give comfort to those who have lost their way spiritually. Whatever work your group does, your seven-day trip will add to the work our partners do all year to empower and transform lives.

To learn more about how you could contribute to bateyes in the DR, read about our Bold Hope missionaries and partnerships below.

Our Partners:

Iglesia bautista luz divina - pastor mede, iglesia bautista la romana - pastor ramon, batey brador, batey marchena.

Our work here happens alongside Fundación Nueva Alegria. We partner with them by sharing their vision and dreams for the youth in Batey 106, and by lending a hand with their youth ministry program.

Our partner Pastor Mede has a deep knowledge of many bateyes and of the Haitian community in the city of La Romana. We are connected with his church and are working to develop new initiatives in the most vulnerable areas.

Like Pastor Mede, Pastor Ramon is another “man of peace” (Luke 10:6) we find in La Romana. Esteemed in the local community, he works in five different social projects; not just preaching the gospel but living it in a fulfilling way. It's been an honor to serve his church and to see all that God is doing through them. 

 A community of around 35 households in the middle of the sugar cane fields. People here live in wooden homes and have limited access to water. In 2023 we received solar panels for our community center that provide more stable electricity for the community. Bold Hope has 16 sponsored families here. 

 A transitional community that our partner Pastor Ramon’s church is deeply connected to. They provide a children’s discipleship program each Saturday. People here live in tin, wood or concrete homes. There is a small one room school that educates around 50 students. Bold Hope is currently building a community center here that will have another classroom, Bold Hope offices and a church space. We have sponsored families here. 

 A transitional community where community leaders and pastors Andrés and Leída are passionate about discipling the children and youth. People here live in tin, wood or concrete homes and are closer to the city. Bold Hope is working to develop the child development program in this community. 

 A community of around 600-800 people who live in concrete homes deep in the sugar cane fields. We are currently exploring what partnership with the church looks like in this community. 

the Dominican Republic Hope Initiatives

Our missionary and local pastoral partners have undertaken projects and programs with the aim of inspiring HOPE in the people they serve, many of whom are overlooked by the country they call home. Bold Hope seeks to come alongside the good work these faithful men and women are doing long-term, supporting their vision by providing financial assistance and short-term mission teams.

Development

Educational Programs

Children are released from school around noon, however many have to stay an additional three or more hours until their parents return from work. Our partners are passionate about using that time to provide art, problem solving and development-focused activities in order for the children to continue learning and growing.

Learn more about our Educational Programs Hope Initiative →

Medical Care

Haitians without documentation (most living in bateyes) do not have access to public or private health. Our partners look forward to working closely with medical teams and local hospitals to provide medical care to these communities.

Learn more about our Medical Care Hope Initiative →

Community Outreach

Our missionaries work alongside local ministries, churches, and leaders to share the love of Jesus which impacts and transforms all aspects of life. Through sports, events, and programs, community needs are and the gospel goes forth. 

Learn more about our Community Outreach Hope Initiative →

Community Development

The long-term goal of our missionaries is to see these communities thriving. This process begins with child sponsorship as a means for impacting the whole family, and works towards transformation in individuals as well as the bateyes as a whole. Empowering the next generation of leaders through skills training, feeding programs, English language learning, etc. is the next step in developing a flourishing community.

Learn more about our Community Development Hope Initiative →

Children's Ministry

Children are a large part of ministry in the DR. Children- and youth-focused programs and events are especially important during the summer when children do not go to school and are left with nothing to do. Sports, Vacation Bible Schools, art classes and other events keep kids learning and growing outside of the educational setting.

Learn more about our Children's Ministry Hope Initiative →

Church Partnerships

Many church leaders in the area our partners serve have not had formal theological training. There is an opportunity to come alongside the pastors and leaders of local churches through leadership training, theological teaching, and pastoral support.

Learn more about our Church Partnerships Hope Initiative →

Why should you plan a mission trip with Bold Hope?

Bold Hope works a little differently from other organizations. When you partner with Bold Hope to schedule a mission trip to the Dominican Republic or another country, we provide you with accommodations in a hotel, hostel or guest house to make sure you have the rest you need to serve those around you.

In addition to your lodging, we ensure you're comfortable in this new country by providing a Bold Hope team member for guidance and a translator when needed. You'll also receive three meals a day and in-country transportation. We offer this foundation to make sure you can focus your energy on service opportunities for the community.

Contact Bold Hope for more information about mission trips

Whether it's your family, a church group or a youth group who wants to do a mission trip, trust Bold Hope to provide secure accommodations and group work that makes a genuine difference in communities around the Dominican Republic. If you want more information about our mission trips or are ready to book a trip for your group, contact us today to get started.

Interested in a Trip to the Dominican Republic?

Please fill out this form and a Bold Hope team member will be in touch!

Dominican Republic

SCORE Mission Locations

Dominican Republic Areas for Trips

The Dominican Republic is SCORE’s oldest established location. Our Dominican Republic Headquarters is located in the beach town of Juan Dolio. It is on the southern shore of the island, about 20 minutes east of the airport. However, we have missionaries in several different cities all over the country; your group will have the ability to serve in a variety of ways all over the island.

About Dominican Republic

The D.R. shares the island Hispaniola with the country of Haiti. It is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Nearly 80% of the country’s 49,000 sq. km. is covered with mountains, but some 20 different topographical areas exist in the country. About 2.5 million of the country’s 10 million residents live in the capital, Santo Domingo. Over 10% of the population is of Haitian descent. Roman Catholicism is the country’s official religion and about 85% of the people profess this. About half of the population is believed to be involved in occult practices. Average annual income is $5,000 per person.

Population: 10.65 million Weather: The climate of the D.R. is tropical year-round. It has a dry season in the winter and a rainy season during the summer. The temperatures stay more than 70° median year-round. If traveling in the mountains the temperature can sometimes drop below 70°.

Meet Our Dominican Republic Team

Eddy Gil, Caribbean Field Director

Madison Battle

Joseymi & Katerina Puello

Rick & Karen Vogsberger

Fritzgerald & Janelle Kenol

Guiberson & Julia Pimentel

Ben Merrill

Kristin Ogle

Kristi & Alejandro Reyes

Gredual & Emily Rincon

Giovanny & Carolina Valdez

Hector & Paola Marun

Craig & Joanna McClure

Catherine Ogle

Mignelis Hodge

Sadrac & Sarah Difren

Ready to get started?

Begin by submitting an interest form!

" * " indicates required fields

Step 1 of 5

Dominican Republic

Connect. focus. share..

A beautiful Caribbean Paradise famous for its beaches and resorts, the Dominican Republic is home to 11 million people, most of whom hold a strong cultural value for religion. Unfortunately, many of their beliefs focus on rules and regulations instead of knowing Jesus personally and living in grace-filled Christian community.

Short term mission trip teams will work with RIM's established ministry relationship in the DR and we look forward to continuing to support the outreach being done by pastors from more than a dozen local churches. Join the Dominican Republic mission trip and help introduce this island nation to the love of God!

Ministry Opportunities:

Partner with local churches for community outreach

Share Gospel presentations in 3-5 schools each day

Work on community development projects

Bring food to those living in the city trash dump

Adventure Activities:

Swim in crystal clear waters and enjoy the oceanfront

Barter with local vendors for unforgettable souvenirs

Dominican Republic 2 Week Summer 2025

Summer 2025 mission trips open to individuals & groups of any size 

July 1-11, 2025

(Cost includes international airfare from Miami)

Dominican Republic Custom Mission Trip

Custom mission trips available for groups of 20+ 

You choose!

1 week+ 

(Cost includes international airfare)

Helping People Go and Make Disciples of All Nations

Dominican Republic

Trip Information

San Pedro de Macoris; Monte Plata; Santo Domingo

Typically Saturday to Saturday or Monday to Monday. Flexible.

Spring break, fall break, summer, all year.

Max group size of 40 (possibly larger)

Starting at $749 plus airfare (cost details)

Local church partnership; Medical clinics.

The Dominican Republic is situated on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean. Hispaniola is the second largest island in the Caribbean behind Cuba. Home to 10 million residents, the Dominican Republic shares the island with Haiti to the West. While the Dominican Republic has seen growth in recent history due to a boom in the tourism industry, 50% of the rural population are still considered to be living in extreme poverty, and many others are on the poverty line as well. Servant Life is excited to bring hope to these impoverished communities by shining the light of Christ and sharing the hope of the gospel.

We partner  with a Dominican-led ministry organization focused on sustainable community development work in the impoverished regions of the Dominican Republic. Their vision is to “transform the marginalized and vulnerable communities with the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ,”which is accomplished through local church partnerships. Medical teams will work in conjunction with churches to host free medical clinics (often in public schools) to serve the poor, needy, and marginalized— or anyone who needs medical attention. Our goal is not only to help meet physical needs, but to show the love of Christ in our actions and share the love of Christ through our words. The clinics are hosted in partnership with the local church, and will have an emphasis on reaching non-Christian patients. This is an important part of long-term missional strategy as these clinics help establish the church as a light in the community and a source of hope and love.

What will my team be doing?  

Your team will generally be serving in one region, but could be hosting clinics at a different site each day. Clinics are often hosted in public schools and are put on by the local church we are partnering with. The church will do the work of advertising for the clinic and inviting the community to attend; your role will be to host clinics by providing the medical expertise to see patients, help diagnose and treat their ailments, and show them the love of Christ. Many clinics are run in three main phases: intake (learning why the patient is there and their medical history); visit with the doctor; and a stop by the "pharmacy" on the way out. Many medical teams will want to pray over participants in each of these phases, not only praying for their medical needs, but praying for their spiritual needs and incorporating the truth of the gospel in their prayers. There are also roles for non-medical participants to be helping with the clinics, or if your team is large enough, your non-medical group could be at a separate ministry site doing things like VBS, evangelism, outreach, and light construction.

What does a general weekly schedule look like?

Saturday. Travel day. Arrive and get settled in.

Sunday. Attend local church worship service; prep time for the week ahead. 

Monday - Thursday.  Ministry days: medical clinics.

Friday.  Cultural day or ministry day. Visit the market, go to the beach, enjoy the city. For an additional cost, your group can take a day trip to Catalina Island, or spend the night at a resort, or possibly arrange a day pass to a resort.

Saturday.  Travel day. Depart for home.

What does my cost include?

In-country transportation. From the moment you land at the airport until the moment you leave, we will take you everywhere during the week.

Housing. Your team will sleep in hotel style accommodations (generally two or three twin beds per room) with a private bathroom.

Meals.  Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, every day! (Note: You need to pay for your own meals at the airport, while traveling, etc.)

Supplemental Traveler's Insurance. In the event of a medical emergency, you'll be covered with an international policy! (Note: There may be an additional charge, normally around $25, for each person over the age of 50 to cover the increased cost of an insurance policy).

T-Shirt.   Every participant gets an awesome mission trip t-shirt.

Pre-Trip Training Material. We provide training sessions, trip overview documents, assistance from our team of mission trip experts, and communication with in-country missionaries to make sure your group is fully prepared for your trip.

Pre, During, and Post-trip Devotionals.   This 4-week printed missions journal will help every team member grow and encounter Christ.  

Note:  The cost of medicine to be distributed at clinics is NOT included in the trip cost, and is an additional expense that you will be responsible for. The reason for this is that the cost of medicine can vary greatly depending on how large your medical team is and how many patients you plan to see over the course of the week. Generally the medicine is acquired in the U.S. and taken safely and legally into the D.R. by securing a letter from Customs before you travel (which we will do for you). You might even be able to have medicine donated or purchased at a significantly reduced rate.

Airfare is not included in the trip cost, but will be taken care of by Servant Life's travel agent who gets humanitarian rates and often free baggage. You may book on your own if you prefer to do so, but we ask to approve the itinerary first.

Organization Location: Dominican Republic

Manna global ministries.

Manna Global Ministries is a non-profit organization bringing hope, education and a new life to those in need in developing countries around the world in the name of Christ. Our original Manna site has undergone some changes over the years, but it still serves as the foundation out of which all of Manna’s other sites […]

Willing Servant Ministries

Willing Servant Ministries mission is to evangelize people in the Dominican Republic with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and support those faithfully serving as Church leaders, Pastors and Missionaries. With the help of short term mission teams, we believe that by building relationships and meeting some of their physical and emotional needs we can make […]

Casas por Cristo exists to open the door for local pastors and churches to share the love of Jesus Christ by serving. Our mission is to build and serve.

Build a home with fellow volunteers in just one week, start to finish.

Build a secure house, complete with a concrete foundation, metal roof, windows, and door.

LIFE CHANGE

Giving one week of your life to serve will give a gift of a lifetime to a family in need.

Dominican Missions

Your Missionaries to Dominican Republic

A Huge Thank You! | 2023 Mid-Year Update

About Mitch & Debbie

Get Involved

Mission Trips

Meet Mitch & Debbie in this short video…

Will You Sponsor A Child?

Will you sponsor a child? Click here to learn more about Teach Feed Love.

Students International

apply | login

Dominican Republic Jarabacoa

Dominican republic mission trip.

Students International is proud to facilitate Jarabacoa Dominican Republic mission trips for students and adults. We connect our short term missionaries with permanent missionaries living in Jarabacoa. This dynamic makes allows us to help without hurting. The impact made is guided by missionaries on the ground, already immersed in the community.

We have opportunities in Dentisry, Microfinance, Education, Physical Therapy, Sports, and more. Jarabacoa Dominican Republic mission trips are fun, exciting, and you won't regret going! Contact us today, or scroll down to learn more.

About the Dominican Republic

After centuries of dictatorships and war, the Dominican Republic has enjoyed several decades of peace and economic growth. However, much of that growth has been enjoyed by only a small percentage of the population. Ministry opportunities abound. In Jarabacoa, you’ll serve traditional mountainous communities, some of which still lack basic necessities like running water.

Known in the Dominican Republic as the city of eternal spring, Jarabacoa is located in the ‘Dominican Alps’ in the center of the country, just 45 minutes from Santiago International Airport. When you’re not out serving at your ministry site you’ll stay on base and sleep in cabins. For the excursion, teams can go whitewater rafting or hike to one of 3 nearby waterfalls.

Ministry Sites

Appropriate technology.

Site Leaders

Brian Sollors and Genaro Garcia

Site Leader

Dra. Vanesa Capellan

Education los higos.

Jill Sollors and Kelly (Elizabeth) Reyes and Maribel Mondragon

Education Mata Gorda

K.D. Warner and Carolina Colon

Education Tutoring Center - El Callejon

Carolina de los santos, health care community health.

Dr. Fernando Gonzalez and Katie Wulf

Media & Communications Hato Viejo, SI Base

Josue liendo, microfinance.

Geidy Guzman and Nathalie Urena

Physical Therapy

Silvio cerda, special education.

Eric Tyson and Jefry Tavarez

Sports Mens Baseball

Dave Adams and Samuel Guzman

Sports Womens Volleyball

Mariela robles, women's social work el callejon, esther hernandez, women's social work la joya, daisy murillo.

Eric & Chelsie Miller

Ministry site leaders.

Sports — Mens Baseball

Carolina Colon

Education — mata gorda.

Genaro Garcia

Dr. Fernando Gonzalez

Health care — community health.

Geidy Guzman

Samuel Guzman

Women's Social Work — El Callejon

Media & Communications — Hato Viejo, SI Base

Maribel Mondragon

Education — los higos.

Women's Social Work — La Joya

Kelly (Elizabeth) Reyes

Sports — Womens Volleyball

Brian Sollors

Jill Sollors

Jefry Tavarez

Nathalie Urena

K.D. Warner

Education — Tutoring Center - El Callejon

Admin staff.

Mabelis Acevedo

Administration.

Suzanne Ledbetter

Student life coordinator.

Chelsie Miller

Melody Phelps

Hector Rosario

Benjamin Sede

Rosicar Sicard

Hospitality, recent posts.

• By Taylor Plowman
• On August 2, 2024

A Willing and Humble Heart

• On May 9, 2024

Parents that Inspire

• On March 29, 2024

Kingdom Culture

• On February 22, 2024

A Home Stay Like No Other

• On February 20, 2024

Seeing Believers on Mission

• On November 16, 2023

A Busy Month for Global Bridge

• On November 9, 2023

Walls Can't Keep our God Out

• On October 6, 2023

God Found Me

• On August 3, 2023

Bringing Clean Water to Those in Need

• On June 29, 2023

Changing Lives Un Peso at a Time

Interest Form

This will close in 0 seconds

Rescue a child with CUPS Mission today!

Join us on a trip to the dominican republic, read the latest updates from cups mission., “and if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly i tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.”, – matthew 10:42, rescue. transform. repeat., unleashing hope worldwide.

At CUPS Mission, our dedication knows no borders. In the heart of the Dominican Republic, we focus on rescuing and nurturing children, providing them with the tools for a brighter future. Across the plains of Malawi, our mission extends to the spiritual leaders, guiding pastors towards transformation and empowerment. Stay tuned, as our commitment expands to Mexico, where new opportunities for positive change are on the horizon. Join us in our journey to Rescue, Transform, and Repeat across the globe.

CUPS Mission extends its outreach across borders to change lives.

Dominican Republic

Milpa alta, mexico, malawi, africa.

Click on a location to learn more about how CUPS is changing lives.

The CUPS Mission

Rescue a child.

Our mission is to provide a lifeline for vulnerable children, offering hope, education, and a pathway to a brighter future for them and their families.

Transform a Family

Beyond individual impact, we focus on transforming entire families, fostering sustainable change that uplifts lives and creates a foundation for a better tomorrow.

Do it Again Tomorrow

Our commitment goes beyond a single day. We strive to make a difference every day, ensuring a continuous cycle of positive change for those we serve.

CUPS Mission is an ACSI Strategic Partner and is pleased to have these schools partner with us on our global engagement program.

Want to partner your school with CUPS?

The cups documentary.

Serve |  Malawi FAQ | Updates | Gear | About CUPS | About Dominican | About Malawi | About Our Team | Give |  Contact |  CUPS Movie

CUPS Mission, a ministry of Crossover Ministries, Inc, is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization with FEID Number: 57-0907653. All gifts are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law. Contributions are solicited with the understanding that CUPS Mission has complete control over the use of all donated funds. Our Board-approved policy is that all gifts designated for a specific project be applied to that project, with minimal use for administrative and fundraising expenses. Occasionally we receive more contributions for a given project than can be wisely applied to that project. When that happens, we use these funds to meet the next most pressing need.

2607 Woodruff Rd. Suite E #418 Simpsonville, SC 29681 (877) 291-6501

© 2024 CUPS Mission™ All rights reserved.

• Statement of Faith
• Schedule a Speaker
• Partner Your School
• Partner Your Church

MISSION TRIPS

You can help share the love of Christ by serving on a HopeGo mission trip with Mission of Hope. Every year, we host mission trip participants from around the world. From individuals to large groups, Mission of Hope campuses can accommodate trips of all sizes.

You and your team will help meet the physical and spiritual needs of underserved communities in the country you choose. Each mission trip is unique and can be tailored to match the skills of your group with the needs of the community you are serving. Check out the different countries and see where you would like to serve!

• Non-medical and medical mission trips
• Work alongside the local church and community leaders to meet needs
• Multiple weeks available every year
• Great fundraising/team management tools
• Environment for spiritual growth
• Experience the beauty of the Dominican Republic

WHAT WILL I DO ON MY MISSION TRIP?

At Mission of Hope, we partner with local pastors and leaders and ask, “What does your community need to be transformed?” Your trip will be spent serving alongside these incredible people to meet the needs of their communities. There are a variety of ministry opportunities, including youth programs, community evangelism, small construction projects, and mobile medical clinics. By working alongside these indigenous leaders, your impact will last long after you return home. Two core components of our mission trips are strategic ministry time and church advancement projects .

HOPEGO: MORE THAN A MISSION TRIP

For the past 20 years, Mission of Hope has had the opportunity to lead and facilitate mission trips.

We’ve seen two main things as a result of trips: 1) the advancement of the local church and 2) lives transformed of those serving on trips.

HopeGo facilitates meaningful ministry experiences by serving alongside the local church to reach every man, woman, and child with the Gospel.

MEDICAL TRIPS

• Utilize your acquired skills on a mobile medical clinic with Mission of Hope to bring exceptional care to those who do not have regular access to medical care.

• We welcome the following medical professionals: MD, DO, PA, NP, PharmD, RPh, RN, LPN, Paramedic, EMT, CNA, OT, PT, students, as well as non-medical team members.

• The investment you make in the health of the people you meet will continue to have an impact long after you return home.

• Our trips are great for individuals, families, and groups of all sizes.

• We provide safe meals and drinking water, transportation to/from the airport and ministry sites, meaningful ministry opportunities alongside the local church, local cultural experiences and adventure, and an environment for discipleship and growth.

EXAMPLE ITINERARY

Day 1 (Sat.): Arrival and Orientation

Day 2 (Sun.): Church, Community and Campus Tour, Team Time, Mission Launch

Days 3-6 (Mon.-Thurs.): Serving in Communities (mobile clinic if medical team)

Day 7 (Fri.): Excursion/Debriefing Day

Day 8 (Sat.): Departure

*Schedule for trips starting on Wednesday is similar except Tuesday is Excursion/Debriefing day.

What are the housing accommodations like?

Team members will stay on our campus in a guest house with bunk style housing and will be separated by gender into separate rooms, each with twin bunk beds. 

Bathrooms on each of our campuses include running water and showers. Mission of Hope will provide a pair of clean sheets for you, as well as a pillow. Please bring your own bath and beach towel.

What immunizations will I need?

We recommend everyone acquire anti-malaria medication. We also encourage each person to bring an antibiotic such as an anti-diarrheal medication. 

Mission of Hope has deeply impacted each and every one of our teams in ways that will last forever. They provide opportunities for us to work—not just for but with—the Haitian people, therefore allowing us to build deeper relationships and friendships. They provide opportunities for us to share the Gospel and to show the love and hope we all have in Christ.

Jan Ross University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball

I’ve had the privilege, along with other student athletes from Texas A&M University, to go on two mission trips to the beautiful country of Haiti through Mission of Hope. It is has taught me how to love better and ultimately grow stronger in my personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Mikado Hinson Director of Player Development Texas A&M Football

My experience is hard to put into words because it was so life changing that there are no words great enough to describe the experience I had with MOH. Anyone who feels the call to go serve, GO! When you do go, serve with Mission of Hope. I flew into the Dominican Republic as an independent missionary and I came back to the US with friends I’ll have for a lifetime. I cannot wait to go on another mission trip with Mission of Hope.

Ashley Whitmer

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Dominican Republic

Travel Advisory June 18, 2024

Dominican republic - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.

Country Summary:  Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic. The development of a professional tourist police corps, institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, and a concentration of resources in resort areas means these tend to be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo. The wide availability of weapons, the use and trade of illicit drugs, and a weak criminal justice system contribute to the high level of criminality on the broader scale.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Dominican Republic.

If you decide to travel to the Dominican Republic:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Follow the advice of resort and tour operators regarding local safety and security concerns.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for the Dominican Republic.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Passports must be valid for the period of stay in the Dominican Republic.

1 page required for entry stamp

Not required for visits shorter than 30 days

None required if arriving from the United States

$10,000 and over or its equivalent must be declared

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy santo domingo.

Av. República de Colombia #57 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Telephone: +(809) 567-7775 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(809) 567-7775, dial zero (0) ask for Duty Officer Email:   [email protected] Hours: Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM except U.S. and Dominican holidays 

Consular Agencies

U.S. Consular Agent - Puerto Plata Plaza el Doral, carretera Luperón KM 3 1/2 Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic Telephone:  +(809) 586-4204, +(809) 586-8023 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  (809) 567-7775, dial zero (0) ask for Duty Officer Email:  [email protected] Hours:  Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM except U.S. and Dominican holidays

U.S. Consular Agent - Bavaro/Punta Cana Palma Real Shopping Center Business Center 2nd Floor Bavaro, La Altagracia, Dominican Republic Telephone:  (809) 552-8990 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(809) 567-7775, dial zero (0) ask for Duty Officer Email:  [email protected] Hours:  Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM except U.S. and Dominican holidays

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visas are not required for visits shorter than 30 days. Visit the  Embassy of the Dominican Republic  website for current visa information.

All visitors to the Dominican Republic are charged a $10 tourist card fee that is incorporated into airline charges. Cruise passengers must obtain a tourist card if they are disembarking for longer than 24 hours. Once used, the card allows for stays up to 30 days but can be extended at the General Directorate of Migration in Santo Domingo.

Contact the  Migration Department  in Santo Domingo for visa extension requests. Failure to request an extension will result in a fine at the airport upon departure. The fines range from approximately $55 USD for one month to as high as $1,555 USD for overstays of 10 years or more.

All passengers are required to fill out an  E-Ticket  or paper form when entering or exiting the Dominican Republic. If using E-Ticket, a new form is required for each entry and exit and the code generated upon form completion can be presented at the airport on a digital device.

Visitors must have a ticket entering and leaving the country, the financial means to pay for their stay, and an address in the Dominican Republic where they will be staying.

Exit Requirements for Children:  Minors (children under 18) who are citizens (including dual citizens) or legal residents of the Dominican Republic, if not accompanied by both parents or legal guardian(s), are required to present official proof of parental consent to travel. Please see the Dominican  Migration Department's  website for detailed instructions on the required documents.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions:  Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of the Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic has restrictions on granting residency to people with HIV/AIDS. Please verify information with the Dominican Republic’s  Migration Department  before you travel.

Yellow Fever Vaccine:  Proof of vaccination against yellow fever is required for travelers entering the Dominican Republic from Brazil. Similar requirements may apply to those traveling from other  countries with yellow fever risk .

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction ,  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Crime:  Crime is a threat throughout the Dominican Republic. Tourist destinations are generally more policed than metropolitan areas.

• If robbed, hand over your personal belongings without resisting.
• Do not carry or wear valuable items that will attract attention.
• Be wary of strangers.
• Travel with a partner or group if possible.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Dating App Robberies:  Several U.S. citizen travelers in the Dominican Republic have reported that they were robbed by people they met through popular online dating applications. If meeting with strangers, you should strongly consider meeting only in public places and avoiding isolated locations where crimes are most likely to occur.

Demonstrations:  Avoid areas of demonstrations and exercise caution if you are in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local tourist police (POLITUR) at 809-222-2026 or  911  and contact the U.S. Embassy at 809-567-7775. 911 is operational throughout the country apart from some areas located near the Haitian border. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact POLITUR (809-222-2026), the  National Police ( 809-682-2151), and the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Sexual Assault:  Rape and sexual assault has been reported throughout the Dominican Republic, including at major resorts and hotels.

Notes for your safety:

• U.S. citizens have been targeted with date rape drugs.
• Sexual assault victims in the Dominican Republic should not expect the totality of assistance offered in the United States. Rape kits are often not available until the following morning and must be administered by Dominican authorities.
• Victims often have to request medication to avoid transmission of STDs and reduce the chances of pregnancy.
• Prosecution of a rape case moves forward very slowly. Dominican law may require the victim to return to the Dominican Republic at some stages of the judicial process.
• Security outside of the resort area, including beach areas, is unpredictable, especially at night.

Best Practices:

• Contact the police/hotel management if resort staff demonstrate unwanted attention.
• Victims of sexual/other assault should contact the police and the Embassy. Insist that hotel management take immediate action by contacting the police.
• In a resort, avoid secluded places. Always be accompanied by someone you know, even going to the restroom.
• Do not consume alcoholic beverages alone or with new acquaintances. Do not leave drinks unattended.  Know your limits and help your friends/travelling companions to remain safe.
• Shout for help immediately if threatened or made uncomfortable.
• Report suspicious activity, including excessive friendliness by hotel employees, to hotel management, the U.S. Embassy, and local police.
• Do not swim alone due to life-threatening undertows.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities may not commonly occur in all parts of the country. Hazardous areas and activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in or near major cities or major tourist zones. First responders may be unable to access areas outside of major cities or major tourist zones. The ability to provide urgent medical treatment may be limited. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in the Dominican Republic are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage and  general information on legal assistance  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, their possession they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in the Dominican Republic.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in the Dominican Republic prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, but the law is not enforced consistently. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Accessible facilities, information, communication/access to services and ease of movement is limited in most parts of the country. Large resorts and Santo Domingo may have some generally accessible infrastructure, but travelers should not expect the level available in the United States.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Disaster Preparedness:  Register with the Embassy on or before your arrival through our  travel registration website . In the event of a natural disaster or emergency, this will keep you informed. Additional information on  natural disasters and disaster preparedness  can be found on our website. Real Estate:  Property rights are irregularly enforced, and investors often encounter problems in receiving clear title to land. Consult a reputable attorney before signing documents or closing on any real estate transactions. Real estate investments by U.S. citizens have been subject to legal and physical takeover attempts. Absentee landlords and absentee owners of undeveloped land are particularly vulnerable. Consider purchasing title insurance. Scams:  Scammers often target elderly people by pretending to be a law enforcement official, an attorney, or a U.S. Embassy official, claiming that a loved one has been arrested overseas. The caller instructs the victim to wire money. Scammers sometimes impersonate family members, such as a scared grandchild. Contact the U.S. Embassy before wiring money to the Dominican Republic. When in doubt, try to contact your loved one directly.

For emergency services in the Dominican Republic, dial 911 or 809-202-2026 .

Ambulance services:

• The training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
• Ambulances are not present or reliable in most areas of the country. They are more reliable and available in Santo Domingo, Santiago, Punta Cana, and Puerto Plata.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.  Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  Ministry for Public Health  to ensure the medication is legal in the Dominican Republic.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors require payment “up front” prior to service or admission.
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
• Be aware that some hotels, resorts, etc. have exclusive agreements with medical providers, which have costs associated and may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery. 

If you are considering travel to the Dominican Republic for cosmetic surgery, be mindful of the following:

• Have a medical evaluation from a U.S. doctor to determine if you are a good candidate for surgery.
• Before travel, carefully research the doctor (e.g. qualifications, experience performing the surgery, complication rate) and credentials of the recovery facility you plan to use.
• Share all health information (e.g. medical conditions, medications, allergies) with your doctor before your surgery.
• Obtain international travel insurance that covers medical evacuation back to the United States and repatriation of remains. For more information, see:  https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/insurance . 
• See a travel medicine professional in the United States at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to discuss healthy travel and to learn about specific risks related to your surgery and travel. For more information on the risks of medical tourism, see:  https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/medical-tourism .
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in the Dominican Republic. 

Tap Water:  Tap water is unsafe to drink. Bottled water and beverages are considered safe. Please note that many restaurants use tap water for ice.

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

General Health

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Tuberculosis
• Chikungunya

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Resources for Travelers  regarding specific issues in the  Dominican Republic .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Driving conditions vary across the country. Drive defensively and with extreme caution.

Consider hiring a professional driver instead of driving yourself. You can hire licensed drivers who are familiar with local roads through local car rental agencies. In case of accidents, normally only the driver will be taken into custody. In 2019 six people died per day due to traffic accidents in the Dominican Republic.

Frequent hazards include:

• other drivers not using headlights and/or taillights after dark
• animals in the road
• missing manhole covers and large potholes
• uneven road surfaces
• scooters and motorcycles driving erratically and splitting lanes
• driving on sidewalks or against traffic
• intersections without stop signs
• unregulated and congested traffic patterns
• speeding or the running of stoplights
• heavy urban traffic

Traffic Laws:  Traffic laws are not enforced consistently. After an accident causing serious injury or death, authorities will often take the driver into custody, even if the driver is insured and appears to have not been at fault. Detentions frequently last until a judicial decision has been reached or until a waiver has been signed by the injured party.

Seat belts, and helmets for motorcyclists, are required by law. Violators may be fined. There are no child car seat laws. Police stop drivers using cell phones without a hands-free device.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation includes a metro and public bus system as well as shared bus or van taxis known as “guaguas” (converted vans or microbuses, often without doors). Guaguas run regular routes within urban areas and between towns in the countryside. Public buses and guaguas operating in the capital do not meet U.S. safety standards. Avoid unregulated taxis, which also often lack basic safety features. Use a reputable taxi service, either one recommended by your hotel or a well-known, vetted company. Rideshare services such as Uber are available in many parts of the country. Private bus lines travel between large cities and to popular tourist destinations. 

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism and INTRANT (Instituto Nacional de Transito y Transporte Terrestre) the national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the Dominican Republic’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s website.   FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  The U.S. Coast Guard has concerns about the security practices in the ports of the Dominican Republic. Until those concerns can be addressed, the Coast Guard advises that Mariners and passengers on commercial vessels traveling through the ports of the Dominican Republic should exercise caution.

Mariners planning travel to the Dominican Republic should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Dominican Republic . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, dominican republic map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

• - K-town Now
• Asia-Pacific
• - Storm Tracker
• Middle East
• Map of Memorials
• Entertainment
• - Video Games
• Europe Travel
• - Quick Trips
• - After Hours
• Pacific Travel
• The Meat and Potatoes of Life
• U.S. Travel
• Storm Tracker
• Rewards for readers
• Get Stripes
• Stripes Lite
• Archives/Library
• Special Publications
• Mobile Apps
• Email Newsletters
• Digital Access
• Home Delivery
• Marine Corps
• Coast Guard
• Space Force
• Archive photo of the day
• - Schedules Europe
• - Scoreboards Europe
• - Schedules Pacific
• - Scoreboards Pacific
• - Pacific Sports Blog
• - WW II Podcast
• - Military Matters
• - Force for Hire
• Out of Uniform
• - WW II Videos
• Communities
• Stripes Europe
• Stripes Guam
• Stripes Japan
• Stripes Korea
• Stripes Okinawa
• Our Other Websites
• In Memoriam
• Month of the Military Child
• Best of Germany
• Best of the Pacific
• Letters to Santa

Blinken arrives in Haiti to show US support for fighting gang violence

Haiti Prime Minister Garry Conille, front, and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken enter the U.S. Chief of Mission Residence after speaking to the press in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024. (Roberto Schmidt, Pool photo via AP)

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived Thursday in Haiti to reaffirm the U.S. government’s commitment to a multinational mission to fight gangs in the Caribbean country and push for long-awaited general elections.

Some 400 Kenyan police have been deployed to Haiti to lead a U.N.-backed mission to quell gang violence in the Haitian capital and beyond, but concerns have grown that the mission lacks enough funding and equipment.

Brian Nichols, U.S. assistant secretary for Western Hemisphere affairs, said Wednesday that the U.S. government is considering a U.N. peacekeeping operation as one way to secure money and resources to fight gangs that control 80% of Haiti’s capital.

Blinken arrived a day after Haiti’s government extended a state of emergency to the entire country. It had been imposed earlier in the year in the capital and surrounding areas in an attempt to stem the ongoing violence.

Blinken is scheduled to meet with Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille and a nine-member transitional presidential council that was created after former Prime Minister Ariel Henry resigned. He also planned to meet with unspecified political party leaders.

Blinken also will meet with the head of the multinational mission and the chief of Haiti’s National Police.

“Our goal is to recognize the positive progress made toward improving security and encourage efforts to appoint the provisional electoral council so Haiti can move toward elections,” Nichols told reporters ahead of the trip.

Haiti last held elections in 2016, and officials since then have blamed gang violence and political upheaval for preventing them from holding new ones.

In July 2021, former President Jovenel Moïse was assassinated, and gang violence since then has surged. In February, gangs launched coordinated attacks on police stations and the main international airport, which remained closed for nearly three months. They also stormed Haiti’s two largest prisons, releasing more than 4,000 inmates.

The violence subsided somewhat before the first contingent of Kenyan police arrived in late June.

“We are seeing a dramatic increase in patrols and operations designed to restore security and sense of normalcy in Haiti,” Nichols said.

However, gangs continue to attack communities surrounding the capital of Port-au-Prince.

After meeting with officials in Haiti, Blinken is scheduled to fly Thursday night to the Dominican Republic, which shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti.

On Friday, he is scheduled to meet with Dominican President Luis Abinader and other officials before returning to the U.S. later that day.

Nichols said the talks with Abinader will focus on three priorities: strengthening economic ties, advancing values including respect for human and labor rights and promoting increased security in the region, especially in Haiti.

Abinader has come under fire in recent years for his administration’s treatment of Haitian migrants and those born in the Dominican Republic to Haitian parents.

He also has largely closed the airspace with Haiti and is building a wall between the two nations.

previous coverage

• Commander of Kenya’s security forces in Haiti says gang’s days are numbered
• US seeks to turn Kenya mission in Haiti into UN peacekeeping operation
• Secretary of State Blinken to visit Haiti, Dominican Republic. Security high on agenda

related stories

• US military sends additional equipment to aid security operation in Haiti

Sign Up for Daily Headlines

Sign up to receive a daily email of today's top military news stories from Stars and Stripes and top news outlets from around the world.

Sign Up Now

Blinken arrives in Haiti to show US support for fighting gang violence

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has arrived in Haiti to reaffirm the government’s commitment to a multinational mission deployed to fight gangs in the Caribbean country and push for the organization of long-awaited general elections

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived Thursday in Haiti to reaffirm the U.S. government’s commitment to a multinational mission to fight gangs in the Caribbean country and push for long-awaited general elections as he supported consideration of a peacekeeping operation.

Some 400 Kenyan police have been deployed to Haiti to lead a U.N.-backed mission to quell gang violence in the Haitian capital and beyond, but concerns have grown that the mission lacks resources.

“At this critical moment, we do need more funding, we do need more personnel to sustain and carry out the objectives of this mission,” Blinken told reporters.

He added that the U.S. is working to renew the mission, “but we also want to make sure that we have something that’s reliable, that’s sustainable. We’ll look at every option to do that. A peacekeeping operation would be one such option.”

On Wednesday, Brian Nichols, U.S. assistant secretary for Western Hemisphere affairs, confirmed the U.S. government is considering a U.N. peacekeeping operation as one way to secure money and resources to fight gangs that control 80% of Haiti’s capital.

Many Haitians have rejected the proposal of another peacekeeping operation, given the introduction of cholera and sexual abuse cases that occurred when U.N. troops were last in Haiti.

Blinken arrived a day after Haiti’s government extended a state of emergency to the entire country. It had been imposed earlier in the year in the capital and surrounding areas in an attempt to stem the ongoing violence.

Blinken met with Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille and a nine-member transitional presidential council that was created after former Prime Minister Ariel Henry resigned . He also met with unspecified political party leaders, the head of the multinational mission and the chief of Haiti’s National Police.

He said the discussions centered in part on how to ensure that security personnel are well-trained, well=equipped and held accountable, adding that there's a “clear plan” on the mission's next steps. Talks also focused on the need to hold general elections.

“That is the critical next step,” he said. “We want to make sure Haiti is back on a clear democratic track.”

Haiti last held elections in 2016 , and officials since then have blamed gang violence and political upheaval for preventing them from holding new ones.

In July 2021, former President Jovenel Moïse was assassinated , and gang violence since then has surged. In February, gangs launched coordinated attacks on police stations and the main international airport, which remained closed for nearly three months. They also stormed Haiti’s two largest prisons, releasing more than 4,000 inmates.

The violence subsided somewhat before the first contingent of Kenyan police arrived in late June, with Blinken noting that economic activity has restarted in some areas of Port-au-Prince, and that joint operations have led to successes including regaining control of Haiti's biggest public hospital.

However, gangs continue to attack communities surrounding Port-au-Prince.

“Taking back the streets from gangs is critical,” Blinken said.

After meeting with officials in Haiti, Blinken is scheduled to fly Thursday night to the Dominican Republic, which shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti.

On Friday, he is scheduled to meet with Dominican President Luis Abinader and other officials before returning to the U.S. later that day.

Nichols said the talks with Abinader will focus on three priorities: strengthening economic ties, advancing values including respect for human and labor rights and promoting increased security in the region, especially in Haiti.

Abinader has come under fire in recent years for his administration’s treatment of Haitian migrants and those born in the Dominican Republic to Haitian parents.

He also has largely closed the airspace with Haiti and is building a wall between the two nations.

Popular Reads

Newlyweds charged after groomsman struck, killed

• Sep 5, 1:32 PM

Shooting suspect's father charged with murder

• Sep 5, 11:26 PM

4 dead in shooting at Georgia high school

• Sep 4, 10:47 PM

Teacher fatally shot by his classroom doorway

• Sep 5, 4:01 PM

FBI raids homes of 2 top deputies for NYC mayor

• Sep 5, 3:38 PM

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events