punta cana travel restrictions

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Punta Cana Travel Restrictions – What You Need to Know UPDATED (2024)

• Last updated on: 2023-01-17

You’ve finally decided to take the plunge and head off to Punta Cana, the famous Dominican Republic tourist destination on the eastern tip of the island. But before you do, it’s important to understand that there are several travel restrictions in Punta Cana due to COVID-19 . This makes it essential that you know what they are and how they affect your trip. Here’s what you need to know.

Latest News from the Dominican Government

Most visitors (for example, from the United States, Canada, Argentina, Mexico, Chile, Colombia, Panama, France, Germany, Italy, Russia, Puerto Rico, and so on) are not required to present a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival in the Dominican Republic . Upon arrival, airports and other points of entry will administer a quick, aleatory test to a percentage of passengers, as well as all those who exhibit symptoms. This procedure does not apply to passengers under the age of seven. Passengers who present a vaccination card or a negative PCR or antigen test performed within 72 hours of their arrival in the Dominican Republic will be exempt from the random test. All passengers will be required to perform a temperature check as well.

Passengers who exhibit symptoms or have positive test results will be isolated and treated at authorized locations. Prior to departure, travelers should confirm with their airline provider and airport of origin any testing or other related requirements for inbound flights to the Dominican Republic , as well as any necessary requirements upon arrival in their country of origin.

These are the current travel restictions in Punta Cana

All restrictive measures imposed by COVID-19 are suspended as of February 16, 2022, and it will be up to each individual to take his or her own measures to safeguard his or her health responsibly, but without restrictions.

Individuals are responsible for measures such as the use of face masks, the presentation of vaccination cards for access to public places, and restrictions in public spaces.

As a result of our stringent safety measures and effective vaccination plan, hotel occupancy has now reached 100 percent, further establishing the Dominican Republic as a global model of tourism recovery in the midst of the pandemic.

How do the current Punta Cana travel restrictions affect me?

Just take general precautions—like making sure all of your family members have their flu shots and practicing good hygiene—and you’ll be okay. Plus, a number of other countries are experiencing similar issues, so there’s a strong chance travel restrictions could happen in other destinations you were considering as well.

All passengers entering and leaving the Dominican Republic on commercial flights are required to complete a free electronic entry and exit form that combines a traveler’s affidavit, customs declaration, and international boarding and alighting forms.

The form is called “e-Ticket and we wrote an article to cover it .

Are there areas I should avoid while in Punta Cana?

Take general precautions such as avoiding crowded areas. Crowded areas are more likely to be breeding grounds for germs. If you do find yourself in a crowd, try your best not to touch anything and wash your hands as soon as possible. Also, don’t forget to wear your mask.

Where do I stay if I still want to visit Punta Cana?

With a travel ban in place, there are still options for people who still want to enjoy a vacation in Punta Cana . With over 100 resorts and hotels in operation during peak season, there are plenty of lodging options available for those who don’t wish to visit Punta Cana.

Hotels that remain open include all-inclusive resorts , adults-only resorts, and smaller boutique hotels.

Where can I take a PCR test in Punta Cana?

There are few medical facilities in Punta Cana that offer PCR tests:

Amadita Clinical Laboratory

• www.amadita.com
• Tel: +1(809) 682-5414

Punto Medico

• +1(809)338-3338 and +1(809)562-0040
• https://www.puntomedico.com.do

Punta Cana Medical Center

• 1 (809) -552-1506
• https://www.centromedicopuntacana.com
• [email protected]

Visit the Dominican Republic’s official Covid-19 information page for more details and testing facilities.

Final thoughts on Punta Cana Travel Restrictions

If you’re considering travel restrictions during the pandemic, know that 100% of the Tourism sector personnel have been vaccinated. Roughly 70% of the population of the Dominican Republic has been vaccinated. However, it’s important to take some additional precautions—such as: receiving a vaccination and avoiding crowded areas.

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Entry Requirements for the Dominican Republic

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Entry Requirements for the Dominican Republic (Updated 2024)

Traveling to the Dominican Republic is a Visa-Free seamless experience for visitors from various countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Mexico, many South American countries, Central America, Japan, Israel, and more. As of April 23, 2022, the travel landscape has evolved, bringing noteworthy changes to visa requirements and COVID-19 protocols.

Airports and other ports of entry will perform a quick, aleatory breath test to between 3% and 15% of passengers, and all those who present symptoms, upon arrival. Passengers under the age of five and crew members are exempt from this procedure. All passengers will also need to perform a temperature check. Passengers who present symptoms or whose test results are positive will be isolated and attended at authorized locations. Prior to departure, travelers should confirm with their airline provider and airport of origin regarding any testing or other related requirements for inbound flights to the Dominican Republic, or necessary requirements needed upon arrival to their country of origin.

Presentation of vaccination cards upon arrival in the Dominican Republic In accordance with the protocols approved by the Civil Aviation Board within the framework of its faculties, the presentation of vaccination cards will  NOT  be required for passengers arriving in the Dominican Republic.

Admission to hotels, resorts and services offered therein To enter the hotels and services offered within them and to enter hotel complexes, it will not be necessary to present the vaccination card against COVID-19, nor the negative PCR test, taking into consideration the application of the strict Protocols of Risk Management previously approved for the sector.

All airports and tourism activities in the Dominican Republic are open, as well as the ports, marinas and anchorage facilities to receive yachts, ferries, and cruise ships.

The Dominican Republic adopted an electronic system providing digital versions of the Traveler’s Health Affidavit, Customs Declaration and International Embarkation/Disembarkation forms, combined in a single digital form. All passengers entering and departing the country on commercial flights will be required to fill out and submit their digital forms through the  Electronic Ticket Portal  either before or upon their arrival to the country. To save time during the arrival procedure, we recommend filling out the form 72 hours before the trip, printing or making a screenshot of the QR code and keeping it on hand until arrival, where it will be scanned by the authorities when the passenger goes through Customs. Passengers will need to fill out a form for arrival and another one for departure and the system will generate two QR codes. The QR code will not be scanned during departure, but it is a confirmation that the form was completed correctly. If you need to make a change to the form, in the E-ticket portal you can select the option to consult the issued E-ticket, enter the application code of the form and make the necessary changes. Dominican airports have free internet access, so that passengers who did not fill out the form before flying can do so when they arrive in the country. For additional information and to watch an instructional video, please visit:  https://viajerodigital.mitur.gob.do/ .  Passengers arriving on private flights, non-commercial vessels, ferries, cruise ships, etc., do not need to fill out the electronic form. The physical Traveler’s Health Affidavit, Customs Declaration and International Embarkation/Disembarkation forms will be accepted for the aforementioned passengers.

STAY EXTENSION

If staying beyond 30 days, expect an additional fee upon departure–determined on a sliding scale according to the total length of your stay.  See the applicable fees and upload required documents  here , to be paid online before departure or at the airport’s immigration section–after check-in and past security–upon departure.

For more information, please visit  https://www.godominicanrepublic.com/newsroom/coronavirus/  where you will be able to find all relevant information about the measures that are being implemented in the country’s tourism industry.

The Dominican Republic issues tourist, business, work, student, and residency visas. Tourist visas can be issued for one or several entries.  Any person, regardless of their nationality, can visit Dominican Republic if they are a legal resident of or, if they have one of the following valid visas in their passport: United States, Canada, United Kingdom or Schengen. Travelers who do not have a passport or visa from countries listed above or from other authorized countries will need to apply for a visa. To issue a visa the passport needs to have a validity of at least six (6) months.

See list of  Dominican consulates abroad here .

The departure tax is US$20. It is already included in your airline ticket fare.

Be sure to always check for up-to-date requirements before traveling.

You are allowed to bring the following items into the Dominican Republic:

• A maximum of 20 packs of cigarettes, 25 cigars, or 200 grams of tobacco.
• Up to three (3) liters in total of wine, beer, rum, whiskey, or liquor.
• You may also bring in gifts of a value of up to US$500 (five hundred United States Dollars) once every three months.
• Medicines for personal use, in quantities that justify the exclusive use of the passenger. In the case of medicines that contain psychotropic substances, you must present the prescription for their use.

Click  HERE  for more information .

Do You Need a Passport for Punta Cana?

Yes, a valid passport is a non-negotiable requirement for traveling to Punta Cana. Whether you’re arriving from the United States, Canada, Europe, or elsewhere, having a passport is mandatory for entry into the Dominican Republic. Make sure your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your planned departure date.

Do Children Need Passports?

• Yes, all travelers, regardless of age, need a passport to enter Punta Cana. This includes infants and minors.

Can I Use a Passport Card?

• While a passport card is sufficient for land and sea travel to certain destinations, flying to Punta Cana requires a traditional passport book.

How Far in Advance Should My Passport Expire?

• It’s recommended to renew your passport if it has less than six months of validity beyond your intended departure date to avoid any complications.

Do I Need a Visa in Addition to a Passport?

• Most visitors to Punta Cana do not require a visa for short stays. However, check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality.

Is a COVID-19 Vaccination Card Required?

• As of the latest update in April 2022, a COVID-19 Vaccination Card is not required for entry into Punta Cana. However, travelers should stay informed about any changes to travel protocols.

What if I Lose My Passport in Punta Cana?

• Report the loss to local authorities and contact your embassy or consulate immediately. Carry a photocopy of your passport separately for such emergencies.

Can I Travel to Punta Cana with a Soon-to-Expire Passport?

• To avoid potential issues, ensure your passport has ample validity, ideally more than six months, beyond your planned departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many countries require a negative COVID-19 test before boarding your departing flight or entering your home country. Please confirm with the authorities of your destination country the specific type of viral test you need (PCR, antigen or antibodies) and the time it should be administered (48, 72 or 96 hours). It is important to note that these requirements depend on the authorities of other countries and can change at any time.

Below you will find a list of laboratories within the Dominican Republic that are authorized to test for COVID-19. Please confirm with each laboratory if they perform the type of test you need to travel back to your destination country, the estimated time for delivery of results and the cost. Please contact each laboratory directly. The following test prices and delivery times are subject to change.

CGE CLINICAL LABORATORY (CENTRO GASTRODIAGNÓSTICO SRL)

It has three branches strategically located in the following Santo Domingo neighborhoods:

• Gazcue: Calle José Joaquín Pérez #208.
• Naco: Avenida Tiradentes # 14, Plaza Alfonso Comercial, 1st Floor.
• Los Prados: Calle Nicolás Ureña Mendoza #2.

COVID-19 PCR Tests: 

Available at all locations. Walk in at all locations (no appointment needed).

• Cost : RD$ 3,500 (approx. USD$ 60.00)
• Results:  15 to 24 hours.

COVID-19 PCR PRIORITY Tests: 

• Cost : RD$ 4,300 (approx. USD$ 70.00)
• Results:  6 to 8 hours.

COVID-19 Antigen Tests: 

• Cost : RD$ 1,600 (approx. USD$ 27.00)
• Results:  1 to 2 hours.

For more information:

• Website:   www.cgelaboratorio.com /  www.cgegrupomedico.com
• Contact Center:  809-221-4190 ext. 221/ 809-221-3000
• WhatsApp:  829-213-4395

AMADITA CLINICAL LABORATORY

It has 47 branches strategically located nationwide for general clinical analysis.

TESTING SERVICES FOR TRAVELERS:

Antigen Tests:

This test is available at almost every branch in the country in Santo Domingo, La Romana, Bávaro, Punta Cana, Higuey, Jarabacoa, Santiago, San Pedro de Macorís an Azua, among others. This test does not require an appointment and it can be requested directly at the branch or through the following channels:

• Amadita App  (available for Android & IOS)
• Web page   www.amadita.com
• WhatsApp:  +1(809) 682-5414

Cost: RD$1,700 (approx. USD$30)

Results: Between 2 and 4 hours

You must present your passport.

COVID-19 PCR tests:

The COVID-19 PCR test is performed nationwide by requesting a visit to your hotel of a specialist or in person at the special collection points located in Santo Domingo and Santiago. You can request the test by completing the form required by the Ministry of Health through the following channels:

Cost: RD$4,100 (approx. USD$72)

Results: Between 48 and 72 hours.

You must make an appointment and present your passport.

Respiratory SARS COV 2 (COVID-19) tests:

This test is performed nationwide by requesting a visit to your hotel of a specialist or in person at the special collection points located in Santo Domingo and Santiago. You can request the test  through the following channels:

Cost: RD$8,500

Results: Between 4 and 8 hours.

For more information contact +1(809) 682-5414 or  www.amadita.com .

AMADITA CLINI CAL LABORATORY AT  LAS AMÉRICAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (SANTO DOMINGO)

Amadita Clinical Laboratory offers antigen and respiratory panel testing at Las Las Américas International Airports (Santo Domingo)  only for emergencies.

The lab in the airport is located on the third level and is open from Monday to Sunday, between 5:00AM and 8:00 PM.

Antigen Test cost: RD$1,700

Cost of Mini Respiratory Panel with SARS COV 2 Test : RD$8,500

More information:

• App Amadita (available for Android & IOS)
• WhatsApp : +1(809)682-5414
• amadita.com

REFERENCIA CLINICAL LABORATORY

A network of 51 locations throughout the country.

Available without appointment, starting at 2:00PM, to travelers presenting a confirmed flight itinerary and a form of identification, at the Santo Domingo, Santiago, Punta Cana, Bávaro, Higuey, La Romana, Puerto Plata, San Francisco de Macorís, La Vega, Nagua, Azua, Baní and San Juan de la Maguana branches.

Cost: RD$1,750

Results: 3 hours.

PCR Tests: 

Available at all branches throughout the country  with home-testing at hotels or  drive-through service (Auto Service). Appointment is required.

Cost: RD$4,300

Results: 48 hours

Express PCR Test:

Available at the Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Bávaro and La Romana branches.

Cost: RD$5,000

Results: 24 hours

For more information or to schedule an appointment:

• Tel.  +1(809) 221-2684 ext. 50
• WhastApp : +1(809)221-5545
• [email protected]
• https://www.labreferencia.com/

PATRIA RIVAS CLINICAL LABORATORY

With 10 branches throughout the country, the lab also offers the service of home testing.

Available in the San Cristóbal, Punta Cana and  El Seibo Branches.

To schedule an appointment:

WhatsApp:  +1(829)292-9612

Tel.  +1 (809) -685-0950, ext. 1002 and 1003

https://patriarivas.com.do/covid-19/

email:  [email protected]

PUNTO  MÉDICO

Branches in:

• Santo Domingo
• San Cristobal

Cost: USD$90

Results: Between 24 and 72 hours

An appointment is necessary. The lab also offers home testing at selected hotels.

https://www.puntomedico.com.do/prueba-covid-19

• Tel:  +1(809)338-3338 and +1(809)562-0040

Whatsapp: +1(809)562-0040

Antigen Test:

No appointment is necessary. Available at the following branches, from 7:00AM to 5:00 PM:

• Punta Cana International Airport
• Bávaro City Center, Bávaro.
• Punto Medico Plaza Coral, Santiago
• Punto Medico La Fuente, Santiago
• Punto Medico Zona Universitaria, Santo Domingo,
• Punto Medico Diamond Plaza, Santo Domingo.
• Punto Medico Occidental Mall, Santo Domingo.
• Hospital Semma, Santiago

Cost: USD$45

Results: Between 30 and 40 minutes

More information:   https://www.puntomedico.com.do

PUNTO  MÉDICO AT PUNTA CANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Punto Médico laboratory offers antigen testing at the Punta Cana International Airport, from Monday to Sunday, between 7:00AM and 5:00 PM. No appointment is necessary.

Antigen Test cost: USD$45

• Email :  [email protected] ,  [email protected]
• Whatsapp:  +1 (809)562-0040
• puntomedico.com.do

CENTRO MÉDICO PUNTA CANA

Cost: RD$4,500

Cost: RD$2,000

Results: If the test is administered at the branch, between 2 and 4 hours. If the test is administered at the hotel, between 24 and 48 hours.

Additionally, guests staying at the following hotels can have the PCR or antigen test administered at the medical center in the property: Majestic Resorts, Nickelodeon, Catalonia Bávaro, RIU Republic, RIU Complejo, Viva Dominicus Bayahibe, Hilton Bayahibe, and Catalonia Bayahibe.

To schedule an appointment:  scan this QR code 

For more information call:  + 1 (809) -552-1506

Call Center – 24 hours / day:  +1 (809) 473-7283

Email:  [email protected]

Website:   https://www.centromedicopuntacana.com

HOSPITEN BÁVARO, PUNTA CANA

Hospiten has a partnership with several hotels in Punta Cana. Bávaro, Capcana and Uvero Alto to administer testing on the property. Please confirm with your hotel if they are part of this agreement.

Cost: USD$125

For tests administered on hotel property please check availability with Guest Services. For tests administered at the lab, please make an appointment by calling:

Tel:  +1 (809) 686-1414 ext. 2560

Cost: USD$35

Results: 20 minutes

Email:   [email protected]

Tel:  +1 (809) 686 1414

https://hospiten.com/centros-y-hospitales/cid/6

IMG HOSPITAL, PUNTA CANA

To schedule an appointment: +1 (809) 285 6116

For more information visit:  https://img.hospital

BOURNIGAL MEDICAL CENTER, PUERTO PLATA

Additionally, guests staying at the following hotels can have the PCR or antigen test administered at the medical center in the property: Lifestyle Hotels Cofresi, Senator, and Casa Marina Sosua.

To schedule an appointment:  scan this QR code

For more information:  +1 (809) 586-2342

Cellular / WhatsApp  +1 (829) 679-3155 (Monday to Friday from 8 am-6pm)

Email:  [email protected]

For more information:   https://www.centromedicobournigal.com

BOURNIGAL MEDICAL CENTER AT  GREGORIO LUPER Ó N INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, PUERTO PLATA

Service available from 10:00Am to 5:00PM.

Results: Between 20 and 30 minutes

HOSPITEN SANTO DOMINGO

Results: Same day, approximately 3 to 4 hours

Tests are administered only in the mornings, starting at 8:00 AM, from Monday to Friday.

Tel:  +1 (809) 541 30 00 ext. 2840

Email:  [email protected]

For more information visit:   https://hospiten.com/centros-y-hospitales/cid/4

CENTRO DIAGNÓSTICO DE HELICOBÁCTER PYLORI Y LABORATORIO CLÍNICO ESPECIALIZADO, SANTO DOMINGO

Cost: RD$3,000

Results: Between 1 and 2 hours.

An appointment is not necessary but suggested. Walk-ins welcomed and served on a first-come basis.

Tel: +1 (809) 567-1996 or +1(809) 732-7044 (for information in English please ask to speak to Dr. Lyanne Santana)

Whatsapp: +1(809)857-1952

Email:  [email protected]

Address: Calle Frank Félix Miranda #11. Ensanche Naco. Santo Domingo

LABORATORIO CLÍNICO SIRENY. LAS TERRENAS. SAMANÁ

It is strategically located in the municipality of Las Terrenas, Samaná. It has clinical analysis services in general and also offers testing service for travelers.

Antígen test COVID-19: Available by appointment at home or at the hotel. It is essential to have a passport if it is for travel. Also available with self-service in the laboratory parking lot, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cost: RD$3,500 (aprox. USD$62)

Results: 24 horas

COVID-19 PCR tests: Available with Self Service in the laboratory parking lot. It is essential to make an appointment.

Cost: RD$ 6,500 (aprox. USD$114)

Results: 24 to 48 hours

• Tel.  +1(809) 240-5910
• WhatsApp  +1(809) 847-3880
• Cel.  +1(809) 756-7476

General measures to protect against respiratory diseases include:

• Frequently clean your hands (wash them with soap and water or alcohol solutions), especially after direct contact with sick people or their environment.
• Avoid contact with people with signs of a respiratory illness, such as coughing or sneezing.
• Cover your mouth and nose with disposable tissues when you cough or sneeze, and then wash your hands.

These measures also help protect you against frequent illnesses like the flu.

If you suspect that you have symptoms of COVID-19, the United States Center for Disease Control advises you to take the following steps:

• Stay in your home or hotel room and call the doctor before going for a medical visit.
• Avoid contact with other people and animals.
• Wear a mask.
• Cover your mouth or nose with a disposable tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands regularly and for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid sharing personal items with others.
• Clean all high-contact surfaces every day.
• Monitor your symptoms.

The most common symptoms are fever, cough, and feeling short of breath. In some cases, there may also be digestive symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain. Symptoms can be aggravated in vulnerable individuals such as the elderly or people with compromised immune systems, among others.

COVID-19: general aviation flights arriving from and departing to Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela airports (MAIQUETIA FIR) are suspended.

These measures may be revised, rescinded, or extended by the Dominican Civil Aviation Institute and the Dominican Civil Aviation Board after evaluation of the circumstances that originated them.

Information on COVID-19 can be found on the websites of different official organizations. Our recommendations are as follows:

• World Health Organization:
• https://www.who.int/en/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
• Pan American Health Organization:
• https://www.paho.org/hq/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=15696:coronavirus-disease-covid-19&Itemid=4206&lang=es
• Dominican Republic Ministry of Public Health:
• https://www.msp.gob.do/web/
• United States Center for Disease Control:
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index-sp.html

Things to do in the Dominican Republic

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Not required for vaccinated visitors

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Not required in public spaces.

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Can I travel to the Dominican Republic from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Dominican Republic.

Can I travel to the Dominican Republic if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter the Dominican Republic without restrictions.

Can I travel to the Dominican Republic without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter the Dominican Republic without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter the Dominican Republic?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering the Dominican Republic.

Can I travel to the Dominican Republic without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in the Dominican Republic?

Mask usage in the Dominican Republic is not required in public spaces.

Are the restaurants and bars open in the Dominican Republic?

Restaurants in the Dominican Republic are open. Bars in the Dominican Republic are .

Authentic experiences & recommendations

Traveling to Punta Cana 2022 in times of coronavirus – What to expect during the period of Covid-19 (update)?

 The Dominican Republic is one of the few countries worldwide which has been open for tourism since July 2020 without any interruptions. The Covid restrictions in Punta Cana have been lifted gradually since then making the Dominican Republic one of the easiest places to visit, even in 2022. However, Covid-19 safety protocols in Punta Cana are still in effect for all travelers. Resorts are taking care of the health of their guests, excursions have implemented hygiene protocols and the airports are measuring the temperatures of all arriving passengers. Those are just a few of the regulations to prevent the spread of Coronavirus in the Dominican Republic and to protect travelers during their vacation in Punta Cana. Furthermore, the government is following a long-term tourism recovery plan, which underlines the importance of tourism for the Dominican Republic and proves, that the borders will remain open, even if the omicron variant is going to spread in the Dominican Republic. Some resorts are even offering free Antigen tests when required to return to your home country. But how is the situation of Covid-19 in Punta Cana? What has changed since the pandemic? 

 What can you expect when traveling to Punta Cana in times of Coronavirus? This article will highlight some of the aspects of post-Covid-19 travel to the Dominican Republic with first-hand information from Punta Cana.

Good to know: what happens if you get tested positive in a resort

Travel insurance to cover hotel quarantine in punta cana.

If you are looking for the best tours and activities you can do during the times of Coronavirus, you can check out the best Covid-19 friendly excursions in Punta Cana . For a full list of all Punta Cana excursions and tours, continue reading here .

Completely UPDATED: February 2021 Last Update: April 2021; June 2021 Completely UPDATED: December 2021 Last Update: January 2022; March 2022

What to expect during your flight in times of Coronavirus?

 When flying to the Dominican Republic during Covid-19, you can expect the safety guidelines most of the airlines have implemented. The main change compared to pre-Covid travel is the mandatory use of face-covering masks during the flight, but also catering has been restricted by most airlines. In-flight magazines have been removed and deep-cleaning protocols after every flight have been implemented – all to secure passenger’s safety and to avoid getting infected with Coronavirus during the flight. As regulations and guidelines due to Covid-19 are changing frequently, please check with your preferred airline on their measures regarding Coronavirus. 

 Since Covid-19 hit our world, I have already flown a couple of times in and out of Punta Cana. All the flights were super smooth. Thanks to the new Dominican Republic e-ticket , immigration is also as smooth and fast as never before.

Editor’s Choice: the best experiences 2024

Most unique experience in a small group: Authentic rum tasting * (rating 4.78/5) Best Rated Punta Cana excursion: Isla Saona Premium in small groups * (rating 4.95/5) Most booked through Punta Cana Travel Blog: Small-Group Snorkeling * (rating 4.91/5) Best off-the-beaten-track excursion: Montana Redonda & Costa Esmeralda * (rating 4.79/5) Best excursion for family fun: Jungle Buggies + Zipline Combo * (rating 4.91/5) New and trending for 2024: Evening Buggy Tour with Water Cave and Dancing * Not the right tour for you? Check out the 45 best Punta Cana excursions here at Punta Cana Travel Blog!

 The biggest change when booking a flight to Punta Cana (and to all other destinations in the Dominican Republic and the world) compared to times before Coronavirus is a positive one. While airlines usually sold 100% non-refundable tickets with hefty change fees, most of the tickets nowadays – thanks to Covid-19 – are flexible and changeable as the airlines would like to stimulate bookings. This allows you to react to any new situations, it doesn’t matter if they are Covid-19 related or not. However, please note that most airlines only allow 1 change and if you ask for a refund, they usually give you a travel credit for your next trip instead. Make sure to check the current regulations of the airlines (they change frequently as well) to take advantage of flexible cancellation guidelines when booking your flight to the Dominican Republic in times of Covid-19. It is also important to book your flight for your Punta Cana vacation right on the airline website if you’d like to benefit from the flexible booking conditions.

What to expect in the Dominican Republic upon arrival in times of Coronavirus (airport and transfers)?

 Once you are on your way to paradise (the Dominican Republic), you can relax and sit back as you have managed the biggest challenge in these unprecedented times: getting started! Soon you are going to arrive at Punta Cana International Airport, where you pass a temperature screening as part of the entry requirements. Even though the Dominican Republic lifted all Covid-19 related restrictions in February 2022, temperature are still being performed.

For your 2022 Punta Cana vacation, the entire immigration process for the Dominican Republic can and has to be done online. Just visit the Dominican Republic Immigration Website linked here * and fill out the linked form to receive a so-called e-ticket. The online form is requesting most information you are usually filling out manually when entering a country. In the end, you will receive a QR-Code (= ticket), which you can show to the immigration officer when arriving in the Dominican Republic. Check out this article if you have any problems or questions filling out the Punta Cana e-ticket immigration form .

This e-ticket also contains a few questions about your health status. Therefore, the final document can also be seen as some kind of Covid QR-Code for the Dominican Republic.

Since April 1st, 2021, online registration is mandatory, paper forms will no longer be accepted. It is advisable to do the e-ticket registration before starting your Punta Cana vacation. The best is to do it 2-3 days in advance to receive the QR-Code allowing you to enter the Dominican Republic. After having used this immigration e-ticket form a couple of times, I have to say that the process indeed is much easier and quicker than before. Once arriving in Punta Cana, the immigration process is super quick.

 For your Punta Cana vacation, no negative PCR-test is required to enter the Dominican Republic (except for certain countries if not vaccinated, such as Australia, Brazil, Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Iran, Ireland, Kuwait, Monaco, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Spain, Sweden, Syria, Thailand, Tunisia and the United Kingdom), which makes it easy for you to travel to Punta Cana. However, random Covid-19 tests (fast checks, usually with a breathalyzer) might still be performed upon arrival at Punta Cana International Airport and all other ports of entry into the Dominican Republic – mostly only if you are showing any kinds of symptoms. If you present a negative test or if you are fully vaccinated against Covid-19, you are not subject to any airport testing. If you are not tested nor vaccinated and you get selected for a quick Covid-19 test, don’t worry. Usually, you’ll have the result in 15 minutes and it is absolutely free. The random testing will continue in 2022.

BOOK TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR PUNTA CANA WITH COVID-19 COVERAGE

incl. Covid-19 coverage

 Those measures are part of the governmental plan the Dominican Republic has implemented to recover the sector of tourism from the aftermath of Covid-19, which also hit the Caribbean very hard. This has been a full success as the occupation levels at the end of 2021 and in the beginning of 2022 have passed those of 2019. Therefore, most of the Punta Cana Covid restrictions have been lifted.

 See below for further information on the very few coronavirus restrictions still in effect.

 Once you have passed immigration and customs, you can proceed to your prebooked transfer, grab a taxi or start your journey on your own by taking public transport . Please check this comprehensive article on all the transfer options you have at Punta Cana International Airport (or Las Américas International Airport if arriving in Santo Domingo ). Alternatively, you can also rent a car , which is a perfect alternative to explore the Dominican Republic authentically and independently. 

TRAVEL COACHING

Do you need help planning a customized vacation in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic? Is it difficult for you to decide what and where to book? Would you like to take advantage of someone with years of experience in the tourism industry (knowing all the travel hacks 😉 ) and living right in the place where you would like to spend your holiday? That’s what my personal travel coaching is for. I will design your tailor-made itinerary, tell you how to save money on your trip and send you the best insider tips and recommendations. All the information I send you are crafted with love and passion – and are coming with a money-back guarantee. Let me know how I can help you ( check my packages here ) and send me a request here !

 In case you have booked your transfer (get the best prices on your Punta Cana private airport transfer here * or reserve yourself a space in a shared shuttle * if you would like to lower the costs), you will be greeted by your representative. According to the Covid-19 guidelines in Punta Cana, hand sanitizer will be held available to disinfect your hands.

There are no Coronavirus restrictions in Punta Cana regarding which type of transfer you have to use like in other countries. You can choose freely which option you’d like to choose.

 As you can see, you shouldn’t expect many Covid-19 regulations or travel restrictions in Punta Cana, meaning that you can enjoy your holiday in the Dominican Republic to the fullest.

What to expect in the all-inclusive resorts during Coronavirus?

 The all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic were those “institutions” with the most Covid-19 measures and guidelines in effect, which is particularly due to the many different aspects of the holiday an all-inclusive resort is affecting: food, activities, pool, room, service, drinks … there is hardly anything which hasn’t been put under the new coronavirus hygiene protocol in Punta Cana. This protocol was created by the tourism associations, the government and the industry leaders and guarantees the highest level of Coronavirus protection without imposing too many Covid-19 related restrictions. 

 The most important measures to protect the spread of Coronavirus in the hotels of Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic are:

• Social distancing at all times
• Wearing face masks in all public spaces (except restaurants, pools and at the beach)
• Providing sufficient hand sanitizer
• Guaranteeing sanitation methods in restaurants and buffets (or not offering buffets at all)
• Deep-cleaning of rooms
• New protocols for the interaction between guests and employers
• Postponing activities where social distancing can’t be guaranteed
• Implementing a paperless check-in where possible
• Health protocols for guests and employers
• Running hotels and all-inclusive resorts with a limited occupancy
• And many more … 

In the meantime, the government of the Dominican Republic has lifted all Covid-19 related travel regulations, which means you can fully enjoy your Punta Cana vacation. However, some of the hotels are partly continuing their Coronavirus protocol to make sure everyone is safe and sound.

 While these guidelines and Covid-19 restrictions might sound pretty general, I have visited a couple of all-inclusive resorts in the last weeks and months to check how these measures are implemented. While you can read my full reviews of AC by Marriott Punta Cana , Bahía Principe Luxury Esmeralda , Be Live Punta Cana , Catalonia Bayahibe , Catalonia Punta Cana , Catalonia Royal Bavaro , Caribe Deluxe Princess , Dreams Dominicus , Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana , Finest Punta Cana , Grand Bavaro Princess , Grand Sirenis Resort Punta Cana , Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana , Lopesan Costa Bavaro , Princess Family Club , RIU Palace Macao , RIU Palace Punta Cana , RIU República , Royalton CHIC , Secrets Royal Beach , Serenade Punta Cana , Tropical Deluxe Princess and whala Bayahibe here, the following measures were some which called my immediate attention in terms of the new Covid-19 hygiene protocol in Punta Cana.

In all all-inclusive resorts:

• Upon arrival, your body temperature gets screened, your luggage disinfected and you shall sanitize your hands.
• Check-in agents are separated by plexiglass from the guests.
• All employers are wearing face masks to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
• Tables get properly disinfected before and after use.
• According to the Covid-19 hygiene protocol your room gets fully disinfected before your check-in.
• Pool and beach chairs are being moved away from each other to maintain social distancing.
• As an additional Covid-19 measure, dining menus and resort information are available via QR codes only.
• Frequent hand sanitization is encouraged when entering restaurants, bars, the lobby and other common areas.

In some all-inclusive resorts:

• Multi-touch items such as remote control, tablet or bathroom amenities get disinfected and will be placed in a sealed bag afterwards
• At the buffet, you won’t serve yourself, so the food tongs won’t get touched by multiple persons. You rather choose at the buffet what you want to eat and one of the service staff members will put it on your plate. Alternatively, for those resorts where the self-serving method is still in effect, you have to wear disposable gloves to avoid any contamination.
• When ordering a drink, the waiters won’t touch your glass (you either grab it from the tray, they pass it to you with a napkin or they are wearing sanitized gloves).
• Check-in can be done completely paperless in times of Coronavirus.

 While some of these rules for the all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana might sound bothersome, they are not. The hotels do their best to prevent any inconveniences for the guests. The vibe is really easy-going and 98% of the time, you don’t feel that you are vacationing during a pandemic. In the meantime, most of the Punta Cana covid restrictions in the resorts have been lifted as well, so that discos are going to reopen, social activities are getting back on the schedule and face mask obligation is seen less strict in some of the hotels. Occupancy levels have also significantly risen to (more than) pre-pandemic level, hence the Punta Cana resorts in 2022 are much more busy and active in comparison to 2020.

Please note that some of these measures are discontinued as of February 2022 when the government of the Dominican Republic announced that all Covid-19 related regulations have been terminated. However, it depends on the discretion of the hotel in Punta Cana how they are organizing their operations. For example, even though social events, parties and swim-up bars are allowed again, it doesn’t mean that all of the Punta Cana resorts are opening them up immediately.

As of February 2022, most all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana are open again, probably around 95%. Some of the reopened resorts are Barcelo Bavaro Beach, Be Live Collection Punta Cana Adults Only , Breathless Punta Cana, Catalonia Royal Bavaro , Dreams Ma c ao Beach , Excellence El Carmen, Finest Punta Cana , Grand Sirenis Resort Punta Cana , Hard Rock Punta Cana , Iberostar Grand, Lopesan Costa Bavaro , Majestic Mirage, Melia Caribe Beach, Nickelodeon Punta Cana, RIU Palace Punta Cana , Royalton Punta Cana, Secrets Cap Cana and Secrets Royal Beach .

Some of the resorts still closed (as of December 2021) are Grand Bahía Principe Turquesa, Natura Park Resort or Le Sivory Port Bleue.

 We are receiving a lot of requests about what happens if you test positive in your Punta Cana resort when taking your mandatory Covid-19 test for returning to the United States or other countries.

In general, it shall be noted that in the past, more than 99% of all traveler Covid-19 tests were negative. However, in case you get tested positive, you will be quarantined in the resort you are staying at. The rates for this extended stay depend on your hotel and can vary widely. Please check with the all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana or wherever in the Dominican Republic you have booked. There are three different kinds of options: – the resort offers a free extended stay option for the quarantine of up to 14 nights – the resort offers a discounted rate for the quarantine stay – the resort charges the regular rate for the quarantine stay

 Anyway, you most likely have some extra expenses incl. your flight rebookings, but this shouldn’t refrain you from traveling to Punta Cana during Covid-19. Those costs can be easily covered by travel insurance, for example, Liaison Travel Plus insurance *. They cover hotel expenses as a part of their Covid-19 coverage when testing positive during your Punta Cana vacation. This Covid-19 insurance is available for most nationalities, including the US, Canada, UK and all other European countries.

 You can find more information about the terms and conditions here *. We also give some helpful tips about this topic further down in the insurance section.

 Please note: the quarantine stay in your resort will be in a different part of the hotel, which is exclusively reserved for this reason. The rooms are the same as in the rest of the resort, but you are not allowed to leave the room or take part in any activities. Food and drinks (usually no alcohol) will be delivered to your room.

 Once tested positive, the hotel quarantine in Punta Cana might be up to 14 days. Usually and if free of symptoms, you can end the quarantine earlier with a negative Covid-19 test, which normally has to be a PCR test, paid out of your own expense (or by your insurance, if they cover PCR tests). However, this decision can also be changed on a case-by-case basis.

What to expect during your excursions in Punta Cana during times of Coronavirus?

  Excursions are up and running in Punta Cana , most tour operators have resumed their operations. Unless other countries after the outbreak of Coronavirus, you are also allowed to venture out on your own in the Dominican Republic. Here on Punta Cana Travel Blog, you find a lot of ideas on how to explore the authentic Dominican Republic . Check out this multi-day itinerary from Punta Cana , have a look at the best day-trips from Punta Cana or check out one of Punta Canas’ waterfalls . You can also have a look at the best Covid-19 friendly excursions in Punta Cana and check out the best things to do in Punta Cana .

Have you already booked your excursions in Punta Cana? Find the best insider tips and prices here:

 However, also the excursion operators follow a strict hygiene protocol and have implemented strict Covid-19 measures to prevent the spread of Coronavirus in Punta Cana. Some of those Coronavirus guidelines are:

• Mandatory face coverings during transfers
• The guide has to perform a medical check (of his own) before each tour
• Vehicles have to be deep-cleaned before and after every tour
• Vehicles can only be occupied with limited capacity
• Temperature checks for all excursion guests before the tour starts
• Public toilets have to be available and sanitized every 2 hours
• Lunch can only be served on disposable plates and cutlery

TOP 12 Punta Cana Excursions

Isla Saona : Saona Info | Book it * Private Saona Island Tour: Private Tour Info | Book it * Dune buggy and ATV excursion : Buggy Info | Book it * Punta Cana Ziplining : Zipline Info | Book it * Party boat & booze cruise : Party Boat Info | Book it * Best Nightlife Show: Coco Bongo Info | Book it * Scape Park Cap Cana & Blue Lagoon : Blue Lagoon Info | Book it * Los Haitises National Park : Los Haitises Info | Book it * Santo Domingo : Santo Domingo Info | Book it * Samaná (Salto El Limón & Cayo Levantado) : Samaná Info | Book it * Helicopter & airplane tours : Helicopter Info | Book it * Whale watching (Jan-Mar only) : Whale watching Info | Book it * Looking for more inspiration? Check out the 40+ best Punta Cana tours !

As of February 2022, travel restrictions on excursions in Punta Cana have also been lifted. While it is still at the discretion of the tour operator to ask for face coverings in closed areas or vehicles, tours and activities in Punta Cana can operate under normal conditions.

 This being said, you can expect to see the Dominican Republic in all its beauty.

Since the pandemic started, I have taken part in a couple of those activities, including buggy tours , ziplining , catamaran tours and many more. It’s absolutely easy and there are hardly any travel restrictions for Punta Cana excursions , so you can look forward to some great adventures and unforgettable fun.

How to get travel insurance with Covid-19 coverage for your Punta Cana holiday?

When you have set everything up for your all-inclusive vacation in the Dominican Republic, it is also time to think about travel insurance – because traveling without would be highly insane amidst a pandemic. Travel insurance for foreign countries always is important as it protects you from the high medical costs in clinics and hospitals when having an accident or getting sick. This is important for Punta Cana as well. Even the general price level in Punta Cana is reasonable , health care is quite expensive, especially when consulting English-speaking doctors or using a hospital with an international standard.  During the times of Coronavirus, travel insurance is even more important as you still can catch the virus in the Dominican Republic, despite all Covid-19 regulations and measures according to the hygienic protocol. Luckily, there are travel insurances with Covid-19 coverage which fully protects you even if you get the virus during your holiday.   I am protected with Safety Wing *, an easy and straightforward international insurance covering me in all countries in the world (except Iran, North Korea, Cuba), including the Dominican Republic. Safety Wing also covers any medical treatment of Covid-19 as long as you have not contracted the Coronavirus before your insurance policy started. In other words, if you travel to Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic and get sick during your holiday, Safety Wing covers you ( please read their user-friendly terms & conditions for any exclusions *) – it doesn’t matter if it is Covid-19 related or any other health issue. Even Covid-19 tests for Coronavirus are included if medically necessary.  While Safety Wing initially was a digital nomad company offering long-term health insurance, you can also take out their insurance for short vacations of just a couple of days. Please note that they have a deductible of 250 USD for most medical cases and liability is capped at a certain (reasonable) amount, but this comes with the big advantage that their insurance policies start for as low as 1.20 USD a day (!). Health and travel insurance for a 1-week trip to the Dominican Republic incl. Covid-19 coverage only costs you 12 USD for the entire week and a month is just 40 USD. This even includes travel insurance, so in case of flight disruptions, natural disasters, travel delays or lost checked luggage, you are covered as well – without deductible! Safety Wing covers nationals from all over the world, including US and European citizens.

 SafetyWing is probably not recommendable for every type of traveler, but the low prices and strong coverage are absolutely worth a look, taking into consideration that it is health, travel AND Covid-19 insurance in one package. I can recommend it from my experience, so have a look at the services and prices!

– Most Popular Posts on Punta Cana Travel Blog –

Helpful Overview & Experiences: all-inclusive ADULTS-ONLY resorts in Punta Cana

13 Insider tips on how to find the best all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana

Excursion to Isla Saona 2024 – hidden gems, insider tips, DIY adventures and the best Saona Island tours

Coco Bongo Punta Cana – Ticket Options, our review and if it is worth to visit

 If Safety Wing is nothing for you, you can have a look at Visitors Coverage. Visitors Coverage is a price comparison tool * for international travel and medical insurances, doesn’t matter where you are from or where you are traveling to. More or less half of the insurance offers at Visitors Coverage include Covid-19 coverage when traveling, so make sure to activate this filter when browsing through the results. Prices are super low as well (10 USD for a 1-week trip to Punta Cana) and the deductible is as low as 50 USD, which is important if you don’t want to pay much in case of medical treatment. Visitors Coverage offers different insurance companies and packages, some of them for travel insurance (travel delay, trip cancellation, etc.) and some of them for health insurance (medical treatment, hospitalization, etc.). You can use the tool below to check the best prices and services for your trip.

Visitors Coverage is also a perfect option if you are looking for Covid-19 travel insurance that covers hotel quarantine if you get tested positive in your all-inclusive resort. As explained above in the hotel section of this Covid-19 guide for Punta Cana, you will get quarantined in your resort in case you get tested positive during your pre-return Covid-19 test. The cost of quarantine depends on your resort, as some all-inclusive resorts complimentary extend your stay and others charge the full or a discounted rate.

In any case, in case you get tested positive in Punta Cana and need to adjust your hotel and flight schedule, it is very recommendable to have travel insurance which is covering Covid-19 related travel expenses including hotel quarantine. You can compare different insurance options with Visitors Coverage here *.

One insurance that covers your hotel quarantine in Punta Cana is Liaison Travel Plus *. There are only a few conditions that have to be met: – a positive test result administered by a certified physician (all Covid-19 tests in Punta Cana are done by official laboratories, hence this shouldn’t be a problem) – a document from the physician or local government mandating a hard quarantine in the resort (in case you get tested positive, ask the resort or laboratory for an official quarantine letter, signed by a doctor or the local authority imposing the quarantine) – a document from the doctor recommending where you stay (as the Punta Cana hotel quarantine is a common standard, they shall simply write that they recommend quarantining in your hotel as it is the easiest way of quarantine)

 Considering that only a few all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana are offering a free Covid-19 quarantine, such travel insurance covering hotel quarantine and additional flight expenses might be worth every penny.

Another option for non-US-residents is Safe Travels International – Cost Saver * as they are covering up to 150 USD per day and 2000 USD per stay in trip delay coverage, which also includes hotel and flight expenses if you are getting tested positive in Punta Cana and have to quarantine in the Dominican Republic.

Free health insurance provided by the government of the Dominican Republic

Currently, the free health insurance provided by the government of the Dominican Republic until June 2021 is not offered anymore.

How is the beach in Punta Cana during Covid-19?

 While the beach itself isn’t directly affected by any Covid-19 restrictions in the Dominican Republic, it is very interesting to see how the beach has changed in recent months, since Coronavirus hit our world and stopped all travel immediately.

 While most of the beautiful beaches in Punta Cana were highly frequented before Covid-19, with all the all-inclusive resorts open, many people walking along the beach and beach bars frequented with happy travelers, everything has been super quiet for a few months. It was impressive to see how pristine and virgin the beach turned in these few months without visitors. Natural flotsam was piling up at the beach, palm trees were swaying in the wind without any people around for miles and some fishing boats seemed to not have moved for ages. It was a totally different atmosphere.

In the meantime, most of the things are back to normal. Most of the all-inclusive resorts are open, plenty of people are strolling at the beach. Check out this article if you want to see more about the best beaches in Punta Cana .

Hospital situation in Punta Cana in times of Coronavirus

 When traveling in times of Coronavirus, it is also important to check the available hospitals and medical infrastructure in your holiday destination, just in case you – despite all the measures – get infected or have any other accident. Luckily, Punta Cana has a particularly good supply of international hospitals, private clinics and English-speaking doctors, so that you don’t have to worry about medical treatment, as long as you are properly insured. Also, thanks to the low population density of the area, emergency beds and ventilators were (and are) always available even during peak times of Covid-19 in Punta Cana and it is not expected that this is going to change in the future. 

The government of the Dominican Republic has done a great job of offering sufficient hospital capacities and therefore being able to live the coronavirus restrictions in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic. In 2021, the average occupancy of emergency beds and ventilators in the Dominican Republic was around 40% and never reached more than 60-70%. At the beginning of 2022, the hospital occupation is even below 20%. As of March 2022, the hospital occupation in the Dominican Republic even dropped to 5%, meaning the hospitals are actually empty.

 There are several clinics and hospitals in Punta Cana. All of them have English-speaking staff and accept different kinds of insurances. In case you need to see a doctor, it doesn’t matter if it’s Covid-19 related or for another reason, make sure to call before to check if the hospital does offer the treatment you are looking for.

 The biggest clinics and hospitals in Punta Cana are the following:

• International Medical Group Punta Cana (IMG Punta Cana)
• Centro Médico Punta Cana
• International Medical Center TCMS
• Hospiten Bavaro

 The biggest and most modern hospital in Punta Cana is the IMG Punta Cana from the International Medical Group. You can find all kinds of clinics and departments here, with (partly) bi-lingual doctors, the latest technology and the cleanest environment. Without having tried all the hospitals, I would say that the International Medical Group has the best hospital in Punta Cana. 

How to get a Covid test in Punta Cana (PCR test/Antigen)?

 It is also not a problem to get a PCR test in Punta Cana if you would like to get checked for Covid-19. Even when most countries are requesting a negative Covid test to return to your home country, there are sufficient testing capacities, also thanks to the Dominican government and tourism recovery plan. But how to get a Covid-19 test in Punta Cama. it doesn’t matter if an Antigen test or a PCR test?

First of all, it depends where you are staying: do you travel to Punta Cana to stay in an all-inclusive resort or do you want to spend your vacation in an Airbnb (check out this list, there are so many spectacular Airbnb in Punta Cana )?

If you are staying in an all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana , you should check with your travel agent or your concierge if the hotel is offering free (or paid) Covid tests during your stay. Most all-inclusive resorts do offer Covid-testing right at the premises. Some Punta Cana resorts are offering them for a fee, some are even absorbing the costs and are offering them for free. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about getting your Covid test on time before returning to your country. PCR tests usually have to be paid extra.

If you are staying at an Airbnb in Punta Cana or a guesthouse, you don’t have to worry either as there are plenty of testing facilities in Punta Cana. Even you are not entitled to a free test, you simply can book an appointment (or head there without advance notice) and get your Antigen or PCR-test done. For Antigen tests, you even don’t need an appointment in most places.

The most recommendable testing facilities are the following:

No responsibility is taken for the correctness of this information. Punta Cana Travel Blog can’t be held responsible for any changes or incorrect information. All details of the insurances are subject to change without prior notice.

So far, I have used the Covid-19 testing facilities of IMG Punta Cana and Centro Medico Punta Cana and am absolutely satisfied with them. The results are ready in usually 15 to 30 minutes.

In case you don’t get tested before your flight, you simply forget it or if your test result arrives too late, there are also testing facilities at Punta Cana Airport and Santo Domingo Airport . However, this shall only be considered as an emergency solution, it is much less hassle to get tested before. If you have to get tested right at the airport, plan between 1 and 3 additional hours for it. Those testing facilities at the airport are only open during daytime hours.

Situation and regulations regarding Covid-19 in the Dominican Republic

 While all the above is regarding tourism, the safety guidelines during your Punta Cana holiday and any Coronavirus restrictions imposed on certain activities, it is also important to look left and right at what’s happening in the Dominican Republic in terms of Covid-19. 

 While in the beginning Latin America, in general, had a harder time preventing the spread of Covid-19 due to big families, limited housing space and a large informal economy, they recovered better and had fewer problems with the third and fourth waves caused by the delta or the omicron variants. Especially the Dominican Republic could always score with balanced risk management compared to other Latin American countries. Images from dead people on the street, people queuing up with their gas bottles to buy oxygen for their infected loved ones or week-long 24-hour lockdowns, fortunately, have spared the Dominican Republic. The number of new Coronavirus cases has also been on very moderate levels for months now since autumn 2020 (except a spike around December 2020/January 2021 which the country, fortunately, has been able to stop again). This emphasizes that the Dominican Republic is doing particularly well during the Covid-19 pandemic (and as a person living there I can 100% second this).

In February 2022, the government of the Dominican Republic even announced that all Covid-19 related regulations and travel restrictions will be terminated immediately, including the requirement of a vaccination card when visiting supermarkets, banks or public restaurants.

Furthermore, the Dominican Republic is one of the countries with very stable measures to protect the spread of Coronavirus. While other governments are jumping forth and back with their travel restrictions, the Dominican government is keeping its path to fight Covid-19 in Punta Cana and the entire country. There haven’t been any border closures, testing requirements or quarantine mandates since autumn 2020 except for a few selected countries.

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Since the end of October 2021, the curfew in the Dominican Republic also has been discontinued. There is no state of emergency anymore and life is mostly back to normal, except for mask obligations in public and closed buildings.

This also means that Punta Cana nightlife after covid is back to normal. Night clubs such as Coco Bongo or Imagine * are open. You can also visit the local nightlife in Punta Cana , which is open and running.

While a few attractions still might be closed due to the lack of visitors or the possibility to ensure social distancing, the majority of all tours and activities in Punta Cana is open and running. Check out this article about the best excursions in Punta Cana during Covid-19 to find out more.

From October 2021 until February 2022, it has been mandatory to show proof of vaccination when entering public indoor spaces such as governmental buildings, restaurants, bars, supermarkets, banks or public transport . This explicitly didn’t apply to hotels, all-inclusive resorts (including their restaurant and bars), other accommodations, private transport (such as airport transfers in Punta Cana ) excursions, natural sites and sites of interest. Hence there is and has been no vaccine requirement in Punta Cana and even in the places mentioned above you were usually not being asked about your vaccination card.

Starting from the 19th of February 2022, this Covid-19 measure in the Dominican Republic has been discontinued, hence you don’t need to be vaccinated to go anywhere in Punta Cana or the entire country.

Governmental program in the Dominican Republic in response to Covid-19 

 As tourism is an important industry in the Dominican Republic, the government has declared its recovery after the worldwide Coronavirus lockdown as one of the main targets when restarting the economy. To achieve this, the new ruling party – just governing since July 2020 – has implemented a plan which includes several measures to help both, travelers and suppliers. 

 Further entry restrictions are not in effect, all countries can enter the Dominican Republic, however, visa regulations might apply.

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 With all these guidelines and regulations, the Dominican Republic is open for everyone and ready to receive you. Are you ready for your vacation in the Caribbean? If so, check out the articles about the best day-trips in Punta Cana , 26 exciting things to do in Bavaro and beyond and don’t forget to visit some of the highlights of the Dominican Republic, such as Isla Saona , Santo Domingo and Los Haitises . You can also have a look at the best excursions in Punta Cana to do during the times of Coronavirus .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Covid-19 in Punta Cana

Yes, there are Coronavirus cases in Punta Cana. Due to the low population, the numbers of Covid-19 are much lower than in the other parts of the Dominican Republic.

No, the curfew and state-of-emergency was lifted in October 2021. All further Covid-19 related travel restrictions have been lifted in February 2022. 

The Dominican Republic has fully re-opened its borders starting from the 1st of July 2020 and was one of the first countries to do so worldwide without any entry restrictions (no PCR test or quarantine required). Also for 2022 there are no entry requirements in terms of bringing a PCR test or being tested negatively on Coronavirus (except a few countries listed above in the text). A health check, temperature screening and random Covid-19 testing are in effect. Besides this, the usual visa requirements apply (no visa required for American, Canadian, UK, EU citizens any many more).

You can freely travel around in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic. There are no travel restrictions in effect.

You should take out travel insurance when traveling to Punta Cana. You can also check affordable SafetyWing * with Covid-19 travel insurance and up to 250.000 USD coverage.

As of March 2022, around 95% of the hotels in Punta Cana are reopened. For a complete list, please check the current availability here *.

All all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana follow strict hygienic protocols to maximize your health and safety and to prevent the spread of Coronavirus. While this has a large impact, there can never be a 100% guarantee that there are no Covid-19 cases in your hotel. Check the sections above for further information on the hygienic protocols.

Some of the measures and guidelines to protect the spread of Covid-19 include: – Upon arrival, your body temperature gets screened, your luggage disinfected and you shall sanitize your hands. – Check-in can be done completely paperless in times of Coronavirus. – Check-in agents are separated by plexiglass from the guests. – All employers are wearing face masks to prevent the spread of Covid-19. – When ordering a drink, the waiters won’t touch your glass (you either grab it from the tray or they pass it to you with a napkin). – At the buffet, you won’t serve yourself, so the food tongs won’t get touched by multiple persons. You rather choose at the buffet what you want to eat and one of the service staff members will put it on your plate. – Tables get properly disinfected before and after using. – According to the Covid-19 hygiene protocol your room gets fully disinfected before you check-in. – Multi-touch items such as remote control, tablet or bathroom amenities get disinfected and will be placed in a sealed bag afterwards. – Pool and beach chairs are being moved away from each other to maintain social distancing. – As an additional Covid-19 measure, dining menus and resort information are available via QR codes. – Frequent hand sanitization is encouraged when entering restaurants, bars, the lobby and other common areas.

No, no quarantine is needed when entering the Dominican Republic as of January 2022, except when arriving with symptoms and/or when tested positive.

No, no PCR test is required to enter the Dominican Republic as of March 2022 (except from certain countries listed in the text above). Random tests via breathalyzer might be performed at the airport.

If you need a negative Covid-19 test to return to your home country, there are sufficient testing capacities available in Punta Cana and the entire Dominican Republic. If you are staying in an all-inclusive resort, you can get an Antigen test or a PCR test right at the hotel premises for an additional surcharge, sometimes even for free. If you are staying in an Airbnb or a guesthouse, there are several laboratories available for Antigen tests, Covid-19 quick tests and PCR tests.

If you need to get tested in Punta Cana, you can expect the following costs: – Antigen test in a laboratory: approx. 2000 DOP (35 USD) – PCR test in a laboratory: 4300-5000 DOP (80 USD) – Express PCR test in a laboratory: approx. 5800 DOP (100 USD)

No, everyone can enter the Dominican Republic without quarantine, it doesn’t matter if vaccinated or not.

No, there is no vaccine requirement in the Dominican Republic as of February 2022 when all Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted.

As of the begin of January 2022, omicron accounts for approx. 45% of all cases in the Dominican Republic, mostly in Santo Domingo and Santiago. Still, the hospital occupancy stays very low. As of March 2022, the hospital occupancy is at 5%.

A QR-code is mandatory to enter the Dominican Republic and can be obtained by filling out the e-ticket. You can find all information about this e-ticket for immigration here . When filling out the e-ticket, you are getting asked a few questions about your health status as well to prevent the spread of Covid in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic. Afterwards, you receive the QR code. The e-ticket is for free.

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Hey, I am Chris, a born and raised German, travel-addictive and Caribbean Soul. Since 2011 I have been living in the Caribbean, among them 5 years in the Dominican Republic. Punta Cana is my home-base here in the country and I’d love to tell you more about how to experience Punta Cana off-the-beaten-track and give you all the advice you want to know for your vacation in Punta Cana.

ALSO WORTH READING:

How to get from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana: bus, Taxi, Transfer, Shuttle or rental car?

17 amazing Things to do for free in Punta Cana 2024

Riu República – a comprehensive review of this adults-only all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana

55 thoughts on “Traveling to Punta Cana 2022 in times of coronavirus – What to expect during the period of Covid-19 (update)?”

I booked an all inclusive vacation for middle of February 2021 in Punta Cana .

Do you know if they still offer evening entertainments and if not what people do in the evening? Thank you

yes, evening shows are still on the program of the all-inclusive resorts. If the occupancy is very low, they might not have one every night, but as there is still time to go until February and numbers are picking up slowly but steady, there shall be an entertainment show every night.

Enjoy Punta Cana! Chris

We are coming in Feb and need a Covid test to return to NY.. Can we get a Covid test for our return trip right at the Resort?

Hi Jody, yes, Amadita Laboratorio and Laboratorio Referencia are offering resort visits for Covid-19 PCR tests. I’ll propose to call, but if you don’t speak Spanish, you can also write an email ahead of time and/or use their websites. You can also ask in your resort, but it will most likely be more expensive as they don’t have own testing facilities. Most likely they just send the tests to one of the labs mentioned above. Have a safe trip to Punta Cana Chris

Traveling in February. Want to go out of resort for evening dinner. But have read that there is a curfew? Is this correct? What is the guidelines? This is what I found. I have transportation leaving Riu to go to Jellyfish restaurant at 7. So looking at this I should not go?

Is a curfew in place? Yes Beginning January 27, the government of the Dominican Republic has issued a revised curfew nationwide. Failure to follow the curfew, including for U.S. citizens, may result in arrest and/or fines. Monday through Friday: Curfew from 7pm to 5am, with a grace period for transit until 10pm each day. Saturday and Sunday: Curfew from 5pm to 5am, with a grace period for transit until 8pm each day.

you are right, there is a curfew in place and all businesses have to close at 7pm (5pm weekends), but you can be on the road until 10pm (8pm weekends). Therefore, if you’d like to go to Jellyfish Beach, I highly recommend going there for lunch.

The curfew doesn’t affect the resorts in Punta Cana, so restaurants and bars there will be open (might be on a rotating schedule).

Let me know if you have any further questions. Enjoy your vacation in Punta Cana! Chris

Scheduled to travel Feb 27, 2021 and realized passports will only be valid for 5 months past travel dates (exp July 21, 2021). Will this be a problem?

Hi Michele,

thanks for your comment. I am happy that you are planning to travel to Punta Cana. Officially, passports need to be valid 6 months after arrival, so yes there might be problems. If you want to be on the safe side and there is a chance to get a new (express?) passport in this short amount of time, better choose this option. If this is not an option, you probably only have the chance to either cancel or try your luck. What I would do to increase your chances: – call your airline to ask about the passport validity they require to let you board when flying to the Dominican Republic – fill out the immigration e-ticket for entering the Dominican Republic. If you get the QR-Code at the end, you are already one step further from gaining entry into the Dominican Republic. However, the final decision will be taken by the immigration officer. But if your airline lets you board and you have the immigration QR-Code, chances should be higher.

Please note that this is just my personal opinion. Please call your embassy for any legal advice.

Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

What if on a random covid test , you test postive what happens?

If you get tested positive at the airport, it is most likely that you get transferred to the next quarantine establishment, which might be a hospital or any other governmental facility. Each resort also has a quarantine section, so if you don’t show any symptoms you might also be lucky and get quarantined in your resort, but I assume they send you first to a health care facility to quarantine, monitor and test you again there.

Cheers, Chris

Was just wondering what your views are on the resorts facilities by June. Do you think things like Pools, Clubs and Bars will be open again?

Many thanks, Josh

pools and bars in the all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana are already open. Clubs and discos are closed right now, and I would say that chances are a maximum of 50% that they will re-open.

Hi Chris, I am so happy that you have a site that I can read what is really to expect when I arrive on April 1st, 2021. I was super nervous, but after reading all your positive notes on Punta Cana I am more relived now. Thank you so much. I am looking so much forward in coming soon.

great, thanks for your feedback. I am glad that my experiences can help you. 🙂

Enjoy your trip to Punta Cana and make sure to check back if you have any further questions or when thinking about the things you want to do in Punta Cana.

Do you need to to have theses vaccines to travel to the DR: Hepatitis A Typhoid and Cholera Hepatitis B Rabies

no, no vaccines are required to enter the Dominican Republic. However, it is recommended to have your routine vaccines done. Hepatitis A, B, Typhoid and Rabies are recommended travel vaccines, especially when you have higher exposure (your exposure usually is very low if you are staying in an all-inclusive resort). Cholera is not an issue in the Dominican Republic. Please also check the recommendations from your local center for disease control.

For professional advice, please consult a doctor specialized in travel vaccines.

I will be traveling with my husband and 2 kids to Punta Cana the end of April. I am a little nervous with the virus stuff regarding getting back home to US. My concern is should 1 of of test positive do we have to stay for 14 days or till we a negative result? I am so looking forward to a vacation but I don’t want to be stuck there.

Thanks Maria

thanks for your comment.

If getting quarantined when receiving a positive test result is a scenario you would like to avoid at all costs during your Punta Cana vacation, it might be better not to travel to the Dominican Republic. Just keep in mind a few things: – some resorts offer a free quarantine on the resort grounds (obvious in a different building and with no access to the public resort facilities) – there is medical insurance from the Dominican Republic government which is included in all travel packages – if 1 person gets tested positive, it is likely that other family members have the virus as well – usually the quarantine should last until all are tested negative

Please let me know if you have any further questions.

We are thinking of a vacation in late September but we have heard that the beaches are closed in September and October is this true? Also wondering what the temperature is like at that time of year?

great that your are planning to visit Punta Cana. The beaches in Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic are open 365 days a year.

You can have a look at the best beaches here: https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/general-information-faq/the-top-10-best-beaches-in-punta-cana/

With regard to the weather, you can find the weather situation for each month in Punta Cana here: https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/general-information-faq/the-weather-in-punta-cana/

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Best regards Chris

Hi there, I’m thinking about staying at an all-inclusive resort for a week at the end of May as a solo female traveler. Do you think this is safe? Kind regards, Vera

thanks for your comment. Yes, Punta Cana is very safe, with regard to Covid-19 and with regard to crime as well. You won’t have any problem traveling as a solo female traveler. If you are looking for a resort, you can check out the following post to find out which might be the most suitable hotel for you: https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/accommodation-resorts/how-to-find-the-best-all-inclusive-resort-in-punta-cana/

Thank you Chris!!

This post has a lot of great information! Are resorts offering day passes again? I am traveling in July 2021 but staying in an Airbnb and want to visit a resort for a day. Thanks in advance!

I am glad the information were helpful.

The last time I have enquired for a day pass was in April and I couldn’t get one.

However, each all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana is handling this differently, so I would call the resort you’d like to visit and see if there is a chance.

Hello Chris, thanks for creating this travel blog with great authentic information. I found much lower airfare for Santo Domingo ($1500 lower for 4 passengers, 2 adults & 2 kids) than Punta Cana airport. It is 2 hours transfer from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana at an AI resort for my travel dates round trip, that means the private transfer will pick us up and drop us off to Santo Domingo Airport on both dates (at a cost of $245). However, plane would arrive Santo Domingo at 2 AM (in morning). Question 1: Is it ok and safe to book private transfer online?, Question 2: Is it ok & safe to use private transfer at 2 AM in the morning to travel to Punta Cana AI resort?, Question 3: Is night time Curfew still in effect and is it going to affect the transfer? If so, what other alternatives I have? Thanks.

Hi Humorous,

Yes, flying to Santo Domingo definitely is an option if it is that much cheaper. Just keep in mind that the kids might be not that pleased to do so much night-time traveling, especially when an additional 2-hour transfer is involved.

To answer your questions: Yes, going with a private transfer from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana during nighttime hours is safe if you book with a reliable company (not any kind of private service). It is just not recommended to drive at night on your own, but that’s not the case here. You can check my recently updated post about airport transfers from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana here: https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/general-information-faq/airport-transfers-in-santo-domingo/

The curfew won’t affect your transfer as airport transfers are allowed 24/7.

You might arrive at 5 to 6am at your resort. Depending on your budget, you shall consider booking your room already for the night before so that you have access to your room immediately when you arrive and can take a nap there – I guess everyone will be super tired after this trip.

Enjoy your trip to Punta Cana and let me know if you have any further questions. Chris

Was planning a trip for August 15th, but we’re worried that the curfew will affect the bars/clubs in the resort. Does the curfew affect the stuff in the resort? Would we have to be in our rooms when the curfew begins?

no, the curfew absolutely doesn’t affect daily life, the restaurants or the bars in Punta Canas’ all-inclusive resorts.

Will be arriving in August…is there still a curfew for night club such as drink point, coco bongo and casino?…if so has anything been communicated when they will be lifted?

Hi Michael,

right now, businesses have to close at 22:00 on weekdays and 21:00 on weekends and I guess this will be the case in August as well. Alcohol consumption is a bit limited at the moment in public bars, but I strongly assume that this will be lifted in the next 1-2 weeks.

Hello I’m am leaving in a week to melia beach and I’m a bit nervous and concerned for health and safety not cause of the covid but the strange deaths that had occurred some time ago what is the difference now and then how has it improved and should I be worried they said it was something about drinks being spiked I am traveling in a big group and my daughter too is the food safe ? How should I drink water? Did they ever catch the criminals that were doing this how did the government put a stop to this or can this still be happening

Hi Adrian, thanks for your comment. There is nothing to worry about, there was no tainted alcohol and no poisoned food in Punta Cana. It was just a fake news campaign against the government of the Dominican Republic … Even the FBI investigated and confirmed that all Americans who died in Punta Cana died because of natural reasons. And if you look at the statistics you can see that this specific year when the fake news campaign was running LESS Americans died in the Dominican Republic than in other years. Obviously, with more approx. 2-3 million American tourists every year it is (unfortunately … ) absolutely natural that people are dying during their vacation because of natural reasons … Let me know if you have any other questions. Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

How does the alcohol restrictions currently effect businesses and resorts? (As of Oct 1st)

Hi Andrew, there have never been any alcohol restrictions in place within the all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana. For public bars, afaik they are allowed to sell alcohol until midnight but I am not sure if this is really enforced as most bars are open (and I am hardly out for nightlife to see what’s up after mid-night 😉 ). Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

Thank you for this blog! We are scheduled to visit January 2022 Advisory level is now a 3 Is it still safe to travel there? Is omnicron shutting things down? Reports are saying theft so on is rising so I’m getting nervous we should cancel but This is a bucket list trip and my family will be crushed if I cancel or what happens if travel gets shut down? Any updates or advice greatly appreciated please

Hi Kerry, in my opinion, there is no need to worry about your vacation in Punta Cana for 2022. For sure omicron is already circulating in the Dominican Republic (even not officially confirmed yet), but I am also sure the country won’t close borders or shut down travel. The Dominican Republic is open for tourism since summer 2020 and it has always been open without quarantine or testing requirements since autumn 2020. On the other side, hospital occupancy never went over 70% and is on a historic low right now with 14%. Tourism is very important for the Dominican Republic, so the country for sure won’t get shut down. Furthermore, Punta Cana is absolutely safe. I am sure you can fully enjoy your holiday in Punta Cana. Cheers, Chris

Hi Chris. Thank you for posting this helpful info. We are scheduled to travel to punta cana towards the last week of Feb. I am wondering if you can advise on the omicron situation out there and covid in general. Is there many cases to be concerned about? We were thinking about canceling our trip but after your article we are second guessing that and reconsidering yhe cancelation. We love Dominican and really want to do the trip if it’s still safe to do so.

Hi Daniela, just yesterday the Dominican Republic issued an extended Covid-19 statement about omicron in the Dominican Republic. Currently, 41% of all cases can be accounted towards Omicron, however, the majority of them occurs in the capital of Santo Domingo. Even though Covid-19 cases are rising a bit, the Dominican Republic has still less than 1000 cases a day and the hospital occupancy stays at a very low level of 15% nationwide, so there is nothing to worry about. To take it even better in perspective: the entire province of La Altagracia (that’s where Punta Cana is located) had a total of 3 new cases yesterday, so everything is very much under control. 😉 Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

Hi….my husband and I are looking to return to Bahia resort/Ambar. We were last there October 2021…everything was great. My concern, hoping you can advise…..The extended stay option of 10 days for those that contract covid expires March 31/22. Have you heard if the Dominican government is planning to extendbeyond March 2022? Very much appreciate your input Thank you

Hi Barb, usually the all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana are offering an extended stay option if you test positive, I am pretty sure Bahía does have this as well. As long as the Covid-19 pandemic continues, it is also likely that those measures get extended. Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

Hello Chris, I have a question on the Extended Stay Option. If my wife or I test positive during our stay is the stay an out of pocket expense? What exactly does it entail? Regards, Ian

Hi Ian, the Covid-19 extended stay option always depends on the all-inclusive resort you are booked at, not on the Dominican government. Please check with your hotel for further information, as there are different policied depending on the resort. You can also check the two new sections we have just added to the article: – https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/general-information-faq/punta-cana-coronavirus-covid-19/#good-to-know-what-happens-if-you-get-tested-positive-in-a-resort – https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/general-information-faq/punta-cana-coronavirus-covid-19/#travel-insurance-to-cover-hotel-quarantine-in-punta-cana Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

Hi there! One question: If a tourist at an all-inclusive tested positive for Covid and had to extend their stay in the DR, how many days must they quarantine in their room? I have heard 5 days but cannot find a government policy/guideline published anywhere. Many thanks!

Hi Geordie, thanks for your comment. There is no official guideline as of how long the quarantine is supposed to be, but it might be up to 14 days. Usually it can be ended with a negative test. We have just added another section in this article with regard to quarantining in the resort: https://www.puntacanatravelblog.com/general-information-faq/punta-cana-coronavirus-covid-19/#good-to-know-what-happens-if-you-get-tested-positive-in-a-resort Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

Hi , great info. My question is what happens if someone tests positive on a rapid antigen test at the airport. The government website says they would quarantine at a government facility. What would this be like and how long would it last.

Thanks Nikki

Hi Nikki, a governmental facility might be a public hospital or any other place for medical treatments. I am not sure of how many of these facilities there are in the Dominican Republic – probably not that many. The quarantine would be at least a couple of test and probably until you test negative. As there are not a lot of cases which tests positive this way, there aren’t a lot of experiences either. Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

Hi, I recently traveled to Barbados and had a bad experience. I had a negative PCR test when leaving the US and upon arrival I tested negative as well. The problem was that a passenger on our flight tested positive and we were told that we sat in a “certain” vicinity to that person. Therefore we had to quarantine for 5 days and had to be tested again. Is this something that can happen as well when traveling to the Dominican Republic? Barbados travel requirements were clearly explained and sounded like nothing can happen but they never mentioned that if a passenger on the airline tests positive that other passengers may have to quarantine as well.

Hi Ange, sorry for the negative experience you had in Barbados. Officially, this can happen everywhere in the world, but it is not common in the Dominican Republic as arrival testing for Covid-19 is minimal compared to other countries where arrival testing is mandatory. Hence, even though it can happen when arriving to Punta Cana, I would rate the chances to below 0.1%. Cheers from Punta Cana Chris

Chris, great website and information on PC. I am finding it really difficult to see that the hotels are actually following any of the covid19 precautionary measures that are found in the tourism or hotel industry booklet. They say they are operating at reduced capacity but in fact many are also closing some of the venue services so the intended impact of de-densification is only on paper as in reality the restaurants are packed and there is no control for the covid measures. We also went to get a “express test” for the PCR and found while everyone advertises it that it is almost impossible to achieve a 12 or 24 hour turnaround time in PC. It’s also unclear which protocol is being followed, we were told people who test +ive have to quarantine for 5 days for USA or 14 days for Canada – but what why aren’t they following the local DR protocols?

thanks for your comment. There have been several changes to the Covid-19 protocols since 2020. Most of them were published in the local news, but there is not a single source with all the information where I can link to. That’s why the protocol which is linked to in this article is still one of the older ones. Currently, hotels and resorts in Punta Cana are allowed to operate in 100% occupancy. Besides of this, Covid-19 protocols are still in place, hence masks are required for closed areas and capacity should be controlled in restaurants. However, I also know that some resorts are taking the Covid-19 measures and protocols much more seriously than others. Hence your experience regarding Covid-19 in Punta Cana also depends on where you have stayed.

With regard to the Covid-19 tests, so far we never had a problem to get a super quick turnaround with our tests. Have you tried going to Laboratorio Referencia, IMG Hospital or Amadita? They have own laboratories, which means – opposed to others where you have to factor in additional time as they send the test to other laboratories – that they are able to process the Covid-19 PCR tests pretty quickly.

If you get tested positive, you usually get quarantined until you test negative or for a maximum of 7 days as far as I know. I am not too sure about the last information, but I know that the quarantine time was recently shortened in the Dominican Republic from 14 to 7 or 5 days.

great site with a lot of resources. Unfortunately we got infected while in Punta Cana and therefore failed our Covid test for the flight back. We had mild symptoms that went away withing 3 days, but we keep testing positive (which I understand can happen for a much longer period). Any idea where and how I can get a letter from a physician that clears us for travel?

Many thanks!

Hi Kice, thanks for your comment and sorry for the inconveniences caused by getting tested positive. Great that it’s nothing severe and that you only have/had mild symptoms. With regard to your question, you can probably get such a letter from the IMG Hospital or from the laboratory which initially tested you Covid-19 positive. However, I don’t know if this is enough to travel back from Punta Cana to the US. You can also try to make another Covid-19 test (only Antigen, not PCR), explain your situation (especially considering that you are without symptoms and your first positive is at least 7-10 days in the past) and ask if they can help you. Usually the Antigen tests are not super sensitive, hence I am optimistic a negative test shouldn’t be that much of a problem. I hope this helps. Cheers, Chris

Thanks for sharing this information with us , Really helpful post!.

Great if this information was helpful for you. Chris

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Covid-19: Travel Restrictions in the Dominican Republic

Lighthouse in Santo Domingo

Photo: Leo Arturo Martinez

All information in this article was correct at the time of publishing, February 5 2021 - please double check official sources for updates

With 33 countries closing their borders to US travellers last month, US residents yearning for an overseas holiday will be glad to know international travellers are currently welcome to travel to and from the Dominican Republic.

At the moment, restrictions for foreigners in the Dominican Republic aren’t prohibitively strict, but there are some requirements, restrictions and free services you should be aware of. Here’s what to expect if you’re planning to cross the border, in or out.

If you’re travelling to the Dominican Republic

Every incoming arrival must undergo a mandatory temperature check upon arrival, and anyone with positive results will be isolated in authorized locations. Border control isn’t requiring negative test results of every traveller - officials are testing everyone with symptoms and conducting random testing of 3-15 percent of all new arrivals over the age of five (crew members are exempt).

If you’re coming from or via the UK, you must provide evidence of a negative test result obtained within three days prior to your arrival. If visitors from The U.K don’t bring their PCR results, they might be required to go through a PCR test and be isolated in a government facility.

Until February 2021, all visitors must complete either a Traveler Health Affidavit or a digital “eticket” form, a combination of the usual Customs Declaration and Embarkation/Disembarkation forms with the Traveler’s Health Affidavit. From March 1st 2021, only digital “etickets” will be accepted.

Mirador Park skyline, Santo Domingo

If you’re already in the Dominican Republic

Anyone returning to the United States from The Dominican Republic must provide evidence of a negative PCR or Covid-19 test result obtained within three days prior to re-entry. Luckily, the ministry of tourism is offering PCR tests to all international visitors staying in a hotel. This service is provided to all international travelers coming via comercial flights and staying in a hotel. Confirm with your hotel to make sure the test will be covered.

Your hotel can help you arrange an appointment before you depart back to your country of origin. Your hotel might charge a fee to arrange an appointment for you, but keep in mind tests in the Dominican Republic are currently hard to get, so arranging through your hotel might be the most effective way to ensure you get the test done before your return flight.

For international visitors arriving on commercial flights on or before March 31st and staying at a hotel, the government is providing free emergency travel assistance.

How curfews and changed capacity will affect you

If you plan to stay in a hotel or resort, you won’t feel the curfew currently in place everywhere else. Bars and restaurants are closed at 7 PM and transit is available until 10 PM from Monday to Friday. The curfew is subject to change every 28 days, and you can find up-to-date restrictions guidelines on the Dominican Ministry of Health’s website, Instagram or Twitter accounts.

Due to Covid-19, most hotels, bars and clubs in the Dominican Republic have temporarily shut their doors. As in cities and towns across the globe, hospitality businesses are having to reinvent themselves in order to survive. Most restaurants and bars that are open, are open at half capacity.

Most of the museums are closed, and some outdoor parks as well. You can walk or run through the malecon, enjoy a beer in a park or smoke a cigar on the beach. Social life and nightlife has been affected the most, so if you have your heart set on dancing til dawn in the Dominican club scene, you might want to postpone your trip.

However, if a secluded vacation at a half-empty beach resort appeals to you, the Dominican Republic might be the destination for you. The beaches are as beautiful as ever, and there’s considerably more peace and quiet than usual to be found at beachside resorts.

Written by Diego Angeles.

Published February 2021

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Navigating Punta Cana Travel Restrictions: What You Need To Know Before Your Trip

• Last updated Jul 31, 2023
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category United States

Welcome to Punta Cana, a tropical paradise in the Dominican Republic! However, before you hop on a plane and start packing your swimsuit, it's important to be aware of the current travel restrictions in place due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Just like many other destinations around the world, Punta Cana has implemented certain protocols and guidelines to ensure the safety of its residents and visitors. In this article, we will explore the various travel restrictions you should be aware of before embarking on your Punta Cana adventure. So, grab a piña colada and let's dive in!

What You'll Learn

What are the current travel restrictions for punta cana due to covid-19, are there any specific requirements or documents needed to travel to punta cana, are there any quarantine measures in place for travelers arriving in punta cana, are there any specific testing requirements for travelers to punta cana, are there any restrictions on activities or attractions in punta cana due to covid-19.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on travel around the world, including in Punta Cana, a popular tourist destination in the Dominican Republic. To ensure the safety of both residents and visitors, the government of the Dominican Republic has implemented several travel restrictions and protocols.

As of [current date], there are specific requirements for travelers visiting Punta Cana due to COVID-19. These requirements may be subject to change based on the evolving situation and any updates from health authorities.

• Mandatory health declaration form: All travelers must complete a health declaration form before arrival. This form includes questions about recent travel history and symptoms related to COVID-19.
• COVID-19 test requirement: Travelers are required to present a negative COVID-19 test result upon arrival in Punta Cana. The test should be taken no more than [number of days] prior to departure. The specific type of test required (PCR or antigen) may vary, so it is important to check the latest requirements before traveling.
• Travel insurance: Travelers are also required to have valid travel insurance that covers COVID-19-related expenses, including medical treatment and quarantine costs.
• Health screening upon arrival: Upon arrival at the Punta Cana International Airport, travelers may undergo a health screening, which could include temperature checks and additional health-related questions.
• Quarantine requirements: Depending on the results of the health screening and the individual's travel history, travelers may be required to self-isolate or quarantine for a certain period of time. The quarantine period may vary, and travelers should be prepared to follow any instructions given by local health authorities.

It is important to note that these restrictions and requirements may change frequently, and travelers should stay updated with the latest information from official sources such as the Dominican Republic's Ministry of Tourism or their local embassy or consulate.

In addition to these travel restrictions, it is also advisable for travelers to follow general COVID-19 safety measures such as wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and regularly washing hands. It is important to respect and adhere to any local regulations and guidelines to help prevent the spread of the virus and keep both visitors and residents safe.

Before planning a trip to Punta Cana or any other destination, travelers should thoroughly research and understand the current travel restrictions and requirements. It is also recommended to consult with a trusted travel agent or tour operator for guidance and information on any additional protocols or measures in place.

While travel restrictions and protocols may temporarily impact the travel experience, they are necessary to protect public health and ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Punta Cana. By following the guidelines and cooperating with local authorities, travelers can do their part in controlling the spread of COVID-19 and help restore normalcy to the travel industry.

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If you are planning a trip to Punta Cana, in the Dominican Republic, there are several requirements and documents that you need to have in order to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. Here are some of the important ones:

• Passport: First and foremost, you will need a valid passport to travel to Punta Cana. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from the Dominican Republic.
• Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may or may not require a visa to enter the Dominican Republic as a tourist. Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, do not need a visa and are granted a tourist card upon arrival. The tourist card allows you to stay in the country for up to 30 days. However, it's always a good idea to check the visa requirements for your specific nationality before traveling.
• Return or onward ticket: To enter the Dominican Republic, you will also need to show proof of a return or onward ticket. This is to ensure that you have plans to leave the country within the permitted time frame.
• Proof of accommodation: Immigration may also ask for proof of accommodation during your stay in Punta Cana. This could be a hotel reservation or a signed letter of invitation from a resident if you are staying with friends or family.
• COVID-19 requirements: Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there may also be additional requirements related to health and safety. Before traveling to Punta Cana, make sure to check the latest travel advisories and requirements, including any mandatory testing or vaccination certificates.
• Travel insurance: While not mandatory, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen events. This will provide you with peace of mind and protection in case of any emergencies during your trip.

It's important to note that the requirements and documents needed for travel to Punta Cana can change over time, so it's always a good idea to check the latest information before your trip. You can do this by visiting the official website of the Dominican Republic's embassy or consulate in your country or contacting the airline you will be flying with.

By ensuring that you have all the necessary requirements and documents in place before your trip, you can have a stress-free and enjoyable vacation in Punta Cana. Remember to check the specific requirements for your nationality and follow any health and safety guidelines to ensure a smooth travel experience.

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As the world continues to navigate the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many travelers are wondering about the quarantine measures in place for those arriving in Punta Cana, a popular tourist destination in the Dominican Republic.

At present, there are quarantine measures in place for travelers arriving in Punta Cana, but the specific requirements can vary depending on a variety of factors such as vaccination status, recent travel history, and the country of origin.

For international travelers, including those from the United States, Canada, and Europe, there is currently no mandatory quarantine period upon arrival in Punta Cana. However, all travelers entering the Dominican Republic must complete a health declaration form and present a negative PCR or antigen test result taken within 72 hours prior to their arrival. Random COVID-19 rapid tests may also be carried out upon arrival.

It is important to note that these requirements can change at any time, so it is recommended to check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements before planning a trip to Punta Cana. Additionally, travelers should also be aware of any specific quarantine measures that may be in place upon their return to their home country.

For travelers who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, there may be some exemptions or relaxed measures in place. The specific requirements can vary, so it is important to check with the relevant authorities or consult an official government website for the most up-to-date information.

In order to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Punta Cana, it is also advised to adhere to all local health and safety protocols. This includes wearing face masks in public areas, practicing good hand hygiene, and maintaining social distancing whenever possible.

In conclusion, there are currently quarantine measures in place for travelers arriving in Punta Cana, but the specific requirements can vary depending on various factors. It is important for travelers to stay informed about the latest travel advisories and entry requirements to ensure a smooth and safe trip.

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Traveling to Punta Cana can be an exciting adventure, but it's important to be aware of any specific testing requirements that may be in place for travelers. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, it's essential to understand the current guidelines and protocols.

As of now, there are specific testing requirements for travelers to Punta Cana. All travelers, regardless of their vaccination status, are required to present a negative COVID-19 test result upon arrival. The accepted tests are a PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel or an antigen test taken within 48 hours of travel.

It's important to note that the testing requirements may vary depending on the country of origin. Some countries may have additional requirements or different time frames for testing. Travelers should check with their airline and the official government websites for the most up-to-date information before traveling to Punta Cana.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, it's advisable to schedule a COVID-19 test well in advance of your trip. This will help to avoid any last-minute issues or delays. Many airports and clinics offer testing services specifically for travelers. It's recommended to book an appointment in advance to secure a time slot that works with your travel plans.

Once you have obtained a negative test result, it's important to keep a physical or digital copy with you while traveling. Authorities in Punta Cana may request to see the test result upon arrival. It's also a good idea to make additional copies or take a photo of the result in case the original gets lost or damaged.

In addition to the testing requirements, travelers should also be aware of other health and safety protocols in place in Punta Cana. These may include wearing face masks, practicing social distancing, and following any specific guidelines set by resorts or accommodations.

It's important to stay informed about any changes or updates to the testing requirements and protocols. The situation with COVID-19 is constantly evolving, and guidelines may change accordingly. Travelers should regularly check the official government websites and communicate with their airline and accommodation providers for the most up-to-date information.

By staying aware of the specific testing requirements and following the necessary protocols, travelers can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Punta Cana. With proper planning and preparation, exploring the beautiful beaches and attractions of Punta Cana can be a memorable and stress-free experience.

Exploring the Impact of Felon Travel Restrictions on Individuals and Society

As of now, Punta Cana is gradually reopening its activities and attractions following the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are still some restrictions in place to ensure the safety and well-being of both locals and tourists. Here are some important details to keep in mind if you are planning to visit Punta Cana.

Entry Requirements:

Before traveling to Punta Cana, it is essential to check the entry requirements set by the Dominican Republic government. Currently, all passengers must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. Some airlines might require additional testing before boarding the flight.

Health and Safety Measures:

During your stay in Punta Cana, it is crucial to follow all health and safety guidelines set by the local authorities. This includes wearing face masks in public places, maintaining social distancing, and frequently washing hands or using hand sanitizers.

Hotel and Resort Operations:

Most hotels and resorts in Punta Cana have reopened with enhanced health and safety protocols. These measures include regular sanitization of common areas, temperature checks for guests, and limited occupancy to ensure social distancing. Some facilities within the hotels, such as gyms, spas, and restaurants, might have capacity limitations or modified operations.

Beaches and Water Activities:

The stunning beaches of Punta Cana are open for visitors. However, it is important to maintain social distancing and avoid crowded areas. Water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and boating are operating but with safety measures in place.

Excursions and Tours:

Excursions and tours in Punta Cana are gradually resuming, but with limited capacity and enhanced safety protocols. Popular activities like zip-lining, ATV rides, and catamaran cruises are available, but it is advisable to check in advance and make reservations as some tour operators might have modified schedules.

Nightlife and Entertainment:

The nightlife scene in Punta Cana has also started to reopen, with bars, clubs, and restaurants operating under safety guidelines. It is essential to check the specific establishments for their protocols and any regulations they might have regarding capacity and hours of operation.

Local Attractions:

Major attractions in Punta Cana, such as Manati Park and Dolphin Discovery, have reopened their doors to visitors. These attractions have implemented measures such as limited capacity, mandatory face masks, and frequent sanitization.

It is important to note that the situation regarding COVID-19 is fluid and can change. Therefore, it is crucial to stay updated with the latest guidelines and regulations before planning your trip to Punta Cana. By following all safety measures and being aware of any restrictions, visitors can have an enjoyable and safe vacation in this tropical paradise.

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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Dominican Republic.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Areas of active cholera transmission are  localized  to the provinces and district of Barahona (reported 3–6 months ago), Distrito National (last case reported 9–12 months ago), Elías Piña (last case reported 9–12 months ago), La Altagracia (last case reported 9–12 months ago), Monte Cristi (last case reported 9–12 months ago), and Santo Domingo (last case reported 9–12 months ago) in the Dominican Republic. Cholera is rare in travelers.  Certain factors  may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera. 

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to the Dominican Republic.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to the Dominican Republic. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to the Dominican Republic.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of the Dominican Republic take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for the Dominican Republic.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in the Dominican Republic. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in the Dominican Republic, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to the Dominican Republic. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from the following states in Brazil: Espírito Santo, Mina Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in any of these states

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in the Dominican Republic, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in the Dominican Republic. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in the Dominican Republic include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis and leptospirosis, infections that can be spread in fresh water, are found in the Dominican Republic. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call the Dominican Republic’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of the Dominican Republic. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of the Dominican Republic may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in the Dominican Republic, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in the Dominican Republic, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for the Dominican Republic .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Dominican Republic for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Dominican Republic

Travel Advisory June 6, 2023

Dominican republic - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

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  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.

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Punta Cana   Travel Guide

Courtesy of AtanasBozhikovNasko | Getty Images

Why Go To Punta Cana

The sugary sand of a Punta Cana beach is so soft, so perfectly golden that you might think it was synthetic. And in fact, in this easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic, it's possible. By definition, Punta Cana is a manufactured Caribbean getaway, completely catering to the needs of sun-seeking vacationers who enjoy  all-inclusive resorts , but care little about venturing away from their hotel – even though there are plenty of hidden gems and adventures waiting for them. Boasting approximately 50,000 hotel rooms at affordable rates, Punta Cana beckons to jet-setters, especially the budget-minded kind.

While this destination is better known for relaxation than adventure, visitors can get their fill of thrills jumping into Scape Park's Hoyo Azul or perfecting their swing at challenging golf courses like  Punta Espada  or La Cana. Overall, this reasonably priced Caribbean hideout is made for travelers of all ages seeking a relaxing turn from the norm.

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• # 9 in Best Cheap Honeymoon Destinations for 2024
• # 11 in Best Spring Break Destinations

Best of Punta Cana

Best hotels in punta cana.

• # 1 in Eden Roc Cap Cana
• # 2 in Tortuga Bay Puntacana Resort & Club
• # 3 in Casa de Campo Resort & Villas

Best Things to Do in Punta Cana

• # 1 in Punta Cana Beaches
• # 2 in Saona Island
• # 3 in Punta Cana Boat Tours

Popular Tours

Half-Day Buggy Tour to Water Cave and Macao Beach

(886 reviews)

from $ 54.00

Punta Cana Scape Park and Hoyo Azul Full Day Admimission Ticket

(814 reviews)

from $ 129.00

Half-Day Adventure 4x4 ATV, Water Cave and Dominican Culture

(3229 reviews)

from $ 64.72

Punta Cana Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Punta Cana is from December to April when the dry season in Punta Cana is at its peak. Luckily, the weather is warm year-round, with average highs around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. But keep in mind: The Dominican Republic experiences some of the effects of the Atlantic hurricane season, which lasts from June 1 to Nov. 30. Punta Cana is often spared from severe tropical storms, but the rainiest months are September and October. Still, this area of the Dominican Republic stays crowded no matter the season. If you're looking for the best time to visit in terms of the lowest prices and decent weather, May, June, November and December (up until Christmas) are the best months.

Weather in Punta Cana

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Expect an international crowd With affordable flights and hotel rates, Punta Cana sees many visitors from Europe and South America. As such, you may see more speedos and thong bikinis than you're used to.

Do visit your doctor Malaria, typhoid, hepatitis A and other diseases are slightly more prevalent in Punta Cana than in the United States. Check out the Center for Disease Control's  website  for its recommendations and make an appointment with your doctor for the proper prescriptions and vaccinations. The CDC also warns pregnant women and their partners that Zika is a risk in the Dominican Republic, even though there is currently no outbreak in the country (nor anywhere else in the world).

Do not drink tap water The local water filtration system is not like that of the U.S., so for your stomach's sake, it's best to drink only bottled water. You won't get sick from brushing your teeth with tap water, but you still can use bottled water to be on the safe side.

How to Save Money in Punta Cana

Consider the package deal  All-inclusive resorts abound in Punta Cana, and most rates cover all meals and drinks (including alcohol) along with water sports activities.

Consider the offseason  From May to June and September to November (usually even until shortly before Christmas), room rates tend to be the cheapest and tourist volume is at its lowest. Beware of hurricane season, which runs from June to November; chances for tropical storms and hurricanes are much lower in June, July and November compared to August, September and October.

Consider bartering  Haggling is a fine art in Punta Cana. Anyone from street vendors to taxi drivers can be reasoned with, so offer 25% to 40% off the original price and stand firm.

Culture & Customs

Most travelers stick close to the resorts to catch up on rest and relaxation at the beach, pool or spa. But, for at least one day, you should venture off your resort to get a sense of the Dominican Republic's history and culture, which is highlighted by tasty local coffee, strong rum and fragrant cigars. Your hotel can help steer you in the right direction, but off-road adventures and boat rides are some of the most common ways to explore outside your resort.

The official language is Spanish; however, tourism is such a large industry here that English-speaking travelers should have no trouble communicating. And though the official currency is the Dominican peso, many of the Punta Cana resorts and excursion vendors accept United States dollars and major credit cards.

What to Eat

Most vacationers choose the cozy and convenient restaurants on their all-inclusive premises. Still, those who venture out can find affordable dining, especially at the area's many beachside bars and grills. The Dominican Republic's staple is a dish of white rice, red beans, meat and fried plantains called La Bandera Dominicana (because the colors are reminiscent of the Dominican's red, white and blue flag). Most of the resort's buffets and restaurant menus will feature some additional traditional dishes, such as fried plantains and fish in coconut sauce. Expect to see a wide variety of tropical fruits too. As for drinks, be sure to try the strong local coffee and the Presidente beer. "Mamajuana" is another popular, celebratory beverage made of tree bark and herbs soaked in rum, red wine and honey; it tastes like a more potent cinnamon Fireball whisky.

Punta Cana is one of the safest vacation spots in the Caribbean. Tourists should feel comfortable traveling outside of the hotel zone. However, petty theft (especially of cell phones, according to some) does sometimes occur, so you should be careful when carrying valuables with you. Plan to travel in a group if you leave your resort, and women should be aware that men in Punta Cana can be overly flirtatious. Hotel security is good, and there's even a special branch of the police department devoted to tourist safety, known as  Politur or Cestur . Police officers are often stationed in the hotels or along the beach. But previous travelers have had other concerns (specifically health issues) when visiting the Dominican Republic: Many say you should avoid drinking Punta Cana's tap water. Always opt for bottled water and drinks with moderate amounts of ice. Usually, ice in Punta Cana can be consumed without any problems as it is always made with purified water, both in resorts and in public restaurants and street food stalls. Zika and Dengue are other health concerns in the Dominican Republic because of the prevalence of mosquitos. Pregnant women and their partners should consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for the most up-to-date information on the Zika virus.

Getting Around Punta Cana

The best way to get around Punta Cana is by foot within your all-inclusive resort and the beach and by car if you plan to explore. Buses run along the main strip of hotels, but the irregular schedules and uncomfortable vehicles (be prepared to get squeezed into small minivans) make them a poor choice for getting around. Hotel concierges can easily summon taxis, which are usually pretty expensive. Keep in mind that taxi fares in Punta Cana vary widely, depending on where you're staying, ranging from as little as $20 (even for very short rides) to as much as $80 for a 30- to 40-minute ride. Rental cars are also available at the airport, even though most travelers find that traffic is crazy in the Dominican Republic. If you plan to venture beyond your resort, you'll find that some attractions and most excursions offer shuttle service bundled with the entry fee.

Uber, which was introduced to Punta Cana in 2020, is a great option for traveling around. However, Ubers are not allowed to pick up passengers at the airport or most resort lobbies (exceptions might apply). Therefore, you either have to walk out to the front gate of your resort to get an Uber or rely on the more expensive taxis. For the airport, most travelers find it easiest to pre-book a private airport transfer if it is not included in your holiday package.

Entry & Exit Requirements

All United States citizens must travel with a valid passport to enter the Dominican Republic. If you plan to stay for more than 30 days, you need to extend the tourist visa online or in person with the Immigration Department of the Dominican Republic ("Dirección General de Migración"). For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State's website .

Punta Cana is a quintessential Caribbean vacation spot.

Explore More of Punta Cana

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Dominican Republic travel advice

Latest updates: Health - editorial update

Last updated: May 6, 2024 11:11 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, dominican republic - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.

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Border closure with Haiti

The Embassy of Canada in Santo Domingo cannot help you enter the Dominican Republic from Haiti.

Crime occurs in the Dominican Republic, including violent crime, especially in major cities. However, most incidents are opportunistic crime which is the most significant threat for tourists.

Petty crime

Petty crime, including pickpocketing and bag-snatching, occurs throughout the country. Tourists are common targets for theft. Crime tends to rise during holiday periods.

Incidents occur:

• at airports
• at bus stations
• on public transportation

Theft also occurs from all-inclusive hotel rooms and from hotel room safes, as well as from cars, particularly rentals.

Drive-by robberies, where thieves on motorcycles, scooters or bicycles grab bags and other valuables from pedestrians, occur frequently. Thieves may even reach into vehicles, including taxis, stopped at red lights to steal belongings.

Theft of items from checked baggage at airports has been reported. These thefts have taken place most frequently when travellers are departing. Money and personal items have also been stolen from carry-on luggage while travellers are going through security checks. All bags are routinely X-rayed upon arrival and departure.

• Be wary of individuals who ask for directions or who try to be too helpful
• Watch out for hustlers selling various wares, particularly in Santo Domingo
• Stay at hotels or resorts with good security
• Be wary of anyone who tries to enter your room
• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid carrying your bag slung over your shoulder
• Carry only small amounts of money and avoid showing signs of affluence
• Keep electronic devices like cellphones, tablets, laptops and cameras out of sight
• Keep car doors locked, windows up and your belongings out of sight
• Don’t pack valuables in your checked luggage
• Verify that your luggage has not been tampered with before you check in at the airport

Violent crime against foreigners, including assault, occasionally occurs. Incidents take place mainly in large cities, at night or early morning. Some have been targeted in armed robberies when travelling to the Las Américas International Airport, sometimes in taxis.

• Arrange your arrival to and departure from the Dominican Republic in daylight hours
• Use the taxi service authorized by the airport
• Avoid unmarked taxis, especially in Santo Domingo
• Keep car doors locked and windows up, especially at a traffic light
• Avoid walking alone in unpopulated areas and unpatrolled beaches after dark
• If threatened by robbers, don’t resist

Security forces are understaffed and underequipped. The police are often unable to respond in a timely manner to calls for assistance.

Criminals impersonating police officers will stop vehicles and ask foreign drivers for payment of fines for made-up offences.

Regulations require police to wear a nametag with their last name. You have the right to ask police for identification.

If Dominican police stop you for a traffic violation:

• request a traffic ticket
• don’t pay the ticket on the spot

Rogue lawyers

Rogue lawyers are a problem in tourist areas, particularly in Punta Cana.

These lawyers stand near the tourist police (CESTUR) station and try to recruit desperate foreigners, brought to the station for detention purposes, as clients. Then, they try to extort excessive amounts of money from them by offering legal representation or assistance getting out of jail.

Credit card and ATM fraud and cloning are significant concerns. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Incidents of assault, rape and sexual aggression against foreigners have occurred, including at beach resorts. In some cases, hotel employees have been implicated.

• Exercise caution when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances
• Be wary of rides or other invitations
• Avoid taking public transportation or walking alone at night

If you are a victim of a sexual assault or other crime, you should report it immediately to the nearest Canadian consulate or embassy.

You should also file a report with Dominican authorities. No criminal investigation is possible without a formal complaint to Dominican authorities before departing the country.

Advice for women travellers

Demonstrations and strikes

Demonstrations take place from time to time throughout the country, particularly in Santo Domingo.

Demonstrations have largely been peaceful and have not affected tourist areas, although local travel outside resorts could be affected.

Labour strikes occur frequently in the town of Higuey, near Punta Cana, and may affect hotel service.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Power outages

The power infrastructure is unreliable and lacks maintenance. Power outages are frequent although they mainly occur in poor neighbourhoods of major urban areas.

Recreational activities

Sporting and aquatic equipment may not meet Canadian safety standards.

If engaging in recreational activities:

• ensure that equipment is safe and in good condition
• ensure helmets and life jackets are available
• before undertaking extreme or eco-tourism activities, ensure that businesses offering excursions follow proper safety measures
• avoid excursions that are not offered by tour operators
• avoid participating in any water activities when you are under the influence of alcohol or other substances
• check that your travel insurance covers accidents related to recreational activities

Water safety

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards.

Water safety abroad

Road safety

The Dominican Republic has one of the highest road accident rates in the world.

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. Although major highways connecting cities and tourist areas are generally in good condition, most secondary roads, are poorly maintained and poorly lit. Marked lanes are lacking. There are vehicles travelling in the wrong direction. Traffic is congested due to the significant number of trucks and motorcycles. Pedestrians don’t have the right of way, even at traffic lights.

Drivers don’t respect traffic laws. They often drive at excessive speeds, and are extremely aggressive and reckless. Drinking and driving is prevalent. Many vehicles are in poor condition and don’t have working headlights or mirrors.

Military and police road blocks are common, especially in areas near the Haitian border.

• Don’t drive after dark
• Be especially cautious if you need to drive during holiday periods, such as Christmas or Easter
• Take extra care when walking, particularly in Santo Domingo

The number of moped and scooter accidents involving tourists is increasing.

If renting a scooter or moped:

• be vigilant while driving
• avoid renting from operators who don’t provide a helmet with the rental
• avoid driving on roads in disrepair

Border with Haiti

The security environment is highly unpredictable in the border areas between Haiti and the Dominican Republic, particularly in Dajabón, with regular disturbances and incidents which can lead to violence. Emergency services are often not available near the border. 

If you choose to travel near the border with Haiti:

• exercise caution at all times
• avoid travelling at night
• monitor local media to stay informed of the current situation
• follow instructions from local authorities and security forces.

Public transportation

Private companies operate reliable buses between cities.

Avoid public buses and gua-guas – microbuses – which often don’t have doors.

Taxis are not metered. Upon arrival to the Dominican Republic, use the taxi service authorized by the airport.

During your stay:

• use hotel taxis or ride-hailing apps which are generally safe
• avoid unmarked taxis
• avoid using or renting motorcycle taxis (motoconchos)
• avoid route taxis (gua-guas or carros publicos)
• negotiate the fare prior to departure

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of the Dominican Republic. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months after the date of your arrival in the Dominican Republic.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for up to 30 days Work visa: required Student visa: required Residence visa: required

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket.

Electronic ticket for entry and exit

You must complete an electronic form to enter and exit the country in order to share information about your health and your stay with local authorities.

You must fill this form before boarding your flight to the Dominican Republic. This electronic form doesn’t replace the Tourist card.

Electronic ticket for entry and exit – Government of the Dominican Republic

Tourist card

As a tourist, you must obtain a tourist card to enter the Dominican Republic. It is included in all air tickets issued outside the country.

If you enter the Dominican Republic by land or sea, you can obtain the card from the General Directorate of Internal Taxes at your point of entry. It is valid for one year from the issuance date and it can be used for a 30-day stay period.

If you overstay the duration of your tourist card, local authorities could deny you entry, on your next trip, if you don’t have the proper visa, even if you paid a fine when leaving the country.

Dominican tourist card  – Directorate general of internal taxes (in Spanish)

Stay extension

You can apply for a stay extension for a period up to 120 days. You must request your stay extension to the Dominican Directorate General for Migration once you are in Dominican Republic, before your tourist card expires.

If you wish to stay in the Dominican Republic for more than 120 days, you must obtain a resident visa from the Dominican authorities in Canada prior to your departure.   

If you overstay the period for which you have been authorized to stay, you will have to pay fine to immigration authorities when leaving the country.  You may also need to apply for a visa the next time you wish to return to the Dominican Republic.

Local authorities could deny you entry in the country if you don’t have the proper visa.

Stay extension  - Dominican Directorate General for Migration

Identification

Immigration officials may conduct random ID checks.

You must carry photo identification and a copy of your entry stamp with you at all times.

• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it’s lost or confiscated
• Cooperate with authorities if they question you

As a foreign national, you will be required to provide biometrics to enter the Dominican Republic. For instance, authorities will take your fingerprints and a photograph.

Drug screening

The Dominican Republic is actively working to fight drug trafficking.

You may be subjected to drug screening measures by authorities upon departure from the country. They may search your luggage and ask you to sign a form, in Spanish, stating that the search was performed within procedural requirements.

In some cases, they may ask you to undergo an X-ray.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 6 May, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Yellow fever  is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito. Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if arriving from some states in Brazil, including travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport in those same states.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

• visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
• visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Salmonellosis is a common illness among travellers to this country. It can be spread through contaminated food or beverages, such as raw or undercooked poultry and eggs, as well as fruits or vegetables.

Practice safe food and water precautions . This includes only eating food that is properly cooked and still hot when served.

Pregnant women, children under 5 years of age, those over 60 years of age, and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill.

Most people recover on their own without medical treatment and from proper rehydration (drinking lots of fluids).

• Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Travellers with severe symptoms should consult a health care professional as soon as possible.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country. Good health care is generally available only in major cities.

Private hospitals and clinics are better equipped than public ones. However, there are reports of overcharging for medical services, variable pricing and unnecessary overnight hospital stays at private facilities.

Beware of aggressive sales tactics of in-house resort doctors, who are often contracted out by private hospitals and try to sell you on their facility.

If you go to the hospital:

• inquire about fees prior to undergoing treatment
• let the hospital administrators know if you feel you have been overcharged after a visit
• request assistance in English or French from the hospital’s guest services desk

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Medical tourism

Canadian citizens have had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.

Before leaving for a medical travel:

• make sure you have done your research
• use reputable health-care providers only

Receiving medical care outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

In accordance with Dominican law, a person detained or arrested by the authorities may be held without charges for up to 48 hours before the case is presented to a judge.

Judicial processes may last several years during which accused individuals are normally detained. It could lead to very long prison sentences in harsh conditions.

Overview of the criminal law system in the Dominican Republic

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

The island is used as a drug trafficking hub between South and North America.

The authorities are enforcing strict border controls. Should you be found transporting illegal substances, you will be taken into custody right away.

• Carry only your personal belongings, and don’t leave them unattended
• Don’t agree to carry packages that are not your own

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Reporting crime

Dominican law stipulates that victims of crime, including foreigners, are responsible for reporting incidents to police.

If you wish to pursue prosecution or seek compensation, you will have to retain Dominican legal counsel to file a formal complaint to the police and to pursue the case through the justice system.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the Dominican Republic.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of the Dominican Republic, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and the Dominican Republic.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the Dominican Republic, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Dominican court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in the Dominican Republic to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Investments

If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in the Dominican Republic, seek legal advice in Canada and in the Dominican Republic. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve.

Many tourists have reported financial problems and complications involving time-share arrangements and other property investment activities.

Time-share representatives may be very persistent. They use pressure tactics and offer free tours, meals, gifts or alcoholic beverages. At the airport, they pose as tourist operators and try to force tourists to make property investments.

• Exercise caution whenever approached by time-share representatives
• Provide your credit card only if you are sure you want to make the purchase

Before purchasing a timeshare:

• gather as much information as possible
• review carefully the contract; anything not included in the contract will not be honoured
• ensure that constant vigilance of land will take place, as there have been several instances of disputed land occupation in the absence of the alleged owner
• keep copies of all correspondence

Legal representation

If you are arrested or detained in the Dominican Republic, you have the right to a lawyer, who can be present during any questioning and at any trial or hearing.

If you cannot afford a lawyer, the Dominican government can provide you with a public defender.

Marriages legally performed in the Dominican Republic are legally recognized in Canada.

If you wish to marry in the Dominican Republic, you should consult the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in Canada for information on documents and procedures.

• Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
• Marriage overseas factsheet

If you are involved in a road accident, you may be detained by police until the circumstances of the accident have been investigated.

You must carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency of the Dominican Republic is the Dominican peso (DOP).

U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Canadian dollars are not.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Seismic activity

The Dominican Republic is located in an active seismic zone. Tremors occur from time to time.

Emergency operations centre  - Dominican Republic government (in Spanish)

Local services

In case of emergency, dial 911.

Tourist police

The tourist police (CESTUR) provide a security presence in tourist areas and first response assistance to tourists.

If in tourist areas, contact CESTUR: 1 809 200 3500

Road assistance

Free road assistance is offered on all major toll highways 24 hours a day.

Dial 1 829 688 1000.

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to the Dominican Republic, in Santo Domingo, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Dominican Republic Has It All

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the north and the Caribbean Sea on the south, our lush tropical island paradise boasts nearly 1,000 miles (1,609 km) of coastline, 250 miles (402 km) of the world’s top beaches, magnificent resorts and hotels, and a variety of sports, recreation and entertainment options. Here you can dance to the pulse pounding thrill of the merengue, renew in our luxurious and diverse accommodations , explore ancient relics of centuries past, delight in delicious Dominican gastronomy or enjoy ecotourism adventures in our magnificent national parks, mountain ranges, rivers, and beaches.

Traveling to Dominican Republic?

The electronic ticket is a digital form required by multiple institutions for entering or leaving Dominican Republic. Get ready for travel and get yours today!

Know Before You Go

Getting here: air & sea travel, getting around: travel between regions, places to stay & accommodations, frequently asked questions, choose your passion, entertainment & events, water sports, adventure activities, outdoor recreation & sports, natural attractions, cultural attractions & sightseeing, family friendly activities, dining & nightlife, dominican republic, discover all that we have, over 2000 beaches, many of which remain uncrowded and undeveloped - line the caribbean and the atlantic coastlines, ranging from a brilliant white to a handful of black sand stretching southwest., bahía de las águilas.

Recognized as the most beautiful beach in the Dominican Republic, this diamond-white stretch runs a whopping five miles, boasting…

Bahía de Luperón

Beige-colored beach with large rocks and swimmable area. Tourists will often stop by before or after a visit to the close by historic…

The scenic fishing town of Bayahíbe is an attraction in and of itself, lucky to boast multiple beaches on its coastline, including…

Known for its beautiful white-sand beach, Cabo Rojo gets its name from the area’s bauxite presence and resulting dark rust-colored dirt…

The smallest of the islands off the shore of Bayahíbe, Catalinita sits in the Catuano Channel, popular for its crystal clear waters…

The Dominican Republic is blessed with the Caribbean’s highest mountain ranges, tucked in the heart of the country, where you’ll find the lushest landscapes and coolest temperatures.

Altos de chavón amphitheater.

Designed like a Grecian amphitheater, this breathtaking 5,000-seat open-air facility hosts concerts and performances from major…

Anamuya Ziplines

Punta Cana is home to the very first zipline built in the DR, and it’s built to suit all daredevils, new or experienced. Runners…

Avenida de la Marina

The scenic, two-kilometer (1.2 mile) long waterfront boulevard lining Samaná Bay wins over every photographer’s eye. Also known as the…

Barahona City

The city of Barahona is a primarily industrial town, important for its port access and commercial activities, which include sugar…

Boca de Yuma

Less than an hour south of Punta Cana, Boca de Yuma offers a daytime escape to a scenic Dominican fishing village. Boasting panoramic…

Renowned for having the most magnificent golf courses in the Caribbean region, and Latin America, the Dominican Republic is the undisputed leader of golf in the tropics.

Bella vista golf club.

Short and flat, the course was built for the executives of the large Falconbridge mining company in the city of Bonao. It was designed…

Cabeza de Toro Golf Club

One of two courses located within the Catalonia Bávaro Resort in Punta Cana, Alberto Sola designed the Cabeza de Toro Golf Club as a…

Caribe Golf Club

Part of the Catalonia Bávaro Resort, Alberto Sola and Jack Corrie designed the 18-hole Caribe Golf Club. Open from October to June…

Cayacoa Golf Club

Built in 1989 and designed by Jack Corrie, Cayacoa Golf Club is located just 25 minutes northwest of Santo Domingo, yet remains a…

Cocotal Golf & Country Club

Designed by six-time Spanish Champion, Pepe Gancedo, who has designed more than 18 golf courses throughout Spain, some rated among the…

Art + Culture

Known as the cradle of the americas, the dominican republic is full of iconic sights across its cities and provinces., alcázar de colón.

One of the most popular museums in the Colonial City is also its most impressive in architecture. Completed around 1512, this Gothic…

Bartolo Colón Stadium

Located in the small town of Altamira, birthplace of Major League player Bartolo Colón, the professional player built this stadium and…

Basílica Nuestra Señora De La Altagracia

Located in Higüey and inaugurated in 1971, this cathedral is one of the most important religious sites in the Dominican Republic. It…

Bonao Carnival

Each February, in celebration of Carnival, Bonao features its own unique characters parading to the beat of the carnival drums on…

Cabral is best known for its colorful carnival at the end of Easter, when the Cachúa characters dress in bat-like costumes and unfold…

Upcoming Events

Ssn lifestyle punta cana music festival.

• Al final de Downtown, Las Mercedes, Punta Cana 23000
• May 9, 2024

10 Adventurous Things to Do

The Dominican Republic is full of incredible destinations that not many people know of. It's also a country with a diverse and colourful culture.

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Horseback riding, paragliding, mountain biking.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Dominican Republic

Warnings and insurance.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

• women travellers
• disabled travellers
• LGBT+ travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Dominican Republic Travel Restrictions 2024 FAQ – Curfew in the DR

Excellent recent news! Our team is incredibly pleased to inform you that from August 9, 2021 there will be no more curfew for some main tourist areas of the Dominican Republic! You can find more relevant and detailed information in our recent article about the curfew and restrictions in August 2021 →

As quarantine rules and restrictions are constantly changing, it’s hard to keep a track of everything happening. We will make sure you know all the necessary and latest news before coming for your vacation in the Dominican Republic.

Travel Restrictions in the DR

1. Do I need a negative COVID-19 test to enter the DR?

Although the DR government does not require a negative COVID-18 test from everyone by arriving at the airport, they can ask randomly selected travelers to take a test. That is why we recommend everyone to have a negative PCR test on arriving in the Dominican Republic. However, if you have not got one, it is not a problem: getting tested for COVID at the airport (if you are randomly selected from the group of hundreds of passengers) takes no more than 15 minutes.

2. Should I show a negative COVID-19 test when departure home?

It is important to remember to take a PCR test before departure home: the US and the Canagian governments, as well as authorities of most European countries, require a negative PCR test result from travellers entering the countries. In this article we gathered all the necessary information about easy and comfortable ways of getting tested in the DR .

3. Are bars and restaurants open in the Dominican Republic?

The Public Health Ministry officially announced that hotels, bars, and restaurants may operate in compliance with the health protocols established by the government. Bars, restaurants, and clubs are open and gladly welcome quests, following all quarantine safety rules for sure.

4. Are there any restrictions for the DR during COVID-19 pandemic?

Here are some public places and services important to follow to stay healthy and enjoy your vacation:

• Alcoholic drinks cannot be sold between 6 pm – 5 am
• There can’t be gatherings of more than 10 people in the public places
• Restaurants are limited to 60% capacity and no more than 6 people at a table
• Cultural, artistic, and sports events have been suspended as they may lead to concentration of people

5. What are the Curfew hours in the Dominican Republic?

Traveling to the DR one more important thing to note is curfew hours. From 7th July the nationwide curfew is from 10 pm to 5 am Monday to Friday. And from 7 pm – 5 am on Saturday and Sunday accordingly.

Renting a villa or apartment for your family and friends can be a great option as you would be able to enjoy your vacation on your green terrace anytime. Here we gathered everything you need to know about curfew restrictions in the DR .

6. What are the COVID-19 guidelines for travel to the DR?

Here are some things to remember so you stay healthy and safe on your trip:

• Wear a mask in public places
• Follow social distancing rules
• Public transport operates at a reduced capacity
• The Dominican authorities recommend those over 60 years old or with underlying health conditions to stay at home unless it is an essential trip

The Dominican Republic authorities follow all rules and recommendations to keep guests and citizens safe. Following these small steps, you still can safely come to the DR and enjoy your vacation under the tender Dominican sun.

The conclusion

Following these easy steps and coming to the DR, you will be completely free to enjoy your vacation here. It is completely safe to travel to the Dominican Republic. The DR government does it all to make sure travelers and citizens are safe, they follow all the sanitary norms and quarantine measures.

If you still have any questions, we will gladly answer them and help you to organize the best vacation for you. Write to us on WhatsApp , on our email ( everythingpuntacanallc@gmail.com ), or online chat on the website (in the lower right corner).

Updated on: 2024-05-08 . Author: Anastasia Niconova

Tags: Coronavirus Dominican Republic Safe to travel Safe Travels Protocols Tips for travelling

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