us travel advisory to dominican republic

Dominican Republic Safety 2024: Is Dominican Republic Safe to Visit?

In 2022, around eight and a half million tourists visited the Dominican Republic, making it the most visited country in the Caribbean, and the fifth most visited place in the Americas.

But is the Dominican Republic as safe as it is popular? The short answer to this question is both yes and no. This is because while travel advisories consider the country only moderately safe, you’ll likely have an incident-free vacation as long as you remain cautious. Now let’s get into some details regarding the safety conditions of this beautiful Caribbean country.

Is the Dominican Republic Safe?

The UK travel advisory gives a well-balanced answer to this question:

“The Dominican Republic is friendly and welcoming and the vast majority of visits to the country are trouble-free. However, there is a high crime rate, ranging from opportunistic crime like bag snatching and pickpocketing to violent crime.”

Here’s a rough outlook of the country’s safety conditions:

• Travel advisory : All travel advisories consider the Dominican Republic a moderately safe location. 
• Crime rate : Crime in the Dominican Republic is very high (71.34) — the main problem areas are theft, violent crime, scams, and the harassment of women.
• Dangerous areas : Stay away from La Duarte, Arroyo Hondo, Naco, Gazcue, Cristo Rey, Villa Agrícola, and Los Guandules.
• Police presence: There’s a special police force for tourists called politur .
• Natural Disasters : The Dominican Republic faces a moderate risk of hurricanes, earthquakes, and tsunamis.
• Public transport: The public buses are unsafe, but taxi companies are both safe and reliable.
• Medical care quality : It’s decent in the larger cities, but drops in quality as soon as you move toward the rural areas.

Travel Advisory for Dominican Republic

According to the US travel advisory, the Dominican Republic is classified in the level-2 safety category . That means you should exercise increased caution due to the high crime rate.

The US travel advisory ranks every country in four different categories, according to their safety level:

• Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
• Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
• Level 3: Reconsider Travel
• Level 4: Do Not Travel

The other travel advisories, including the Canadian and the Australian ones, are on the same page. They cite the country’s high crime rate as the main cause for concern.

The most common crimes affecting tourists in the Dominican Republic are:

• Petty theft, including pickpocketing and bag snatching
• Assault and violent crime
• Scams and frauds
• Verbal harassment and abuse of women, including spiked food and drinks

A Comprehensive Look at Dominican Republic Crime Rates

Numbeo gives the Dominican Republic a crime rating of 71.34, which is considered a high crime index . Additionally, nearly all the individual categories for different types of crime are also either rated as very high, high, or moderate.

You can see the various scores in the table below. The data is shared by 361 contributors.

The Canadian travel advisory gives the best summary of the crime situation in the Dominican Republic: “Crime occurs in the Dominican Republic, including violent crime, especially in major cities. However, most incidents are opportunistic crimes which are the most significant threat for tourists.”

However, scams, frauds, and the harassment of women are also common.

Petty Theft

Petty theft happens all over the country, and it’s usually on the rise during the holiday season, when the country is packed with tourists. Petty theft is particularly frequent at:

• Bus stations
• Public transportation
• Airport terminals

Drive-by robberies and theft are also common in the Dominican Republic. Thieves on motorcycles or scooters drive beside unassuming tourists and snatch their bags or other belongings. They may even reach into a vehicle while waiting at a red light in traffic.

Violent Crime and Assaults

According to the Canadian travel advisory :

“ 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 traveling to the Las Américas International Airport, sometimes in taxis.”

Most violent crimes are connected to organized crime rings and gangs , like the infamous Latin Kings. Gang-related violent crimes usually occur in poorer and more dangerous neighborhoods, but there have been cases of violent attacks affecting tourists, as well.

Anyhow, you should stay away from dangerous neighborhoods, since you’re much more likely to get attacked there. The most famous hotspots for crime in the country are:

• Arroyo Hondo
• Villa Agricola
• Los Guandules

Scam and Fraud

Scam and fraud are a constant threat in the Dominican Republic . Beware of:

• Criminals posing as policemen and fining tourists for made-up crimes.
• Rogue lawyers who operate near police stations and often target desperate tourists who have real problems.
• Credit card and ATM scams like cloning.
• Dating app scams and fraud that usually result in the victim getting isolated and robbed.

Verbal Harassment and Abuse of Women

According to the Australian travel advisory women are particularly at risk of harassment and assault.

The most common strategy of the perpetrators is spiking the food or drinks of victims with drugs. The drugs may be inside alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, chewing gum, or even cigarettes. Bars and other places of entertainment are their common territory.

Finally, dating apps also pose a danger. According to the US travel advisory :

“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.”

Police Presence in Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is protected by the Dominican National Police (Spanish: Policía Nacional Dominicana). They have nearly 32,000 officers for a population of almost nine million.

However, the Dominican police force isn’t considered to be reliable. Amongst other things, they are infamous for corruption and violent behavior , a hot topic in the media, particularly given suspicions that the police force is involved in illegal trafficking rings.

Luckily for visitors to the Dominican Republic, the country has an alternative police force that’s specifically created to protect tourists. That force is called Politur, and they’re scattered throughout the country, especially near tourist hotspots. You can easily recognize them by their uniform: white shirt and blue bermudas. They usually drive motorcycles.

Politur is highly regarded in the Dominican Republic and it’s a significant factor in maintaining its tourism industry. Recently , they received a $2 million boost and 65 new vehicles in the form of pickup trucks and motorcycles.

How to Stay Safe in the Dominican Republic

• If someone tries to rob you, hand over your personal belongings without resisting.
• Do not carry or wear valuable items that will attract attention.
• Contact the police or the hotel management if the resort or hotel staff demonstrate unwanted attention.
• Avoid secluded places, even at your resort/hotel.
• Don’t leave drinks or food unattended.
• Don’t use dating apps.
• Be careful around ATMs.
• Always ask police officers to legitimize themselves.
• Don’t use public buses.
• Stay away from dangerous areas.
• Avoid exploring the larger cities at night.

Is It Safe to Travel Solo in the Dominican Republic?

You can travel solo in the Dominican Republic if you’re well-informed and respect all the safety measures. That being said, it’s always better to travel with a group. Solo female travelers are particularly susceptible to all kinds of crime, particularly harassment and assault.

Is It Safe to Travel to the Dominican Republic as a Family?

Although it’s not the safest destination in the world, you and your family can visit the Dominican Republic as long as you are careful. This means that you should stay away from public buses, dangerous neighborhoods, and forlorn areas in the cities, and avoid going out at night. Sticking to some common sense tips can keep your mind at ease.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in the Dominican Republic

According to the Australian travel advisory , the Dominican Republic is subject to natural disasters and severe weather , such as:

• Landslides and mudslides
• Earthquakes

All of these can cause disruptions in the everyday lives of the local citizens as well as tourists’ vacations. More serious natural events can even disrupt essential services — such as water and electricity — or clog up the roads.

You have to stay cautious and prepared at all times, especially during the wet season, between May and November, when frequent rains are sure to cause landslides, mudslides, and flooding around the country. 

Hurricane Information and Precautions

According to the US travel advisory , the Dominican Republic is hurricane-prone. The hurricane season begins in June and has its peak from mid-August to late October .

The coastal regions are at the highest risk of hurricanes.

On average, the Dominican Republic’s sphere of influence gets affected by at least six hurricanes annually , but only half of them directly hit the country itself.

The last hurricane to reach the country was “Franklin” on August 24, 2023 . While it was cruising on the open ocean, it was classified as a category-4 hurricane, but upon reaching the island, it lost its strength and resulted in a slightly more severe tropical storm.

The US travel advisory offers a comprehensive set of  tips in case a hurricane hits the country:

• Maintain a stock of boiled or bottled water
• Store non-perishable food items
• Acquire a battery-powered radio
• Keep your vital documents (like your passport) safe and close to you
• Obtain travel insurance – it’ll certainly come in handy in the case of natural disasters
• Monitor all the local media, including the local radio and news reports

Also, it’s a good idea to follow the local and international sites that monitor hurricanes to stay up-to-date on the weather:

• Dominican National Office of Meteorology
• Dominican Emergency Operations Center
• National Hurricane Center
• Weather Channel
• Weather Underground
• Atlantic Tropical Weather Center

Earthquake and Tsunami Information and Precautions

According to the Australian travel advisory , the Dominican Republic is indeed in an earthquake-prone zone . This means that earthquakes could occur and cause destructive tsunamis. Some sources classify the earthquake hazard in the Dominican as “medium.” That means that there’s a 10% chance of a major earthquake hitting the country in the next 50 years.

On November 8, 2023 , a 5.0-magnitude earthquake affected the northwestern region of the country, near the border with Haiti. It was the strongest earthquake to hit the country that year. Fortunately, it didn’t cause any serious damage – except for two schools – or injure any people.

The UK travel advisory offers a pretty thorough procedure in case an earthquake occurs during your visit:

• Drop to the ground and take cover. Remain in this position until the tremors and the shaking stop.
• Don’t leave your position until it’s deemed completely safe.
• Stay away from street lights, buildings, and electric wires outside. Basically, avoid anything that can fall on you.
• Following the earthquake, don’t run and walk carefully. There may be aftershocks and debris.
• If you get trapped, tap on a wall or a pipe, so that rescuers can hear you.

As you probably know, stronger earthquakes may directly cause tsunamis. For example, in 1946 , an 8.1-magnitude earthquake struck the northern parts of the island and produced a very strong tsunami that resulted in over 1,000 fatalities.

Luckily, tsunamis are rare in the Dominican Republic and don’t accompany each earthquake. According to WorldData , there have only been 6 tidal waves that can be classified as tsunamis since 1751 – less than in other tsunami-prone areas.

Beware the Silent Threat: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is one of those rare countries where you should be wary of carbon monoxide poisoning.

According to the Washington Examiner , between 2016 and 2019, 14 people vacationing in the Dominican Republic were fatally poisoned by carbon monoxide.

It’s hard to get a figure of the total incidents resulting only from carbon monoxide poisoning. For example, a Louisiana woman lost her life in 2019: it was suspected to be carbon monoxide poisoning, but pesticide poisoning or even Legionnaire’s disease were not ruled out either.

Carbon monoxide is hard to notice since the gas is tasteless, odorless, and invisible. Longer exposure may lead to serious problems like paralysis and losing your life.

For peace of mind while staying in the Dominican Republic, your best bet is to buy a portable CO detector , which costs only around $20.

Dominican Republic Weather Patterns: What to Expect

The Dominican Republic has a tropical climate, and it’s mostly warm throughout the whole year. The period between May and October is wetter and hotter, while December to January is cooler and dryer. November and April are usually considered in-between months.

Monthly Average Temperatures and Rainy Days in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Spring’s weather is sunny and dry. It’s one of the best periods to visit this country. The average temperatures never go below 68°F and higher than 89°F. Plus, there are very few rainy days per month.

Spring is the perfect time to visit the beautiful beaches of the Dominican Republic, such as Punta Cana, Bavaro, and Playa Dorada, but also to experience the excitement of the carnival in March, or the Santo Domingo de Fiesta and the Espiritu Santo Festival in May.

The beginning of summer signals the wet season in the Dominican Republic. The number of rainy days per month increases, and so do the temperatures, with a maximum daily temperature of 91°F. The weather can get stuffy and really hot, which is especially unpleasant for some.

And yet, the summer season is an undiscovered gem for many visitors who are looking for a budget trip to the island. Although the risk of a hurricane hitting the island is higher starting with August, the island is still perfectly safe during June and July. 

With the coming of fall, the wet season reaches its peak. The temperatures are very high, and the number of rainy days per month is the highest in October (13 rainy days). The island is mostly tourist-free since it’s also the peak of the hurricane season.

That being said, it’s definitely the cheapest month to visit the Dominican Republic and the best time if you want to get to know the rites and customs of the local population. In September, you can experience the fantastic processions of la Dia de las Mercedes festival and the rural traditions of the Feria Ganadera El Cupey.

The tourist season begins in December. Beaches, resorts, and hotels start to fill up, and with the arrival of visitors, the prices start to rise. The temperatures start to drop after sunset, reaching 71°F, while the days are sunny, dry, and warm.

January is all about New Year celebrations, and the crowded islands brim with excitement and activity. February, on the other hand, is the official beginning of the carnival season, which attracts even more tourists.

Public Transportation Safety in Dominican Republic

The public transport in the Dominican Republic is not safe. However, certified taxis are both reliable and safe. In terms of renting a car, keep in mind that there’s a high frequency of road accidents in the country.

According to the UK travel advisory :

• There are plenty of transport options available, like the expanded metro network in the country’s capital.
• Stay away from public buses and “carros publicos” (which are shared cars, driving along semi-fixed routes), as they’re neither safe nor secure.
• Private bus companies are completely safe , but they only provide intercity (between cities) bus services.

Public and Private Buses

The Canadian travel advisory advises against getting on public buses and gua-guas – microbuses. The latter often don’t even have doors, an additional safety concern.

Gua-guas are tiny, privately-owned buses that offer their services for either inner-city travel, or for longer destinations around the country. They are notoriously unsafe and unreliable.

Private buses, on the other hand, are quite safe and reliable. Unfortunately, they are only available for intercity travel.

Taxi Services

If you follow some simple safety tips, you’ll find that taxis are relatively safe thanks to the well-regulated taxi syndicate of the Dominican Republic .

However, make sure to only use official, marked taxis . Most of these are either beige or brown, but not always. There are over 20 official taxi companies in the country, and only official taxis can be called via telephone or a mobile app. The most famous companies are Apolo Taxi and Aero Taxi.

On the other hand, avoid using unofficial taxis at all costs . According to the Australian travel advisory, many travelers have been assaulted or robbed in unregistered taxis.

They also advise visitors not to use route taxis, better known in the Dominican Republic as carros publicos , since there’s a high chance of getting robbed. You can immediately spot carros publicos since they have no taxi markings, unlike the official taxis.

Additionally, avoid renting motorcycle taxis (motoconchos), as motor vehicle accidents are statistically more fatal than car accidents.

Lastly, keep in mind that taxis in the country are unmetered, which means that you should always negotiate the price before departure.

Renting a Car and Quality of the Roads

Finally, if you’re considering renting a car, keep in mind that the Dominican Republic has one of the highest road accident rates in the whole world. Drivers often drive while drunk and rarely respect traffic rules – including driving on the wrong side of the road! To top it all off, most vehicles are in bad condition.

According to the Canadian travel advisory , while most tourist hotspots have decent roads, less popular and less populated areas have roads of extremely poor quality.

The Quality of Medical Care in Dominican Republic

The quality of medical care in the Dominican Republic is decent in the larger cities but lacking in forlorn and rural areas. Also, private hospitals are generally better equipped and better-staffed than public medical establishments.

The Canadian travel advisory points out that private hospitals tend to overcharge for medical services. Prices might also be unstable and variable. Additionally, doctors may get a bit aggressive and pushy in their sales tactics, i.e., trying to sell you on their facility.

The best hospitals in the country, as previously stated, are located in larger cities, like Santo Domingo and its wider metropolitan area, as well as Puerto Plata. There are good hospitals in some of the smaller cities, too. Here’s a short list:

• Centro Médico UCE – Santo Domingo
• Hospital General de la Plaza de la Salud – Santo Domingo
• Hospiten Santo Domingo – Santo Domingo
• Hospital General Vinicio Calventi – Santo Domingo
• Centro Médico Bournigal – Puerto Plata
• Centro Médico Punta Cana – Punta Cana
• Hospital General de la Plaza de la Salud – Higüey
• Centro Médico Corominas – San Francisco de Macorís
• Centro Médico Cibao – Santiago
• Hospital Metropolitano de Santiago (HOMS) – Santiago

Dominican Republic, Here We Come!

You can have a great time visiting the Dominican Republic – provided that you keep your eyes open and exercise increased caution.

In short, don’t trust strangers, dating apps, public transportation, and unofficial taxis; don’t venture into dangerous or isolated areas; stay up-to-date on the weather forecast and follow safety protocols in case of natural disasters; be careful on the roads; don’t resist in case of theft; and finally, do bring a portable CO detector along with you. In case something unfortunate happens, you can rely on the police to help you out.

Basically, stick to the maxim “better safe than sorry,” and you’ll have a great trip in the Dominican Republic.

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I moved to Punta Cana more than 7 years ago and have never felt unsafe. I have many expat friends that take public transportation buses all the time. And many use Uber we are out late several nights a week and have never had a problem. I feel safer here then I felt in the downtown of my Ontario city.

Hi Christine, thank you for reading and appreciate your first-hand feedback on the area!

Curious, I looked at Numbeo for my city, Washington, DC. It comes in at 70.86 So the DR and DC are on par. So treat the DR like any large US city. Be aware of your surroundings. No earbuds. Walk in groups.

Thank you for reading, Linette, and for your feedback.

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State Department Issues Travel Warning for Popular Caribbean Country Due to Safety Concerns

Travelers are advised to exercise increased caution.

The Department of State is warning travelers who are going to the Dominican Republic to exercise increased caution due to crime and safety concerns.

The popular Caribbean country was placed under a Level 2 warning out of a total of four, according to the State Department . The department regularly updates and reissues travel advisories for countries all around the globe.

“Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic ,” the State Department wrote in its warning. “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.”

Massimo Borchi/Atlantide Phototravel/Getty Images

However, the department did note there was a lower risk in popular resort areas due to “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.” These areas tend to therefore “be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo.” 

Travelers who do go to the Dominican Republic should be aware of their surroundings, never physically resist any robbery attempt, and avoid displaying signs of wealth (like wearing expensive watches or jewelry).

Travelers can also enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts “and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.”

The State Department issues travel advisories and travel alerts to “help you assess for yourself the risks of international travel and what steps to take to ensure your safety when you decide to go abroad.” These advisories can be issued for an entire country or a specific area of the country and can vary by region based on the situation.

Recently, the State Department issued advisories for several popular vacation destinations, including certain areas of Mexico , Colombia, and Jamaica .

Update April 12, 2024

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Is It Safe to Travel to the Dominican Republic Amid the Crisis in Haiti?

As haiti endures severe unrest and political upheaval, travelers may be wondering what the situation on the ground is like in the neighboring dominican republic..

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Travelers flock to the Dominican Republic for its beauty, beaches, culture, and cuisine.

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A new wave of gang violence is wreaking havoc on the streets of Haiti. Thousands of residents have been forced to flee Port-au-Prince, police stations have been set ablaze , and there is widespread call for the resignation of de facto leader Prime Minister Ariel Henry. Haiti is in the midst of one of its worst crises to date, and travelers may be wondering whether or not it’s safe to visit both Haiti and its Caribbean neighbor, the Dominican Republic.

For the past two years, Haiti has been suffering from widespread gang violence, which escalated in the aftermath of the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021. Most recently, the head of the G9 Haitian gang alliance, Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier, made a statement in early March that if Prime Minister Henry does not resign, civil war and genocide could be on the horizon.

The U.S. State Department issued a Level 4 travel advisory for the country last July and that remains firmly in place. Level 4 is the highest advisory level, urging U.S. citizens to avoid travel to the country altogether due to the possibility of kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and because of the country’s poor healthcare infrastructure.

While State Department travel advisories are often not the clearest indicators of whether or not a destination is safe, this time it would appear that travelers ought to proceed with extreme caution or, even better, heed the advice to the letter.

“I’d say that now is not the time to be visiting Haiti,” says Stephen Bennett, a Caribbean destination expert and cofounder of Uncommon Caribbean, an online resource for Caribbean travel. “The primary airports in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and Cap-Haitien, more than 120 miles to the north, remain closed, so flying there isn’t an option at present.”

However, Bennett confirmed that he feels it is completely safe to visit the Dominican Republic at this time and does recommend travelers keep their travel plans there. The Dominican Republic shares its western border with Haiti, although the border between the two countries remains closed with heightened security and border patrols.

The U.S. State Department last updated its travel advisory to the Dominican Republic on June 6, 2023. Since then, it remains at a Level 2 , which encourages visitors to exercise increased caution. Many other popular tourist destinations have also been ranked at a Level 2 advisory, including Denmark, Costa Rica, Turks and Caicos, France, Germany, Italy, and others.

Mark Chesnut, a travel writer who specializes in the Caribbean, just returned from a trip to the Dominican Republic, including to Santo Domingo, which is the largest city closest to the Haitian border.

“I have visited Santo Domingo and the [Dominican Republic] many times over the past 30 years and during my most recent visits to both Santo Domingo and Punta Cana, I didn’t feel any different about my sense of security,” he says. “On the Dominican Republic television, there is tons of news about the border, so I was more aware of the situation because of the news, but I didn’t have a sense of a different level of danger in the DR. The crisis was a topic of conversation among locals and hotel staff, but none of them warned about increased security measures. I didn’t feel any difference in safety related to that situation.”

Prior to the current escalation in violence, Labadee was a popular cruise port in Haiti.

Courtesy of Patrice S. Dorsainville/Unsplash

Amid Haiti travel advisory, how cruise lines and airlines are responding

Haiti, however, is a different situation.

At present, JetBlue, American Airlines, and Spirit have canceled their flights into Haiti. Sunrise Airways announced on Instagram that it will operate special flights between Cap-Haitien and Miami beginning again on March 25.

Up until last week, Royal Caribbean still had calls to Labadee on the northern coast of Haiti scheduled into its upcoming itineraries. However, the cruise line has suspended upcoming calls to the port as of March 14.

“Due to the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution, we’re temporarily suspending our visits to Labadee for our entire fleet,” Royal’s assistant vice president Aurora Yera-Rodriguez said in a statement. “We continue to monitor and assess the situation with our global security and intelligence team.”

Royal Caribbean Group owns Celebrity Cruises and Silversea. The port of call in Labadee is a private port accessible only to cruise passengers and employees. It features a day-use resort with multiple beaches, a zip line, and other facilities.

Bennett says that officials at Sunrise Airways, which operates regularly scheduled flights throughout the country, have expressed hope that airports will reopen soon. Once that happens, Cap-Haitien, which Sunrise serves nonstop from Miami, will begin operations for visits to Haiti in the short term.

“The city’s proximity to several of Haiti’s top visitor attractions, combined with its extended stance from the crux of the tumult in Port-au-Prince should make it a viable option more quickly,” he said. He noted that the distance between Cap-Haitien and Port-au-Prince is further than the distance from New York City to Philadelphia, for a bit of perspective.

Still, an immediate solution feels far away. According to Human Rights Watch, the country is on the brink of “total collapse .” Criminal groups hold power in the country now and have killed more than 1,100 people since the beginning of 2024, reports the United Nations. Between January 2022 and early March 2024, 13,000 people have been killed, injured, or kidnapped. Thousands of women and children have been the victims of sexual violence, and hundreds of thousands of people are displaced.

According to Reuters, the U.S. and Canadian embassies have reduced their staff , leaving only essential employees in the country, and the embassies are temporarily closed to the public. For now, travelers are forced to alter their plans to visit Haiti because getting there is impossible. In the near future, should that change, deciding whether or not it is safe to visit will depend on how the situation evolves in the coming months.

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Information Updated as of Dicember 1st , 2023

Entry Requirements | E-Ticket | Current Measures | FAQs  

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Entry Requirements

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR FOREIGNERS ENTERING THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC AS TOURISTS

Foreigners entering the Dominican Republic as tourists must comply with the following requirements:

• Passport with a minimum validity of six (6) months.
• Air, maritime or land ticket of entrance and return.
• A permanent address in the Dominican Republic.
• Proof of sufficient economic solvency to cover their expenses during their stay in the Dominican Republic.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES ON THE VALIDITY OF TOURIST PASSPORTS, VALID FROM JUNE 1, 2023 TO MAY 30, 2024.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES FOR THE NATIONALS OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, UNITED KINGDOM, CANADA, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, BRAZIL, CHILE, ARGENTINA, COLOMBIA AND ECUADOR.

The nationals of the countries that integrate the European Union, England, Canada, United States of America, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Colombia and Ecuador, who enter the Dominican Republic, exclusively for tourist purposes, are authorized to do so with their valid and in force passports, and that the same remain in force during their stay and departure from the Dominican territory. This exceptional measure was implemented by the Dominican authorities as of June 1, 2023 and remains in force until May 30, 2024.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES FOR DIPLOMATIC OFFICIALS, PERMANENT MISSIONS, INTERNATIONAL AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS, ETC.

The following foreigners are exempted from the above, under the condition of reciprocity:

• Diplomatic officers and consular officials accredited in the Dominican Republic, as well as other members of Permanent or Special Diplomatic Missions of Consular Posts and their family members who, by virtue of the rules of International Law, are exempt from the obligations related to obtaining a migratory category of entry.
• Representatives and delegates, as well as the other members, and their relatives, of Permanent Missions or Delegations before the Intergovernmental Organizations with headquarters in the Dominican Republic or in International Conferences held in the Dominican Republic.
• Officials assigned to International and Intergovernmental Organizations with headquarters in the Dominican Republic and their family members, as well as holders of Dominican diplomatic and official visas.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES FOR NATIONALS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA WHO DO NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS ESTABLISHED IN THE LAW AND ITS REGULATIONS.

Without detriment to the provisions of this Resolution and pursuant to the discretionary power that the Law grants to the Director General of Migration, he may authorize the entry into the country of foreigners of U.S. nationality who do not meet the requirements established in the law and its regulations, when there are exceptional reasons of a humanitarian nature, public interest or compliance with commitments made by the Dominican Republic. Each authorization constitutes a case in point and, consequently, does not constitute a binding reference or precedent.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES FOR CITIZENS OF CUBAN NATIONALITY LEGALLY RESIDING IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA COMING FROM THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Citizens of Cuban nationality legally residing in the United States of America, coming from the United States of America, are authorized to enter the Dominican Republic as tourists, even with an expired passport for no more than twenty-four (24) months, as long as they have their “Permanent Resident Card” (also known as “Green Card”), which guarantees their legal capacity to reside permanently in the United States of America. This exceptional measure will be implemented by the Dominican authorities for an indefinite period of time, starting June 1, 2023.

ACCEPTANCE OF BOARDING OF FOREIGN PASSENGERS TO DOMINICAN TERRITORY BY AIRLINES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ESTABLISHED PROVISIONS.

The General Directorate of Migration shall communicate the present Resolution to the airlines authorized to operate in the Dominican territory, so that they take into consideration the provisions previously established for the entry into the national territory of the referred foreigners, taking into account their respective nationalities, the purpose of their stay and the time of permanence in the national territory. Therefore, the airlines may accept the boarding of passengers of the nationalities previously established with destination to the Dominican territory in accordance with the above provisions.

Note : Any other provision established by the Resolution contrary to the provisions herein is hereby repealed.

MEASURES FOR DOMINICAN CITIZENS HOLDING A DOMINICAN PASSPORT ARRIVING FROM OTHER COUNTRIES

The aforementioned measures do not apply to Dominican citizens holding a Dominican passport entering the Dominican Republic from another country.

ROUND TRIP FLIGHT TICKET

As of April 28, 2023, during the process of registration and verification of travel documents prior to boarding, national and foreign air operators operating to and from the Dominican Republic must ensure that all foreign passengers have an air ticket to and from the Dominican Republic (roundtrip). Dominican national passengers, as well as foreigners residing in the Dominican Republic, are exempted from this requirement.

The national and foreign air operators are responsible for the strict compliance of such requirement. Failure to comply with the above will result in the denial of entry to the Dominican Republic of foreign passengers, as well as the corresponding sanctions to national and foreign air operators, established by the General Directorate of Migration of the Dominican Republic.

Click  HERE  for specific country entry restrictions.

Based on the ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 virus, we recommend connecting with your airline or travel agent directly to discuss any protocols that may apply to your country. As needed, we also recommend visiting the  International Air Transport Association (IATA)  for any updates to international markets and their required procedures. IATA cannot guarantee its accuracy and can accept no liability for any errors or omissions.

All foreign and Dominican passengers entering or departing the Dominican Republic on commercial flights must complete the free electronic entry and exit form at:

https://eticket.migracion.gob.do

It is no longer required to fill it out 72 hours prior to the trip . It can be filled out as soon as you have your flight information, even months in advance. However, it must be filled out before arriving at the airline counter at the airport, as it is required to present it to the airline. To avoid delays at the airport, it is advised to complete the form before the trip.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE E-TICKET

If your specific home city is not shown in the form, you can choose the nearest large city in your state or province. If you are staying at a vacation rental, please ask the host to provide the complete address, including province, municipality and sector.

If you are  traveling as a family , you must fill out the form with the data of all the family members who will be traveling, however, it is only necessary that a single user be created in the system and that this user fill in the data of all the members of the family that belong to that trip, up to 6 members additional to the one filling out the form (7 persons in total per form). It is not necessary for each traveler in the same family to fill out an individual form. If more than 7 people are traveling, you must fill out an additional form for the rest. Children do not fill out the Customs section, only adults. A single QR code will be generated for the family.

You can print or make a screenshot of the arrival and departure confirmation QR codes. If you need to make any changes to the E-TICKET, you can consult it with the application code that was issued when you started filling out the form and make changes.  

Passengers arriving on private flights, non-commercial vessels, ferries, cruise ships, etc., do not need to fill out the E-TICKET. The physical Customs Declaration and International Embarkation/Disembarkation forms will be accepted for the aforementioned passengers.

World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recognition

On May 9, 2022, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recognized the Dominican Republic as the number one country in the world in tourism recovery. The Dominican tourism model stands out for achieving the most successful recovery in the industry, reaching record numbers in tourist arrivals.

The success of the recovery is attributed to the Dominican Government and the pillars of innovation, entrepreneurship, education, and new destinations, which are the basis for the cooperative effort between the public and private sectors, which jointly ensure the guarantees and health protocols to guarantee safe tourism.

Click  HERE  for more information.

On January 18, 2022, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recognized the Dominican Republic for its successful recovery in the tourism industry and its efficient management of sanitary protocols in the country’s different tourist destinations.

The UNWTO highlighted the management and sanitary protocols applied in the Dominican Republic to guarantee safe tourism, thus achieving the most successful recovery of the industry in the entire region, reaching record figures in tourist arrivals.

The success of the recovery is due to the joint effort of the public and private sectors, who continue to work hand in hand with the Association of Hotels and Tourism (ASONAHORES).

The Dominican Republic is the only destination in the region where 100% of the employees in the tourism sector are fully vaccinated with two doses, and which has the lowest incidence rate of contagion in the tourist poles, making the country a safe destination for travel.

Thanks to its recovery, the Dominican Republic has become a tourism reference in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get a COVID-19 (antigen or PCR) test to travel back to my country?

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
• Bávaro

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

To schedule an appointment or for more information:

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

How can I reduce my chances of contracting COVID-19?

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.

What should I do if I suspect I have COVID-19?

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.

What are the symptoms of the coronavirus?

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.

Where can I get information about the coronavirus?

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

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Last update on April 19, 2024, 1:03 pm

Local January 25, 2022 | 3:12 pm

U.S. raises travel alert to Dominican Republic due to covid and crime

In September last year, the alert was lowered to level two.

The United States Department of State increased the alert for travel to the Dominican Republic, increasing it to  level four due to the “incidence of the coronavirus and citizen insecurity.”

“The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued a level 4 travel health advisory level, due to a very high level of covid-19 in the country,” indicates a statement from the entity.

In addition, they indicate to their US citizens to be  careful when visiting the Dominican Republic due to the recorded crime.

A description that they identify as a “summary of the country” indicates that violent crimes, including armed robberies , homicides, and sexual assaults, are a cause for concern in the Dominican territory.

They also cite that “the wide availability of weapons, the use and trade of illicit drugs, and a weak criminal justice system all contribute to the high level of crime on a broader scale.”

The detail is that the non-urban areas of the country do not have security and that the city, thanks to “a professional tourist police force, a 911 system in many parts of the country, and a concentration of resources in tourist areas,” tend to be better guarded.

They recommended their citizens “to be careful in the environment once they attend the country, not to physically resist any robbery attempt, not to show signs of wealth such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.”

Likewise, “follow the advice of tour operators and the resort regarding local security and safety concerns.”

In September last year, the department declined to two alert levels for the Dominican Republic and eliminated the recommendation to its citizens to “reconsider travel” to the country.

This alert level is considered moderate and implies that travelers must “exercise greater caution”  in relation to the health situation once they enter the country.

What about the level of crime in chicago? New york?

exaclty, chicago, los angeles, new york, countless

Then your president need to tell its citizen to stop travelling to NY, and Chicago my friend?

@John Connor. What about it? If I am travelling to the DR I am concerned about DR not Chicago or New York. Are you trying to say the problems in DR are ok because of similar issues in Chicago or New York. That’s just stupid. Just because I rob a bank does not make it ok for you to.

I agree with you 100 and ten percent , it’s not about who has the highest , the information is what is important period

How would you feel if a bigger bank robber starts calling you bank robber out loud? Sorry, but you are the only stupid here sir…

i am a US citizen and live were there are zero tourist (constanza), it appears both you both live in a wonderful…american style area…I think since John has the answer for everything he should run for President….or write a book and stop crying…………

So Nicholas, how is crime in Constanza? I live in Jarabacoa and there is plenty of crime here in certain barrios but most areas are safe and I feel no danger during the day. There are plenty of drug selling points around though.

People like me don’t aspire on becoming president, we don’t have a price, we can’t be bought, the presidents are puppets of the globalists. Since we already stepped out the matrix I’m just here to throw some facts over your illusional comfort…

This crime alert is a copy and paste from the US Dept. of State Travel Advisories. It is nothing new. Theses alerts have been posted there for years. Every once in a while the US gov’t feels it has to broadcast it. If you can’t reduce travels with the fear of covid make travelers fear crime.

The CDC warning is medical alert pushed by someone higher up? Again, to reduce travel?

Suspect both alerts coming at the same time from the US are flavored with political agendas,

Total bullshit. Crime and covid is much lower here than any usa city. Goverment wants to make the Dominican Republic look dangerous. They dont want people to know its better here than in the USA now. Im living here and feel much safer than if i was in the USA. There are problems here. Bad health care, poverty, but overall its much better . here. The DR has a much better president. ohhhh. less corruption here than in USA now also.

Completely agree. The US govt is run by idiots for idiots. Just pat them on their head and ignore whatever they say.

You are exactly right. The fact of the matter is they do not want anybody traveling period. They want everybody to stay tin the US and be miserable. Yes there are problems in the DR republic but generally people here are happy people and do not wish harm on anybody. Yes, there are bad people here as there are anywhere else. The political landscape is sickening in the US and it is a breath of fresh air to be somewhere else for a change to see the disparity.

Anything coming from the rule of SENILE JOE…is questionable!!

Rather have a partially senile president who knows he is our president, than a full blown psychopath who thinks he is president

Not sure why these page publicize such a nonsense. I have lived in the U.S for over 22 years and travel to the Dominican Republic often and the DR is much safer than the U.S. In the U.S is constantly a shooting, people fighting, robbing, many people are rude, racist, anti-immigrant, etc. So what’s the obsession the U.S to denigrate the DR. If you go to Santo Domingo and stay in a good area you will be perfectly fine. Dominicana are warmth, friendly, happy people.

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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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Live updates, us issues travel advisory for dominican republic amid violence, sex assault concerns.

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The State Department on Tuesday issued a travel advisory for Americans looking to visit the Dominican Republic, a top Caribbean destination, amid an increase in violent crime and sexual assaults. 

A yellow flag-level two advisory was issued urging travelers heading to the Caribbean hotspot to “exercise increased caution.”

“Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic, ” the department said in its advisory. “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.”

The State Department noted that Americans looking to travel to resorts are likely safer as these areas “tend to be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo.”

The implementation of a 911 emergency call system in many parts of the country and a tourist police force have also made top destinations safer for Americans traveling to the eastern side of the island of Hispaniola.

The Dominican Republic shares Hispaniola with Haiti, which has seen some of the most dangerous and severe living conditions in the Western Hemisphere in recent years. 

Gang violence in Haiti has ramped up drastically as poverty and corruption have run unchecked following the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse. 

But while the State Department has issued a stark Level 4 red-flag “Do not travel” advisory for Haiti, the Dominican Republic shares the same threat level alert as other top tourist destinations like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the U.K., and the Bahamas. 

Fox News Digital could not immediately reach the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism for comment, though the State Department issued its own suggestions for safe travel on the eastern part of Hispaniola. 

If Americans do decide to hit the top Caribbean destination in the coming months, department officials have advised them to be aware of their surroundings and to not display signs of wealth by wearing expensive jewelry or watches. 

The department also warned against physically resisting any robbery attempts and following local safety guidelines.  

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Here’s What You Need To Know About The Travel Advisory For The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has been a hotspot for Black travelers for a long time. Whether for medical tourism, business, or pleasure, the DR has become one of the culture’s favorite international, tropical destinations. However, the US State Department is warning travelers planning on visiting anytime soon.

On Tuesday, June 6, the agency issued a level 2 travel advisory for the Caribbean country. According to its website , the department warns of “violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic.”

Regional Efforts To Address Crime

Despite being a prime destination for American travelers, the DR has been a hotspot for crime for quite some time. According to Dialago Americas , leaders from Central America, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic came together in April to strategize against crime in the countries.

“These criminal phenomena are not new. What is new is that we are confronting them regionally,” Guatemala’s Minister of the Interior David Napoleón Barrientos told Guatemalan Daily Prensa Libre. “Each of the countries has its own strategies. We’ve discussed and shared them […]; the idea is to generate regional plans and protocols. This will be done by each country’s specialists at the roundtables.”

While the meeting in April centered more around organized crime and drug and human trafficking, the new US travel advisory focuses on the numerous accounts of sexual assault from American tourists visiting the DR.

According to USA Today, one American woman claims she was drugged and sexually assaulted while in the Dominican Republic . The tourist says she ordered a drink at a bar and lost recollection of what happened after she received it. Unfortunately, the travel advisory warns Americans that rape prosecution in the Dominican Republic varies greatly from legalities in the States.

“Sexual assault victims in the Dominican Republic should not expect the totality of assistance offered in the United States,” the travel advisory said. The advisory also tells travelers not to resist robbery attempts and to follow all local rules and regulations to avoid harm.

Safety Tips For Travel To The Dominican Republic

Areas near resorts and tourist attractions are safer than urban areas like Santo Domingo, the advisory states. The advisory does state that since the creation of the country’s 911 hotline, some areas of the Dominican Republic are safer than others. However, travelers should still avoid dark, secluded areas, and beaches at night.

Travelers should also take precautionary measures when using local taxi services and utilize rideshare apps like Uber instead.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Dominican Republic travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: April 15, 2024 13:01 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 - 8 April, 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.

Is Jamaica safe? State Department advisory raises concerns; here’s what to know

• Updated: Apr. 11, 2024, 10:21 a.m. |
• Published: Apr. 11, 2024, 7:59 a.m.

Bamboo Avenue, near YS Falls in southern Jamaica. Numerous American travelers to Jamaica say they're reluctant to leave their resorts because of the State Department's updated travel advisory. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

• Susan Glaser, cleveland.com

MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica – Two months before my planned trip to Jamaica, the U.S. State Department advised Americans to “reconsider travel” to the popular Caribbean nation.

I considered their advice and I went anyway.

It did give me pause, however, and prompted me to make a few adjustments to the trip.

First, I bought travel insurance for this trip – which I might have done anyway, but the travel advisory confirmed its necessity. Second, I employed a local guide to show me around, rather than exploring on my own. Again, I might have done this anyway, but the travel advisory made it a priority.

The result: I had a great trip, did everything I wanted (and more) and never felt unsafe (well, except perhaps on some of those narrow, windy inland roads alongside some crazy local drivers).

I met plenty of American travelers, however, who were pretty spooked about the updated advisory. Some said they considered canceling their trips. Others said they didn’t feel comfortable venturing from their resorts.

Business owners on the island told me they were already feeling the effects of the advisory.

“Even people who are coming aren’t leaving the resorts,” said Simon Browne, whose family owns YS Falls, a popular waterfall and swimming area on the south side of Jamaica. “It’s been a quiet March.”

Milton Williams, who cooks jerk chicken and other delights along the highway between Montego Bay and Negril, was also feeling the loss of business.

“Lots of people have canceled their vacations,” he told me, as I feasted on his chicken.

I was glad I wasn’t one of them.

What the State Department said

The State Department uses a four-point scale to assess the safety of travel to every country in the world. Level 1 is the safest (“exercise normal precautions”) and Level 4 is the most dangerous (“do not travel”).

In March 2022, Jamaica was elevated from Level 2 (“exercise increased caution”) to Level 3 (“reconsider travel”).

In January, the State Department updated its advisory with additional details about areas of concern, citing specifically crime and medical services in the country.

A spokeswoman for the State Department called the update “routine” and said there was no specific incident that spurred the advisory. She said the crime information remains substantively unchanged from the previous advisory.

Routine or not, the media reported the update as major news, sparking concern about travel to the country during the busy winter and spring vacation season.

Indeed, the language included in the advisory is enough to give any traveler pause. “Violent crimes, such as home invasions, armed robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides, are common,” it reads. “Sexual assaults occur frequently, including at all-inclusive resorts.”

It continues, “Local police often do not respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. When arrests are made, cases are infrequently prosecuted to a conclusive sentence. Families of U.S. citizens killed in accidents or homicides frequently wait a year or more for final death certificates to be issued by Jamaican authorities. The homicide rate reported by the Government of Jamaica has for several years been among the highest in the Western Hemisphere.”

It goes on to list specific geographic areas of concern, and strongly encourages travelers to obtain traveler’s insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, before traveling to Jamaica.

In response to the advisory, the Jamaican Tourist Board noted that crime involving visitors “remains extremely low at 0.01%,” adding, “Jamaica has recorded its lowest crime rate in 24 years in 2023 and this downward trajectory has continued in 2024.”

It’s worth noting that other countries that issue travel advisories to their citizens have not change their guidance on Jamaica in recent years.

Canada, for example, has a similar four-point system for assessing danger. Jamaica is a level 2 (“exercise a high degree of caution”), which is the same as for the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago and other Caribbean nations.

Both the United States and Canada cite Jamaica’s high crime rate as among the reasons for concern.

Indeed, Jamaica does have one of the highest murder rates in the world. But both locals and security experts point out that violence in Jamaica is almost never targeted at tourists.

“Jamaicans often told me – Jamaica is only dangerous for Jamaicans,” said Paul Doucet, security director at International SOS , a private health and security service firm.

Doucet visited Jamaica in February, shortly after the State Department updated its advisory, to see for himself whether anything had changed in Jamaica to warrant increased concern.

His conclusion: “It’s fine to go to Jamaica with an understanding of the areas to avoid.”

He added, “We haven’t changed our advice. We haven’t seen any reason to change our advice.”

Doucet acknowledged the country’s high crime rate, but said everyone – from the government to gang members – understands it’s not smart to target tourists, who contributed $4.3 billion to the nation’s economy in 2023.

“No one has an interest in seeing tourism decline,” said Doucet.

He also said that the country’s high homicide rate probably isn’t the best statistic for concerned travelers to worry about. Sexual assaults, carjackings and short-term kidnappings (which he noted are not a problem in Jamaica) are typically a bigger concern for tourists on vacation.

“There’s actually been an improvement in crime in Jamaica,” he said, although he noted that the numbers are subject to underreporting.

Lee Weinstock, a Shaker Heights native who runs a tourism business in Montego Bay, said he has been a victim of crime twice in Jamaica in more than 30 years. His apartment was broken into once, as was his car.

He speculates that there might be a political motivation for the State Department advisory – that it’s a way for the U.S. government to register its discontent with increasing Chinese investment in Jamaica, or disapproval of Jamaica’s anti-LGBTQ laws and policies.

The spokeswoman for the State Department denied that there were political reasons for the update. “This analysis is undertaken without regard to bilateral political or economic considerations,” she said.

She provided this explanation about the process: “Travel Advisories are based on a comprehensive and objective review of safety and security conditions, and ongoing developments that could affect the lives and interests of U.S. citizens abroad. We consider many factors to determine the Travel Advisory level for each country, including crime, terrorist activity, civil unrest, kidnapping or hostage taking, health risks, natural disasters/weather, and current events. The information we use to formulate Travel Advisories is collected from a range of sources, such as crime statistics and other publicly-available information, and information gathered from U.S. government sources, including assessments by our embassies and consulates abroad.”

I asked Doucet if the safety I felt in Jamaica was a good gauge of how safe I actually was.

“If you’re traveling around and didn’t go into areas you shouldn’t go, you probably were safe,” he said.

He noted that he spent some time in downtown Montego Bay – not an area where most tourists visit – and didn’t feel particularly safe.

“It was crowded,” he said. “There were a lot people who looked like they didn’t have enough to do.”

Common sense, he said, goes a long way in Jamaica and elsewhere.

“Don’t flash around money,” he said. “Don’t hold three iPhones in your hands.”

Being cautious, however, doesn’t mean being fearful.

Nicole Tutzer from Bainbridge Township traveled to Jamaica last month with her 18-year-old daughter Annika. “They told us – don’t leave the resort by yourself,” said Tutzer, who was staying at the resort next to mine in Montego Bay.

She and her daughter walked across the street to buy water shoes and bug spray and felt perfectly safe.

I, too, left my resort every day – both on foot and with licensed drivers – and also never felt remotely unsafe.

Needless to say, I didn’t visit the areas that were outlined in the State Department advisory, which are well known to locals as areas to avoid.

Honestly, there are plenty of areas in and around Cleveland that I know to avoid, particularly at night and when I’m alone. It seems obvious to use that same commonsense approach when I travel.

Safety in Jamaica

In addition to recommending travel insurance, the State Department offers these suggestions to Americans traveling to Jamaica:

* Avoid walking or driving at night.

* Avoid public buses.

* Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.

* Be aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile.

* Do not attempt to bring firearms or ammunition into the country.

* Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Information: travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/jamaica-travel-advisory.html

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Exploring the Dominican Republic: A Budget Backpacker’s Guide

A re you a budget traveler longing for adventure in a tropical paradise? Look no further than the Dominican Republic (DR), a hidden gem in the Caribbean that offers a wealth of experiences for backpackers on a budget. 

The history of the Dominican Republic is deeply intertwined with the legacy of Christopher Columbus, who arrived on the island of Hispaniola during his first voyage to the New World in 1492. His landing marked the beginning of European colonization in the Americas and initiated centuries of cultural exchange and conflict. 

Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas, serving as the seat of Spanish colonial power in the region. 

Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets of the Zona Colonial , a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at architectural treasures such as the Alcázar de Colón, the former residence of Columbus's son Diego.

Why Choose the Dominican Republic?

1. diversity of landscapes.

The DR is blessed with diverse landscapes, including white sandy beaches, towering mountains, dense jungles, and picturesque waterfalls. 

2. Affordability

One of the biggest draws of backpacking in the Dominican Republic is its affordability. From budget-friendly accommodations to cheap eats, transportation, and activities, you can stretch your travel budget further here than in many other Caribbean destinations.

3. Rich Culture and History

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and fascinating history of the DR as you explore its colonial cities, visit local markets, and interact with friendly locals. From the lively rhythms of merengue and bachata to the mouthwatering flavors of Dominican cuisine, you'll be captivated by the country's unique cultural heritage.

4. Easy Entry Requirements

It's essential to review the visa requirements applicable to your country to determine whether you need both an e-ticket and a visa. If your country is exempt from visa requirements, you can enter using only your DR e-ticket and passport.

Getting Around

1. public transportation.

The Dominican Republic has an extensive network of buses, guaguas (minibusses), and motoconchos (motorcycle taxis), making it easy to get around on a budget. While public transportation may be crowded and chaotic at times, it's a great way to experience local life and connect with fellow travelers.

2. Hitchhiking

For the more adventurous traveler, hitchhiking is a popular and relatively safe way to get around the DR. Just be sure to use common sense and trust your instincts when accepting rides from strangers.

3. Renting a Car

If you prefer more freedom and flexibility in your travels, renting a car is convenient for exploring the DR at your own pace. Remember that driving in the DR can be challenging due to poor road conditions and aggressive drivers, so proceed cautiously.

Accommodations

Hostels are the go-to choice for budget-conscious backpackers in the Dominican Republic. With dormitory-style accommodations and communal facilities, hostels offer a fun and social atmosphere where you can meet like-minded travelers from around the world.

2. Guesthouses and Homestays

For a more authentic and intimate experience, consider staying in a guesthouse or homestay with a local family. You will save money on accommodations and gain insights into Dominican culture and customs that you won't find in a traditional hotel.

For the ultimate budget-friendly experience, bring your tent and camp out under the stars in one of the DR's many national parks or beachside campgrounds. Just be sure to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before pitching your tent.

Must-Visit Destinations

1. santo domingo.

As the capital city of the DR, Santo Domingo is a must-visit destination for history buffs and culture vultures alike. Explore the cobblestone streets of the Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit iconic landmarks such as the Alcazar de Colon and the Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor.

2. Punta Cana

Renowned for its pristine beaches and all-inclusive resorts, Punta Cana is a paradise for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Spend your days lounging on the beach, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or zip-lining through the jungle canopy.

3. Samana Peninsula

Located on the northeastern coast of the DR, the Samana Peninsula is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Explore secluded beaches, hike to breathtaking waterfalls, and embark on a whale-watching excursion during the winter months.

Budget-Friendly Activities

1. beach hopping.

With over 1,000 miles of coastline, the DR is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean . From the turquoise waters of Playa Rincon to the vibrant nightlife of Playa Bavaro, there's a beach for every taste and budget.

2. Hiking and Nature Trails

Lace up your hiking boots and explore the DR's lush rainforests, rugged mountains, and scenic nature trails. Don't miss the opportunity to hike to the summit of Pico Duarte , the highest peak in the Caribbean, for panoramic views that will take your breath away.

3. Cultural Experiences

Immerse yourself in Dominican culture by attending a traditional dance performance, sampling local cuisine at a street food market, or joining a guided tour of a coffee plantation or rum distillery.

Safety Tips

1. exercise caution in tourist areas.

While the DR is generally safe for travelers, petty crimes such as theft and pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas. Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

2. Respect Local Customs and Traditions

Show respect for the local culture and customs by dressing modestly, asking permission before taking photographs, and greeting people courteously and respectfully.

3. Stay Informed

Stay informed about current events and travel advisories in the DR by monitoring local news sources and registering with your embassy or consulate before traveling. Read things to know before visiting the RD . 

Backpacking in the Dominican Republic offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the Caribbean's beauty, culture, and adventure on a budget . With its diverse landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, the DR will leave a lasting impression on every traveler who ventures off the beaten path to explore its hidden treasures.

This story is published in partnership with DR Easy Ticket.

The post Exploring the Dominican Republic: A Budget Backpacker’s Guide appeared first on Go Backpacking .

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