Travel insurance & safety
Use this page to prepare, then confirm the latest safety and health guidance with official sources before departure.
Check the current safety advisory before you fly
As of June 12, 2025, the U.S. State Department lists the Dominican Republic at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to crime, and it strongly recommends travel insurance because many private hospitals expect payment up front.
Official safety & health sources
U.S. State Department Travel Advisory
Safety guidance, emergency numbers, and the current advisory level for Dominican Republic travel.
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CDC Dominican Republic Traveler View
Destination-specific health guidance, vaccine notes, and packing recommendations from the CDC.
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CDC: Getting Health Care During Travel
Planning advice for medical care abroad, evacuation coverage, and emergency preparation.
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Why travel insurance matters
While the DR is a safe and welcoming destination, travel insurance protects you against unexpected events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and flight delays.
Medical Coverage
Hospital visits, medications, emergency evacuation
Trip Protection
Cancellations, delays, missed connections
Belongings
Lost luggage, stolen items, electronics
Insurers to compare
These are examples to compare, not an official ranking. Read the policy wording carefully for medical treatment, emergency evacuation, water activities, pre-existing conditions, and cancellation rules.
World Nomads
Travel insurance sold online. Which plans and which activities are covered depends on your country of residence, so check the list for your own policy.
Single trips, with activity cover to check
SafetyWing
Travel medical insurance sold as a rolling subscription, aimed at long stays and remote workers. Read what it excludes before relying on it.
Long stays on a subscription
Allianz Travel Insurance
Single-trip and annual plans from a large insurer. Benefits and prices differ by the country you buy in.
Single-trip or annual plans
Health tips
- Drink bottled water — tap water is not recommended for drinking in most areas
- Use sunscreen — the Caribbean sun is intense, especially between 10am and 3pm
- Mosquito repellent — particularly useful during rainy season (May–November)
- Check the vaccine guidance for this destination: requirements can depend on where you are arriving from, not only on your nationality
Safety tips
🏖️ At the Beach
Swim only where lifeguards are present. Watch for rip currents, especially on the north coast. Keep valuables in your hotel safe.
🚗 Transportation
Use official taxis or rideshare apps. Agree on a fare before getting in unofficial taxis. Drive defensively if renting a car.
Emergency numbers
| General Emergency (911) | 911 |
| Tourist Police (POLITUR) | (809) 200-3500 |
| National Police | (809) 682-2151 |
| Fire Department | (809) 682-2000 |
| Ambulance (Red Cross) | (809) 682-4545 |
| US Embassy (Santo Domingo) | (809) 567-7775 |
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Get all the information you need for a smooth and enjoyable Dominican vacation.