Major Airports
The Dominican Republic has eight international airports, but most visitors arrive at one of these four:
- Punta Cana International (PUJ) — The busiest airport, serving the east coast resorts. Direct flights from most major North American and European cities.
- Santo Domingo Las Américas (SDQ) — The capital's main airport. Best for visiting Santo Domingo, Boca Chica, Juan Dolio, or heading west/southwest.
- Puerto Plata Gregorio Luperón (POP) — Gateway to the north coast. Serves Puerto Plata, Sosúa, Cabarete, and the 27 Waterfalls.
- Samaná El Catey (AZS) — Small airport serving the Samaná peninsula. Limited flights but incredibly convenient for Las Terrenas and Las Galeras.
Rental Cars
A rental car gives you the most freedom to explore. Here's what you need to know:
Booking & Costs
- Book online in advance for the best rates. Walk-up prices at the airport are significantly higher.
- Expect US$30-60/day for a compact car, US$50-80/day for an SUV.
- Always get full insurance. Dominican roads are unpredictable, and a minor fender-bender without coverage can cost hundreds.
- International companies (Avis, Hertz, Budget, Enterprise) have airport desks. Local companies like Nelly Rent-a-Car often offer lower prices.
Driving Tips
- Drive defensively. Lane markings are suggestions, not rules. Motorcycles appear from everywhere.
- Avoid driving at night outside cities — unlit roads, stray animals, and unmarked speed bumps are common hazards.
- Major highways (autopistas) are well-maintained toll roads connecting Santo Domingo to Santiago, Puerto Plata, and the east coast.
- Gas stations are frequent on main routes. Fill up before heading to remote areas like Barahona or Pedernales.
- Speed bumps ("policías acostados") are everywhere, often without warning signs. They can be aggressive.
Long-Distance Buses
The Dominican Republic has an excellent intercity bus system — comfortable, air-conditioned, and affordable:
Caribe Tours
The premium bus company. Modern coaches with A/C, Wi-Fi, and reserved seating. Routes from Santo Domingo to Puerto Plata (4 hrs, ~RD$500), Santiago (2.5 hrs, ~RD$400), Samaná (3 hrs, ~RD$550), Barahona (3.5 hrs, ~RD$500), and more.
Metro Bus
Similar quality to Caribe Tours, covering similar routes. The Santo Domingo terminal is on Winston Churchill Avenue. Slightly cheaper than Caribe Tours on some routes.
Tips
- Buses run on fixed schedules (typically every hour or two).
- Buy tickets at the terminal or online. Arrive 30 minutes early for popular routes.
- Buses are cold — bring a jacket or sweater. Dominican A/C is famously aggressive.
Uber & Ride-Hailing
Ride-hailing apps have transformed getting around Dominican cities:
- Uber operates in Santo Domingo, Santiago, and Punta Cana.
- InDriver is popular nationwide and lets you negotiate the fare.
- DiDi is growing in Santo Domingo.
- Fares are typically 30-50% cheaper than traditional taxis.
- Payment can be cash or card. Cash is recommended for easier transactions.
Local Transport
Guaguas (Public Minibuses)
Small minibuses running fixed routes between towns and within cities. Wave one down from the roadside, pay the conductor RD$30-100 depending on distance. They leave when full, not on a schedule. Cramped but authentic and incredibly cheap.
Motoconchos (Motorcycle Taxis)
Motorcycle taxis found in every town and city. Very cheap (RD$25-100 for short trips) but potentially dangerous for inexperienced riders. If you use them, wear a helmet if offered, hold on tight, and avoid them at night.
Taxis
Traditional taxis don't use meters. Always agree on the price before getting in. Airport taxis have fixed rates posted at taxi stands. In cities, ask your hotel for approximate rates to avoid being overcharged.
Domestic Flights
For covering large distances quickly, small domestic airlines connect the major airports:
- Sky Cana and Arajet operate some domestic routes.
- Charter flights to Samaná (El Catey) are available through local operators.
- Helicopter transfers between Punta Cana and Santo Domingo are available for those with the budget (approximately US$400-600 per person).
- For most travelers, long-distance buses are a better value than domestic flights.