Samaná Bay Whale Watching

Entry requirements vary by passport. Check the requirements for your specific passport on the Dominican Republic page at Yoogo.

The Dominican Republic uses the Dominican peso (DOP). US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas and many all-inclusive resorts, while card payments are available at larger hotels, restaurants, and shops. It is advisable to carry some local currency in pesos for markets, smaller businesses, and tips.

The Dominican Republic is generally safe in established tourist destinations such as Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, and Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone. Petty theft, including pickpocketing and bag snatching, is the most commonly reported issue, particularly in crowded urban areas and on public beaches. Using reputable transport, keeping valuables out of sight, and staying in well-lit areas at night are sensible precautions.

Long-distance coaches operated by companies such as Caribe Tours and Metro connect major cities comfortably and at low cost. Within cities, shared minibuses called guaguas and shared taxis known as conchos cover fixed routes at very affordable fares. Uber operates in Santo Domingo, Santiago, Puerto Plata, and parts of the tourist coast, and car hire is widely available for those wishing to explore independently.

December to April is generally considered the best period to visit, as the country experiences its dry season with warm, sunny weather and lower humidity. Humpback whale watching in Samaná Bay is at its peak from January to March. The rainy season runs from May to November, coinciding with hurricane season, though travel during this period can offer lower prices and fewer crowds.

Spanish is the official language and is spoken throughout the country. In major tourist resorts and hotels, English is widely understood by staff, and French and Haitian Creole are also spoken in some areas. Learning a few basic Spanish greetings will be warmly appreciated by locals beyond the main resort zones.

Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations are commonly recommended for most travellers. There is a low risk of malaria in some rural areas outside the main cities, so consult a travel health clinic before departure regarding preventive measures and any other vaccinations relevant to your itinerary. Routine vaccinations should also be up to date, and it is worth checking current NHS or government health guidance before you travel.

Tipping is customary and forms an important part of income for service workers. Many restaurants automatically include a 10% service charge on the bill, though adding a further 10 to 15% is standard practice for good service. Hotel housekeeping, porters, and tour guides also customarily receive tips, and both Dominican pesos and US dollars are accepted.