Quick Guide

March through May is the peak season for visiting the DR, though temperatures are mild year-round.

Hurricane season arrives in June and lasts through late November, though popular tourist areas, like Punta Cana, remain crowded even during this off season.

Visas

U.S., Canadian, Irish, Australian, New Zealand and British citizens do not need visas for visits of less than 90 days.

Money

Currency is the Dominican peso, though most shops and restaurants accept both pesos and U.S. dollars. ATMs are widely available in major resort towns.

Travel Health

Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

Getting Here

Most visitors arrive via Santo Domingo’s Las Américas International Airport (SDQ).

Getting Around

Depending on where your resort is located and how much of the island you wish to explore, it’s possible to get around by taking shuttle flights, taxis, rental cars, públicos (multi-passenger taxis) and guaguas (public buses). Never take an unmarked street taxi.

Local Lingo

Qué lo qué: What’s up? Chulo: Cute or cool. Chin: A little. Colmados: Convenience stores.

Must-Have Apps

Go Dominican Republic; Google Maps; Google Translate

Insider Tips

DR food reflects a melting pot of traditions. From chicharrón — deep-fried pork rinds — to quipes (a twist on the Lebanese kibbeh), coconut fish, and green plantains, there’s a dish to suit all tastes.

March through May is the peak season for visiting the DR, though temperatures are mild year-round.

Hurricane season arrives in June and lasts through late November, though popular tourist areas, like Punta Cana, remain crowded even during this off season.

Visas

U.S., Canadian, Irish, Australian, New Zealand and British citizens do not need visas for visits of less than 90 days.

Money

Currency is the Dominican peso, though most shops and restaurants accept both pesos and U.S. dollars. ATMs are widely available in major resort towns.

Travel Health

Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

Getting Here

Most visitors arrive via Santo Domingo’s Las Américas International Airport (SDQ).

Getting Around

Depending on where your resort is located and how much of the island you wish to explore, it’s possible to get around by taking shuttle flights, taxis, rental cars, públicos (multi-passenger taxis) and guaguas (public buses). Never take an unmarked street taxi.

Local Lingo

Qué lo qué: What’s up? Chulo: Cute or cool. Chin: A little. Colmados: Convenience stores.

Must-Have Apps

Go Dominican Republic; Google Maps; Google Translate

Insider Tips

DR food reflects a melting pot of traditions. From chicharrón — deep-fried pork rinds — to quipes (a twist on the Lebanese kibbeh), coconut fish, and green plantains, there’s a dish to suit all tastes.