state department travel advisory dominican republic

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.

Courtesy of Jean Estrella/Unsplash

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.

US warns travelers to the Dominican Republic of violent crime, sexual assault

Travelers heading to the Dominican Republic are exhorted to “exercise increased caution”  by the State Department due to crime and a rise sexual assault incidents.

The agency issued a level 2 travel advisory for the Carribbean country on Tuesday, stating “violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic.”

According to the State Department website , there have been recent reports of U.S. citizens being robbed by people they met off of dating apps in the Dominican Republic. Some of the incidents involved date rape drugs and occurred at major resorts and hotels. 

One U.S. woman said she was drugged and sexually assaulted in the Dominican Republic in January when she was visiting with a friend. She said she was watching live entertainment in a public area of the resort at night when she ordered a glass of wine that was delivered to her from the bar, and that was the last thing she remembered. 

According to the agency, the prosecution of rape cases is going to be different than in the U.S.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

More: Where is Punta Cana? Learn about the popular Caribbean tourist spot before spring break.

More: CDC issues Mexico travel advisory after suspected fungal meningitis infections

“Sexual assault victims in the Dominican Republic should not expect the totality of assistance offered in the United States,” the travel advisory said. The process in the Dominican Republic moves “forward very slowly” and the victim may have to return to the island country. 

For the most part, resort areas are safer compared to metropolitan areas such as Santo Domingo since there is a tourist police corps. However, even around the resorts, travelers should avoid dark, secluded places, especially if they’re alone, and stay away from the beaches at night. 

People should not resist any robbery attempts or wear expensive jewelry. 

Travelers should also be careful about the taxis they’re taking by using one hailed by their hotel or a vetted company. There are also rideshare services like Uber in the Dominican Republic. 

If you experience any kind of assault, the agency urges people to tell their hotel to contact the police and the Embassy. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected]

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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 .

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Dominican Republic Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Dominican Republic.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Areas of active cholera transmission are  localized  to the provinces and district of Barahona (reported 3–6 months ago), Distrito National (last case reported 9–12 months ago), Elías Piña (last case reported 9–12 months ago), La Altagracia (last case reported 9–12 months ago), Monte Cristi (last case reported 9–12 months ago), and Santo Domingo (last case reported 9–12 months ago) in the Dominican Republic. Cholera is rare in travelers.  Certain factors  may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera. 

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to the Dominican Republic.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to the Dominican Republic. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to the Dominican Republic.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of the Dominican Republic take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for the Dominican Republic.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in the Dominican Republic. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in the Dominican Republic, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to the Dominican Republic. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from the following states in Brazil: Espírito Santo, Mina Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in any of these states

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in the Dominican Republic, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in the Dominican Republic. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in the Dominican Republic include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis and leptospirosis, infections that can be spread in fresh water, are found in the Dominican Republic. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call the Dominican Republic’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of the Dominican Republic. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of the Dominican Republic may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in the Dominican Republic, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in the Dominican Republic, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for the Dominican Republic .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Dominican Republic for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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U.S. State Department Advises ‘Exercising Increased Caution’ In Dominican Republic — Why The Advisory Is Necessary

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Punta Cana and other locations in the Dominican Republic have become increasingly popular for good reasons. After all, some of the best beaches in the world are in the Dominican Republic, there are loads of hotels and resorts, and tourists can even visit national parks and reserves to take in the country’s mountains, waterfalls, and lagoons.

If you’ve been thinking about a trip to the Dominican Republic, there is an important update you need to know about.

The U.S. Department of State recently issued a “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution” warning for the Dominican Republic due to high crime rates.

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

“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 means these tend to be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo,” the State Department continues. However, “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.”

Troubling Trends

As the State Department notes, tourist destinations are generally more policed than larger metro areas, but crime is a threat throughout the Dominican Republic.

For instance, several U.S. citizens have reported that they were robbed by people they met through popular online dating applications while traveling in the Dominican Republic, according to the State Department.

Meanwhile, rape and sexual assault have also been reported throughout the Dominican Republic — including at major resorts and hotels, the State Department continues. Some U.S. citizens have even been targeted with date rape drugs.

Know If You Do Go

If you do decide to travel to the Dominican Republic, the State Department offers some important guidance.

First, always be aware of your surroundings. Travelers should also make sure they do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry, while in the Dominican Republic.

Secondly, always be wary of strangers.

Importantly, if you are robbed, do not physically resist, the State Department advises.

The State Department also urges travelers to follow the advice of resort and tour operators regarding local safety and security concerns while they are in the Dominican Republic.

Finally, the State Department also recommends that travelers enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

Enrolling in STEP enables U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to register their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate. That way, travelers can receive important information and updates from the Embassy about safety conditions in their destination country. Enrolling in STEP also makes it easy for the U.S. Embassy to contact travelers in the event of an emergency and for family and friends to contact travelers in case of an emergency.

You can learn more about how to be safe at the State Department’s Best Practices for traveling in the Dominican Republic.

If you’re still thinking about a trip, be sure to also read our Dominican Republic content, including:

• The Luxury Punta Cana Resort Enchanting Visitors With Its Spectacular Scents
• 6 Things To Love About Gorgeous Amber Cove
• 8 Things To Do In Punta Cana

Jim Fulcher has been a writer and editor his entire career. In addition to writing, he also enjoys traveling--particularly in an RV. Over the course of numerous trips, Jim has driven an RV through West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wyoming. His favorite national park is Yellowstone, which he has visited three times.

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Is The Dominican Republic Still Safe Amid New Travel Advisory?

The Dominican Republic (DR) is one of the most popular beach destinations for Americans going abroad, famous for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and luxurious resorts lining the coast, but it’s also notoriously made headlines for its political instability and higher crime rates.

But just  how serious is the update , and what safety measures are now necessary?

The Dominican Republic Is A Level 2 Country

Last year, the State Department advised Americans on the dangers associated with venturing out of leisure complexes and resort zones in underdeveloped parts of the Dominican Republic, where gang activity is widespread, and rates of violent crime can be  substantially higher .

Not much has changed since then: the country is still considered a Level 2, or ‘moderately risky’ destination, which means caution should be exercised when visiting, but a new travel advisory issued by the U.S. Embassy in the DR has given rise to further concern.

As noted by the American embassy in the country, U.S. travelers may want to take ‘precautionary measures’ traveling in the Dominican Republic, especially when touring public areas, as they could be perceived as targets by pickpockets and criminals alike.

Essentially, you are now explicitly  advised  not to display  ‘signs of affluence’ , such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches, keeping your personal belongings on you at all times, and maintaining an elevated situational awareness.

Due to the strength of the dollar and the higher standards of living the average U.S. citizen enjoys, at least compared to most Latin Americans, they are routinely preyed upon by scammers, criminals, and other ill-intentioned individuals.

Does this mean the Dominican Republic is unsafe for travelers, then? Well,  not quite .

The DR Is Surprisingly Safe For Americans

While crime is indeed an issue, and you probably wouldn’t want to explore suburban zones of Punta Cana or the sprawling urban mess that is Santo Domingo on your own, incidents involving tourists, particularly those coming from affluent countries, are  rather infrequent .

More than 8.5 million tourists landed in the DR in 2022, making it the most visited Caribbean vacation spot behind Cancun, at  a record 37% increase year-on-year . Despite its soaring popularity, crime rates in tourist zones have been kept to a minimum.

In 2019, the reference pre-pandemic year when tourism was at its highest, ‘ at least ‘ seven U.S. citizens had lost their lives vacationing in the DR, a victim of either violence or fatal accidents.

Seeing that close to 8 million foreigners had flown over that year, that’s  hardly a troubling figure .

One Of The Safest Caribbean Countries

As reported by  InSight Crime , the DR has ‘much lower violence’ than many other countries in its league, and although it is the ‘main cocaine transit’ hub in the Caribbean, law enforcers have not been overwhelmed by violence spikes.

The same cannot be said about the neighboring country of  Haiti , which shares the same island as the Dominican Republic and is the only country that borders it by land.

Considered by some experts a failed state, Haiti has been facing a profound humanitarian crisis for years on end now.

In recent weeks, the situation has deteriorated quickly, with gangs taking over the streets and anarchy being installed. Fortunately for the DR, its western borders are well-secured, and the crime and disease that’s halted Haiti’s growth has not spilled over.

InSight Crime  experts believe the country’s success in keeping issues that led to the Haitian crisis from being imported and tourist destinations relatively safe is partly attributed to a ‘ business-first attitude ‘, which they suggest provides an explanation for the ‘relative’ state of peace.

Granted, the Dominican Republic is  no Europe , but taking into account its geographical disadvantages and decades-long battle against corruption and organized crime, it’s done a pretty good job at lowering crime to manageable levels.

The DR, on the other hand, is only at Level 2, and  standard safety advice applies . U.S. authorities themselves have stated that the introduction of a professional tourist police corps and the availability of a 911 system, as well as the concentration of security efforts in resort strips, has improved safety levels.

With that being said, the resorts are normally ‘better policed’ than urban centers like Santo Domingo, where weapons are widely available and the trade of illicit drugs is rampant. Traveling to the DR, Americans must ensure they:

• Do not display signs of wealth
• Never resist robbery attempts
• Follow the advice of resorts and tour operators
• Enroll in the STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) to receive up-to-date security alerts from U.S. authorities
• Have a contingency plan in the event of an emergency

US travel advisory has nothing to do with safety. They use that as a punishing tool. The question and the entire article is stupid. DR is safer than PR or any mayor liberal city.

Ok, then what the US is punishing the DR for?

YUP soon we will turn to CHINA and we should…. just reading a article about a 71 year old french man with his family in NYC (on vacation) and was almost beaten to death after leaving a restaurant

You do know that conservative states have higher rates of violent crime than liberal cities, right?

mean while mass shooting in the US, some guy went into McDonald’s and killed a “girl” because he ordered a 20-piece chicken McNuggets which i guess only comes with two sauces, when ask for a third…he pulled out a gun killed her…keep in mind…… a extra sauce cost 25 cents

18 ppl killed in Chicago on Sunday…..a joke

The air pollution here is terrible, especially in the north, with constant burning of plastics and trash and land. Avoid and go to another (cleaner) country that cares for your health. This place apparently doesn’t

dude…the folks in the EU DUMP trash in the ocean,…. get yourself informed

Juan baron, there’s a Columbian running all sorts of rackets from the carnival areas threatening any of the food vendors.but he is amune to arrest,he pays off the cops,but even though he is illegal, because he is not black

hmmmm… so because he is not black… I mean…. anything else beside a stupid comment

what a joke….. Chicago, NYC, LA, TX……enough said

Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas… enough said

Hey, people, how about actually reading the article?! It pretty much debunks the US State Dept Level 2 assessment of the DR? BTW, Level 2 is pretty mild as the scale goes to 4, and the US itself is a Level 2. The question and point of the article have absolutely nothing to do with liberal or conservative issues or biases. Enough with the politicizing of everything.

While Americans and foreigners SHOULD exercise caution when traveling to the DR, I feel that the safety advisory is rather exaggerated. Gang violence/activity in the DR is almost non-existent. Violent crimes overall are relatively low, especially when compared to other countries like Haiti, El Salvador, Jamaica, etc. The main safety concern in DR is theft, indeed, which can be mitigated by being a smart, cautious traveler (just like you should be anywhere else) and making sure you don’t flaunt or carry around high-priced valuable items or leave them unattended in a public setting..

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Breaking news, 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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Is Punta Cana Safe? Travel Advisory 2024

One of the most popular Caribbean destinations is Punta Cana, a jewel of a vacation spot located on the east coast of the Dominican Republic at the juncture of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

Although Punta Cana is considered a safe place when it concerns potential civil disturbances or street protests, visitors should be aware of a slight risk of being victimized by pickpocketers and thieves. A good rule of thumb to follow that eliminates the chance of having your purse or wallet stolen is to leave these items in your locked hotel room when exploring shops or enjoying the Punta Cana nightlife.

Many people who visit Punta Cana regularly prefer staying at Los Corales or another gated residential complex for added security. This type of lodging will need to be booked months ahead of a planned vacation because they are so popular.

Also, since public transportation isn’t available in all areas of Punta Cana, it is helpful to have your vehicle if you want to travel outside Punta Cana. Buses are known hotspots for pickpockets throughout the Dominican Republic.

Suggested: Is Cancun safe to visit?

LATEST UPDATES / NEWS from PUNTA CANA:

January 3, 2024: what does u.s. travel advisory say about visiting punta cana / dominican republic in 2024.

As of 2024, the U.S. State Department has a Level 2 Travel Advisory (issued June 6, 2023) for the Dominican Republic, including Punta Cana, advising travelers to exercise increased caution due to crime. The advisory highlights concerns about violent crimes such as armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault. Factors contributing to this situation include the availability of weapons, illicit drug trade, and use, and weaknesses in the criminal justice system. While tourist areas like Punta Cana are generally better policed, thanks to a professional tourist police corps and the implementation of a 911 system, caution is still advised in these areas.

The State Department’s recommendations for travelers to the Dominican Republic include being aware of their surroundings, not resisting robbery attempts, avoiding displays of wealth, following the advice of resort and tour operators regarding safety , and enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates and emergency assistance. It’s also advised to stay informed about local safety and security conditions through the Department of State’s social media channels and review the Country Security Report for the Dominican Republic.

August 30 – Crime in the Dominican Republic leads to a significant reduction in vacation package prices

When discussing Caribbean tourism, Punta Cana may not immediately be considered one of the top destinations. But those who decide to explore the Dominican Republic quickly realize the country’s extraordinary appeal.

While tourists speak highly of the Dominican Republic’s culinary diversity, sports culture and historical significance, these aspects are not the main selling point for potential visitors. The Dominican Republic struggles with one of the highest crime rates in the Caribbean, which has led to a significant reduction in prices for vacation packages in the hospitality industry. These discounts are so substantial that they almost seem like irresistible incentives.

This offer is particularly attractive to seasoned travelers who have the acumen to recognize who and what to avoid in an unfamiliar environment. That’s why the Dominican Republic is one of the most budget-friendly options among Caribbean destinations.

July 26 – Club Med Punta Cana has undergone renovations to better serve its visitors.

Club Med is pleased to announce the completion of significant facility enhancements at Club Med Punta Cana aimed at improving the guest experience throughout the resort. The beauty salon, wedding hall, restaurants and accommodations have all undergone major renovations.

The accommodations are one of the standout features of the renovation. 90 completely renovated Family Rooms, 48 brand new Family Superior Rooms and 36 Family Deluxe Rooms are now available at Club Med Punta Cana. Each of these family rooms has two bedrooms, so both adults and children have their own space.

From January to June, the island welcomed about 5.4 million people, up 31% from the same period in 2022 and only 1 million below the all-time high in annual visits reached in 2019. More than half of all visitors this year came from the United States, according to the Minister of Tourism. 

Why traveling to Punta Cana

Punta Cana is a popular vacation spot for people from the East Coast and other parts of the United States because of its sunny weather, sandy beaches and all-inclusive accommodations. Even Mastercard chose the tourist location as its top international destination for leisure travel in 2018.

According to the Punta Cana International Airport, you will need a valid passport to enter Punta Cana if you are not a citizen of the Dominican Republic.

In addition to being the second largest nation in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic welcomed five million foreign visitors in 2021, making it the second most popular destination in all of Latin America.

According to U.S. News & World Report, there are more than 24,000 hotel accommodations in Punta Cana, many of which are all-inclusive resorts.

Is it safe to visit Punta Cana now?

Yes, it is safe to enjoy the sunny, tropical ambiance of Punta Cana, as long as you follow these basic rules for traveling to any foreign country:

• Avoid traveling alone whenever possible.
• Always take note of extreme weather advisories when planning your trip.
• Don’t walk around the area by yourself, especially at night.
• Keep in contact with family and friends. Inform them of your location when you are not at the hotel.
• Never let a stranger watch your bags or other personal property while at the airport, on the beach, etc.
• Avoid relying on public WiFi connections unless an emergency arises
• Don’t keep all your cash in one pocket when you go out. For example, if you take $60 with you when dining out, put your $20s in three separate pockets.
• Don’t wear your most valuable jewelry in public, especially in crowded places.

At this time, there are no travel warnings issued by the U.S. Embassy or other government agencies. The Dominican Republic as a country is under warning level 2, meaning Exercise Increased Caution .

More safety information to know when planning your trip to Punta Cana

Weather forecast.

Although the Dominican Republic is part of the Caribbean hurricane alley, the odds are remote of a hurricane hitting Punta Cana. The hurricane season for Punta Cana starts June 1 and ends November 30. If you plan to visit Punta Cana during hurricane season, always check the 10-day weather forecast for that area. Otherwise, Punta Cana’s climate is magically warm and sunny most of the year. Rainy seasons are short–September through November and April through June. Rain showers occur in the afternoon and typically last just a few minutes.

Swimming in the Ocean

Naturally, the ocean is filled with creatures that could sting or bite a person while they are swimming. However, the risk of needing medical attention due to an encounter with a jellyfish or sea urchin while swimming in Punta Cana is nearly nonexistent. These animals do not attack humans and only sting or bite when threatened.

Health Risks

The CDC recommends that adults traveling to Punta Cana or other Dominican Republican locations take medication to prevent malaria. The female Anopheles mosquito is the only mosquito that can transmit the malaria parasite to humans.

Malaria symptoms include high fever, fatigue, and chills. Getting malaria medicine from your doctor before leaving for Punta Cana, wearing long sleeves at night if outside, and using insect repellant eliminates the slight risk of becoming ill with malaria while vacationing in the Dominican Republic.

Punta Cana is safe to visit, so enjoy your trip!

The post Is Punta Cana Safe? Travel Advisory 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

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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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Update April 12, 2024

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Dominica Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 17, 2023, dominica - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Dominica.

Read the country information page  for additional information on travel to Dominica.

If you decide to travel to Dominica:  

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Barbados, which covers Dominica.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

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Assistance for u.s. citizens, dominica map, search for travel advisories, external link.

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