Know Before You Go...®

The Dominican Republic is a Caribbean treasure, known for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the golden shores of Punta Cana to the dramatic beauty of Samaná, the island offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Visitors can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, explore waterfalls, or dance to the rhythms of merengue and bachata. Luxury villas provide privacy and elegance, often with beachfront locations and world-class amenities. Renowned for its warm hospitality, fresh seafood, and rich history, the Dominican Republic promises an unforgettable escape filled with natural beauty, cultural experiences, and tropical charm.

Why Punta Cana, Dominican Republic?

  • Punta Cana is home to the world's second-largest coral reef.
  • The climate in Punta Cana is tropical with temperatures year-round in the 70s and 80s.
  • The beaches in Punta Cana are some of the most beautiful in the world, with white sand and crystal clear waters.
  • Punta Cana is a major tourist destination in the Caribbean with over 5 million visitors every year.
  • Punta Cana is home to a variety of resorts, restaurants, shopping centers, and natural attractions.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
84° F
February
84° F
March
84° F
April
84° F
May
86° F
June
91° F
July
88° F
August
88° F
September
88° F
October
88° F
November
86° F
December
84° F

Average Rainfall

January
2.4 inches
February
1.4 inches
March
1.9 inches
April
3.9 inches
May
6.8 inches
June
6.1 inches
July
6.4 inches
August
6.3 inches
September
7.3 inches
October
6 inches
November
4.8 inches
December
2.4 inches

History

The Dominican Republic is a beautiful country located on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean, sharing its borders with Haiti. The history of this island nation is a rich and complex one, shaped by centuries of colonization, rebellion, and cultural influences.

The island of Hispaniola was originally inhabited by the indigenous Taino people, who had a sophisticated society and were skilled in agriculture, pottery, and other crafts. In 1492, Christopher Columbus arrived on the island during his first voyage to the New World and claimed it for the Spanish crown. The Spanish established a colony on the island and began to exploit the natural resources, including the native population who were forced into slavery and suffered from harsh treatment and diseases brought by the Europeans.

In the early 16th century, the colony of Santo Domingo, located on the eastern side of the island, became the first permanent European settlement in the Americas. It became a major hub for trade and the center of Spanish power in the region. However, the Spanish also faced resistance from the Taino people and other indigenous groups, leading to conflicts and uprisings.

In the late 17th century, the island of Hispaniola was divided into two colonies, with the western side becoming the French colony of Saint-Domingue (now Haiti) and the eastern side remaining under Spanish control as Santo Domingo. The French colony became the most profitable colony in the Caribbean, thanks to its large-scale sugar plantations and the use of enslaved Africans as labor. However, this also led to a brutal slave rebellion in 1791, which eventually resulted in the establishment of Haiti as the first independent black republic in the world.

Meanwhile, the Spanish colony of Santo Domingo remained under Spanish control until the early 19th century, when it was briefly occupied by the French and then declared its independence in 1821. However, this independence was short-lived as the country was annexed by Haiti in 1822. This sparked another rebellion and in 1844, the Dominican Republic declared its independence from Haiti.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the Dominican Republic experienced political instability, with a series of dictatorships and uprisings. In 1916, the United States occupied the country for eight years, and in 1930, Rafael Trujillo came to power and ruled as a brutal dictator for over 30 years.

Since the end of Trujillo’s dictatorship in 1961, the Dominican Republic has made strides towards democracy and economic development. Today, it is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, diverse culture, and vibrant music and dance traditions. The country continues to face challenges, but its history has shaped it into a resilient and dynamic nation.

Transportation on Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Getting to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa: Not required for most nationalities (including UK and most EU citizens) for stays of up to 30 days.
  • Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from the Dominican Republic may be required.
  • Travel Authorization: Most visitors do not need pre-arrival authorization, but health declarations may be required depending on current travel regulations.

Departure Tax

A departure tax of approximately US$20 is typically charged at the airport for international departures.

Driving

  • License: Visitors can drive with a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 90 days.
  • Permit: A temporary driving permit is required, obtainable at the airport or local police stations.
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side of the road.
  • Road Conditions: Generally good in urban areas, with paved roads. Rural areas may have less-maintained roads.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 30-40 mph (48-64 km/h) in urban areas and up to 60 mph (96 km/h) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be mindful of all traffic signals, pedestrians, and local driving customs. Watch for pedestrians and motorcycles in more crowded areas.

Local Transportation

The Dominican Republic offers a mix of exciting transportation options to explore its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. Taxis are easy to find in cities like Santo Domingo and Punta Cana, offering fixed rates to top attractions. Rental cars give you the freedom to explore at your own pace. For a more adventurous ride, motorbikes and scooters are a fun way to get around coastal towns and beaches. Public buses are affordable but slower, making taxis or rentals the best options for travelers.

Know Before You Go...® - Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Travel Tips

Before making their way to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic even more relaxing.

Capital: Dominican Republic
Population: 2021Unknown
Size: 1Approximately 1,450 square miles.
Electric Current: 110
Time: Timezone: AST, 2025-04-17 23:31:40
(GMT Offset: -4 hours, DST: No)
Official Language: The official language spoken in Punta Cana is Spanish, which is the primary language used in government, education, and business. However, due to its popularity as a tourist destination, English is also widely spoken, especially in hotels, restaurants, an
Currency: Punta Cana, located in the Dominican Republic, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and a variety of activities for visitors. When it comes to currency and payment options in Punta Cana, here is what you need to know: 1. The official currency in the Dominican Republic is the Dominican Peso (DOP). However, US dollars are widely accepted in most tourist areas, and many businesses also accept Euros and Canadian dollars. 2. It is recommended to exchange your currency to Dominican Pesos before your trip. This can be done at banks, exchange offices, or at the airport. It is important to note that the exchange rates may vary, so it is best to compare rates before exchanging your money. 3. Most major credit cards, such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, are accepted in Punta Cana. However, it is always a good idea to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your card. 4. ATMs are widely available in P
Tipping and Taxes: Tipping and taxes in Punta Cana are an important aspect of the local culture and economy. Here is a summary of what visitors should know about tipping and taxes in this popular tourist destination in the Dominican Republic. Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Punta Cana, but it is widely expected and appreciated by service industry workers. The recommended amount for tipping varies depending on the type of service, but a general guideline is 10-15% of the total bill. Many restaurants and hotels in Punta Cana will automatically add a service charge to the bill, which is typically around 10%. However, it is still customary to leave an additional tip for exceptional service. It is also common to tip tour guides, drivers, and housekeeping staff, but the amount is at the discretion of the visitor. Taxes: The Dominican Republic has a value-added tax (VAT) of 18% on most goods and services, including hotel stays and restaurant meals. This tax is usually included in the price of goods
Dress Code: The dress code in Punta Cana is casual, with light and comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather.
Topography: Punta Cana is a coastal region in the Dominican Republic with a flat terrain, featuring white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.
Telephone: Country code: +1 Area code: 809

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Weddings and Honeymoons

In the Dominican Republic, the process of getting married is simple and popular among foreign couples. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the local Civil Registry office. Required documents include:

  • Valid passports for both parties.
  • Birth certificates for both parties.
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
  • Proof of residence in the Dominican Republic (if applicable).
  • Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).

The marriage license costs approximately DOP 2,000 (about US$35). Additional fees for the officiant range from DOP 3,000 to DOP 15,000 (approximately US$55 to US$275) depending on location and ceremony type. It is recommended to apply for the license at least 3 business days before the intended wedding date.