Plan
your trip with this detailed Dominican Republic travel guide - from
pristine beaches and lush mountains to vibrant culture and local
insights, discover everything you need to know before visiting this
Caribbean paradise.
Country: Dominican Republic
Continent / Region: Caribbean / North America
Capital City: Santo Domingo
Government Type: Presidential Republic
Population: Approx. 11 million
Official Language(s): Spanish
English Usage: Common in resorts & tourism
Currency: Dominican Peso (DOP)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT−4
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type A/B – 110V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter + voltage consideration
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 8.5–9.5 hours (direct)
Best Time/Months to Travel: December–April (dry season)
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Varies by nationality
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required
- Visa Duration / Cost: 30 days; Tourist card included in airfare
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines; consider Hepatitis A & Typhoid
Embassy Information (UK Representation in DR):
Average Daily Costs: £40 / £80 / £180+
Tipping Culture: 10% typical; sometimes added automatically
Public Transport Options: Buses, taxis, moto-taxis, hotel shuttles
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: DOP 35–50 (local bus)
Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G; Claro, Altice, Viva
Main Climate Type: Tropical
Average Temperature: 24–32°C year-round
Major Areas: Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, Puerto Plata, Samaná, La Romana
Natural Attractions: Beaches, waterfalls, jungles, mountains, national parks
Popular Destinations: Punta Cana, Samaná, Puerto Plata, Saona Island, Santo Domingo Colonial Zone
Main Religions: Christianity (largely Roman Catholic)
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Mangu, sancocho, mofongo, fried fish, tostones, fresh tropical fruit
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Zona Colonial, Saona Island, El Limón Waterfall, Pico Duarte, Altos de Chavón
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe in resort zones
Common Scams: Taxi overpricing, excursion scams, beach vendors
Health Risks: Mosquito-borne illnesses; sun exposure
Recommended Clinics: High-standard private clinics in Santo Domingo & Punta Cana
Insurance Recommendation: Strongly recommended
Internet Speed: Good 4G in major tourist areas
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Saona Island, Punta Cana beaches, Samaná whale watching, Zona Colonial, El Limón Waterfall
Unique Experiences: Catamaran cruises, cigar factory tours, Dominican cooking classes, bachata lessons, eco-park adventures
Hidden Gems: Playa Rincón, Los Haitises National Park, Lake Enriquillo, Cayo Levantado, Jarabacoa mountains
Popular Areas to Stay: Punta Cana, Bávaro, La Romana, Samaná, Puerto Plata, Santo Domingo
Average Hotel Prices: £40 / £90 / £180+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Punta Cana beach clubs, Santo Domingo Zona Colonial, Puerto Plata Malecon
Local Drinks: Mamajuana, Presidente beer, rum cocktails
Entertainment: Dance clubs, casinos, live music, beach lounges
Car Rental: Available; driving can be hectic
Buses: Reliable intercity companies (Caribe Tours, Metro)
Taxis: Widely available; negotiate or use official taxis
Ride Apps: Uber, InDriver (in some cities)
Best Markets: Punta Cana Village, Puerto Plata markets, Santo Domingo craft shops
Popular Souvenirs: Rum, coffee, larimar jewellery, cigars, cocoa products, handicrafts
Local SIM Card Providers: Claro, Altice, Viva
Typical Business Hours: 9 a.m.–6 p.m. (Mon–Sat)
Tap Water Safety: Not safe — drink bottled or filtered water only
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
The Dominican Republic is home to Larimar, a rare blue gemstone found only in the DR — nowhere else on Earth.