The essentials
- The currency is the Dominican peso; paying in pesos usually beats paying in dollars.
- Many restaurants already add a 10% service charge: check the bill before tipping.
- Hurricane season runs June to November, with September the most active month.
- Drink bottled water and bring sun protection: the sun is stronger than it feels.
Punta Cana is an easy destination, which is precisely why many people arrive having looked nothing up. These are the practical things that actually make a difference in the first few days.
Money and tipping
The official currency is the Dominican peso (RD$). US dollars are accepted across most of the tourist zone, but the exchange rate you will be given rarely favours you: for small purchases, pesos are better. Cash machines are the most practical way to get them, and there are several in the airport arrivals area.
When to go
You can travel year-round. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from 1 June to 30 November, and September is statistically the most active month. That does not mean bad weather is guaranteed — most September days are entirely ordinary — but it does mean booking flights and lodging with flexible terms and reading your travel insurance cover properly.
Water, sun and health
- Drink bottled water, and use it to brush your teeth if you have a delicate stomach.
- Caribbean sun burns even under cloud: high-factor protection and a hat.
- Bring insect repellent, especially for dusk.
- If you take medication, carry it in hand luggage in its original packaging.
Staying connected
Almost every hotel has wi-fi, of variable quality in the rooms. If you plan to move around, a local eSIM or a roaming plan sorts out communication: it is useful for coordinating your pick-up over WhatsApp, which is how nearly everything works here.
Complete your E-Ticket at migracion.gob.doThe official Dirección General de Migración portal. It is free: any site charging you for this form is a middleman.Frequently asked questions
- How much should a chauffeur be tipped?
- A tip is voluntary and always appreciated, but never required: the fare we confirm is the whole fare.
- Can I pay in US dollars?
- We accept PayPal and cash; if you are paying cash, tell us which currency when you confirm the booking.
- Is the E-Ticket needed to leave the country too?
- The digital form covers both entry and exit. Check before you fly, because requirements change.
- Is it safe to get around?
- The tourist zone is calm. As anywhere, it is sensible to use transport arranged in advance rather than unidentified vehicles.
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