Dominican Republic : Safety by City
Dominican Republic - safety as a country
The once undeveloped jungle area of what is now Punta Cana used to have beaches that were not easily accessible to travelers.
Some American investors changed that in 1969, when they saw the true potential of the area.
Once the basic needs of the area were met and roads made the beaches of the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic more accessible to tourists, travelers flocked to Punta Cana.
Resorts and hotels opened to accommodate the ever-increasing number of travelers who wanted to experience the beautiful weather, the white sand beaches, and the gorgeous blue water of the Caribbean.
Once the airport opened, the number of tourists increased every year.
Historic numbers of tourists recently visited Punta Cana.
Some people are likely to wonder if Punta Cana is safe for travelers.
Things like the location, the reputation that some other places have that are in the Dominican Republic, and the fear of security issues may make some people wonder about safety.
Discover what Punta Cana has to offer travelers and residents who come to the area.
Warnings & Dangers in Punta Cana
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
Cities that have a higher population and are known for having issues with serious crimes, are more likely to pose a risk for travelers, compared to Punta Cana. Millions of people travel to Punta Cana every year and have a wonderful time with no safety issues. The U.S. Department of State has a Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution travel advisory for the Dominican Republic. The agency says that areas of the Dominican Republic that are popular tourist areas, which would include Punta Cana, are policed better than non-tourist areas. Punta Cana is one of the areas that has a dedicated tourist police force.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Uber is available for travelers who want to use local transport services. It is often better to take an Uber from places like the airport. Travelers should be aware that there are often some tensions between local taxi companies and Uber drivers. Tourists should not use the local motor-taxi service. The motoconcho is not cheaper than a reputable taxi service or Uber. These public transport taxis often charge tourists several times more than they charge residents. Some sources say that taking a motor-taxi puts your life at risk. Do not take the public bus during rush hours. Pickpockets are very busy on crowded public buses.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Pickpockets target tourists who travel to Punta Cana, especially on public transport. Travelers are also at risk of becoming pickpocket victims if they do not take steps to safeguard their belongings. Do not carry a wallet, credit cards, or cash in your back pocket or in an open purse. Wear clothing that has inside pockets.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
The Dominican Republic is prone to certain natural disasters. The risk of heavy rain and strong winds most often occurs from May through November. Flooding and hurricanes can occur at times. There is some risk of earthquakes, although not as much risk as heavy rain and winds. Local officials give warnings and help people during these times. Travelers should also do their best to avoid mosquitoes. The Zika virus can be an issue in Punta Cana and elsewhere in the Dominican Republic.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
Although muggings do occur in Punta Cana, it is probably safer for travelers here, compared to some other areas in the Dominican Republic. Following safety tips, such as staying away from dark streets and not walking alone, can help reduce your risk of becoming a mugging victim.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
There is little risk of terrorism in Punta Cana. It is a safe place with a heavy law enforcement presence to help protect travelers and residents. Enjoy your time in Punta Cana. Stay alert to any changes.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Travelers should stay alert to scams when they are in Punta Cana. Scammers will try to fool travelers by claiming they will help with an ATM transaction. Do not use an ATM if there are people who seem to be just hanging around. Use inside ATMs. Scammers may say that they will help you with your luggage. Do not become their victim. Do not fall for dating app scams. The U.S. Department of State says that U.S. citizens have been robbed in the Dominican Republic by people whom they met through online dating apps.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Women should never travel to Punta Cana alone since there is a great risk of being assaulted. There are dangerous neighborhoods that need to be avoided.
TAP WATER RISK: HIGH
Do not drink the tap water in Punta Cana. It is not safe. Some sources even say to avoid buying ice and avoid brushing your teeth with tap water. The water in upscale resorts is most likely treated, so it is probably safe. Buy bottled water. It is affordable in Punta Cana and throughout the Dominican Republic.
Safest Places to Visit in Punta Cana
Record-breaking numbers of people have discovered the breathtaking views, great weather, and safe, exciting attractions and nightlife of Punta Cana.
Enjoy parasailing across Punta Cana.
Take a private horseback riding tour or a helicopter tour.
Enjoy an unforgettable experience when you visit Scape Park.
The eco-adventure center features opportunities for ziplining and exploring underground caverns.
Take the kids to the kid-friendly ranch.
They can see donkeys, goats, and horses.
Kids of all ages will likely enjoy visiting the parrots on Parrot Island.
Visit Hoya Azul, which is a cenote located within Scape Park.
The Blue Hole, the nickname for Hoya Azul, is a great location for viewing crystal clear waters, swimming, and jumping off the platform.
Follow the trail through the tropical forest and cross a hanging bridge to get there.
Take a half-day tour of Monkeyland Punta Cana for a unique experience.
Travelers can observe squirrel monkeys in their natural habitat while on a guided safari ride tour.
Enjoy coffee and chocolate tastings.
The pristine beaches of Punta Cana are a main reason that travelers come to visit, with some deciding to make it their permanent home.
Enjoy the white sands and the gentle waves of Bavaro Beach or the fun activities and nearby resorts of Juanillo Beach.
Juanillo Beach is often considered to be one of the world’s best beaches.
The larger waves of Playa Macao offer good waves for surfers and others who enjoy water activities.
Places to Avoid in Punta Cana
Punta Cana is generally a safe place.
Travelers still need to avoid some areas to protect their safety.
Avoid road cycling in Punta Cana.
Traffic is very heavy with people who try to cycle to their destination.
It is not safe to ride a bicycle on public roads for other reasons.
Although there are some bicycle routes in Punta Cana, vehicle drivers often do not take care to give cyclists the right of way on public streets.
Some roads may be too rough for road cycling.
Do not book lodging anywhere outside gated communities.
Keep your safety a top priority.
Do not buy excursions from non-licensed tourist providers.
Ask for a National Taxpayer Registrar Number.
Some areas on the outskirts of Punta Cana can be dangerous for travelers.
Avoid Anamuya, Allegina, and any other area that is away from the regular tourist areas.
These places may be locations where there are higher crime rates and gang activity.
Stay away from dark streets, alleyways, and neighborhoods that are not normal places for travelers to visit when they are in Punta Cana.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Punta Cana
- Leave your valuables at home. You may want to flash your new phone or show off your expensive jewelry. Think about the fact that doing so increases your risk of becoming a crime victim.
- Do not display cash in public places. Many shops and restaurants take U.S. dollars for payment. Avoid becoming a mugging or robbery victim by only taking the cash that you need when going out while you are in Punta Cana.
- Keep your wallet and credit cards safely hidden from pickpockets. Wear clothing that has at least one inside pocket. You need this to keep your wallet, ID, and credit cards safe from pickpockets.
- Do not take the local motor-taxi. Several sources say that the local motor taxi, or motoconcho, is a risk for travelers. The reason is that drivers often charge foreign travelers at much higher rates compared to what they charge residents.
- Do not allow anyone to assist you with your luggage. Teenagers and younger adults often target travelers with the luggage theft scam. They offer to help travelers with their luggage. They run off with the luggage instead, hoping to find valuables.
- Do not allow anyone to help you at the ATM. Some criminals lurk around ATMs hoping that travelers will use them in unsecured areas. Do not allow anyone to assist you at an ATM, no matter how helpful they seem. You may be robbed or mugged for money or other valuables.
- Do not feed or touch wild animals. Do not touch or feed wild animals. They may have diseases. Some animals may become aggressive towards you.
- Do not accept food or drinks from other guests at clubs or bars. Do not accept drinks or food from other people at a club or a bar. If someone offers to buy you a drink or a food item, accept the invitation if you want to, but order it yourself from the bartender or restaurant staff.
- Do not drink tap water. Drinking tap water and using ice is not safe in Punta Cana. Several sources say that travelers should even use bottled water for brushing their teeth or bathing their children.
- Stay with your guide. Do not stray from your tour guide or operator. Doing so may increase your risk of becoming a crime victim. You can also get lost.
So... How Safe Is Punta Cana Really?
Punta Cana is one of the safest places in the Dominican Republic.
It has low crime rates overall.
The crimes that travelers may become victims of are usually petty crimes, such as pickpockets or purse snatching.
Millions of tourists visit Punta Cana for its awe-inspiring views, the attractions, and world-famous beaches.
The effort that local government leaders and law enforcement have put into guaranteeing safety for travelers and residents helps to make Punta Cana safe for everyone.
Tourists, especially women traveling alone, should avoid deserted beaches and other places where there are no travelers.
Do not accept food, drinks, or rides from strangers in Punta Cana.
The attractions are safe for visitors, including water activities, guided tours, and hiking, among other activities.
How Does Punta Cana Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Punta Cana |
70 |
| Playa Rincon |
64 |
| Las Terrenas |
52 |
| Bayahibe |
52 |
| Cabarete |
53 |
| Samana |
78 |
| Jarabacoa |
54 |
 Redwood City | 85 |
| Cheyenne | 81 |
 San Luis Potosi | 65 |
| Lansing | 41 |
| Cedar Lake | 86 |
| Lewisburg | 79 |
Useful Information
Visas
Travelers who plan to stay in the Dominican Republic for more than 30 days need to have a tourist visa. The U.S. Embassy also says that travelers need to complete an eTicket for each entry and exit.
Currency
The official currency in the Dominican Republic is the Dominican peso. Check with each place that you visit to find out if they accept U.S. dollars.
Weather
Punta Cana's weather is usually beautiful year-round. Some travelers try to avoid the rainy months. It has a tropical monsoon climate. The temperature rarely drops below 70 degrees, but also rarely exceeds 90 degrees.
Airports
The Punta Cana International Airport is the airport that takes travelers to Punta Cana. It is the busiest airport in the Dominican Republic.
Travel Insurance
Protect yourself when visiting Punta Cana by purchasing travel insurance. The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends that travelers purchase travel insurance.
Punta Cana Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
29 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 31 | 30 | 29 |
| Low °C |
22 | 22 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 22 |
| High °F |
84 | 82 | 84 | 84 | 86 | 88 | 90 | 90 | 90 | 88 | 86 | 84 |
| Low °F |
72 | 72 | 72 | 73 | 73 | 75 | 75 | 75 | 75 | 73 | 73 | 72 |
Dominican Republic - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Bayahibe | 52 |
| Cabarete | 53 |
| Jarabacoa | 54 |
| Las Terrenas | 52 |
| Playa Rincon | 64 |
| Punta Cana | 70 |
| Samana | 78 |
| Santo Domingo | 50 |
| Sosua | 65 |
Is this true?
Is the review in this page correct about the place?
Would you recommend as a couple with 2 kids to go visit there for a vacation?
Thanks!
Hello, Thanks for your words. Was concerned about safety, granddaughter wanted to go to Nickelodeon. Only if there is one somewhere else.
Why somewhere else? GO. It is one of the safest places in LatinAmerica. Jesus, I hear things like this here in NY from people that live in freaking NYC. NYC is 50 times more dangerous, and people walk carelessly there. Punta Cana, on the other hand, is full of private businesses with private housing, with private security on top of public security where anything bad that could happen would be bad PR. GO. If you don’t believe me, just pull up Punta Cana’s statistics and compare them to any city you want.
Yes of course my parents and families are there right now on vacation and my cousin went there for his Honeymoon, I’m Guyanese Indian from Guyana my ex is from Dominica Republic, next year we coming to visit again 👍😀
Me and my family stayed for about a week and went around the city we saw nothing happen only a little bit of rain in the morning but that is it
Never Again
When I was there in 2005 it was very anti American. Also our travel agent told us last year she booked many to Punta Cana and they all got food poisoning. She won’t book there anymore.
I won’t go back.
Caution
Just returned Wednesday from a family wedding week in Punta Cana. We had a 3 mo. old, an 18 mo old, 3 year old and 7 year old in the group.
To my knowledge none of the children had health problems. Two adults (including groom) had intestinal problems that lasted only 24 hrs and 2 older females (including myself) developed severe rash, itching, burning, raw skin patches, low grade fevers, higher blood pressure and needed to seek Urgent Care when returned to US.
The symptoms began on the 3 rd day there for each of us (different days) and got worse each day. We were put on strong anitibiotics, prednezone, Prescription strentgh allergy meds and over the counter and prescription ointment for sores, open sores.
The rash was the worst anywhere your sweat glands were most active.
I did not go into the ocean until the 3rd day, and the reddish seaweed with the little bulbs on the end were everywhere.
Not sure if that was the problem. To date no one else in the party of 30+ has reported problems. Never went off resort property.
I had a similar issue in another location that was near the ocean. I was told that I like came into contact with a contaminated surface and given the area of the rash, the bacteria was likely within the sheets. I can’t remember what it was called but it cleared up after a few days. Punta Cana was fine for me though, I recently got back and had no issues with a rash whilst staying.
Park
I am to the party every day.
Fantastic vacay destination
I had a wonderful experience in Punta Cana.
I rented an Airbnb about 200 yards from the water. The people were friendly and I felt safe the whole time I was there. The people are so friendly and helpful.
I’m not sure what they base their information on, but the description above is inaccurate. I spent 7 days there and would go back in a heartbeat.
I wouldn’t stay at a resort, but a private home near the beach is wonderful. I never got sick, didn’t drink the water and ate at the restaurants on the water.
i’ve been to punta cana three times and stayed at different resorts and felt safe (bavaro) there were armed guards at the entry points and leaving points.i spent most of my time within the resort,the food was good,the staff were friendly,the rooms were kept clean and had a small frig that had liquor and soft drinks i took a boat trip to an area where i was able to snorkle and was able to see a shark and sting ray in a cage.the staff aboard the boat were alert and attentive to those of us that snorkled. i’m going back very soon.overall rating 4.5.
VERY GOOD, also, Not Dangerous at all
There is no place safer than Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. I am a Data Scientist, dominican-american. I visit Punta Cana almost once a year. Even if you wander off from your hotel/resort, you will be fine. Why?
1-Because the area has 414 hotels/resorts:
An example would be Punta Cana Group’s Foundation, this foundation not only makes sure there is private security starting from far away from anything they own, they also create schools, employ, and pay college tuition for thousands of kids around the edges of Punta Cana, that might not have much money. Keep in mind: this is only one hotel group, there are 414 hotels/resorts in Punta Cana protecting their interests.
2-Because the area has residentials of people that are high middle class up to the wealthiest in the country:
If you wander off from your resort only miles out, say 30 minutes out, the security is pretty much the same. Yes, the streets are “public”, but they are also kind of not. You see, Punta Cana City, or Punta Cana “Downtown”, or any of those names they’ve come up with, is completely full of private residences. Most of these residences are on planned communities that maybe only 8% of all Dominicans could ever afford to live in. Because of this, each little community has private security. And each of these private securities are at least 15 armed private guards going around, doing turns, stopping people.
Those 2 points I made, and I have not yet mentioned something important: the province’s police. There is a consortium of companies that PAY the Police to literally have way more resources than any other Police Station in the country. Do you have any idea what would happen if a half-rich or rich kid from Punta Cana’s families suddenly gets hurt, or more intense, disappears? Or maybe, do you have any idea of what would happen if the directives of all these tourism companies start losing money because of bad PR because tourists in their city are getting robbed? Ho ho ho, that is not happening. To put it simply, these robbers would be *hunted*, the same way you hunt a deer. Here are the statistics of the police http://www.oscrd.gob.do/. You won’t find Punta Cana on the statistics, because it is so low.
So, is it safe? It is definitely safer than NY, where I life, and I live in Scarsdale, which is supposed to be one of the safest neighborhoods near the city.
Now, I’d like to make a comment on something grammyS said, that she/he had to wait until going to the US to go to urgent care. I’d like to start saying, if it is urgent, why didn’t you visit a hospital in Punta Cana? Next is, was it because you think dominican Doctors are bad? Because to that I’d say, most Dominican Doctors graduate college in DR and go to their Residency (specialty) training in the US. Why? Because of how incredibly competitive it is to match in DR (not a lot of open seats every year for ANY specialty). So, you basically have a US trained Doctor in PC, specially in PC, where the Doctors are kids that come from rich families, that could afford to send their kid to study medicine in the Capital or in Santiago (because there are no Med Schools in Punta Cana), and that after that had to sent their kids to the US to do their residency program after passing the USMLE Step 1. Then, they go back to DR. I know this because I brother graduated Med School, and is now doing his Urology residency here. It was surprising to me, that I went out to eat with him and his friends, and ALL his friends were the same one he studied medicine with in DR. They explained it was EASIER to get into a residency program in the US than to try your luck in DRs matching system because of the lack of seats. Also, a cousin of mine (lives in Florida), had a son. His son has these allergies, and Pediatrics in Florida didn’t want to give him medicine. Not because they didn’t really want to, but because it was not completely necessary, and specialists in the US are afraid of lawsuits like crazy, to the point of practicing defensive medicine. So my cousing simply took a flight to our country, and visited a Pediatrics specialist. Boom, in 1 days the kid stopped coughing. The Ped told my cousin that those same meds are 13 times more expensive in the US, if a US Ped would have the balls to give them to a kid (and he knows because the Ped he visited in DR did his specialty in: Florida). LMAO.
Anyways, guys, are you sick? Just go to the Doc and stop the prejudice. Do you want to see something more than your resort? Go, nothing’s gonna happen to you, SPECIALLY in Punta Cana.
I love your review and reply! I am going with a group of 14 adults from Western Pennsylvania. The group I’m traveling with is much more “bougie” than I. I like to get out of the compound (resort) and wonder into the local communities while on vacation. Everyone is worried I’m going to wonder off and become a “statistic”, or a victim of a crime. Literally my boss said the only reason they’re coming is to keep an eye on me 😂
I’ll be sure to show them your review! I don’t like to travel to stay by the pool the entire time! I want to experience the culture!!
Hi would you say its safe for a woman to travel there on her own
Hello Michaela yeah it is safe for women to travel here on her own 🙂
Very nice area
Coco Bongo Punta Cana, Macao beach and the Caroles golf course are just 3 great places to visit and go to while here. There are plenty more, plus nice hotels and restaurants with great food. Try the La Yola restaurant, you’ll thank me later ;)!
Heavenly beautiful
We’ve vacationed here five times already, it’s that good! I’m the type that won’t come back to a location unless I liked everything and Punta Cana checked all the boxes, from the locals to the staff and the myriad of resorts and hotels.
We generally tip very well and if your budget allows, please do so, they will be more than happy to reward you with even better service and tips on how to get the most out of your trip. The first time we got there we didn’t leave the resort and to be honest, we didn’t feel like we missed on something. We read, had daily massages, sunbathed like there was no tomorrow and drank all the cocktails we wanted.
Downtown Punta Cana you will find a lot of stores that sell anything from delicacies to memorabilia.
We booked our trip to surrounding areas online before, experience taught me that hotel staff tend to recommend tour operators that they get along with/know better which means you don’t always get the best deal.
The Philippines, for example, is not the best place to leave your resort and explore as you might 1. Get in trouble 2. End up losing precious time as there’s not very much to see around, depending where you’re staying.
Just to touch on a hot subject: several years ago there were some incidents regarding some tourist deaths but nothing was confirmed. No location is as bad as the media reports it, things are usually blown out of proportion.
Punta Cana is a resort town that I would label both as fun and entertaining. It’s a great destination regardless if you’re traveling solo or with your family. If this is your first time traveling there I would start with the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino complex, their services are off the charts.
No problemo!
I’ve been been to Punta Cana twice within the last 10 years. I never ventured off the Punta Cana strip, and always felt very safe. I enjoyed my time there, and would go back over visiting any American major or minor American city any day if safety is a concern. Never been sick, just be sure to drink bottled water or canned beer. And don’t worry about your kids seeing topless women on the beach. They could care less. Worry about your husband’s eyes a whole lot more!!
Never a worry
I have been to Punta Cana 7 times and will be traveling there in 3 weeks. We have stayed in the Bavaro, Uvera Ulta and Macao areas and I have never experienced any safety issues, illnesses or rashes of any kind. On the 1st day of our last trip (in February), my fiance’ cut his leg on a beach lounger. The security guard immediately attended to him, radioed for the lifeguard (who cleaned out and bandaged the wound), and had us go to the 1st aid area on the hotel grounds. The doctor there cleaned the wound more thoroughly and had a pharmacy deliver waterproof bandages and wound care ointment to the front desk. The help could not have been more attentive from all. On another trip, a money clip that was left in the taxi from the airport to the hotel was returned by the driver on his next trip out (2 days later). I have had nothing but positive experiences. Have a safe, happy and healthy trip!