Discovering the Dominican Republic: Safety and Travel Advice for Your Trip

Planning a getaway to the Caribbean and asking yourself, where is the Dominican Republic? This beautiful island nation shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, located to its west, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, the Dominican Republic is a popular destination for travelers seeking sun, adventure, and relaxation.

However, like any travel destination, it’s important to be informed and prepared. This guide provides essential safety and security advice to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to the Dominican Republic, drawing upon official travel advisories to keep you updated and aware.

Navigating Safety and Security in the Dominican Republic

Understanding the Risk Level

Travel advisories often recommend exercising a high degree of caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime. Being aware of potential risks and taking proactive measures can significantly enhance your safety and peace of mind during your visit.

Bordering Haiti: Important Considerations

It’s crucial to note that land and sea borders with Haiti are currently closed to travelers. Attempting to enter the Dominican Republic from Haiti is not advisable, and consular assistance in such situations may be limited.

The border region, particularly near Dajabón, can be unpredictable with security concerns. Disturbances and incidents, sometimes involving violence, are not uncommon. Emergency services in these areas may be less accessible.

If travel to the Haitian border region is necessary:

Keep your passport readily available.
Avoid travel after dark.
Stay informed by monitoring local news for updates.
Follow instructions from local authorities and security forces.

Image: Safety icon representing border area considerations in the Dominican Republic.

Crime Awareness: Petty and Violent

Crime, including violent crime, is a reality throughout the Dominican Republic, especially in larger cities. It’s important to be aware that police response times, particularly outside tourist areas, can be slow.

Petty Theft: A Common Concern

Petty crime like pickpocketing and bag-snatching is frequent, and tourists are often targeted. Opportunistic theft is prevalent, with thieves attempting to grab visible cash, valuables, or even phones directly from hands. Crime rates tend to increase during holiday periods.

Petty crime incidents can occur:

Within resorts and hotels, including rooms and safes.
From vehicles, particularly rental cars.
On beaches.
At airports.
At bus stations.
On public transportation.

Drive-by robberies are common, with thieves on motorcycles, scooters, or bicycles snatching bags from pedestrians. They may even reach into stopped vehicles at traffic lights. Baggage theft can also occur at airports, especially in departure areas.

To minimize the risk of petty crime:

Choose hotels and resorts with robust security measures.
Secure personal belongings, including passports and travel documents, at all times.
Carry only small amounts of cash and avoid displaying wealth.
Keep electronic devices out of sight.
Keep car doors locked, windows up, and belongings concealed.
Avoid packing valuables in checked luggage.

Violent Crime: Exercising Caution

Violent crime, occasionally targeting foreigners, does occur, mainly after dark in urban areas.

Incidents of violent crime include:

Armed robberies.
Assaults.
Burglaries.

Carjackings are a risk, particularly at night. It’s recommended to arrive and depart from the Dominican Republic during daylight hours.

During your stay, take these precautions:

Stay in reputable hotels or resorts with good security.
Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
Keep car doors locked and windows up, especially at traffic lights.
Avoid walking alone in unpopulated areas or on unpatrolled beaches after dark.
If confronted, cooperate and hand over valuables; resistance can escalate danger.

Sexual Assault Risks

Sexual assault and rape incidents have been reported, including at major resorts and hotels, with some cases involving resort or hotel staff.

If you experience sexual assault or any crime:

Immediately report it to the nearest Canadian government office.
File a formal complaint with Dominican authorities before leaving the country, as investigations require this formal step.

To reduce the risk of sexual assault:

Avoid secluded areas, even within resorts.
Exercise caution when interacting with strangers or new acquaintances.
Be wary of unsolicited rides or invitations.
Avoid public transportation or walking alone at night.

Fraud Awareness: Credit Cards, Unethical Lawyers, and Cybercrime

Fraud is a concern in the Dominican Republic, taking various forms.

Credit and Debit Card Fraud

Credit and debit card fraud, as well as ATM scams, are frequent. Skimming, where card readers are tampered with, is a common tactic. Businesses might attempt to steal card information through compromised readers.

Protect yourself from card fraud:

Shield the keypad when entering your PIN.
Be attentive when others handle your cards.
Avoid card readers that appear unusual or irregular.
Use ATMs in secure public areas or within banks or businesses.
Regularly check your account statements for unauthorized transactions.

Unethical Legal Practices

Unethical lawyers, known as “pirate lawyers,” operate in tourist zones, especially Punta Cana. They often appear near tourist police stations and offer legal services to detained foreigners, charging exorbitant fees.

For legitimate legal assistance, the Canadian Embassy in Santo Domingo can provide a list of reputable lawyers.

Cybercrime Threats

Cybercrime, malware attacks, and online extortion are present. Public Wi-Fi networks can be compromised to steal personal data or credit card details. Social media and phone conversations might be monitored. Romance scams through dating sites and social media are also reported.

To mitigate cybercrime risks:

Be cautious about sharing information or photos on social media.
Use your own USB adapter or carry an external battery pack.
Use secure, private Wi-Fi networks whenever possible.
Be wary of overly interested online acquaintances.
Be aware of potential scams if meeting online contacts in person in the Dominican Republic.
Avoid discussing travel plans or personal information in earshot of strangers.

Food and Drink Spiking

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be cautious about accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they could be laced with drugs, increasing the risk of robbery or sexual assault.

Harassment Concerns

Harassment and verbal abuse can occur, targeting individuals, including women and 2SLGBTQI+ persons. Online harassment and abuse, including threats of violence, also occur. Traveling alone, especially at night, should be avoided.

Demonstrations and Strikes

Demonstrations occur periodically throughout the Dominican Republic, particularly in Santo Domingo, although they rarely affect resort areas. However, even peaceful demonstrations can become violent unexpectedly and disrupt traffic and public transportation.

If demonstrations occur:

Avoid areas where gatherings are taking place.
Follow instructions from local authorities.
Monitor local media for updates on demonstrations.

Adventure Tourism Safety

Adventure activities like kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, and extreme sports carry inherent risks. The tourism industry in the Dominican Republic may have varying levels of regulation, and safety standards might not always align with Canadian norms. Tour operators may lack comprehensive training or certifications, and facilities and equipment may not be routinely inspected. Hazards at destinations might be unidentified or poorly marked.

If participating in adventure tourism:

Obtain travel insurance that covers related incidents.
Ensure your physical condition is suitable for the activity.
Verify you have appropriate equipment and sufficient water.
Monitor weather conditions and potential hazards.
Avoid using equipment if you have doubts about its condition or safety.

Water Activity Precautions

Swimming Safety

Coastal waters can be hazardous. Heed the guidance and warnings of local authorities. Lifeguard and rescue services may not meet Canadian standards, and many beaches have limited or no lifeguard presence. Drownings occur annually.

Swimming safety guidelines:

Swim in designated areas.
Maintain a safe distance from boats and restricted zones.
Observe warning flags indicating dangerous conditions.
Consult locals and tour operators about potential hazards, dangerous marine life, and safe swimming spots.
Avoid diving in unfamiliar waters due to hidden rocks or shallow areas.
Follow instructions from local authorities.

Riptide Awareness

Tidal changes and strong winds can create dangerous riptides. Be aware of this risk when swimming in the ocean.

Road Travel Safety

Road Safety Conditions

Road safety can vary significantly across the country. Accidents are frequent. Hiring a licensed professional driver is advisable for road travel outside of well-maintained tourist areas. Pedestrians do not have right-of-way, even at traffic lights. Be especially cautious when crossing streets, particularly in Santo Domingo. Serious car accidents are treated as criminal investigations by local authorities, requiring police reporting.

If issued a traffic ticket, payment on the spot is not required; fines can be paid online via the Attorney General’s website.

Road Conditions and Driving Hazards

Road conditions and safety levels differ greatly. Major highways connecting cities and tourist destinations are generally in good condition but can deteriorate in rural areas. Lane markings may be absent on many roads.

Driving hazards include:

Unmarked speed bumps.
Potholes.
Animals and livestock on roads.
Inadequate lighting.
Traffic congestion, especially on weekends and holidays.
Vehicles traveling in the wrong direction.

Driving Habits and Recommendations

Dominican drivers may not always adhere to traffic laws, often speeding and driving aggressively and recklessly. Drinking and driving is common. Traffic, impaired driving, and accidents are more frequent during peak holiday periods like Christmas and Easter.

If you choose to drive:

Drive defensively.
Plan routes in advance, particularly for rural areas.
Travel in groups during daylight hours.
Carry a cell phone and charger.
Refuel before traveling, especially to remote areas.
Keep car doors locked and windows closed.

Roadblocks

Military and police roadblocks are common, particularly near the Haitian border. Be prepared to show identification when requested.

Public Transportation Options

Bus Travel

Public buses are unreliable. Opt for private intercity buses from reputable tour operators. Avoid open-door microbuses (“gua-guas” or “carros publicos”), which are often unregulated and poorly maintained.

Ride-Sharing Services

Ride-sharing services are available in major cities and popular tourist areas.

If using ride-sharing apps:

Verify driver identity and license plate before entering.
Utilize in-app security features.

Taxi Services

Taxis are not metered. Pre-arrange airport pickups through your hotel. At airports, use only official taxi stands. If unsure about a taxi’s legitimacy, seek assistance at an airport information desk.

For taxi travel:

Use reputable taxi companies booked through hotels or ride-sharing apps.
Avoid sharing taxis with strangers.
Do not use motorcycle taxis (“motoconchos”).
Negotiate fares before starting the journey.

Air Travel Considerations

Assessments of foreign domestic airlines’ compliance with international safety standards are not conducted by Canadian authorities.

Entry and Exit Requirements: Passports and Visas

Entry and exit regulations are determined by each country. The Canadian government cannot intervene if you fail to meet destination requirements. Regulations can change, so verify information with the Dominican Republic’s representatives in Canada or official websites.

Passport Validity

For regular Canadian passports, ensure validity for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date in the Dominican Republic. Passport requirements may vary depending on your chosen transportation company, so confirm with them before travel.

Visa Requirements

For tourist stays up to 30 days, a visa is not required for Canadians. Work, student, and residence visas are required for longer stays or specific purposes.

Other Entry Requirements

Proof of sufficient funds for your stay and your accommodation address may be requested upon entry. Customs officials may also ask for a return or onward travel ticket.

E-Ticket for Entry and Exit

An electronic form (E-ticket) is mandatory for entry and exit. A new E-ticket is needed for each trip to the Dominican Republic and must be completed before boarding your flight. A digital or printed copy of the E-ticket code should be presented to customs officials. This E-ticket is separate from the Tourist Card.

Tourist Card

For air travel, the tourist card fee is typically included in your airline ticket. For sea entry, it can be obtained from the General Directorate of Internal Taxes at the port of entry.

Stay Extensions and Overstays

Stay extensions up to 120 days can be applied for at the Dominican Directorate General for Migration in Santo Domingo after arrival and before the tourist card expires. Overstaying without authorization can lead to deportation or re-entry denial.

Drug Screening Upon Departure

Drug screening may be conducted upon departure, involving luggage searches and potentially requiring you to sign a Spanish form confirming procedural compliance. X-rays may also be requested in some cases.

Traveling with Children

Consult resources for specific guidance on traveling with children.

Yellow Fever Entry Requirements

Check health-related entry requirements, particularly regarding yellow fever vaccinations.

Health Considerations for Your Dominican Republic Trip

Travel Health Notices

This section outlines health risks to be aware of during your trip. Consulting a healthcare provider or travel health clinic ideally 6 weeks before departure is recommended for personalized health advice.

Routine Vaccinations

Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date, including MMR, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella, meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications

Discuss with a healthcare provider necessary vaccines or medications based on your travel plans.

Vaccines and Health Risks:

Hepatitis A: Vaccination recommended for all travelers due to risk from contaminated food and water. Practice safe food and water precautions.
Yellow Fever: No risk in the Dominican Republic itself. Vaccination required only if arriving from specific Brazilian states or transiting through those airports for over 12 hours.
Measles: Ensure you are fully protected against measles before international travel.
Hepatitis B: Vaccination recommended for all travelers due to risk of transmission through blood and bodily fluids.
COVID-19: Complete recommended COVID-19 vaccine series and boosters before travel. Verify destination entry/exit requirements.
Influenza: Annual flu vaccination is recommended. Flu season varies by hemisphere.
Malaria: Risk exists in certain areas and seasons. Antimalarial medication may be recommended. Protect against mosquito bites.
Rabies: Rabies is present in dogs and wildlife. Avoid contact with animals. Seek immediate medical attention if bitten and consider pre-travel rabies vaccination if at high risk.

Safe Food and Water Practices

Eating or drinking contaminated food or water can cause illness.

Precautions:

Eat only safely prepared food (boiled, cooked, peeled).
Avoid getting water in eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater.
Don’t swallow water while bathing, showering, or swimming.

Specific Food and Waterborne Illnesses:

Cholera: Risk exists in parts of the country, but low for most travelers. Practice strict food and water safety. Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travelers.
Travelers’ Diarrhea: Common illness. Prevent by practicing safe food and water habits. Carry oral rehydration salts for treatment.
Typhoid: Risk from contaminated food and water. Vaccination recommended, especially for those going to rural areas or for extended stays.
Salmonellosis: Common illness from contaminated food and beverages. Practice safe food handling and consumption.

Tick and Insect Bite Prevention

Diseases are spread through bites from ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, and flies.

Protection measures:

Use approved insect repellent on exposed skin.
Wear light-colored, loose, tightly woven clothing.
Wear socks and closed-toe shoes.
Use mosquito netting when outdoors or in non-enclosed spaces.
Check for ticks after outdoor activities.

Insect-borne Diseases:

Chikungunya: Risk present, spread by mosquito bites. Protect against bites.
Dengue: Risk present, spread by daytime-biting mosquitoes. No vaccine available. Prevent mosquito bites.
Zika Virus: Risk present, spread by mosquito bites and sexually transmitted. Can cause birth defects. Prevent mosquito bites and practice safe sex.
Oropouche Virus Disease: Spread by midges and possibly mosquitoes. Risk to pregnant women. Prevent midge and mosquito bites.

Animal Precautions

Some infections, like rabies and avian flu, can spread from animals to humans. Avoid contact with stray animals, livestock, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Avoid undercooked meat. Supervise children closely around animals.

Person-to-Person Infections

Reduce the risk of respiratory infections (flu, COVID-19) by staying home when sick, wearing masks in crowded settings, practicing hand hygiene, and covering coughs and sneezes.

Lower the risk of STIs, HIV, and mpox by considering vaccination for mpox, reducing sexual partners, and using condoms.

Tuberculosis: Low risk for most travelers, higher for those visiting prisons, refugee camps, or hospitals.
HIV: Risk through contact with blood or bodily fluids, including unprotected sex and unsterile needles.

Medical Services and Facilities

Good healthcare is mainly in major cities. Quality varies significantly. Public facilities may be overwhelmed and lack supplies. English or French-speaking staff may not always be available. Upfront payment may be required for medical treatment. Private facilities may also demand advance payment or proof of insurance. Ambulances are unreliable in many areas, more available in major cities and tourist zones. Private hospitals are better equipped but can be more expensive, and resort doctors may have aggressive sales tactics.

If hospitalized:

Inquire about fees upfront.
Inform administrators if overcharged.
Request English or French assistance.

Ensure travel insurance includes medical evacuation and hospital stay coverage.

Medical Tourism Risks

Cosmetic and elective surgeries abroad carry risks. Legal recourse for malpractice is limited in the Dominican Republic. If considering medical tourism, research thoroughly and use reputable providers.

Laws and Culture: What to Know

Adhere to local laws. Be aware of regulations regarding drugs, identification, crime reporting, and driving.

Drug Laws

Severe penalties exist for drug possession, use, or trafficking. Zero-tolerance policy includes cannabis. Even small quantities can lead to lengthy jail sentences and fines. Tourists have been used as unwitting drug couriers. Pack only your belongings and never leave them unattended.

Identification Requirements

Carry valid ID or a photocopy at all times. Keep copies of your passport and visa in a safe place and digital copies as well.

Crime Reporting Procedures

Victims, including foreigners, must report crimes to the Dominican police. Contact tourist police and the Canadian Embassy. Pursuing prosecution or compensation requires hiring a Dominican lawyer to file a formal complaint and navigate the justice system. The Embassy can provide a list of attorneys.

Car Accident Reporting

In case of a car accident, call the police and remain at the scene. Drivers in accidents causing serious injury or death will be taken into custody pending investigation. Register accidents at a government reporting center. English-speaking agents can assist with police and insurance processes. If detained after an accident, request police to contact the Canadian Embassy.

Arrest and Detention

If arrested or detained and needing consular services, request police or prison officials to contact the Canadian Embassy or Global Affairs Canada’s emergency services.

Legal Representation

You have the right to a lawyer if arrested or detained. The Canadian Embassy can provide a list of local attorneys. Public defenders are available if you cannot afford legal representation.

Dual Citizenship Considerations

Dual citizenship is recognized. Canadian-Dominican dual citizens may face limitations on Canadian consular assistance and different entry/exit requirements.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention applies between Canada and the Dominican Republic for international child abduction cases. Act quickly, contact your provincial Central Authority, and consult lawyers in both countries if your child is wrongfully taken to or held in the Dominican Republic. Canadian officials cannot intervene in private legal matters.

Real Estate and Timeshare Investments

Seek legal advice in Canada and the Dominican Republic before buying property or making investments. Disputes can be lengthy and costly. The Canadian Embassy cannot intervene in local legal disputes. Timeshare disputes occur. Review contracts carefully, consult a Dominican attorney, and avoid pressure tactics.

Marriage in the Dominican Republic

Marriages legally performed in the Dominican Republic are recognized in Canada.

Driving Regulations

A Canadian driver’s license is valid for up to 30 days with an international driving permit.

Currency and Money Exchange

The Dominican Peso (DOP) is the local currency. Canadian currency can be exchanged at airports and exchange offices.

Natural Disasters and Climate Considerations

Climate Change Impacts

Climate change affects the Dominican Republic, increasing the frequency of extreme weather events. Monitor local media for updates.

Hurricane Season

Hurricanes are common from mid-May to November. Even minor storms can rapidly intensify. Be prepared to change travel plans on short notice, stay informed about weather forecasts, keep airline/tour operator contact information handy, and follow local authorities’ advice.

Flooding and Landslides

Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides, making roads impassable and damaging infrastructure. Exercise caution near rivers, stay updated on weather forecasts, and follow evacuation orders.

Earthquakes and Tsunamis

The Dominican Republic is in a seismic zone with frequent tremors. Tsunamis are possible after earthquakes. If on the coast, familiarize yourself with tsunami evacuation plans.

By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, you can confidently explore the beauty and culture of the Dominican Republic while prioritizing your safety and well-being. Enjoy your trip!