Dominican Republic : Safety by City
Dominican Republic - safety as a countryPunta Cana is a resort town within the Veron-Punta Cana municipal district, in the municipality of Higüey, in La Altagracia Province, the Dominican Republic’s easternmost province. The area has beaches and balnearios which face both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, and it is a tourist destination.
Warnings & Dangers in Punta Cana
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Punta Cana is a well-known tourist resort, and local authorities try to do everything to comfort travelers. However, petty theft and fraud can still happen here. You must remain vigilant and watch your belongings.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport is not particularly developed in this city. Use a taxi for a comfortable and safe journey. Make sure the driver turns on the taximeter or negotiate the price of the trip in advance.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
Pickpockets can be found in crowded places and beaches. Also, be mindful of your belongings and surroundings in popular tourist destinations. Don't leave things unattended.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
This region is prone to many natural hazards, such as hurricanes, from June to November. The rest of the time, it is quite safe here.
MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM
The risk of serious burglary or kidnapping is not high, but it can happen outside of resorts. Be especially careful at night.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism is low in Punta Cana. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
The most common scams in Punta Cana are associated with overpriced souvenirs for tourists, fake tickets for excursions, and fake change money. Never change money on the street and use ATM at banks.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Women traveling alone can feel safe in Punta Cana. Take care of the company and avoid late-night walks outside the hotel.
How Safe Is Punta Cana for Tourists?
Punta Cana is not the safest place to travel.
The crime index here fluctuates at an average level.
The main problems are related to drug trafficking, corruption, and petty theft.
In the area of hotels and resorts, tourists are usually not worried about anything.
But outside of these places, fraud and pickpocketing are possible.
Tourists are advised to be very careful, especially with those who ask or offer help.
If you are leaving the resort, plan a group trip.
This is especially true for women traveling alone – local men can be very intrusive towards single travelers.
The hotel’s security is good, and there is even a special police department dealing with tourist safety known as Politour.
Police officers are often in hotels.
Zika virus is another health problem in the Dominican Republic due to the spread of mosquitoes.
Anti-malarial medicines should be used while traveling.
Keep track of your belongings, and do not leave your bags and wallets unattended.
Better not to carry a lot of cash and expensive items with you.
It is best to leave important documents in the hotel safe.
If you travel outside hotel complexes, stay out of the city late at night and avoid drunk people at the bars.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Punta Cana?
No visa is required to stay up to 30 days. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist or business travel to this country. A valid passport is a must.
Which Currency Is Used in Punta Cana?
The currency in Punta Cana is the Dominican Peso (DOP). The subdivision for the Peso is centavos; 1 peso = 100 centavos. However, you may find that some prices are displayed in US Dollars.
How's the Weather like in Punta Cana?
The best time to visit Punta Cana is from March to May when the peak season rush trickles out of the city. June is the hottest month in Punta Cana, with an average temperature of 28°C, and the coldest is January.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Punta Cana?
Punta Cana International Airport offers flights to and from many large cities in the world, and it’s located right in the city.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Punta Cana?
It’s a region known for its 32km stretch of beaches and clear waters. The Bávaro area and Punta Cana combine to form known as La Costa del Coco, or the Coconut Coast, an area of lavish, all-inclusive resorts. It’s popular for zip-lining, windsurfing, kayaking, and sailing.
Is the Water in Punta Cana Safe to Drink?
Tap water is not drinkable in Punta Cana. You should buy bottled water or boil tap water.
Is Uber Safe in Punta Cana?
There is an Uber taxi in Punta Cana. You can call a taxi from the app on your phone. The cost of the trip will depend on the distance and time of day.
