dominican republic travel advisory

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Dominican Republic

Travel Advisory June 18, 2024

Dominican republic - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.

Country Summary:  Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic. The development of a professional tourist police corps, institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, and a concentration of resources in resort areas means these tend to be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo. The wide availability of weapons, the use and trade of illicit drugs, and a weak criminal justice system contribute to the high level of criminality on the broader scale.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Dominican Republic.

If you decide to travel to the Dominican Republic:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Follow the advice of resort and tour operators regarding local safety and security concerns.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for the Dominican Republic.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Passports must be valid for the period of stay in the Dominican Republic.

1 page required for entry stamp

Not required for visits shorter than 30 days

None required if arriving from the United States

$10,000 and over or its equivalent must be declared

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy santo domingo.

Av. República de Colombia #57 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Telephone: +(809) 567-7775 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(809) 567-7775, dial zero (0) ask for Duty Officer Email:   [email protected] Hours: Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM except U.S. and Dominican holidays 

Consular Agencies

U.S. Consular Agent - Puerto Plata Plaza el Doral, carretera Luperón KM 3 1/2 Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic Telephone:  +(809) 586-4204, +(809) 586-8023 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  (809) 567-7775, dial zero (0) ask for Duty Officer Email:  [email protected] Hours:  Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM except U.S. and Dominican holidays

U.S. Consular Agent - Bavaro/Punta Cana Palma Real Shopping Center Business Center 2nd Floor Bavaro, La Altagracia, Dominican Republic Telephone:  (809) 552-8990 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(809) 567-7775, dial zero (0) ask for Duty Officer Email:  [email protected] Hours:  Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM except U.S. and Dominican holidays

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visas are not required for visits shorter than 30 days. Visit the  Embassy of the Dominican Republic  website for current visa information.

All visitors to the Dominican Republic are charged a $10 tourist card fee that is incorporated into airline charges. Cruise passengers must obtain a tourist card if they are disembarking for longer than 24 hours. Once used, the card allows for stays up to 30 days but can be extended at the General Directorate of Migration in Santo Domingo.

Contact the  Migration Department  in Santo Domingo for visa extension requests. Failure to request an extension will result in a fine at the airport upon departure. The fines range from approximately $55 USD for one month to as high as $1,555 USD for overstays of 10 years or more.

All passengers are required to fill out an  E-Ticket  or paper form when entering or exiting the Dominican Republic. If using E-Ticket, a new form is required for each entry and exit and the code generated upon form completion can be presented at the airport on a digital device.

Visitors must have a ticket entering and leaving the country, the financial means to pay for their stay, and an address in the Dominican Republic where they will be staying.

Exit Requirements for Children:  Minors (children under 18) who are citizens (including dual citizens) or legal residents of the Dominican Republic, if not accompanied by both parents or legal guardian(s), are required to present official proof of parental consent to travel. Please see the Dominican  Migration Department's  website for detailed instructions on the required documents.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions:  Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of the Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic has restrictions on granting residency to people with HIV/AIDS. Please verify information with the Dominican Republic’s  Migration Department  before you travel.

Yellow Fever Vaccine:  Proof of vaccination against yellow fever is required for travelers entering the Dominican Republic from Brazil. Similar requirements may apply to those traveling from other  countries with yellow fever risk .

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction ,  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Crime:  Crime is a threat throughout the Dominican Republic. Tourist destinations are generally more policed than metropolitan areas.

• If robbed, hand over your personal belongings without resisting.
• Do not carry or wear valuable items that will attract attention.
• Be wary of strangers.
• Travel with a partner or group if possible.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Dating App Robberies:  Several U.S. citizen travelers in the Dominican Republic have reported that they were robbed by people they met through popular online dating applications. If meeting with strangers, you should strongly consider meeting only in public places and avoiding isolated locations where crimes are most likely to occur.

Demonstrations:  Avoid areas of demonstrations and exercise caution if you are in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local tourist police (POLITUR) at 809-222-2026 or  911  and contact the U.S. Embassy at 809-567-7775. 911 is operational throughout the country apart from some areas located near the Haitian border. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact POLITUR (809-222-2026), the  National Police ( 809-682-2151), and the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Sexual Assault:  Rape and sexual assault has been reported throughout the Dominican Republic, including at major resorts and hotels.

Notes for your safety:

• U.S. citizens have been targeted with date rape drugs.
• Sexual assault victims in the Dominican Republic should not expect the totality of assistance offered in the United States. Rape kits are often not available until the following morning and must be administered by Dominican authorities.
• Victims often have to request medication to avoid transmission of STDs and reduce the chances of pregnancy.
• Prosecution of a rape case moves forward very slowly. Dominican law may require the victim to return to the Dominican Republic at some stages of the judicial process.
• Security outside of the resort area, including beach areas, is unpredictable, especially at night.

Best Practices:

• Contact the police/hotel management if resort staff demonstrate unwanted attention.
• Victims of sexual/other assault should contact the police and the Embassy. Insist that hotel management take immediate action by contacting the police.
• In a resort, avoid secluded places. Always be accompanied by someone you know, even going to the restroom.
• Do not consume alcoholic beverages alone or with new acquaintances. Do not leave drinks unattended.  Know your limits and help your friends/travelling companions to remain safe.
• Shout for help immediately if threatened or made uncomfortable.
• Report suspicious activity, including excessive friendliness by hotel employees, to hotel management, the U.S. Embassy, and local police.
• Do not swim alone due to life-threatening undertows.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities may not commonly occur in all parts of the country. Hazardous areas and activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in or near major cities or major tourist zones. First responders may be unable to access areas outside of major cities or major tourist zones. The ability to provide urgent medical treatment may be limited. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in the Dominican Republic are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage and  general information on legal assistance  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, their possession they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in the Dominican Republic.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in the Dominican Republic prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, but the law is not enforced consistently. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Accessible facilities, information, communication/access to services and ease of movement is limited in most parts of the country. Large resorts and Santo Domingo may have some generally accessible infrastructure, but travelers should not expect the level available in the United States.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Disaster Preparedness:  Register with the Embassy on or before your arrival through our  travel registration website . In the event of a natural disaster or emergency, this will keep you informed. Additional information on  natural disasters and disaster preparedness  can be found on our website. Real Estate:  Property rights are irregularly enforced, and investors often encounter problems in receiving clear title to land. Consult a reputable attorney before signing documents or closing on any real estate transactions. Real estate investments by U.S. citizens have been subject to legal and physical takeover attempts. Absentee landlords and absentee owners of undeveloped land are particularly vulnerable. Consider purchasing title insurance. Scams:  Scammers often target elderly people by pretending to be a law enforcement official, an attorney, or a U.S. Embassy official, claiming that a loved one has been arrested overseas. The caller instructs the victim to wire money. Scammers sometimes impersonate family members, such as a scared grandchild. Contact the U.S. Embassy before wiring money to the Dominican Republic. When in doubt, try to contact your loved one directly.

For emergency services in the Dominican Republic, dial 911 or 809-202-2026 .

Ambulance services:

• The training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
• Ambulances are not present or reliable in most areas of the country. They are more reliable and available in Santo Domingo, Santiago, Punta Cana, and Puerto Plata.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.  Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  Ministry for Public Health  to ensure the medication is legal in the Dominican Republic.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Hospitals and doctors require payment “up front” prior to service or admission.
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
• Be aware that some hotels, resorts, etc. have exclusive agreements with medical providers, which have costs associated and may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery. 

If you are considering travel to the Dominican Republic for cosmetic surgery, be mindful of the following:

• Have a medical evaluation from a U.S. doctor to determine if you are a good candidate for surgery.
• Before travel, carefully research the doctor (e.g. qualifications, experience performing the surgery, complication rate) and credentials of the recovery facility you plan to use.
• Share all health information (e.g. medical conditions, medications, allergies) with your doctor before your surgery.
• Obtain international travel insurance that covers medical evacuation back to the United States and repatriation of remains. For more information, see:  https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/insurance . 
• See a travel medicine professional in the United States at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to discuss healthy travel and to learn about specific risks related to your surgery and travel. For more information on the risks of medical tourism, see:  https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/medical-tourism .
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in the Dominican Republic. 

Tap Water:  Tap water is unsafe to drink. Bottled water and beverages are considered safe. Please note that many restaurants use tap water for ice.

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

General Health

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Tuberculosis
• Chikungunya

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Resources for Travelers  regarding specific issues in the  Dominican Republic .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Driving conditions vary across the country. Drive defensively and with extreme caution.

Consider hiring a professional driver instead of driving yourself. You can hire licensed drivers who are familiar with local roads through local car rental agencies. In case of accidents, normally only the driver will be taken into custody. In 2019 six people died per day due to traffic accidents in the Dominican Republic.

Frequent hazards include:

• other drivers not using headlights and/or taillights after dark
• animals in the road
• missing manhole covers and large potholes
• uneven road surfaces
• scooters and motorcycles driving erratically and splitting lanes
• driving on sidewalks or against traffic
• intersections without stop signs
• unregulated and congested traffic patterns
• speeding or the running of stoplights
• heavy urban traffic

Traffic Laws:  Traffic laws are not enforced consistently. After an accident causing serious injury or death, authorities will often take the driver into custody, even if the driver is insured and appears to have not been at fault. Detentions frequently last until a judicial decision has been reached or until a waiver has been signed by the injured party.

Seat belts, and helmets for motorcyclists, are required by law. Violators may be fined. There are no child car seat laws. Police stop drivers using cell phones without a hands-free device.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation includes a metro and public bus system as well as shared bus or van taxis known as “guaguas” (converted vans or microbuses, often without doors). Guaguas run regular routes within urban areas and between towns in the countryside. Public buses and guaguas operating in the capital do not meet U.S. safety standards. Avoid unregulated taxis, which also often lack basic safety features. Use a reputable taxi service, either one recommended by your hotel or a well-known, vetted company. Rideshare services such as Uber are available in many parts of the country. Private bus lines travel between large cities and to popular tourist destinations. 

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism and INTRANT (Instituto Nacional de Transito y Transporte Terrestre) the national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the Dominican Republic’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s website.   FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  The U.S. Coast Guard has concerns about the security practices in the ports of the Dominican Republic. Until those concerns can be addressed, the Coast Guard advises that Mariners and passengers on commercial vessels traveling through the ports of the Dominican Republic should exercise caution.

Mariners planning travel to the Dominican Republic should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Dominican Republic . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, dominican republic map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Dominican Republic Safety 2024: Is Dominican Republic Safe to Visit?

In 2022, around eight and a half million tourists visited the Dominican Republic, making it the most visited country in the Caribbean, and the fifth most visited place in the Americas.

But is the Dominican Republic as safe as it is popular? The short answer to this question is both yes and no. This is because while travel advisories consider the country only moderately safe, you’ll likely have an incident-free vacation as long as you remain cautious. Now let’s get into some details regarding the safety conditions of this beautiful Caribbean country.

Is the Dominican Republic Safe?

The UK travel advisory gives a well-balanced answer to this question:

“The Dominican Republic is friendly and welcoming and the vast majority of visits to the country are trouble-free. However, there is a high crime rate, ranging from opportunistic crime like bag snatching and pickpocketing to violent crime.”

Here’s a rough outlook of the country’s safety conditions:

• Travel advisory : All travel advisories consider the Dominican Republic a moderately safe location. 
• Crime rate : Crime in the Dominican Republic is very high (71.34) — the main problem areas are theft, violent crime, scams, and the harassment of women.
• Dangerous areas : Stay away from La Duarte, Arroyo Hondo, Naco, Gazcue, Cristo Rey, Villa Agrícola, and Los Guandules.
• Police presence: There’s a special police force for tourists called politur .
• Natural Disasters : The Dominican Republic faces a moderate risk of hurricanes, earthquakes, and tsunamis.
• Public transport: The public buses are unsafe, but taxi companies are both safe and reliable.
• Medical care quality : It’s decent in the larger cities, but drops in quality as soon as you move toward the rural areas.

Travel Advisory for Dominican Republic

According to the US travel advisory, the Dominican Republic is classified in the level-2 safety category . That means you should exercise increased caution due to the high crime rate.

The US travel advisory ranks every country in four different categories, according to their safety level:

• Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
• Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
• Level 3: Reconsider Travel
• Level 4: Do Not Travel

The other travel advisories, including the Canadian and the Australian ones, are on the same page. They cite the country’s high crime rate as the main cause for concern.

The most common crimes affecting tourists in the Dominican Republic are:

• Petty theft, including pickpocketing and bag snatching
• Assault and violent crime
• Scams and frauds
• Verbal harassment and abuse of women, including spiked food and drinks

A Comprehensive Look at Dominican Republic Crime Rates

Numbeo gives the Dominican Republic a crime rating of 71.34, which is considered a high crime index . Additionally, nearly all the individual categories for different types of crime are also either rated as very high, high, or moderate.

You can see the various scores in the table below. The data is shared by 361 contributors.

The Canadian travel advisory gives the best summary of the crime situation in the Dominican Republic: “Crime occurs in the Dominican Republic, including violent crime, especially in major cities. However, most incidents are opportunistic crimes which are the most significant threat for tourists.”

However, scams, frauds, and the harassment of women are also common.

Petty Theft

Petty theft happens all over the country, and it’s usually on the rise during the holiday season, when the country is packed with tourists. Petty theft is particularly frequent at:

• Bus stations
• Public transportation
• Airport terminals

Drive-by robberies and theft are also common in the Dominican Republic. Thieves on motorcycles or scooters drive beside unassuming tourists and snatch their bags or other belongings. They may even reach into a vehicle while waiting at a red light in traffic.

Violent Crime and Assaults

According to the Canadian travel advisory :

“ Violent crime against foreigners, including assault, occasionally occurs. Incidents take place mainly in large cities, at night or early morning. Some have been targeted in armed robberies when traveling to the Las Américas International Airport, sometimes in taxis.”

Most violent crimes are connected to organized crime rings and gangs , like the infamous Latin Kings. Gang-related violent crimes usually occur in poorer and more dangerous neighborhoods, but there have been cases of violent attacks affecting tourists, as well.

Anyhow, you should stay away from dangerous neighborhoods, since you’re much more likely to get attacked there. The most famous hotspots for crime in the country are:

• Arroyo Hondo
• Villa Agricola
• Los Guandules

Scam and Fraud

Scam and fraud are a constant threat in the Dominican Republic . Beware of:

• Criminals posing as policemen and fining tourists for made-up crimes.
• Rogue lawyers who operate near police stations and often target desperate tourists who have real problems.
• Credit card and ATM scams like cloning.
• Dating app scams and fraud that usually result in the victim getting isolated and robbed.

Verbal Harassment and Abuse of Women

According to the Australian travel advisory women are particularly at risk of harassment and assault.

The most common strategy of the perpetrators is spiking the food or drinks of victims with drugs. The drugs may be inside alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, chewing gum, or even cigarettes. Bars and other places of entertainment are their common territory.

Finally, dating apps also pose a danger. According to the US travel advisory :

“Several U.S. citizen travelers in the Dominican Republic have reported that they were robbed by people they met through popular online dating applications. If meeting with strangers, you should strongly consider meeting only in public places and avoiding isolated locations where crimes are most likely to occur.”

Police Presence in Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is protected by the Dominican National Police (Spanish: Policía Nacional Dominicana). They have nearly 32,000 officers for a population of almost nine million.

However, the Dominican police force isn’t considered to be reliable. Amongst other things, they are infamous for corruption and violent behavior , a hot topic in the media, particularly given suspicions that the police force is involved in illegal trafficking rings.

Luckily for visitors to the Dominican Republic, the country has an alternative police force that’s specifically created to protect tourists. That force is called Politur, and they’re scattered throughout the country, especially near tourist hotspots. You can easily recognize them by their uniform: white shirt and blue bermudas. They usually drive motorcycles.

Politur is highly regarded in the Dominican Republic and it’s a significant factor in maintaining its tourism industry. Recently , they received a $2 million boost and 65 new vehicles in the form of pickup trucks and motorcycles.

How to Stay Safe in the Dominican Republic

• If someone tries to rob you, hand over your personal belongings without resisting.
• Do not carry or wear valuable items that will attract attention.
• Contact the police or the hotel management if the resort or hotel staff demonstrate unwanted attention.
• Avoid secluded places, even at your resort/hotel.
• Don’t leave drinks or food unattended.
• Don’t use dating apps.
• Be careful around ATMs.
• Always ask police officers to legitimize themselves.
• Don’t use public buses.
• Stay away from dangerous areas.
• Avoid exploring the larger cities at night.

Is It Safe to Travel Solo in the Dominican Republic?

You can travel solo in the Dominican Republic if you’re well-informed and respect all the safety measures. That being said, it’s always better to travel with a group. Solo female travelers are particularly susceptible to all kinds of crime, particularly harassment and assault.

Is It Safe to Travel to the Dominican Republic as a Family?

Although it’s not the safest destination in the world, you and your family can visit the Dominican Republic as long as you are careful. This means that you should stay away from public buses, dangerous neighborhoods, and forlorn areas in the cities, and avoid going out at night. Sticking to some common sense tips can keep your mind at ease.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in the Dominican Republic

According to the Australian travel advisory , the Dominican Republic is subject to natural disasters and severe weather , such as:

• Landslides and mudslides
• Earthquakes

All of these can cause disruptions in the everyday lives of the local citizens as well as tourists’ vacations. More serious natural events can even disrupt essential services — such as water and electricity — or clog up the roads.

You have to stay cautious and prepared at all times, especially during the wet season, between May and November, when frequent rains are sure to cause landslides, mudslides, and flooding around the country. 

Hurricane Information and Precautions

According to the US travel advisory , the Dominican Republic is hurricane-prone. The hurricane season begins in June and has its peak from mid-August to late October .

The coastal regions are at the highest risk of hurricanes.

On average, the Dominican Republic’s sphere of influence gets affected by at least six hurricanes annually , but only half of them directly hit the country itself.

The last hurricane to reach the country was “Franklin” on August 24, 2023 . While it was cruising on the open ocean, it was classified as a category-4 hurricane, but upon reaching the island, it lost its strength and resulted in a slightly more severe tropical storm.

The US travel advisory offers a comprehensive set of  tips in case a hurricane hits the country:

• Maintain a stock of boiled or bottled water
• Store non-perishable food items
• Acquire a battery-powered radio
• Keep your vital documents (like your passport) safe and close to you
• Obtain travel insurance – it’ll certainly come in handy in the case of natural disasters
• Monitor all the local media, including the local radio and news reports

Also, it’s a good idea to follow the local and international sites that monitor hurricanes to stay up-to-date on the weather:

• Dominican National Office of Meteorology
• Dominican Emergency Operations Center
• National Hurricane Center
• Weather Channel
• Weather Underground
• Atlantic Tropical Weather Center

Earthquake and Tsunami Information and Precautions

According to the Australian travel advisory , the Dominican Republic is indeed in an earthquake-prone zone . This means that earthquakes could occur and cause destructive tsunamis. Some sources classify the earthquake hazard in the Dominican as “medium.” That means that there’s a 10% chance of a major earthquake hitting the country in the next 50 years.

On November 8, 2023 , a 5.0-magnitude earthquake affected the northwestern region of the country, near the border with Haiti. It was the strongest earthquake to hit the country that year. Fortunately, it didn’t cause any serious damage – except for two schools – or injure any people.

The UK travel advisory offers a pretty thorough procedure in case an earthquake occurs during your visit:

• Drop to the ground and take cover. Remain in this position until the tremors and the shaking stop.
• Don’t leave your position until it’s deemed completely safe.
• Stay away from street lights, buildings, and electric wires outside. Basically, avoid anything that can fall on you.
• Following the earthquake, don’t run and walk carefully. There may be aftershocks and debris.
• If you get trapped, tap on a wall or a pipe, so that rescuers can hear you.

As you probably know, stronger earthquakes may directly cause tsunamis. For example, in 1946 , an 8.1-magnitude earthquake struck the northern parts of the island and produced a very strong tsunami that resulted in over 1,000 fatalities.

Luckily, tsunamis are rare in the Dominican Republic and don’t accompany each earthquake. According to WorldData , there have only been 6 tidal waves that can be classified as tsunamis since 1751 – less than in other tsunami-prone areas.

Beware the Silent Threat: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is one of those rare countries where you should be wary of carbon monoxide poisoning.

According to the Washington Examiner , between 2016 and 2019, 14 people vacationing in the Dominican Republic were fatally poisoned by carbon monoxide.

It’s hard to get a figure of the total incidents resulting only from carbon monoxide poisoning. For example, a Louisiana woman lost her life in 2019: it was suspected to be carbon monoxide poisoning, but pesticide poisoning or even Legionnaire’s disease were not ruled out either.

Carbon monoxide is hard to notice since the gas is tasteless, odorless, and invisible. Longer exposure may lead to serious problems like paralysis and losing your life.

For peace of mind while staying in the Dominican Republic, your best bet is to buy a portable CO detector , which costs only around $20.

Dominican Republic Weather Patterns: What to Expect

The Dominican Republic has a tropical climate, and it’s mostly warm throughout the whole year. The period between May and October is wetter and hotter, while December to January is cooler and dryer. November and April are usually considered in-between months.

Monthly Average Temperatures and Rainy Days in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Spring’s weather is sunny and dry. It’s one of the best periods to visit this country. The average temperatures never go below 68°F and higher than 89°F. Plus, there are very few rainy days per month.

Spring is the perfect time to visit the beautiful beaches of the Dominican Republic, such as Punta Cana, Bavaro, and Playa Dorada, but also to experience the excitement of the carnival in March, or the Santo Domingo de Fiesta and the Espiritu Santo Festival in May.

The beginning of summer signals the wet season in the Dominican Republic. The number of rainy days per month increases, and so do the temperatures, with a maximum daily temperature of 91°F. The weather can get stuffy and really hot, which is especially unpleasant for some.

And yet, the summer season is an undiscovered gem for many visitors who are looking for a budget trip to the island. Although the risk of a hurricane hitting the island is higher starting with August, the island is still perfectly safe during June and July. 

With the coming of fall, the wet season reaches its peak. The temperatures are very high, and the number of rainy days per month is the highest in October (13 rainy days). The island is mostly tourist-free since it’s also the peak of the hurricane season.

That being said, it’s definitely the cheapest month to visit the Dominican Republic and the best time if you want to get to know the rites and customs of the local population. In September, you can experience the fantastic processions of la Dia de las Mercedes festival and the rural traditions of the Feria Ganadera El Cupey.

The tourist season begins in December. Beaches, resorts, and hotels start to fill up, and with the arrival of visitors, the prices start to rise. The temperatures start to drop after sunset, reaching 71°F, while the days are sunny, dry, and warm.

January is all about New Year celebrations, and the crowded islands brim with excitement and activity. February, on the other hand, is the official beginning of the carnival season, which attracts even more tourists.

Public Transportation Safety in Dominican Republic

The public transport in the Dominican Republic is not safe. However, certified taxis are both reliable and safe. In terms of renting a car, keep in mind that there’s a high frequency of road accidents in the country.

According to the UK travel advisory :

• There are plenty of transport options available, like the expanded metro network in the country’s capital.
• Stay away from public buses and “carros publicos” (which are shared cars, driving along semi-fixed routes), as they’re neither safe nor secure.
• Private bus companies are completely safe , but they only provide intercity (between cities) bus services.

Public and Private Buses

The Canadian travel advisory advises against getting on public buses and gua-guas – microbuses. The latter often don’t even have doors, an additional safety concern.

Gua-guas are tiny, privately-owned buses that offer their services for either inner-city travel, or for longer destinations around the country. They are notoriously unsafe and unreliable.

Private buses, on the other hand, are quite safe and reliable. Unfortunately, they are only available for intercity travel.

Taxi Services

If you follow some simple safety tips, you’ll find that taxis are relatively safe thanks to the well-regulated taxi syndicate of the Dominican Republic .

However, make sure to only use official, marked taxis . Most of these are either beige or brown, but not always. There are over 20 official taxi companies in the country, and only official taxis can be called via telephone or a mobile app. The most famous companies are Apolo Taxi and Aero Taxi.

On the other hand, avoid using unofficial taxis at all costs . According to the Australian travel advisory, many travelers have been assaulted or robbed in unregistered taxis.

They also advise visitors not to use route taxis, better known in the Dominican Republic as carros publicos , since there’s a high chance of getting robbed. You can immediately spot carros publicos since they have no taxi markings, unlike the official taxis.

Additionally, avoid renting motorcycle taxis (motoconchos), as motor vehicle accidents are statistically more fatal than car accidents.

Lastly, keep in mind that taxis in the country are unmetered, which means that you should always negotiate the price before departure.

Renting a Car and Quality of the Roads

Finally, if you’re considering renting a car, keep in mind that the Dominican Republic has one of the highest road accident rates in the whole world. Drivers often drive while drunk and rarely respect traffic rules – including driving on the wrong side of the road! To top it all off, most vehicles are in bad condition.

According to the Canadian travel advisory , while most tourist hotspots have decent roads, less popular and less populated areas have roads of extremely poor quality.

The Quality of Medical Care in Dominican Republic

The quality of medical care in the Dominican Republic is decent in the larger cities but lacking in forlorn and rural areas. Also, private hospitals are generally better equipped and better-staffed than public medical establishments.

The Canadian travel advisory points out that private hospitals tend to overcharge for medical services. Prices might also be unstable and variable. Additionally, doctors may get a bit aggressive and pushy in their sales tactics, i.e., trying to sell you on their facility.

The best hospitals in the country, as previously stated, are located in larger cities, like Santo Domingo and its wider metropolitan area, as well as Puerto Plata. There are good hospitals in some of the smaller cities, too. Here’s a short list:

• Centro Médico UCE – Santo Domingo
• Hospital General de la Plaza de la Salud – Santo Domingo
• Hospiten Santo Domingo – Santo Domingo
• Hospital General Vinicio Calventi – Santo Domingo
• Centro Médico Bournigal – Puerto Plata
• Centro Médico Punta Cana – Punta Cana
• Hospital General de la Plaza de la Salud – Higüey
• Centro Médico Corominas – San Francisco de Macorís
• Centro Médico Cibao – Santiago
• Hospital Metropolitano de Santiago (HOMS) – Santiago

Dominican Republic, Here We Come!

You can have a great time visiting the Dominican Republic – provided that you keep your eyes open and exercise increased caution.

In short, don’t trust strangers, dating apps, public transportation, and unofficial taxis; don’t venture into dangerous or isolated areas; stay up-to-date on the weather forecast and follow safety protocols in case of natural disasters; be careful on the roads; don’t resist in case of theft; and finally, do bring a portable CO detector along with you. In case something unfortunate happens, you can rely on the police to help you out.

Basically, stick to the maxim “better safe than sorry,” and you’ll have a great trip in the Dominican Republic.

Trinidad and Tobago Safety 2024: Trinidad and Tobago Safe to Visit

Cayman Safety 2024: Is Cayman Safe to Visit?

St. Lucia Safety 2024: Is St. Lucia Safe to Visit?

Grenada Safety 2024: Is Grenada Safe to Visit?

I moved to Punta Cana more than 7 years ago and have never felt unsafe. I have many expat friends that take public transportation buses all the time. And many use Uber we are out late several nights a week and have never had a problem. I feel safer here then I felt in the downtown of my Ontario city.

Hi Christine, thank you for reading and appreciate your first-hand feedback on the area!

Curious, I looked at Numbeo for my city, Washington, DC. It comes in at 70.86 So the DR and DC are on par. So treat the DR like any large US city. Be aware of your surroundings. No earbuds. Walk in groups.

Thank you for reading, Linette, and for your feedback.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Is It Safe to Travel to the Dominican Republic Amid the Crisis in Haiti?

As haiti endures severe unrest and political upheaval, travelers may be wondering what the situation on the ground is like in the neighboring dominican republic..

• Copy Link copied

Travelers flock to the Dominican Republic for its beauty, beaches, culture, and cuisine.

Courtesy of Jean Estrella/Unsplash

A new wave of gang violence is wreaking havoc on the streets of Haiti. Thousands of residents have been forced to flee Port-au-Prince, police stations have been set ablaze , and there is widespread call for the resignation of de facto leader Prime Minister Ariel Henry. Haiti is in the midst of one of its worst crises to date, and travelers may be wondering whether or not it’s safe to visit both Haiti and its Caribbean neighbor, the Dominican Republic.

For the past two years, Haiti has been suffering from widespread gang violence, which escalated in the aftermath of the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021. Most recently, the head of the G9 Haitian gang alliance, Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier, made a statement in early March that if Prime Minister Henry does not resign, civil war and genocide could be on the horizon.

The U.S. State Department issued a Level 4 travel advisory for the country last July and that remains firmly in place. Level 4 is the highest advisory level, urging U.S. citizens to avoid travel to the country altogether due to the possibility of kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and because of the country’s poor healthcare infrastructure.

While State Department travel advisories are often not the clearest indicators of whether or not a destination is safe, this time it would appear that travelers ought to proceed with extreme caution or, even better, heed the advice to the letter.

“I’d say that now is not the time to be visiting Haiti,” says Stephen Bennett, a Caribbean destination expert and cofounder of Uncommon Caribbean, an online resource for Caribbean travel. “The primary airports in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and Cap-Haitien, more than 120 miles to the north, remain closed, so flying there isn’t an option at present.”

However, Bennett confirmed that he feels it is completely safe to visit the Dominican Republic at this time and does recommend travelers keep their travel plans there. The Dominican Republic shares its western border with Haiti, although the border between the two countries remains closed with heightened security and border patrols.

The U.S. State Department last updated its travel advisory to the Dominican Republic on June 6, 2023. Since then, it remains at a Level 2 , which encourages visitors to exercise increased caution. Many other popular tourist destinations have also been ranked at a Level 2 advisory, including Denmark, Costa Rica, Turks and Caicos, France, Germany, Italy, and others.

Mark Chesnut, a travel writer who specializes in the Caribbean, just returned from a trip to the Dominican Republic, including to Santo Domingo, which is the largest city closest to the Haitian border.

“I have visited Santo Domingo and the [Dominican Republic] many times over the past 30 years and during my most recent visits to both Santo Domingo and Punta Cana, I didn’t feel any different about my sense of security,” he says. “On the Dominican Republic television, there is tons of news about the border, so I was more aware of the situation because of the news, but I didn’t have a sense of a different level of danger in the DR. The crisis was a topic of conversation among locals and hotel staff, but none of them warned about increased security measures. I didn’t feel any difference in safety related to that situation.”

Prior to the current escalation in violence, Labadee was a popular cruise port in Haiti.

Courtesy of Patrice S. Dorsainville/Unsplash

Amid Haiti travel advisory, how cruise lines and airlines are responding

Haiti, however, is a different situation.

At present, JetBlue, American Airlines, and Spirit have canceled their flights into Haiti. Sunrise Airways announced on Instagram that it will operate special flights between Cap-Haitien and Miami beginning again on March 25.

Up until last week, Royal Caribbean still had calls to Labadee on the northern coast of Haiti scheduled into its upcoming itineraries. However, the cruise line has suspended upcoming calls to the port as of March 14.

“Due to the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution, we’re temporarily suspending our visits to Labadee for our entire fleet,” Royal’s assistant vice president Aurora Yera-Rodriguez said in a statement. “We continue to monitor and assess the situation with our global security and intelligence team.”

Royal Caribbean Group owns Celebrity Cruises and Silversea. The port of call in Labadee is a private port accessible only to cruise passengers and employees. It features a day-use resort with multiple beaches, a zip line, and other facilities.

Bennett says that officials at Sunrise Airways, which operates regularly scheduled flights throughout the country, have expressed hope that airports will reopen soon. Once that happens, Cap-Haitien, which Sunrise serves nonstop from Miami, will begin operations for visits to Haiti in the short term.

“The city’s proximity to several of Haiti’s top visitor attractions, combined with its extended stance from the crux of the tumult in Port-au-Prince should make it a viable option more quickly,” he said. He noted that the distance between Cap-Haitien and Port-au-Prince is further than the distance from New York City to Philadelphia, for a bit of perspective.

Still, an immediate solution feels far away. According to Human Rights Watch, the country is on the brink of “total collapse .” Criminal groups hold power in the country now and have killed more than 1,100 people since the beginning of 2024, reports the United Nations. Between January 2022 and early March 2024, 13,000 people have been killed, injured, or kidnapped. Thousands of women and children have been the victims of sexual violence, and hundreds of thousands of people are displaced.

According to Reuters, the U.S. and Canadian embassies have reduced their staff , leaving only essential employees in the country, and the embassies are temporarily closed to the public. For now, travelers are forced to alter their plans to visit Haiti because getting there is impossible. In the near future, should that change, deciding whether or not it is safe to visit will depend on how the situation evolves in the coming months.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

State Department Issues Travel Warning for Popular Caribbean Country Due to Safety Concerns

Travelers are advised to exercise increased caution.

The Department of State is warning travelers who are going to the Dominican Republic to exercise increased caution due to crime and safety concerns.

The popular Caribbean country was placed under a Level 2 warning out of a total of four, according to the State Department . The department regularly updates and reissues travel advisories for countries all around the globe.

“Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic ,” the State Department wrote in its warning. “The wide availability of weapons, the use and trade of illicit drugs, and a weak criminal justice system contribute to the high level of criminality on the broader scale.”

Massimo Borchi/Atlantide Phototravel/Getty Images

However, the department did note there was a lower risk in popular resort areas due to “the development of a professional tourist police corps, institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, and a concentration of resources in resort areas.” These areas tend to therefore “be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo.” 

Travelers who do go to the Dominican Republic should be aware of their surroundings, never physically resist any robbery attempt, and avoid displaying signs of wealth (like wearing expensive watches or jewelry).

Travelers can also enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts “and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.”

The State Department issues travel advisories and travel alerts to “help you assess for yourself the risks of international travel and what steps to take to ensure your safety when you decide to go abroad.” These advisories can be issued for an entire country or a specific area of the country and can vary by region based on the situation.

Recently, the State Department issued advisories for several popular vacation destinations, including certain areas of Mexico , Colombia, and Jamaica .

Related Articles

Search Travel Market Report

• Packaged Travel
• Hotels & Resorts
• Destinations
• Retail Strategies
• Niche & Luxury
• Training & Resources

U.S. State Department Reissues Dominican Republic Travel Advisory

Santo Domingo. Photo: Shutterstock.com 

Travelers heading to the Dominican Republic should continue to exercise increased caution due to crime in the country.

That’s according to a reissued travel advisory from the U.S. State Department. The Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory contains no changes to the previous Dominican Republic advisory and keeps the country in the same category as Denmark, the U.K., Spain, Costa Rica, Italy, France, and more.

The advisory says that “violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic” though a new tourist police corps, and institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, means resort areas tend to be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo.

“The wide availability of weapons, the use and trade of illicit drugs, and a weak criminal justice system contribute to the high level of criminality on the broader scale,” the advisory reads.

The advisory is not a warning to avoid travel to the Dominican Republic—only the State Department’s Level 4 warning does that. Instead, it advises travelers going to the country to stay safe by being aware of their surroundings, not displaying any signs of wealth, and not resisting any robbery attempts.

MOST VIEWED

Subscribe today to receive daily in-depth coverage, analysis of industry news, trends and issues that affect how you do business. Subscribe now for free.

Subscribe to TMR

The popular “Sandals and Beaches in 10” virtual sessions return this Friday.

Walkers have a chance to win a trip of their choice.

Exodus Adventure Travels is bringing back its active small-group tours of Cuba designed for U.S. citizens.

The redesigned program features four Foundation chapters that cover key attractions, accommodations, events, and experiences in the UK.

The tour operator is celebrating its 100th year with four new land journeys.

Cruise-hating environmentalists have struck again in Amsterdam.

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

• Privacy Policy

Download travel resources & information

Travel Ideas

Get travel inspiration ideas in your inbox!

Travel Alert

Latest updates.

Information Updated as of Dicember 1st , 2023

Entry Requirements | E-Ticket | Current Measures | FAQs  

Contact:  [email protected]

Entry Requirements

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR FOREIGNERS ENTERING THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC AS TOURISTS

Foreigners entering the Dominican Republic as tourists must comply with the following requirements:

• Passport with a minimum validity of six (6) months.
• Air, maritime or land ticket of entrance and return.
• A permanent address in the Dominican Republic.
• Proof of sufficient economic solvency to cover their expenses during their stay in the Dominican Republic.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES ON THE VALIDITY OF TOURIST PASSPORTS, VALID FROM JUNE 1, 2023 TO MAY 30, 2024.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES FOR THE NATIONALS OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, UNITED KINGDOM, CANADA, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, BRAZIL, CHILE, ARGENTINA, COLOMBIA AND ECUADOR.

The nationals of the countries that integrate the European Union, England, Canada, United States of America, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Colombia and Ecuador, who enter the Dominican Republic, exclusively for tourist purposes, are authorized to do so with their valid and in force passports, and that the same remain in force during their stay and departure from the Dominican territory. This exceptional measure was implemented by the Dominican authorities as of June 1, 2023 and remains in force until May 30, 2024.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES FOR DIPLOMATIC OFFICIALS, PERMANENT MISSIONS, INTERNATIONAL AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS, ETC.

The following foreigners are exempted from the above, under the condition of reciprocity:

• Diplomatic officers and consular officials accredited in the Dominican Republic, as well as other members of Permanent or Special Diplomatic Missions of Consular Posts and their family members who, by virtue of the rules of International Law, are exempt from the obligations related to obtaining a migratory category of entry.
• Representatives and delegates, as well as the other members, and their relatives, of Permanent Missions or Delegations before the Intergovernmental Organizations with headquarters in the Dominican Republic or in International Conferences held in the Dominican Republic.
• Officials assigned to International and Intergovernmental Organizations with headquarters in the Dominican Republic and their family members, as well as holders of Dominican diplomatic and official visas.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES FOR NATIONALS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA WHO DO NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS ESTABLISHED IN THE LAW AND ITS REGULATIONS.

Without detriment to the provisions of this Resolution and pursuant to the discretionary power that the Law grants to the Director General of Migration, he may authorize the entry into the country of foreigners of U.S. nationality who do not meet the requirements established in the law and its regulations, when there are exceptional reasons of a humanitarian nature, public interest or compliance with commitments made by the Dominican Republic. Each authorization constitutes a case in point and, consequently, does not constitute a binding reference or precedent.

EXCEPTIONAL MEASURES FOR CITIZENS OF CUBAN NATIONALITY LEGALLY RESIDING IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA COMING FROM THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Citizens of Cuban nationality legally residing in the United States of America, coming from the United States of America, are authorized to enter the Dominican Republic as tourists, even with an expired passport for no more than twenty-four (24) months, as long as they have their “Permanent Resident Card” (also known as “Green Card”), which guarantees their legal capacity to reside permanently in the United States of America. This exceptional measure will be implemented by the Dominican authorities for an indefinite period of time, starting June 1, 2023.

ACCEPTANCE OF BOARDING OF FOREIGN PASSENGERS TO DOMINICAN TERRITORY BY AIRLINES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ESTABLISHED PROVISIONS.

The General Directorate of Migration shall communicate the present Resolution to the airlines authorized to operate in the Dominican territory, so that they take into consideration the provisions previously established for the entry into the national territory of the referred foreigners, taking into account their respective nationalities, the purpose of their stay and the time of permanence in the national territory. Therefore, the airlines may accept the boarding of passengers of the nationalities previously established with destination to the Dominican territory in accordance with the above provisions.

Note : Any other provision established by the Resolution contrary to the provisions herein is hereby repealed.

MEASURES FOR DOMINICAN CITIZENS HOLDING A DOMINICAN PASSPORT ARRIVING FROM OTHER COUNTRIES

The aforementioned measures do not apply to Dominican citizens holding a Dominican passport entering the Dominican Republic from another country.

ROUND TRIP FLIGHT TICKET

As of April 28, 2023, during the process of registration and verification of travel documents prior to boarding, national and foreign air operators operating to and from the Dominican Republic must ensure that all foreign passengers have an air ticket to and from the Dominican Republic (roundtrip). Dominican national passengers, as well as foreigners residing in the Dominican Republic, are exempted from this requirement.

The national and foreign air operators are responsible for the strict compliance of such requirement. Failure to comply with the above will result in the denial of entry to the Dominican Republic of foreign passengers, as well as the corresponding sanctions to national and foreign air operators, established by the General Directorate of Migration of the Dominican Republic.

Click  HERE  for specific country entry restrictions.

Based on the ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 virus, we recommend connecting with your airline or travel agent directly to discuss any protocols that may apply to your country. As needed, we also recommend visiting the  International Air Transport Association (IATA)  for any updates to international markets and their required procedures. IATA cannot guarantee its accuracy and can accept no liability for any errors or omissions.

All foreign and Dominican passengers entering or departing the Dominican Republic on commercial flights must complete the free electronic entry and exit form at:

https://eticket.migracion.gob.do

It is no longer required to fill it out 72 hours prior to the trip . It can be filled out as soon as you have your flight information, even months in advance. However, it must be filled out before arriving at the airline counter at the airport, as it is required to present it to the airline. To avoid delays at the airport, it is advised to complete the form before the trip.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE E-TICKET

If your specific home city is not shown in the form, you can choose the nearest large city in your state or province. If you are staying at a vacation rental, please ask the host to provide the complete address, including province, municipality and sector.

If you are  traveling as a family , you must fill out the form with the data of all the family members who will be traveling, however, it is only necessary that a single user be created in the system and that this user fill in the data of all the members of the family that belong to that trip, up to 6 members additional to the one filling out the form (7 persons in total per form). It is not necessary for each traveler in the same family to fill out an individual form. If more than 7 people are traveling, you must fill out an additional form for the rest. Children do not fill out the Customs section, only adults. A single QR code will be generated for the family.

You can print or make a screenshot of the arrival and departure confirmation QR codes. If you need to make any changes to the E-TICKET, you can consult it with the application code that was issued when you started filling out the form and make changes.  

Passengers arriving on private flights, non-commercial vessels, ferries, cruise ships, etc., do not need to fill out the E-TICKET. The physical Customs Declaration and International Embarkation/Disembarkation forms will be accepted for the aforementioned passengers.

World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recognition

On May 9, 2022, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recognized the Dominican Republic as the number one country in the world in tourism recovery. The Dominican tourism model stands out for achieving the most successful recovery in the industry, reaching record numbers in tourist arrivals.

The success of the recovery is attributed to the Dominican Government and the pillars of innovation, entrepreneurship, education, and new destinations, which are the basis for the cooperative effort between the public and private sectors, which jointly ensure the guarantees and health protocols to guarantee safe tourism.

Click  HERE  for more information.

On January 18, 2022, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recognized the Dominican Republic for its successful recovery in the tourism industry and its efficient management of sanitary protocols in the country’s different tourist destinations.

The UNWTO highlighted the management and sanitary protocols applied in the Dominican Republic to guarantee safe tourism, thus achieving the most successful recovery of the industry in the entire region, reaching record figures in tourist arrivals.

The success of the recovery is due to the joint effort of the public and private sectors, who continue to work hand in hand with the Association of Hotels and Tourism (ASONAHORES).

The Dominican Republic is the only destination in the region where 100% of the employees in the tourism sector are fully vaccinated with two doses, and which has the lowest incidence rate of contagion in the tourist poles, making the country a safe destination for travel.

Thanks to its recovery, the Dominican Republic has become a tourism reference in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get a COVID-19 (antigen or PCR) test to travel back to my country?

Many countries require a negative COVID-19 test before boarding your departing flight or entering your home country. Please confirm with the authorities of your destination country the specific type of viral test you need (PCR, antigen or antibodies) and the time it should be administered (48, 72 or 96 hours). It is important to note that these requirements depend on the authorities of other countries and can change at any time.

Below you will find a list of laboratories within the Dominican Republic that are authorized to test for COVID-19. Please confirm with each laboratory if they perform the type of test you need to travel back to your destination country, the estimated time for delivery of results and the cost. Please contact each laboratory directly. The following test prices and delivery times are subject to change.

CGE CLINICAL LABORATORY (CENTRO GASTRODIAGNÓSTICO SRL)

It has three branches strategically located in the following Santo Domingo neighborhoods:

• Gazcue: Calle José Joaquín Pérez #208.
• Naco: Avenida Tiradentes # 14, Plaza Alfonso Comercial, 1st Floor.
• Los Prados: Calle Nicolás Ureña Mendoza #2.

COVID-19 PCR Tests: 

Available at all locations. Walk in at all locations (no appointment needed).

• Cost : RD$ 3,500 (approx. USD$ 60.00)
• Results:  15 to 24 hours.

COVID-19 PCR PRIORITY Tests: 

• Cost : RD$ 4,300 (approx. USD$ 70.00)
• Results:  6 to 8 hours.

COVID-19 Antigen Tests: 

• Cost : RD$ 1,600 (approx. USD$ 27.00)
• Results:  1 to 2 hours.

For more information:

• Website:   www.cgelaboratorio.com /  www.cgegrupomedico.com
• Contact Center:  809-221-4190 ext. 221/ 809-221-3000
• WhatsApp:  829-213-4395

AMADITA CLINICAL LABORATORY

It has 47 branches strategically located nationwide for general clinical analysis.

TESTING SERVICES FOR TRAVELERS:

Antigen Tests:

This test is available at almost every branch in the country in Santo Domingo, La Romana, Bávaro, Punta Cana, Higuey, Jarabacoa, Santiago, San Pedro de Macorís an Azua, among others. This test does not require an appointment and it can be requested directly at the branch or through the following channels:

• Amadita App  (available for Android & IOS)
• Web page   www.amadita.com
• WhatsApp:  +1(809) 682-5414

Cost: RD$1,700 (approx. USD$30)

Results: Between 2 and 4 hours

You must present your passport.

COVID-19 PCR tests:

The COVID-19 PCR test is performed nationwide by requesting a visit to your hotel of a specialist or in person at the special collection points located in Santo Domingo and Santiago. You can request the test by completing the form required by the Ministry of Health through the following channels:

Cost: RD$4,100 (approx. USD$72)

Results: Between 48 and 72 hours.

You must make an appointment and present your passport.

Respiratory SARS COV 2 (COVID-19) tests:

This test is performed nationwide by requesting a visit to your hotel of a specialist or in person at the special collection points located in Santo Domingo and Santiago. You can request the test  through the following channels:

Cost: RD$8,500

Results: Between 4 and 8 hours.

For more information contact +1(809) 682-5414 or  www.amadita.com .

AMADITA CLINI CAL LABORATORY AT  LAS AMÉRICAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (SANTO DOMINGO)

Amadita Clinical Laboratory offers antigen and respiratory panel testing at Las Las Américas International Airports (Santo Domingo)  only for emergencies.

The lab in the airport is located on the third level and is open from Monday to Sunday, between 5:00AM and 8:00 PM.

Antigen Test cost: RD$1,700

Cost of Mini Respiratory Panel with SARS COV 2 Test : RD$8,500

More information:

• App Amadita (available for Android & IOS)
• WhatsApp : +1(809)682-5414
• amadita.com

REFERENCIA CLINICAL LABORATORY

A network of 51 locations throughout the country.

Available without appointment, starting at 2:00PM, to travelers presenting a confirmed flight itinerary and a form of identification, at the Santo Domingo, Santiago, Punta Cana, Bávaro, Higuey, La Romana, Puerto Plata, San Francisco de Macorís, La Vega, Nagua, Azua, Baní and San Juan de la Maguana branches.

Cost: RD$1,750

Results: 3 hours.

PCR Tests: 

Available at all branches throughout the country  with home-testing at hotels or  drive-through service (Auto Service). Appointment is required.

Cost: RD$4,300

Results: 48 hours

Express PCR Test:

Available at the Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Bávaro and La Romana branches.

Cost: RD$5,000

Results: 24 hours

For more information or to schedule an appointment:

• Tel.  +1(809) 221-2684 ext. 50
• WhastApp : +1(809)221-5545
• [email protected]
• https://www.labreferencia.com/

PATRIA RIVAS CLINICAL LABORATORY

With 10 branches throughout the country, the lab also offers the service of home testing.

Available in the San Cristóbal, Punta Cana and  El Seibo Branches.

To schedule an appointment:

WhatsApp:  +1(829)292-9612

Tel.  +1 (809) -685-0950, ext. 1002 and 1003

https://patriarivas.com.do/covid-19/

email:  [email protected]

PUNTO  MÉDICO

Branches in:

• Santo Domingo
• San Cristobal
• Bávaro

Cost: USD$90

Results: Between 24 and 72 hours

An appointment is necessary. The lab also offers home testing at selected hotels.

https://www.puntomedico.com.do/prueba-covid-19

• Tel:  +1(809)338-3338 and +1(809)562-0040

Whatsapp: +1(809)562-0040

Antigen Test:

No appointment is necessary. Available at the following branches, from 7:00AM to 5:00 PM:

• Punta Cana International Airport
• Bávaro City Center, Bávaro.
• Punto Medico Plaza Coral, Santiago
• Punto Medico La Fuente, Santiago
• Punto Medico Zona Universitaria, Santo Domingo,
• Punto Medico Diamond Plaza, Santo Domingo.
• Punto Medico Occidental Mall, Santo Domingo.
• Hospital Semma, Santiago

Cost: USD$45

Results: Between 30 and 40 minutes

More information:   https://www.puntomedico.com.do

PUNTO  MÉDICO AT PUNTA CANA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Punto Médico laboratory offers antigen testing at the Punta Cana International Airport, from Monday to Sunday, between 7:00AM and 5:00 PM. No appointment is necessary.

Antigen Test cost: USD$45

• Email :  [email protected] ,  [email protected]
• Whatsapp:  +1 (809)562-0040
• puntomedico.com.do

CENTRO MÉDICO PUNTA CANA

Cost: RD$4,500

Cost: RD$2,000

Results: If the test is administered at the branch, between 2 and 4 hours. If the test is administered at the hotel, between 24 and 48 hours.

Additionally, guests staying at the following hotels can have the PCR or antigen test administered at the medical center in the property: Majestic Resorts, Nickelodeon, Catalonia Bávaro, RIU Republic, RIU Complejo, Viva Dominicus Bayahibe, Hilton Bayahibe, and Catalonia Bayahibe.

To schedule an appointment:  scan this QR code 

For more information call:  + 1 (809) -552-1506

Call Center – 24 hours / day:  +1 (809) 473-7283

Email:  [email protected]

Website:   https://www.centromedicopuntacana.com

HOSPITEN BÁVARO, PUNTA CANA

Hospiten has a partnership with several hotels in Punta Cana. Bávaro, Capcana and Uvero Alto to administer testing on the property. Please confirm with your hotel if they are part of this agreement.

Cost: USD$125

For tests administered on hotel property please check availability with Guest Services. For tests administered at the lab, please make an appointment by calling:

Tel:  +1 (809) 686-1414 ext. 2560

Cost: USD$35

Results: 20 minutes

Email:   [email protected]

Tel:  +1 (809) 686 1414

https://hospiten.com/centros-y-hospitales/cid/6

IMG HOSPITAL, PUNTA CANA

To schedule an appointment: +1 (809) 285 6116

For more information visit:  https://img.hospital

BOURNIGAL MEDICAL CENTER, PUERTO PLATA

Additionally, guests staying at the following hotels can have the PCR or antigen test administered at the medical center in the property: Lifestyle Hotels Cofresi, Senator, and Casa Marina Sosua.

To schedule an appointment:  scan this QR code

For more information:  +1 (809) 586-2342

Cellular / WhatsApp  +1 (829) 679-3155 (Monday to Friday from 8 am-6pm)

Email:  [email protected]

For more information:   https://www.centromedicobournigal.com

BOURNIGAL MEDICAL CENTER AT  GREGORIO LUPER Ó N INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, PUERTO PLATA

Service available from 10:00Am to 5:00PM.

Results: Between 20 and 30 minutes

HOSPITEN SANTO DOMINGO

Results: Same day, approximately 3 to 4 hours

Tests are administered only in the mornings, starting at 8:00 AM, from Monday to Friday.

Tel:  +1 (809) 541 30 00 ext. 2840

Email:  [email protected]

For more information visit:   https://hospiten.com/centros-y-hospitales/cid/4

CENTRO DIAGNÓSTICO DE HELICOBÁCTER PYLORI Y LABORATORIO CLÍNICO ESPECIALIZADO, SANTO DOMINGO

Cost: RD$3,000

Results: Between 1 and 2 hours.

An appointment is not necessary but suggested. Walk-ins welcomed and served on a first-come basis.

Tel: +1 (809) 567-1996 or +1(809) 732-7044 (for information in English please ask to speak to Dr. Lyanne Santana)

Whatsapp: +1(809)857-1952

Email:  [email protected]

Address: Calle Frank Félix Miranda #11. Ensanche Naco. Santo Domingo

LABORATORIO CLÍNICO SIRENY. LAS TERRENAS. SAMANÁ

It is strategically located in the municipality of Las Terrenas, Samaná. It has clinical analysis services in general and also offers testing service for travelers.

Antígen test COVID-19: Available by appointment at home or at the hotel. It is essential to have a passport if it is for travel. Also available with self-service in the laboratory parking lot, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cost: RD$3,500 (aprox. USD$62)

Results: 24 horas

COVID-19 PCR tests: Available with Self Service in the laboratory parking lot. It is essential to make an appointment.

Cost: RD$ 6,500 (aprox. USD$114)

Results: 24 to 48 hours

To schedule an appointment or for more information:

• Tel.  +1(809) 240-5910
• WhatsApp  +1(809) 847-3880
• Cel.  +1(809) 756-7476

How can I reduce my chances of contracting COVID-19?

General measures to protect against respiratory diseases include:

• Frequently clean your hands (wash them with soap and water or alcohol solutions), especially after direct contact with sick people or their environment.
• Avoid contact with people with signs of a respiratory illness, such as coughing or sneezing.
• Cover your mouth and nose with disposable tissues when you cough or sneeze, and then wash your hands.

These measures also help protect you against frequent illnesses like the flu.

What should I do if I suspect I have COVID-19?

If you suspect that you have symptoms of COVID-19, the United States Center for Disease Control advises you to take the following steps:

• Stay in your home or hotel room and call the doctor before going for a medical visit.
• Avoid contact with other people and animals.
• Wear a mask.
• Cover your mouth or nose with a disposable tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands regularly and for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid sharing personal items with others.
• Clean all high-contact surfaces every day.
• Monitor your symptoms.

What are the symptoms of the coronavirus?

The most common symptoms are fever, cough, and feeling short of breath. In some cases, there may also be digestive symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain. Symptoms can be aggravated in vulnerable individuals such as the elderly or people with compromised immune systems, among others.

Where can I get information about the coronavirus?

Information on COVID-19 can be found on the websites of different official organizations. Our recommendations are as follows:

• World Health Organization:
• https://www.who.int/en/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
• Pan American Health Organization:
• https://www.paho.org/hq/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=15696:coronavirus-disease-covid-19&Itemid=4206&lang=es
• Dominican Republic Ministry of Public Health:
• https://www.msp.gob.do/web/
• United States Center for Disease Control:
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index-sp.html

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Dominican Republic

Warnings and insurance, before you travel.

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see  general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see  general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about  safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. Please fill in this survey (opens in a new tab) .

US warns travelers to the Dominican Republic of violent crime, sexual assault

Travelers heading to the Dominican Republic are exhorted to “exercise increased caution”  by the State Department due to crime and a rise sexual assault incidents.

The agency issued a level 2 travel advisory for the Carribbean country on Tuesday, stating “violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic.”

According to the State Department website , there have been recent reports of U.S. citizens being robbed by people they met off of dating apps in the Dominican Republic. Some of the incidents involved date rape drugs and occurred at major resorts and hotels. 

One U.S. woman said she was drugged and sexually assaulted in the Dominican Republic in January when she was visiting with a friend. She said she was watching live entertainment in a public area of the resort at night when she ordered a glass of wine that was delivered to her from the bar, and that was the last thing she remembered. 

According to the agency, the prosecution of rape cases is going to be different than in the U.S.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

More: Where is Punta Cana? Learn about the popular Caribbean tourist spot before spring break.

More: CDC issues Mexico travel advisory after suspected fungal meningitis infections

“Sexual assault victims in the Dominican Republic should not expect the totality of assistance offered in the United States,” the travel advisory said. The process in the Dominican Republic moves “forward very slowly” and the victim may have to return to the island country. 

For the most part, resort areas are safer compared to metropolitan areas such as Santo Domingo since there is a tourist police corps. However, even around the resorts, travelers should avoid dark, secluded places, especially if they’re alone, and stay away from the beaches at night. 

People should not resist any robbery attempts or wear expensive jewelry. 

Travelers should also be careful about the taxis they’re taking by using one hailed by their hotel or a vetted company. There are also rideshare services like Uber in the Dominican Republic. 

If you experience any kind of assault, the agency urges people to tell their hotel to contact the police and the Embassy. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected]

Choose your language

Covid-19: Travel Restrictions in the Dominican Republic

Lighthouse in Santo Domingo

Photo: Leo Arturo Martinez

All information in this article was correct at the time of publishing, February 5 2021 - please double check official sources for updates

With 33 countries closing their borders to US travellers last month, US residents yearning for an overseas holiday will be glad to know international travellers are currently welcome to travel to and from the Dominican Republic.

At the moment, restrictions for foreigners in the Dominican Republic aren’t prohibitively strict, but there are some requirements, restrictions and free services you should be aware of. Here’s what to expect if you’re planning to cross the border, in or out.

If you’re travelling to the Dominican Republic

Every incoming arrival must undergo a mandatory temperature check upon arrival, and anyone with positive results will be isolated in authorized locations. Border control isn’t requiring negative test results of every traveller - officials are testing everyone with symptoms and conducting random testing of 3-15 percent of all new arrivals over the age of five (crew members are exempt).

If you’re coming from or via the UK, you must provide evidence of a negative test result obtained within three days prior to your arrival. If visitors from The U.K don’t bring their PCR results, they might be required to go through a PCR test and be isolated in a government facility.

Until February 2021, all visitors must complete either a Traveler Health Affidavit or a digital “eticket” form, a combination of the usual Customs Declaration and Embarkation/Disembarkation forms with the Traveler’s Health Affidavit. From March 1st 2021, only digital “etickets” will be accepted.

Mirador Park skyline, Santo Domingo

If you’re already in the Dominican Republic

Anyone returning to the United States from The Dominican Republic must provide evidence of a negative PCR or Covid-19 test result obtained within three days prior to re-entry. Luckily, the ministry of tourism is offering PCR tests to all international visitors staying in a hotel. This service is provided to all international travelers coming via comercial flights and staying in a hotel. Confirm with your hotel to make sure the test will be covered.

Your hotel can help you arrange an appointment before you depart back to your country of origin. Your hotel might charge a fee to arrange an appointment for you, but keep in mind tests in the Dominican Republic are currently hard to get, so arranging through your hotel might be the most effective way to ensure you get the test done before your return flight.

For international visitors arriving on commercial flights on or before March 31st and staying at a hotel, the government is providing free emergency travel assistance.

How curfews and changed capacity will affect you

If you plan to stay in a hotel or resort, you won’t feel the curfew currently in place everywhere else. Bars and restaurants are closed at 7 PM and transit is available until 10 PM from Monday to Friday. The curfew is subject to change every 28 days, and you can find up-to-date restrictions guidelines on the Dominican Ministry of Health’s website, Instagram or Twitter accounts.

Due to Covid-19, most hotels, bars and clubs in the Dominican Republic have temporarily shut their doors. As in cities and towns across the globe, hospitality businesses are having to reinvent themselves in order to survive. Most restaurants and bars that are open, are open at half capacity.

Most of the museums are closed, and some outdoor parks as well. You can walk or run through the malecon, enjoy a beer in a park or smoke a cigar on the beach. Social life and nightlife has been affected the most, so if you have your heart set on dancing til dawn in the Dominican club scene, you might want to postpone your trip.

However, if a secluded vacation at a half-empty beach resort appeals to you, the Dominican Republic might be the destination for you. The beaches are as beautiful as ever, and there’s considerably more peace and quiet than usual to be found at beachside resorts.

Written by Diego Angeles.

Published February 2021

Explore the Dominican Republic's Wildlife & Nature

Río san juan: a low-profile destination on the north coast.

This low-profile coastal attraction has lots to offer but has

Hike Pico Duarte – the highest mountain in the Caribbean

Everything you need to know about hiking to Pico Duarte

8 Instagram Accounts that Will Make You Want to Visit the DR

Natural wonders, eco adventures and intimate personal diaries of daily

Get up close with wildlife in the Sierra de Bahoruco National Park

In the Southwestern area of Hispaniola, only a couple of

Constanza: The Unexpected Dominican Destination

Venture beyond the beaches and into the mountains in the

Tropical Birds of the Dominican Republic

Look out for these amazing rare birds like woodpeckers, hummingbirds,

Five Lesser-Known Destinations in Dominican Republic

Escape the crowds and explore lesser-known destinations such as Bonao

Get Lost in the Wilderness of Monte Cristi National Park

Get the basic information for your trip to Monte Cristi,

10 Prettiest Waterfalls in Dominican Republic

Take a look at the prettiest and largely unknown waterfalls

What to do in Las Galeras

Leave the crowds behind and soak into the beach life

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get more travel inspiration, tips and exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox

I would like to get Visit Dominican Republic newsletters in my inbox

Paradise for Your Inbox

Subscribe to our newsletter for the best monthly stories and insider guides about the Dominican Republic!

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

Travel advice and advisories by destination

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

The Government of Canada’s official source of travel information and advice, the Travel Advice and Advisories help you to make informed decisions and travel safely while you are outside Canada. Check the page for your destination often, because safety and security conditions may change. See Travel Advice and Advisories – FAQ for more information.

Where are you going?

Take normal security precautions

Exercise a high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Travel advice from other countries

Travel advice is also provided by the governments of Australia , New Zealand , the United Kingdom and the United States .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Is The Dominican Republic Safe To Visit Right Amid Crisis In Neighboring Haiti?

Post may contain affiliate links; we may receive compensation if you click links to those products. This has no impact on how offers are presented. Our site does not include all offers available. Content on page accurate as of posting date.

If you've been following the news recently, you may be wondering how safe the Dominican Republic is to visit right now, considering the full-blown crisis in neighboring Haiti, a severely underdeveloped country now run by militia groups and where violence is rampant.

As reported previously, Haiti is now one of the most dangerous places to be, with gangs having laid siege to the capital, criminals running amok, and multiple countries urging their citizens to leave Haitian territory due to the deteriorating situation (the U.S. included).

Seeing that the Dominican Republic (DR) shares the same island as Haiti, how actually safe is the popular Caribbean resort, and most importantly, is it being affected at all ?

How Is The Haiti Situation Affecting The Dominican Republic?

The short answer is, yes, the DR is still safe , or as safe as it can be , particularly the incredibly popular resort zones in Punta Cana, La Romana, and Puerto Plata, which have been visited by Americans for years and continue leading booking trends across the islands.

That being said, it's inevitable that, as Haiti's only neighbor, the DR would be affected, at least to a lesser extent , even though the ramifications of the Haitian crisis will not necessarily impact tourists in Punta Cana.

It may sound confusing at first, but allow us to explain:

In case you've never given Caribbean geography too much thought, you probably don't know the Dominican Republic is not its own island : though it is on an island, the beautiful Hispaniola, it shares it with another independent state – Haiti.

While French-speaking Haiti occupies the western end of Hispaniola, the DR controls the eastern half, where all the luxurious resorts and best-developed beach zones are centered.

The DR is no developed country, being plagued by poverty and higher crime rates per capita than the U.S. or Canada, but compared to war-torn Haiti, it might as well be Switzerland , as the government retains sovereignty over the territory, and law enforcement is arguably more effective.

The same cannot be said of Haiti, where top-ranking officials are persecuted and threatened on the daily, and civilians live in a constant state of fear; let's just put it this way: the DR is no safe haven, but it is far from being a failed state where public calamities are unfolding.

How Is The DR Protecting Itself From The Crisis?

Following the souring of relations between DR and Haiti, and the crisis in the latter, it was expected that the violence would spill over the border into the much more peaceful Dominican Republic, however, as of March 2024, that is yet to materialize .

Despite the latest surge in refugee numbers, Dominican Republic authorities have been adamant their land border must be reinforced, with Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez Gil treating the ongoing situation in Haiti as a major security threat .

Among the safety measures imposed, a 12-foot-tall border fence has been erected to protect the DR from Haitian gangs and the influx of migrants, accompanied by watch towers, surveillance drones, and cameras.

Controversial as it may be, DR officials have also been firm in their message to fleeing Haitians, stating there are ‘no refugee camps' in the country, and implying those who somehow manage to get past the ‘wall' will be unceremoniously deported back.

The strict anti-migrant policy has drawn the attention of Elon Musk himself, who responded with an enigmatic ‘interesting' to a Twitter post criticizing Joe Biden for not adopting the same hard-lined policies at the southern U.S. border.

DR President Luis Abinader was quick to engage with Musk, reiterating the so-called Smart Security Fence Initiative is ‘indeed an interesting project', and inviting the billionaire tech mogul to visit the Dominican Republic to ‘see it for himself' and further ‘explore potential opportunities'.

Thanks to the rapid, effective response on the DR's part, and their strict border policy, the country has been largely shielded from any Haiti-related ripple effects.

How Safe Is Punta Cana Specifically?

At this point, you're probably thinking: what about Punta Cana specifically? How is the resort city managing the crisis, and should visitors be concerned?

Welcome back to Geography 101: if you need some help pinpointing Punta Cana on a map of the Dominican Republic, consider adding 282 miles between the tropical beach spot and the nearest border crossing.

In other words, it could not be geographically further away from the Haitian mess, as it sits roughly on the easternmost edge of the Dominican Republic, and thus of Hispaniola island: if there's one town that's remained completely undisturbed, it's Punta Cana.

Similarly, every other major tourist destination in the Dominican Republic has stayed oblivious to the crisis , as the government's stellar job at ensuring violence stays on the western side of the border has allowed tourism to go on as usual .

Americans Should Still Be Careful Visiting The Dominican Republic

Now you know: the Dominican Republic can take care of itself , but this does not mean it is exactly crime-free.

It may have warded off Haitian gangs, but it has its own share of domestic problems to tackle, from drug trafficking to violence in suburban zones.

The United States maintains that the Dominican Republic is moderately safe , but it does urge Americans to exercise increased caution when visiting, as violent crime, including armed robbery, is a common issue across the territory.

Resort cities like Punta Cana and La Romana are a lot safer , and if you're staying in an all-inclusive resort, you truly have nothing to worry about unless you're going on an outing.

In that case, you should be aware of your surroundings and follow general safety advice .

This includes not displaying signs of wealth – a.k.a leave your expensive Rolex tucked away in a safe – and adhering to guidelines set out by resort and tour operators, as they do know best .

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The  Travel Off Path Community FB group   has all the latest travel news, conversations, and Q&A's happening daily! 

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path's latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

The post Is The Dominican Republic Safe To Visit Right Amid Crisis In Neighboring Haiti? appeared first on Travel Off Path .

Is the Dominican Republic Safe To Visit?

Check out the top things to know for potential travelers of the D.R. that want to ensure their safety abroad.

Sarah Rand • Feb 1, 2024

The Dominican Republic is a country in the Caribbean that is located just two hours away from Miami. It is the second largest Caribbean country, so travelers often appreciate the array of attractions available to them. The landscapes of the Dominican Republic are quite breathtaking. From tranquil white sand beaches to Pico Duarte (the tallest mountain in the Caribbean) and even historic Spanish cathedrals, the Dominican Republic is a great place to travel to. Travelers that prefer to enjoy the natural environment during their stay can see the rainforest, deserts and lush green valleys of Dominican Republic during nature and wildlife tours. A very popular destination of the country is Punta Cana, which is on the eastern side. This area has some of the best beaches of the country and offers visitors affordable experiences, along with the best nightclubs, fresh seafood and water sports.

Although the Dominican Republic is a major tourist destination, it does have its own safety concerns which may make some travelers hesitant to travel there. Of course anywhere that travelers go there may be things to adjust to or be mindful of, so we have compiled some of the most important things to know for potential travelers of the D.R.

Best Travel Advisories

Tourists that have concerns about safety should do their research so they are well informed. Personal safety is an important factor for international (and even domestic) travelers, so it is imperative for them to know about potential safety threats. Crime rates and other environmental risks are often the most critical safety threats for tourists. These resources will help travelers assess their travel destinations.

The U.S. Department of State and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) are very informative resources that provide travelers with more insight. According to the Department of State’s travel advisory , the Dominican Republic is a level two destination. This means that travelers should exercise increased caution when traveling and be cognizant of the particular threats within the country. In cases of emergency or times when tourists need travel assistance, there is even a U.S. Embassy in the country . But before setting off on a gorgeous Caribbean adventure, travelers should learn more about local customs, cultural background and even the people of Dominican Republic via the CIA’s website. The World Factbook summarizes all of the above information plus travel tips.

Travel health safety is another concern for tourists going to unfamiliar places where they will likely rely on public transportation and face unfamiliar health risks. Platforms like the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are great. The CDC’s travel health web page has country specific reports on health notices, available medicines and even preventable illnesses. So, for travelers that may be susceptible to certain illnesses or are simply careful about their wellness, this information may play an important part in travel planning or decision making. WHO’s website offers detailed statistics and health overviews, which may come in handy for travelers that want to gauge the relative health safety of particular travel destinations.

Is D.R. Safe for Tourists and Solo Travelers?

The Dominican Republic is a popular travel destination in which the majority of travelers feel safe visiting. Crime generally does not impact the tourism industry or areas of the D.R., so it is safe to say that it is a safe place for tourists. Solo travelers are also safe in the D.R., especially if they use common street smarts to secure their safety. But technically, the country has a relatively high crime rate. That includes petty and violent crimes, which are mostly opportunistic. Pickpocketing, robbery and bag snatching are common in large urban cities like Santo Domingo. But on the occasion that those crimes occur, they have not been disproportionately targeted at tourists. The country takes safety very seriously, so there has been improved safety and security measures. The security at resorts and tourist areas have been strengthened for a better sense of safety.

How to Stay Safe in the D.R.

To protect themselves, tourists should always exercise a baseline of personal safety precautions. Since the majority of the crime that occurs has to do with possessions and theft, travelers should take that into consideration. Tourists should avoid flaunting expensive things and carrying large amounts of cash on their person. Staying alert and vigilant around strangers or in public places is a smart move for travelers. It is also advisable to avoid poorly lit places and for travelers not to go off on their own late at night.

The Dominican Republic has a high road accident rate, so it is imperative that travelers use public transportation to avoid accidents. Luckily, D.R. has a dependable bus service that is easily accessible for tourists. The inexpensive public buses like Metro Tours or private bus companies like Caribe Tours offer travelers a way to get around the country. For travelers wanting to stay central but still get around, taxis or ride-sharing apps are the best bet. Taxis are commonplace and usually available around major tourist areas or attractions, so travelers do not have a problem hailing one. Hotels can even get a taxi for their guests, so that only reputable companies like Apolo Taxi are used. Always confirm the fare before getting into a ride to avoid scams, although the rates in the city are set it is best to stay on the safe side. Ride-share apps are good resources so that travelers do not have to struggle through potential language barriers. They may even find that the cost of ride-share apps are less than taxis during low traffic times. Regardless of the particular mode of transportation that travelers take, they should follow standard public transport safety precautions, especially while abroad. These include but are not limited to securing personal possessions, staying alert while riding public transportation and ensuring that drivers or vehicles are legitimate and certified.

Where to Stay in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo offers travelers a more metropolitan experience as it is the largest city in the country. It is the historical capital city and a generally safe place for tourists to stay. La Zona Colonial, Gazcue and Bella Vista are a few of the safe areas that tourists can enjoy in Santo Domingo. In these areas tourists will have easy access to downtown and the popular stops. Some areas are not as welcoming, so there are places within Santo Domingo that travelers should avoid. Arroyo Hondo and Cristo Rey are among those, since the amount of violent crimes are higher (or simply occurred) there.

For a more relaxed and laid back feel, travelers should plan to stay in Punta Cana. This eastern destination is one of the Dominican Republic’s safest areas since it has such low crime rates. Punta Cana also has world renowned beaches and all-inclusive hotels that offer plenty of amenities. This area is located in La Altagracia province and is generally regarded as a comfortable and secure destination.

Best Time to Visit D.R.

For the best weather, tourists should plan their trip to the Dominican Republic wisely. Between December and March is conducive to the most pleasant weather. Clear skies and low humidity in the D.R. sounds like the perfect weather to escape the bitter cold of winter. The tropical weather during this time is great, but budget travelers may prefer to visit between May and September when there are reduced prices on flights, accommodations and even activities.

People Also Ask

Is it safe to walk around Punta Cana? Yes, tourists are completely safe to explore Punta Cana on foot. It is one of the safest areas in the Dominican Republic.

Is it safe to travel to the Dominican Republic? Travelers should not have problems getting to (and around) the D.R. as it is a safe place to visit.

Subscribe to travel noire

Get more travel content

Subscribe to Travel Noire, a free daily newsletter that features the best of travel, destinations, and guides to the cities you love from a new point of view — yours.

By subscribing to this newsletter, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Popular posts

Did You Know? Queen Elizabeth Once Stepped In To Prevent Snoop Dogg From Being Banned From The UK

United Airlines Flight Attendant's Armrest Announcement Sparks Social Media Frenzy

‘Basketball Wives’ Star Mehgan James Speaks Out About Popular Bahamas Island With Flesh-Eating Bacteria After Friend Loses Leg

Chaos Erupts After Ethiopian Airlines Passenger Forced To Give Up Seat For Minister

Trending stories in world travel

Average Joe is one of the latest and most exciting productions to come out of Atlanta, Georgia, though you'd never know it by tuning in.

A recent Florida arrest has made headlines for the confusion and commotion that surrounded the circumstances.

A Texas-based TikToker opened up about their decision to only air travel in first or business class when flying as a plus-sized passenger.

These are the best scenic fall escapes for travelers who want to just get away for the season and take in the sights.

Florida’s tourism website completely removed LGBTQIA+ travel info as a section which has caused some confusion and negative reactions.

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Newsletters
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Online checking
• High-yield savings
• Money market
• Home equity loan
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Options pit
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Here’s What You Need To Know About The Travel Advisory For The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has been a hotspot for Black travelers for a long time. Whether for medical tourism, business, or pleasure, the DR has become one of the culture’s favorite international, tropical destinations. However, the US State Department is warning travelers planning on visiting anytime soon.

On Tuesday, June 6, the agency issued a level 2 travel advisory for the Caribbean country. According to its website , the department warns of “violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic.”

Regional Efforts To Address Crime

Despite being a prime destination for American travelers, the DR has been a hotspot for crime for quite some time. According to Dialago Americas , leaders from Central America, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic came together in April to strategize against crime in the countries.

“These criminal phenomena are not new. What is new is that we are confronting them regionally,” Guatemala’s Minister of the Interior David Napoleón Barrientos told Guatemalan Daily Prensa Libre. “Each of the countries has its own strategies. We’ve discussed and shared them […]; the idea is to generate regional plans and protocols. This will be done by each country’s specialists at the roundtables.”

While the meeting in April centered more around organized crime and drug and human trafficking, the new US travel advisory focuses on the numerous accounts of sexual assault from American tourists visiting the DR.

According to USA Today, one American woman claims she was drugged and sexually assaulted while in the Dominican Republic . The tourist says she ordered a drink at a bar and lost recollection of what happened after she received it. Unfortunately, the travel advisory warns Americans that rape prosecution in the Dominican Republic varies greatly from legalities in the States.

“Sexual assault victims in the Dominican Republic should not expect the totality of assistance offered in the United States,” the travel advisory said. The advisory also tells travelers not to resist robbery attempts and to follow all local rules and regulations to avoid harm.

Safety Tips For Travel To The Dominican Republic

Areas near resorts and tourist attractions are safer than urban areas like Santo Domingo, the advisory states. The advisory does state that since the creation of the country’s 911 hotline, some areas of the Dominican Republic are safer than others. However, travelers should still avoid dark, secluded areas, and beaches at night.

Travelers should also take precautionary measures when using local taxi services and utilize rideshare apps like Uber instead.

Recommended Stories

Danny jansen makes mlb history by playing for red sox and blue jays in same game.

Boston Red Sox catcher Danny Jansen became the first MLB player to play for two teams in the same game when he batted in Monday's matchup vs. the Toronto Blue Jays.

Little League World Series: Florida wins extra-innings championship thriller over Taiwan on chaotic walk-off bunt

The championship is the first for a team from Florida in nine trips to the LLWS final.

Zion Williamson's apparent weight loss draws attention on social media

New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson appears to have lost notable weight during the offseason, based on photos taken at his basketball camp in South Carolina.

Cubs' Pete Crow-Armstrong zooms around bases in 14 seconds for inside-the-park home run

Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete-Crow Armstrong showed serious speed in running out an inside-the-park home run

Mortgage and refinance rates today, August 26, 2024: Should you get a fixed or adjustable rate?

These are today's mortgage and refinance rates. ARM rates are starting higher than fixed ones, so a fixed-rate loan may be a better fit. Lock in your rate today.

Commanders take down Sean Taylor memorial after criticism, working on replacement statue

The Commanders' first memorial for Sean Taylor, which looked similar to a department store mannequin, drew harsh criticism when it was first unveiled in 2022.

Kerr out at Team USA, Zion slims down & our favorite under-the-radar offseason moves | No Cap Room

Jake Fischer and Dan Devine talk their way through the late August NBA news cycle and list off their favorite under-the-radar moves from this NBA offseason.

Shohei Ohtani is 'fine' after X-rays following hit-by-pitch reveal no structural damage

"It's really scary," manager Dave Roberts said. "You always hold your breath."

MLB umpire Nick Mahrley carted off field after Giancarlo Stanton's broken bat hit him in the head

Stanton's bat snapped at the handle, and the barrel hit Mahrley in the side of his head.

The Kansas City Chiefs' cheerleaders are wearing cuffs to honor former squad member Krystal Anderson following her death: 'She was always sparkling'

Anderson suffered a cardiac arrest after contracting sepsis following a stillbirth. Now her death is drawing attention to the Black maternal mortality criss.

Last verified: Tuesday, 13. August 2024 at 08:21 AM

Dominican Republic Travel Advisory

• North America
• Dominican Republic Travel Advice

We advise caution when travelling to Dominican Republic

Local situation: 3.0 / 5.

We advise caution when travelling to Dominican Republic. We detected travel advisories from 5 sources for this specific country.

Regional Situation: 3.9 / 5

Dominican Republic shares a land border with Haiti . For these two countries, the Advisory Index is 3.9 .

Current informationen on Covid-19 in Dominican Republic

There are currently no officially reported cases of infections with SARS-CoV-2 (or Coronavirus) in Dominican Republic. As reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control this morning (~8:30am CET).

There are currently no officially reported deaths related to this disease in Dominican Republic.

Source: www.ecdc.europa.eu

Advice scoring history for Dominican Republic

Chart of the risk level over that last 200 days. This is the daily calculated travel risk for Dominican Republic.

Chart of the number of sources over that last 200 days. This is the daily number of advisory sources (of any rating) that have been active on that day.

Note: Changes happening on the 28th/29th of July 2019 are related to a change in the software and number of sources processed.

Rating Details (single travel warnings)

These are the individual advisories published by other countries about the destination Dominican Republic from a travellers perspective. The scoring of all messages combined is the foundation for the current rating 3.0 out of 5.0 .

This is the general advisory usually covering the country as a whole.

Advisory issued by: New Zealand

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Source: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/dominican-republic

Advisory issued by: United States

Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime. Country Summary: Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic. The development of a professional tourist police corps, institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, ...

Source: http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/dominican-republic-travel-advisory.html

Advisory issued by: Finland

Iaktta normal försiktighet - Undvik alla resor till gränsområdet mot Haiti.

Source: https://um.fi/resemeddelande/-/c/DO

Advisory issued by: Canada

The Canadian goverment suggests: Exercise a high degree of caution.

Source: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/dominican-republic

Individual rating changes for Dominican Republic

This is the recent history of individual changes of travel advices that affected the total asessment of Dominican Republic. Most recent events first.

Changes from September 19th 2022

The total rating for Dominican Republic changed from 3.0 to 2.8 . Here are the influencing details:

The Canadian government decreased their existing warning for Dominican Republic to 2.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by -1.0).

Changes from August 7th 2020

The total rating for Dominican Republic changed from 3.4 to 4.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government increased their existing warning for Dominican Republic to 5.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 2.0 (by +3.0).

Changes from March 23rd 2020

The total rating for Dominican Republic changed from 3.2 to 3.4 . Here are the influencing details:

The Canadian government increased their existing warning for Dominican Republic to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 18th 2020

The total rating for Dominican Republic changed from 3.0 to 3.2 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government increased their existing warning for Dominican Republic to 5.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 4.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 16th 2020

The total rating for Dominican Republic changed from 2.5 to 3.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government issued a new warning for Dominican Republic with a rating of 4.0.

The Irish government increased their existing warning for Dominican Republic to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from September 25th 2019

The total rating for Dominican Republic changed from 0.0 to 0.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government issued a new warning for Dominican Republic with a rating of 2.0.

The Canadian government issued a new warning for Dominican Republic with a rating of 3.0.

The Irish government issued a new warning for Dominican Republic with a rating of 3.0.

The Finnish government issued a new warning for Dominican Republic with a rating of 2.0.

About Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic with its capital Santo Domingo is a country in North America (Caribbean), slightly more than twice the size of New Hampshire (48,730 km²). The country is located Caribbean, eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Haiti. The climate can be described as tropical maritime; little seasonal temperature variation; seasonal variation in rainfall. The landscape is rugged highlands and mountains with fertile valleys interspersed. With a population of about 9.51 million citizens.

Dominican flag

Introduction Video

Basic Statistics and Facts

Environmental problems and natural hazzards.

These are problems Dominican Republic is facing. Environmental issues refer to damages of the nature due to industry and society. Natural hazzards refer to potential dangers originating in nature.

Environmental problems

• deforestation
• soil eroding into the sea damages coral reefs
• water shortages

Natural hazzards

• lies in the middle of the hurricane belt and subject to severe storms from June to October
• occasional flooding
• periodic droughts

Top Industries and Agricultural Products

These are the main product industries and agricultural products of Dominican Republic. This list indicates what this country is good at producing.

• electrical components
• gold mining
• medical devices
• sugar processing

Agriculture products

• dairy products

Dominican Imports and Exports

These are the main product categories of imports and exports to and from Dominican Republic.

Export products

• consumer goods

Import products

• pharmaceuticals

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current travel advisory for dominican republic.

Dominican Republic is currently rated at 3,0 out of a possible 5.0. Collected from 5 official sources. We advise caution when travelling to Dominican Republic.

Is it safe to travel Dominican Republic in 2024?

Visiting the country Dominican Republic is usually fine. The score is at 3,0 Just keep an eye open, obey local rules and you'll most likely be fine.

How many travel advisories do you know for Dominican Republic?

We currently evaluate 11 official sources each morning. Today, we know of active advisories from 5 individual sources for Dominican Republic.

What is the current Corona virus situation in Dominican Republic?

There are currently no officially reported cases of infections with SARS-CoV-2 (or Coronavirus) in Dominican Republic. As reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control this morning (~8:30am CET). There are currently no officially reported deaths related to this disease in Dominican Republic.

What is the size of Dominican Republic?

Dominican Republic has a size of 48,730 km² or 18,815 mi² which is slightly more than twice the size of New Hampshire.

Common Frequently Asked Questions

For non-country specific questions, please check our global F.A.Q.

Travel safety map for Dominican Republic and bordering countries.

If you want to embed Dominican Republic travel warning information into your website or application, check out these tools.

• Is Dominican Republic safe to travel?
• What's the safety situation in Dominican Republic?
• Are there security warnings for Dominican Republic?

2020-03-10: Integrated data from European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (COVID-19/ SARS-CoV-2/ Coronavirus).

2019-09-01: Added timeline charts for risk level and number of advisories.

2019-07-29: Added two more sources (Finland and Denmark). Affects country ratings.

2019-07-15: South-Sudan was missing and was added today.

2019-05-18: Performance improvements for API users.

2019-03-23: Introduced professional API with more data.

2019-02-13: Added three more sources (Cyprus, Ireland and Malta). Affects country ratings.

• Mexico Travel News
• Seaweed Updates
• Hidden Travel Gems

Is Dominican Republic Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2024

The Dominican Republic is considered a safe place to visit in most tourist hotspots but there are certain cities and areas that travelers should avoid.

It’s important to be cautious in places like the Zona Colonial in the country’s capital. Due to the high crime rate in some parts of Santo Domingo, it is dangerous and opportunistic crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching are frequent.

Table of contents

February 12 – two weeks after a mysterious u.s. woman’s death on a flight from the dominican republic her family shares the details, february 12 – the dominican republic and the us embassy reach an agreement to ensure visitors’ safety, u.s. travel advisory, canada travel advisory, areas to avoid, common scams.

• Safety Tips for Dominican Republic 

LATEST NEWS from DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

41-year-old Stefanie Smith died on the airplane on the way from her vacation in the Dominican Republic.

After two weeks of her family waiting for the answers surrounding her death from the authorities, a forensic pathologist contacted the family.

“Stefanie Smith died from a carotid artery dissection in her neck,” shared her brother Chris Volz.

“It was truly a tragic medical event that happened. The results of the autopsy do not suggest there was any foul play,” Volz added.

According to a cooperation agreement with the American Embassy in the nation, security has been given top priority, stated David Collado, Minister of Tourism.

The memorandum lists visitor safety and hotel staff training as top priorities.

The document establishes procedures for situations involving foreigners in the nation and formalizes the assurance of safety for American tourists traveling there. U.S. foreign visitors made up 47% of the total since last year, which contributed to a 22% increase in tourism.

Official Travel Advisories

U.S. Travel Advisory for the Dominican Republic is at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution . Crime that includes homicide, sexual assault, and armed robbery is an issue in the Dominican Republic.

Resort areas are typically better monitored than urban areas like Santo Domingo because of the establishment of professional tourism police corps, the setting up of a 911 system in many parts of the nation, and the concentration of resources in these areas. 

The greatest threat to tourists is opportunistic crime, which accounts for the majority of incidents. All across the nation, criminal activities such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are common. Thieves frequently target tourists. Holiday seasons typically see an increase in crime.

Incidents happen mostly at resorts, beaches, airports, bus terminals, and on public transit.

Although there is a high rate of crime in the Dominican Republic, it is mostly concentrated in localities and places that few tourists visit.

Santo Domingo’s capital city has several high-crime neighborhoods, including Arroyo Hondo, Naco, Gazcue, Cristo Rey, and Villa Agricola. There have been violent crimes like muggings, theft, and even murder. Always turn over your belongings if asked. 

Exercise caution around charming Latino men who target solo female travelers or small groups. They may employ flattery and persistence to swindle you out of money, alcohol, meals, and nightlife expenses, or even persuade you into marriage and taking them back to your home country.

Refrain from engaging with strangers and refrain from bringing them to your accommodation to minimize the risk of falling prey to scams.

Remain vigilant regarding camera-related scams while traveling. Locals might request you taking a photo and then demand payment for alleged damages when their camera “accidentally” drops.

Exercise caution when using taxis in the Dominican Republic. Negotiate fares and maintain awareness to avoid falling victim to scams and being overcharged.

Safety Tips for Dominican Republic 

• Never leave valuable belongings in plain sight.
• Protect yourself by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers as there are cases of dengue in DR
• Opt for licensed taxis rather than unregistered ones
• Always wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle
• Refrain from displaying flashy jewelry while walking on the streets
• Don’t walk the streets late at night
• Always consult with locals or reception of your hotel if your are planning to go to an unknown area

So the Dom republic like the Germans name it is not too safe. Quidar, faites attention, be careful, bitte vorsight.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

• Section 5 - Campylobacteriosis
• Section 5 - Diphtheria

CDC Yellow Book 2024

Author(s): Talia Pindyck, Bruce Gutelius, Eric Mintz

Infectious Agent

Transmission, epidemiology, clinical presentation.

INFECTIOUS AGENT: Toxigenic  Vibrio cholerae   O1 or O139

Americas (island of Hispaniola at very low levels)

South and Southeast Asia

TRAVELER CATEGORIES AT GREATEST RISK FOR EXPOSURE & INFECTION

Humanitarian aid workers

Refugees and internally displaced people

Travelers going to endemic or outbreak areas

PREVENTION METHODS

Travelers who consistently observe safe food, water, sanitation, and hand hygiene precautions have virtually no risk of infection

Cholera is a vaccine-preventable disease

DIAGNOSTIC SUPPORT

Cholera is an acute bacterial intestinal infection caused by toxigenic Vibrio cholerae O-group 1 (O1) or O-group 139 (O139). Many other serogroups of V. cholerae , with or without the cholera toxin gene (including the nontoxigenic strains of the O1 and O139 serogroups), can cause a cholera-like illness. Only toxigenic strains of serogroups O1 and O139 have caused widespread epidemics and are reportable to the World Health Organization (WHO) as “cholera.” Toxigenic strains of V. cholerae O1 are the source of an ongoing global pandemic that began in 1961, but the O139 serogroup is localized to a few areas in Asia.

V. cholerae O1 has 2 biotypes, classical and El Tor, and each biotype can be divided into distinct serotypes, Inaba Ogawa, and rarely, Hikojima. The symptoms of infection are indistinguishable, but more people infected with the El Tor biotype remain asymptomatic or have only a mild illness. Globally, most cholera cases are caused by O1 El Tor organisms. In recent years, an El Tor variant with characteristics of both classical and El Tor biotypes has emerged in Asia and spread to Africa and the Caribbean. This is the strain responsible for the epidemic on Hispaniola, the island shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic; compared to older El Tor strains, this newer variant appears to be more virulent, causing a greater proportion of severe episodes of cholera with the potential for higher death rates.

Toxigenic V. cholerae O1 and O139 are free-living bacterial organisms found in fresh and brackish water, often in association with copepods or other zooplankton, shellfish, and aquatic plants. Cholera infections are acquired most often from untreated drinking water in which toxigenic V. cholerae naturally occurs or has been introduced from the feces of an infected person. Other common vehicles include raw or undercooked food, especially fish and shellfish. Other foods, including produce, are less commonly implicated. Direct person-to-person transmission, including to health care workers during epidemics, has been reported.

When in countries affected by cholera, travelers who consistently observe recommendations regarding safe drinking water, food preparation and consumption, handwashing, and sanitation have virtually no risk of acquiring the disease.

Cholera is endemic to ≈50 countries, primarily in South and Southeast Asia and Africa. During 2007–2017, the United States had 117 confirmed cholera cases among people who traveled internationally in the week before illness; ≈16% reported travel to India or Pakistan. Other reported destinations included other countries in Southeast Asia, East and West Africa, and the Caribbean. Sporadic cases in the United States associated with travel to or from cholera-affected countries in Asia and Africa continue to occur.

More than half (70/117, ≈60%) of US cases during 2007–2017 were linked to travel to Haiti, the Dominican Republic, or Cuba, the 3 Caribbean countries affected by a large cholera epidemic that began in Haiti in October 2010. Ninety-four percent (66/70) of case-patients reported travel to either Haiti or the Dominican Republic sometime during 2010–2017. The other case-patients had been to Cuba sometime during 2013–2015.

In 2018 and 2019, the most recent years for which data are available, no cholera cases in the United States were associated with travel to Haiti or the Dominican Republic, and those 2 countries reported far fewer cholera cases to WHO during these 2 years than in previous years. Although efforts were underway to eliminate cholera from Hispaniola, in October 2022, the Pan American Health Organization reported a resurgence of the disease in Haiti. Before 2022, the last confirmed case of cholera in Haiti was in 2019, and in the Dominican Republic in 2018.

Travelers to areas where cholera is endemic or where an active epidemic is occurring are at risk for cholera infection. Health care and response workers in cholera-affected areas (e.g., during an outbreak, after a disaster) also might be at increased risk for cholera. People who do not follow handwashing recommendations, and/or do not use latrines or other sanitation systems are at increased risk for infection. People who have low gastric acidity have a greater risk for infection, and they, along with those with blood type O, are at greater risk for developing severe disease if infected.

Cholera most commonly manifests as acute watery diarrhea in an afebrile person. The pathogen typically remains in the gastrointestinal tract and does not invade the bloodstream. Infection is often mild or asymptomatic, but it can be severe. Severe cholera ( cholera gravis ) occurs in ≈10% of cholera episodes and is characterized by profuse watery diarrhea, described as rice-water stools, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting that can rapidly lead to severe volume depletion.

Clinical findings include dry mucous membranes and loss of skin turgor, hypotension, tachycardia, and thirst. Additional symptoms, including muscle cramps, are secondary to the resulting electrolyte imbalances. Untreated cholera can cause rapid loss of body fluids, which can lead to severe dehydration, hypovolemic shock, and death within hours. The case-fatality ratio for untreated cholera can reach >50%, but with adequate and timely rehydration, the case-fatality ratio is <1%.

In the United States, cholera traditionally is confirmed by isolation and identification of toxigenic V. cholerae O1 recovered from a stool sample of a patient with acute, watery diarrhea. Before administering antimicrobial treatment, collect patient stool samples and preserve samples in Cary-Blair medium for transport at ambient temperature. Selective media (e.g., taurocholate-tellurite-gelatin agar, thiosulfate-citrate-bile salts agar) also can be used for pathogen isolation.

Reagents for serogrouping V. cholerae isolates are available in most state health department laboratories. Antigen-based rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) do not yield an isolate for toxin detection, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, or subtyping. Reflex culture to recover an isolate should always be performed when a V. cholerae diagnosis is derived from an RDT, and clinicians should send the isolate to a public health laboratory for additional characterization.

Currently available commercial RDTs, which detect O1 and O139 antigens in human stool specimens using monoclonal antibodies, are useful for cholera outbreak detection and response, but should not be used to diagnose individual patients. Molecular methods (e.g., PCR, whole-genome sequencing) can detect V. cholerae and characterize its genetic profile and are increasingly used in public health laboratories. Cholera is a nationally notifiable disease in the United States, and all isolates obtained in the United States should be sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) via state health department laboratories for identification and virulence testing.

Rehydration is the cornerstone of cholera treatment. Administer oral rehydration solution and, when necessary, intravenous fluids and electrolytes; timely administration in adequate volumes will reduce case-fatality ratios to <1%. Antibiotics will reduce fluid requirements and duration of illness and are indicated in conjunction with aggressive hydration for severe cases and for patients with moderate dehydration and ongoing fluid losses.

Whenever possible, antimicrobial susceptibility testing should inform treatment choices. In most countries, doxycycline is recommended as the first-line antibiotic treatment for children, adults, and pregnant people. Previously, tetracycline antibiotics (including doxycycline) were not recommended for children due to concern for dental discoloration, or pregnant people due to concern for teratogenic effects. A recent systematic review among young children and pregnant people receiving doxycycline did not demonstrate a safety risk.

Multidrug-resistant isolates are emerging, particularly in South Asia, with resistance to quinolones, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, and tetracycline. The strain from Hispaniola is also multidrug resistant; as of 2013, however, tested isolates were still sensitive to doxycycline and tetracycline. Macrolides, including erythromycin and azithromycin, are alternative agents for multidrug-resistant isolates. Zinc supplementation reduces the severity and duration of cholera and other diarrheal diseases in children living in resource-limited areas.

Food & Water

Travelers should follow safe food and water precautions and frequently wash hands (see Sec. 2, Ch. 8, Food & Water Precautions ). Antibiotic chemoprophylaxis is not recommended.

No country or territory requires vaccination against cholera as a condition for entry. CVD 103-HgR, a live, attenuated, single-dose oral cholera vaccine (Vaxchora, PaxVax), is licensed in the United States. The vaccine was previously marketed under the names Orochol and Mutacol in other countries.

Indications

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends CVD 103-HgR vaccine for both pediatric and adult travelers (2–64 years old) visiting areas of active cholera transmission. An area of active cholera transmission is defined as a province, state, or other administrative subdivision within a country with endemic or epidemic cholera caused by toxigenic V. cholerae O1. It includes areas that are prone to recurrence of cholera epidemics that have had cholera activity within the past year. Locations where rare sporadic cholera cases have been reported are not considered active cholera areas.

CDC provides a list of countries for which cholera vaccine can be considered for travelers (see “Who is at risk?”). Cholera activity can occur in certain parts of a country or in certain settings, however, and information about places with cholera activity might be incomplete because of variations in surveillance and reporting. The vaccine is not routinely recommended for most travelers from the United States because they do not visit areas with active cholera transmission. Clinicians and travelers can find additional country-specific information on CDC’s Travelers’ Health website.

In clinical efficacy trials, adults aged 18–45 years who received Vaxchora were protected against severe diarrhea after oral V. cholerae O1 challenge at 10 days (vaccine efficacy 90%) and at 3 months (vaccine efficacy 80%) after vaccination. In adults aged 46–64 years, vibriocidal antibody seroconversion rates, the best available marker for protection against cholera, were comparable to the response seen in adults aged 18–45 years. Multicenter randomized clinical efficacy trials of CVD 103-HgR in children (published in 2020) demonstrated CVD 103-HgR induced serum vibriocidal antibody seroconversion on day 11 in >97% of recipients aged 2–17 years; efficacy was not assessed.

Administration

Prepare and administer Vaxchora in a health care setting equipped to dispose of medical waste. To prepare Vaxchora, reconstitute the buffer component in 100 milliliters (mL) of cold or room temperature, purified, non-carbonated, non-flavored bottled or spring bottled water. The package insert indicates that for children aged 2–5 years, half of the reconstituted buffer solution (50 mL) should be discarded before adding the active component (lyophilized V. cholerae CVD 103-HgR); after preparation, a single oral dose of Vaxchora for children aged 2–5 years is 50 mL. Patients should avoid eating or drinking for 60 minutes before and after taking Vaxchora vaccine. Administer Vaxchora as a single oral dose ≥10 days before potential cholera exposure.

Booster Doses

The safety and efficacy of revaccination with CVD 103-HgR have not been established.

Safety & Adverse Reactions

Serious adverse events were rare among recipients of Orochol and Mutacol, the previously marketed formulation of the CVD 103-HgR vaccine.

In clinical safety trials involving adults aged 18–45 years, headache, tiredness, and nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea were reported more commonly by CVD 103-HgR recipients than by placebo recipients within 7 days of vaccination. Among children and adolescents aged 2–17 years, adverse events more commonly reported by vaccine than by placebo recipients included abdominal pain, anorexia, headache, and tiredness. No vaccine-related serious adverse events were reported among participants aged 2–64 years.

Vaxchora is not currently licensed for use in children <2 years or adults >65 years of age. The safety and effectiveness of Vaxchora have not been established in pregnant or lactating people, or in immunocompromised people. No difference in adverse events were reported among HIV-positive recipients of an older formulation of the CVD 103-HgR vaccine and those who received placebo.

Precautions & Contraindications

Vaxchora is contraindicated in people with a history of severe allergic reaction to the ingredients of this or any other cholera vaccine. A study with the older formulation of CVD 103-HgR showed that concomitant use of chloroquine decreased the immune response to the vaccine; therefore, antimalarial prophylaxis with chloroquine should begin ≥10 days after administration of Vaxchora. Coadministration of mefloquine and proguanil with CVD 103-HgR did not diminish the vaccine’s immunogenicity. Antimicrobial drugs might decrease the immune response to CVD 103-HgR, so clinicians should not administer the vaccine to patients who have received antibiotics in the previous 14 days.

Vaxchora might be shed in the stool for ≥7 days, and the vaccine strain could be transmitted to nonvaccinated close contacts. Clinicians and travelers should use caution when considering whether to use the vaccine in people with close contacts who are immunocompromised.

CDC website: Cholera

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Hammad S. N’cho, Karen K. Wong, Eric D. Mintz

Bibliography

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cholera and Other Vibrio Illness Surveillance (COVIS) System. 2020. Available from: www.cdc.gov/vibrio/surveillance.html .

Chen WH, Cohen MB, Kirkpatrick BD, Brady RC, Galloway D, Gurwith M, et al. Single-dose live oral cholera vaccine CVD 103-HgR protects against human experimental infection with Vibrio cholerae O1 El Tor. Clin Infect Dis. 2016;62(11):1329–35.

Danzig L, editor. Vaxchora clinical data summary. Meeting of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices; February 24, 2016; Atlanta, GA. Freedman DO. Re-born in the USA: another cholera vaccine for travelers. Travel Med Infect Dis. 2016; 14(4):295–6.

Harris JB, LaRocque RC, Qadri F, Ryan ET, Calderwood SB. Cholera. Lancet. 2012;379(9835):2466–76.

Kollaritsch H, Que JU, Kunz C, Wiedermann G, Herzog C, Cryz SJ, Jr. Safety and immunogenicity of live oral cholera and typhoid vaccines administered alone or in combination with antimalarial drugs, oral polio vaccine, or yellow fever vaccine. J Infect Dis. 1997;175(4):871–5.

Schilling KA, Cartwright EJ, Stamper J, Locke M, Esposito DH, Balaban V, et al. Diarrheal illness among US residents providing medical services in Haiti during the cholera epidemic, 2010–2011. J Travel Med. 2014;21(1):55–7.

Wong KK, Burdette E, Mahon BE, Mintz ED, Ryan ET, Reingold RL. Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices for use of cholera vaccine. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2017;66(18):482–5.

Wong KK, Mahon BE, Reingold A. CVD 103-HgR vaccine for travelers. Travel Med Infect Dis. 2016;14(6):632–3.

World Health Organization. Cholera 2019. Wkly Epidemiol Rec. 2020;37:441–8.

File Formats Help:

• Adobe PDF file
• Microsoft PowerPoint file
• Microsoft Word file
• Microsoft Excel file
• Audio/Video file
• Apple Quicktime file
• RealPlayer file
• Zip Archive file

An official website of the United States government

Here's how you know

The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

The site is secure. A lock ( ) or https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

Keyboard Navigation

• Agriculture and Food Security
• Anti-Corruption
• Conflict Prevention and Stabilization
• Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance
• Economic Growth and Trade
• Environment, Energy, and Infrastructure
• Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment
• Global Health
• Humanitarian Assistance
• Innovation, Technology, and Research
• Water and Sanitation
• Burkina Faso
• Central Africa Regional
• Central African Republic
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• East Africa Regional
• Power Africa
• Republic of the Congo
• Sahel Regional
• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• South Sudan
• Southern Africa Regional
• West Africa Regional
• Afghanistan
• Central Asia Regional
• Indo-Pacific
• Kyrgyz Republic
• Pacific Islands
• Philippines
• Regional Development Mission for Asia
• Timor-Leste
• Turkmenistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Central America and Mexico Regional Program
• Dominican Republic
• Eastern and Southern Caribbean
• El Salvador
• Middle East Regional Platform
• West Bank and Gaza
• Dollars to Results
• Data Resources
• Strategy & Planning
• Budget & Spending
• Performance and Financial Reporting
• FY 2023 Agency Financial Report
• Records and Reports
• Budget Justification
• Our Commitment to Transparency
• Policy and Strategy
• How to Work with USAID
• Find a Funding Opportunity
• Organizations That Work With USAID
• Resources for Partners
• Get involved
• Business Forecast
• Safeguarding and Compliance
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility
• Mission, Vision and Values
• News & Information
• Operational Policy (ADS)
• Organization
• Stay Connected
• USAID History
• Video Library
• Coordinators
• Nondiscrimination Notice and Civil Rights
• Collective Bargaining Agreements
• Disabilities Employment Program
• Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey
• Reasonable Accommodations
• Urgent Hiring Needs
• Vacancy Announcements
• Search Search Search

FACT SHEET: United States Response to the Clade I Mpox Outbreak in Several African Countries

On August 14, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern about the upsurge of mpox cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and a growing number of countries in Africa. This announcement followed the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention’s (Africa CDC) declaration of a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security on August 13. The significant increase of clade I mpox cases, in both endemic countries (those that have previously had mpox outbreaks) and non-endemic countries (those that have historically not reported mpox outbreaks), threatens the health security of the region, as well as countries outside Africa. In addition, clade I mpox has a newer sub-clade referred to as clade Ib. Both clade Ia and clade Ib are circulating in DRC and have been detected in neighboring countries and in Sweden and Thailand (one case each associated with travel to Africa with known clade I cases).

In 2022, the world experienced a global outbreak of clade IIb mpox, which led to more than 95,000 cases across 115 non-endemic countries and continues to occur in the United States. The Biden-Harris Administration responded by ensuring the JYNNEOS mpox vaccine was available to at-risk populations in the U.S.

In February, as the clade I mpox outbreak grew in DRC, the Biden-Harris Administration established an incident response structure across federal departments and agencies to ensure a coordinated response and to take a proactive approach to U.S. domestic preparedness for potential clade I mpox cases. Clade I mpox causes a higher number of severe infections and has a higher mortality rate than clade IIb mpox. Because evidence for clade I mpox clinical outcomes is based primarily on data from endemic countries without widespread supportive care, particularly DRC, we do not yet know how clade I mpox would impact Americans; we do expect it would cause lower morbidity and mortality in the United States.

UNITED STATES PREPAREDNESS FOR CLADE I MPOX

The Biden-Harris Administration has been closely monitoring the spread of mpox, specifically clade I mpox, and has been working since December 2023 to prepare domestically. The risk to most Americans from clade I mpox circulating in Central and Eastern Africa and the travel associated cases outside of Africa is very low, and there are no known cases in the United States at this time. The United States is well prepared to rapidly detect, contain, and manage clade I cases should they occur domestically.

The United States continues to increase our capacity to detect cases of clade I and clade IIb mpox through existing surveillance systems, including wastewater testing, and through expanding the robust diagnostic testing capacity built during the ongoing clade IIb outbreak to ensure coverage for clade I. The ability to expedite such diagnostic testing—in particular for those with recent travel to DRC or neighboring countries—also supports rapid detection. In addition to reaffirming the importance of mpox vaccination for those who are eligible , we are working to prevent the spread of both clades of mpox by providing and disseminating recommendations for clinicians, health departments, diagnostic laboratories, and the public.

From August 2022 to August 2024, the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), part of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), distributed more than one million vials of the JYNNEOS vaccine across the United States to mitigate the spread and severity of the clade II mpox outbreak. In addition to the preventive vaccine, partners across the U.S. government are working to better understand the effectiveness of existing treatments for mpox and have treatment options available in the event that clade I mpox is reported in the United States. The United States will continue to provide information to the public on transmission, prevention, and treatment of mpox. Those who have already had clade IIb mpox or who are fully vaccinated against it are expected to be protected against clade I mpox.

CDC has issued an updated Health Alert Network advisory for clinicians and public health departments and partners, as well as an updated Travel Health Notice , recommending travelers to DRC and neighboring countries to practice enhanced precautions. Through the State Department, our embassies are working to keep U.S. citizens abroad informed of these updates. At this time, CDC and WHO do not discourage travel to DRC or elsewhere due to the mpox outbreaks.

UNITED STATES SUPPORT TO THE GLOBAL MPOX OUTBREAK

The U.S. government has been closely monitoring the spread of clade I mpox in DRC and the risk to neighboring countries since 2023, and we have been working closely with the affected country governments and regional and global health partners to reduce the impact of this outbreak and safeguard public health. The U.S. government support for the mpox response builds on our longstanding partnerships in global health security and development with DRC and throughout Africa, which have helped to combat infectious diseases, such as HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria for more than 20 years. In fiscal year 2023, the United States allocated more than $2.65 billion in bilateral health funding to countries in Central and Eastern Africa and is the largest global health donor.

Since March 2024, USAID and CDC together have provided an additional $20 million to support clade I mpox response efforts in Central and Eastern Africa, and on August 20, USAID announced up to an additional $35 million in emergency health assistance to bolster response efforts, pending Congressional Notification, bringing the proposed total U.S. government financial support for DRC and other affected countries in the region to more than $55 million.

In addition to direct financial support, the United States government is surging staff to support the mpox response. More than 200 staff including epidemiologists, laboratorians, and risk communication experts have been deployed to support response efforts in the United States and Africa. United States government support has focused on a range of critical public health interventions aimed at limiting transmission and reducing mpox morbidity and mortality. These interventions include surveillance with deployment of additional local field epidemiologists, risk communication and community engagement, laboratory supplies and diagnostics, infection prevention and control, clinical services, and vaccine planning.

In addition to scaling up surveillance, testing, and treatment of cases, vaccination will be a critical element of the response to this outbreak. Successful vaccination campaigns will require health workers to provide vaccinations, financial support to roll out vaccine and vaccination supplies, and regulatory approval for use of vaccines in affected countries. To support this effort, USAID is donating 50,000 doses of the FDA-approved JYNNEOS vaccine to DRC, as well as financial support for rollout of the vaccine doses. The United States is working with other countries that have vaccine stockpiles, WHO, and international partners to encourage additional donations that support vaccine efforts and address challenges with vaccine delivery. This includes evaluating vaccine demand, supporting country engagement on regulatory pathways, planning vaccine implementation, and providing technical assistance to deliver the vaccines.

The United States is working with bilateral, multilateral, and private sector partners to develop and implement a coordinated response – including encouraging collaboration between WHO and Africa CDC on their response plans. The United States, through the State Department, will continue working through the U.S.-Africa CDC Joint Action Plan adopted in November 2023 to increase African Union Member States’ capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to health emergencies.

The Biden-Harris Administration will continue its whole-of-government response to this growing outbreak, building on lessons learned from the 2022 mpox response. To learn more about mpox, signs and symptoms, treatments, and prevention, please visit the CDC website here .

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

• Global (EN)
• Albania (en)
• Algeria (fr)
• Argentina (es)
• Armenia (en)
• Australia (en)
• Austria (de)
• Austria (en)
• Azerbaijan (en)
• Bahamas (en)
• Bahrain (en)
• Bangladesh (en)
• Barbados (en)
• Belgium (en)
• Belgium (nl)
• Bermuda (en)
• Bosnia and Herzegovina (en)
• Brasil (pt)
• Brazil (en)
• British Virgin Islands (en)
• Bulgaria (en)
• Cambodia (en)
• Cameroon (fr)
• Canada (en)
• Canada (fr)
• Cayman Islands (en)
• Channel Islands (en)
• Colombia (es)
• Costa Rica (es)
• Croatia (en)
• Cyprus (en)
• Czech Republic (cs)
• Czech Republic (en)
• DR Congo (fr)
• Denmark (da)
• Denmark (en)
• Ecuador (es)
• Estonia (en)
• Estonia (et)
• Finland (fi)
• France (fr)
• Georgia (en)
• Germany (de)
• Germany (en)
• Gibraltar (en)
• Greece (el)
• Greece (en)
• Hong Kong SAR (en)
• Hungary (en)
• Hungary (hu)
• Iceland (is)
• Indonesia (en)
• Ireland (en)
• Isle of Man (en)
• Israel (en)
• Ivory Coast (fr)
• Jamaica (en)
• Jordan (en)
• Kazakhstan (en)
• Kazakhstan (kk)
• Kazakhstan (ru)
• Kuwait (en)
• Latvia (en)
• Latvia (lv)
• Lebanon (en)
• Lithuania (en)
• Lithuania (lt)
• Luxembourg (en)
• Macau SAR (en)
• Malaysia (en)
• Mauritius (en)
• Mexico (es)
• Moldova (en)
• Monaco (en)
• Monaco (fr)
• Mongolia (en)
• Montenegro (en)
• Mozambique (en)
• Myanmar (en)
• Namibia (en)
• Netherlands (en)
• Netherlands (nl)
• New Zealand (en)
• Nigeria (en)
• North Macedonia (en)
• Norway (nb)
• Pakistan (en)
• Panama (es)
• Philippines (en)
• Poland (en)
• Poland (pl)
• Portugal (en)
• Portugal (pt)
• Romania (en)
• Romania (ro)
• Saudi Arabia (en)
• Serbia (en)
• Singapore (en)
• Slovakia (en)
• Slovakia (sk)
• Slovenia (en)
• South Africa (en)
• Sri Lanka (en)
• Sweden (sv)
• Switzerland (de)
• Switzerland (en)
• Switzerland (fr)
• Taiwan (en)
• Taiwan (zh)
• Thailand (en)
• Trinidad and Tobago (en)
• Tunisia (en)
• Tunisia (fr)
• Turkey (en)
• Turkey (tr)
• Ukraine (en)
• Ukraine (ru)
• Ukraine (uk)
• United Arab Emirates (en)
• United Kingdom (en)
• United States (en)
• Uruguay (es)
• Uzbekistan (en)
• Uzbekistan (ru)
• Venezuela (es)
• Vietnam (en)
• Vietnam (vi)
• Zambia (en)
• Zimbabwe (en)
• Financial Reporting View
• Women's Leadership
• Corporate Finance
• Board Leadership
• Executive Education

Fresh thinking and actionable insights that address critical issues your organization faces.

• Insights by Industry
• Insights by Topic

KPMG's multi-disciplinary approach and deep, practical industry knowledge help clients meet challenges and respond to opportunities.

• Advisory Services
• Audit Services
• Tax Services

Services to meet your business goals

Technology Alliances

KPMG has market-leading alliances with many of the world's leading software and services vendors.

Helping clients meet their business challenges begins with an in-depth understanding of the industries in which they work. That’s why KPMG LLP established its industry-driven structure. In fact, KPMG LLP was the first of the Big Four firms to organize itself along the same industry lines as clients.

• Our Industries

How We Work

We bring together passionate problem-solvers, innovative technologies, and full-service capabilities to create opportunity with every insight.

• What sets us apart

Careers & Culture

What is culture? Culture is how we do things around here. It is the combination of a predominant mindset, actions (both big and small) that we all commit to every day, and the underlying processes, programs and systems supporting how work gets done.

Relevant Results

Sorry, there are no results matching your search., a familiar position: m&a trends in travel, leisure, and hospitality.

Gain key insights for future TLH M&A success as dealmakers navigate rate uncertainty, harness tech, and prioritize sustainability.

As the travel, leisure, and hospitality (TLH) sector navigates a challenging dealmaking landscape, lodging operators are finding that a strong commitment to sustainability can set them apart from competitors and attract favorable attention from investors. Companies that prioritize sustainability are poised to gain, given tighter regulatory scrutiny and growing consumer demand for eco-friendly travel options.

Here are some key trends and insights from the second quarter:

• Eco-friendly operators are challenging established companies as hotels rank among the highest-consumption property users of energy, water, and waste.
• M&A activity remained muted due to uncertainty about interest rate cuts and high inflation, resulting in a significant drop in total deal value despite a small increase in volume. TLH deal volume in the hospitality and leisure segment reached 406 deals, pushing overall deal volume for the sector 8 percent higher, while deal value declined 34 percent.
• Travel deal volume and value declined to levels not seen this decade, with the largest deal being American Express Global Business Travel's $600 million acquisition of CWT US.
• Investors are exploring ways to quantify the contribution of sustainability efforts to future investment returns and assess potential risks, as stricter U.S. rules and disclosure requirements gain attention.

As we move forward, the TLH sector must navigate key considerations such as the timing of interest rate easing, the impact of technology, and the gaming segment's multimodal revolution to position itself for success. Download our paper, A familiar position: M&A trends in travel, leisure, and hospitality, to gain insights on M&A in the TLH sector.

Dive into our thinking:

A familiar position

Explore more

KPMG Value Creation

Leverage better and faster insights to uncover opportunities for value throughout the deal.

Deal speed with great value and insight​

We guide you through every step of the M&A lifecycle.​

Subscribe to M&A Spotlight

KPMG Deal Advisory distributes a wide selection of thought leadership that highlights the latest M&A issues and trends.

Meet our team

By submitting, you agree that KPMG LLP may process any personal information you provide pursuant to KPMG LLP's Privacy Statement .

Thank you for contacting KPMG. We will respond to you as soon as possible.

Contact KPMG

Job seekers

Visit our careers section or search our jobs database.

Use the RFP submission form to detail the services KPMG can help assist you with.

Office locations

International hotline

You can confidentially report concerns to the KPMG International hotline

Press contacts

Do you need to speak with our Press Office? Here's how to get in touch.