Tips and recommendations for healthy travel to top destinations
Learn more about your flu vaccine options
Learn more about the travel visa requirements for top destinations
The Dominican Republic is known to have it all. From its beautiful beaches to its vibrant culture, there is no surprise why so many choose to vacation there.
It is widely known for its friendly and welcoming people. Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Samaná, Puerto Plata, and La Romana are the most popular cities for tourists to visit. Tourists choose to stay in resorts and hotels for safety. The country is also popular for its destination weddings and honeymoons.
For historians and history lovers alike, the Dominican Republic has a lot to offer. The Colonial Zone’s architecture in the capital gives a sense that you have traveled to Spain. Ciudad Colonial is the oldest standing European settlement of the New World. Thus a central historic neighborhood in the oldest city of the New World, Santo Domingo.
Whether you are looking for a romantic escape, a relaxing vacation or a thrilling adventure, the Dominican Republic has it all.
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Dominican Republic. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccines for Dominican Republic: typhoid, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, and influenza.
Some areas of the Dominican Republic are known to have malaria. Be sure to speak with a travel health specialist about the possible need for antimalarials.
Zika is also a risk in country. The CDC recommends women who are pregnant or may become pregnant consider the risks before traveling. The best protection against the virus is mosquito repellents and nettings.
To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now.
The Dominican Republic has had fewer cholera outbreaks than its neighbor, Haiti, but still has some risk. The CDC recommends travelers avoid unsafe food and water and receive a cholera vaccine for protection.
Passport Health’s travel clinics carry VaxChora, the only cholera vaccine approved for use in the United States. Book your cholera vaccination appointment today by calling or book online now.
Visitors to the Dominican Republic must get either a Dominican visa or buy a tourist card. This card can be bought at the airport for $10 USD once you have entered the country or online before your trip.
You do not need a visa for tourist purposes for a stay under 30 days.
For more information contact a Passport Health Passport and Visa specialist by calling 1-844-366-8472 or by filling out our online form.
As a Caribbean island, the Dominican Republic has tropical weather year-round. The temperature can span from 90°F (32°C) at noon to 70°F (21°C) at sunrise during the summer. Whereas in the winter, temperatures can go as low as 65°F (18°C). With the warmest months being between June through September.
In the more mountainous areas of the country the weather is cooler. Going as low as 50°F (10°C) early in the morning and even below 0° F higher up in the mountains during winter.
Tropical islands are subject to rainstorms that can occur during any time of the year. As well as hurricanes between the months of June and November. Rain falls for small periods of time in the afternoon and evening.
Within touristic areas such as resorts, hotels, and beaches the Dominican Republic is fairly safe. Outside of these areas, especially at night, take extra precautions.
Crime persists to be one of the major concerns of safety in the Dominican Republic. Crime rates tend to increase during the holiday season and during Carnival.
To stay safe in the Dominican Republic:
You can go zip lining almost anywhere in the Dominican Republic.
Compare prices before booking your zip line experience. Make sure that the operator of the zip line tour is authorized, as well. Ask questions about any concerns and what their safety record is.
Listen carefully to your zip line operator’s instructions and advice to avoid getting hurt. Keep in mind that you should avoid zip lining if you are pregnant or have any heart issues.
Be sure to wear the proper attire; such as a helmet, comfortable and closed shoes, and no dresses or skirts. The longer the pants the better as the straps may cause some discomfort against bare legs.
Often, travelers only think of bringing their swimsuit and lightweight clothing. While those items are vital to your trip, here are a few more items to consider taking with you.
If you find yourself in need of help while traveling in the Dominican Republic, there is a U.S. embassy in the capital city of Santiago.
U.S. Embassy Santo Domingo Av. República de Colombia #57 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Telephone: +(809) 567-7775 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(809) 368-7777 Email: SDOAmericans@state.gov
If you have any questions about traveling to the Dominican Republic or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now! and protect yourself today.
