Dominican Republic Travel Advisory (2024)

FAQs

Is it safe to travel to the Dominican Republic right now? ›

Dominican Republic - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

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.

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.

Key Takeaways: Punta Cana offers a more intimate and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a serene getaway. Cancun is known for its vibrant nightlife and bustling tourist scene. Punta Cana has a lower crime rate compared to Cancun, making it a safer choice for some travelers.

Safety Considerations for Travelers

Mexico has a lower absolute crime rate (54) than the Dominican Republic (61), so on a numbers basis you're safer in Mexico. However, in both cases, if you keep to the resort or stay in the tourist areas, you're unlikely to encounter a problem.

Level 2 encourages "increased caution." The Dominican Republic, the State Department says, is generally safe to those sticking to popular resort areas like Punta Cana and La Romana but remains a risk due to instances of "violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault" in the country overall.

Punta Cana is one of the safest vacation spots in the Caribbean. Tourists should feel comfortable traveling outside of the hotel zone. However, petty theft (especially of cell phones, according to some) does sometimes occur, so you should be careful when carrying valuables with you.

Danger level: 3 - Travel with high caution.

Most resort areas are now safer for tourists to visit thanks to the establishment of a 911 system, a professional tourist police force, and numerous resources. However, it is imperative to exercise caution when entering cities.

Is Jamaica on the do not travel list? ›

Jamaica - Level 3: Reconsider Travel. Reconsider travel to Jamaica due to crime and medical services.

Level 4 – Do Not Travel

Level 4 is the highest security level due to life-threatening risks, such as nuclear terrorism threats, ongoing rebellions, war, and bombings.

The answer is a resounding yes! When planning a vacation to the stunning beach destination of Punta Cana, many travelers often ask us, “Is it safe to leave the resort in Punta Cana?”. The answer is a resounding yes!

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.

US State Dept Travel Advisory

The US State Department currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.

Land and sea borders between the Dominican Republic and Haiti are closed. Military and police roadblocks are common in the border area. The roadblocks can appear to be unofficial, although the soldiers do wear army uniform and carry weapons.

Illegal drugs, animal, horticultural and agricultural products are prohibited. The prescription medication you bring for personal use should be in its original container. Find out what items you can bring home with you and in what quantities by reading the information on customs and duty for your own country.