Getting Around In The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a popular travel destination. Once people fly in, they have a few different options for getting around. In this guide, discover the best transit options for your trip. 

How Much Should Travelers Plan To Spend on Dominican Republic Transportation? 

For most trips, two people spending a week in the Dominican Republic will spend between $11 – $50 on transportation. However, if you’re taking a private cab long distances, or if you choose high-end transit options like chauffeured luxury sedans and limousines, expect to pay more, 

Which Modes of Transportation are Most Affordable?

There are three highly cost-effective transit options in the Dominican Republic: 

  • Guaguas (i.e. public minibuses or vans)
    • Typically travel between cities rather than within them
    • Budget-friendly, but crowded
  • Carros Públicos (i.e. shared taxis)
    • Have a fixed route within a city
    • Less crowded, but not private
  • Motoconchos (i.e. motorcycle taxis)
    • Fastest of the affordable options
    • Bumpier and a bit riskier than alternatives

What Is Public Transportation In The Dominican Republic Like?

Public transportation includes inter-city metro buses, local buses, minibuses, and taxis. Some are municipal, but most are privately owned and operated. 

The Dominican Republic has few rapid transit options. Currently, the Santo Domingo Metro is the only one up and running. It has both elevated and underground rails, 16 stations, and it runs from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM. 

Plans are underway to build a rail connecting Punta Cana to Santo Domingo, and to build a light rail system in Santiago de los Caballeros. 

Does The Dominican Republic Have Uber or Taxis?

Yes. All major cities in the Dominican Republic have Ubers and traditional taxis. Other popular ride sharing apps in the country include DiDi Rider, inDrive, and Cabify.

Note that DiDi drivers and traditional taxis usually prefer cash payments. Negotiating and haggling is expected, particularly in Punta Cana. In contrast to cabs in the U.S., taxis in the Dominican Republic typically charge a flat rate per trip.

Is Uber In The Dominican Republic Reliable?

Mm, yes and no. Ubers are usually available quickly in major cities. However, during the busiest hours, there may be fewer cars than there are travelers who want them. High-demand periods drive up the prices and increase wait times. 

Moreover, Uber’s interface in the Dominican Republic can be challenging for drivers. Some drivers prefer working with cash for this reason. 

Taxis Vs. Uber In The Dominican Republic: Scams & Regulations

Unfortunately, a percentage of people using Uber in DR report being met with scammers or drivers aggressively pushing for cash tips. 

To avoid these problems, consider prioritizing taxis over Uber. Authorized taxis are clearly marked with IDs, and they’re regulated by the National Institute of Land Transportation and Transit (INTRANT). This ensures a baseline of vehicle safety and reasonable fares. Recognizable taxi brands like Apollo and Aerot are more reliable than Uber. 

What’s The Best Mode of Transportation In Santo Domingo?

For quality, the best mode of transportation in Santo Domingo is a private van, luxury SUV, or limousine service. Professionally chauffeured private vehicles have preset rates, so no negotiation is required. The vans themselves are spacious and well-maintained, with amenities like air conditioning, trunk space for luggage, and leather seats—qualities absent from the average Uber or budget taxi car.

Often, companies offer features like bottled water, free wifi, and even champagne to beat their competition.  

A private van typically costs $110 for a round trip to and from the Punta Cana airport. A round trip in a luxury SUV runs around $195. A private car transfer from Santo Domingo to Higuey costs between $40 – $150, depending on the type of vehicle chosen and the time of day. 

Guagua Dominicana (Minibuses) Vs. Dominican Taxi: Safety, Cost & Availability

Minibuses and taxis are fairly similarly in terms of safety in the Dominican Republic. Traffic accidents, scams, and pickpockets can be risks of each. Minibuses can also risk overcrowding. The safest options are reputable, well-regulated brands. 

Guaguas are definitely cheaper than taxis. But, fortunately, both options are fairly affordable for most travelers

Guaguas are also more widely available than taxis. There’s an extensive minibus network throughout the Dominican Republic. It’s easier to catch a ride on a guagua quickly, particularly if you’re outside the biggest cities.  

Make Travel Simple With Caravan

Planning for transportation in a country you’ve never visited before is challenging. On a Caravan tour, that stress vanishes. Our travel directors hand pick the best transport options for every leg of the journey. 

Caravn’s weeklong Dominican Republic Tour is all-inclusive: everything from premium cars to gourmet meals to elegant accommodations is ready and waiting for our guests. 

If you’re interested in booking your ticket, call us at 1-800-CARAVAN. 

/by