Is Dominican Republic Safe? Risks Weighed By Travel Experts
Exploring The Caribbean Nation of The Dominican Republic: Is DR Safe?
The Dominican Republic is a tropical country in the Caribbean, sharing the island of Hispaniola with Haiti. Visitors hoping to enjoy the natural wonders and rich culture of the Dominican Republic are often concerned about risks.
Do criminals, illness, heat, or hurricanes pose a real threat to travelers? This guide details exactly what parts of the Dominican Republic are safe, where visitors might face some risks, and what steps to take to travel safely and comfortably in this beautiful country.
Are Any Specific Areas Of The Dominican Republic Unsafe?
The Dominican Republic is generally safe to visit. However, the Canadian and United States governments both encourage their citizens to “exercise increased caution” when traveling to DR. Both Canada and the U.S. State Departments have issued “Level 2” travel advisories, which indicate a country poses mildly elevated risk to travelers, but does not restrict travel.
Canadian and US citizens should regularly check their nations’ travel advisory websites to stay up to date.
Is Punta Cana Safe to Visit Right Now?
Yes, Punta Cana is generally safe for visitors. It is a popular resort area, and the region’s hotels and resorts employ more security and medical personnel than the average locale.
Is Santo Domingo Safe?
As the capital of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo is a bustling metropolitan. It has a higher crime rate than the resort regions of the country. It’s also the site of political protests.
That said, the most common crime reported by travelers is petty theft. Moreover, the presence of the Politur, assigned police dedicated to protecting tourists, has effectively prevented the majority of crime from affecting visitors.
Safest & Least-Safe Neighborhoods In Santo Domingo
Visitors in Santo Domingo are safest from crime in the Zona Colonial (Old Quarter). The neighborhoods of Piantini, Naco, Gazcue, and Bella Vista are also highly safe.
The least-safe neighborhoods for visitors are Cienfuegos, Los Salados, Hato del Yaque, La Yaguita de Pastor, and San Jose de las Matas.
How Safe Are The Dominican Republic Resorts and Attractions, Like Altos de Chavón?
Most resorts and attractions in the Dominican Republic are incredibly safe. Altos de Chavón is highly secure, as it is contained within the gated luxury community of Casa de Campo.
In addition to security, Altos de Chavon and similar locales take proactive measures to prevent illness. Casa de Campo sprays insecticide daily and conducts routine pest inspections to eliminate mosquitoes carrying pathogens. Resorts also use best practices when preparing food and drinks, such as making ice with purified water rather than tap.
How Safe Is Salvaleón de Higüey, La Altagracia In DR?
Salvaleón de Higüey is safe for travelers during the day. In general, it is only wise to visit at night in a large group, with vetted, personal transportation.
That said, during the day, crowds on public transit, and at popular attractions like Basilica Nuestra Señora De La Altagracia, do pose some risk of petty theft. This risk can be mitigated with appropriate precautions.
Which Areas Are The Least Safe? Border Towns and Rural Jungles
In terms of the risk of crime, the least-safe areas of the Dominican Republic are those near the Haitian border. Travelers are advised to refrain from going anywhere 10 kilometers or closer to the border.
Regarding mosquito-borne illness, the greatest risk is in rural regions with dense jungle ecosystems. To avoid mosquitos, stick to cities and resorts, which regularly spray mosquito repellent and insecticide to keep them at bay.
Locales in central mountain ranges, particularly elevated towns, also host fewer mosquitos due to the mountain’s ecosystem.
Dominican Republic Safety Strategies, Tips, And Tricks
Travel authorities offer strategies, tips, and tricks to tour the Dominican Republic safely. When advisories recommend increased caution, they encourage visitors to take the following safety measures.
1. Prevent Illness With Purified (Bottled) Water, Vaccines & Insect Repellent
Tap water in the Dominican Republic can cause illness. So, it’s important to purchase bottled, purified water. Currently, a 1.5 liter bottle of water costs about $0.62 – $1.20 in USD, depending on where it’s purchased.
The Center for Disease Control provides a list of recommended vaccines and protective measures to take to prevent contraction of the Zika virus or malaria in the Dominican Republic.
2. Travel In Groups By Well-Lit Roads
Never travel alone. Instead, travel in groups on foot or via taxis affiliated with your hotel. Guided tours are recommended. Do not use unverified taxis or Uber.
3. Conceal & Secure Valuables
Do not let purses, wallets, smartphones, or watches be easy targets for pickpockets.
4. Prioritize Secure Lodging And Transit
Hostels and public transit are not recommended in the Dominican Republic. Ensure you stay and travel using services with premium security.
5. Stay Savvy To Evade Scams, Con Artists, and ATM Fraud
Read the official Government of Canada’s advisory on the risk posed by “rogue lawyers,” con artists impersonating police, and credit card / ATM fraud to travelers in the Dominican Republic. Take precautions when interacting with unknown individuals.
6. Communicate With Professional Guides, Hotel Security, And Staff Proactively
Professionals are trained to handle complex and potentially risky situations. If you have any safety concerns—whether they’re medical, interpersonal, or crime / fraud related—bring them up with staff before they become urgent.
Remember, professionals (like Caravan’s guides) are here to help you have a safe, enjoyable trip.
7. Abide By Water Safety, Recreation, and Road Safety Rules
Most accidents in the water, on the road, or during adventures like riding dune buggies, can be avoided by following directions. Pay attention to all signage, and listen actively to all instructions. If guidelines are unclear, please ask for clarification.
How Does Caravan Keep Travelers Safe On Our Dominican Republic Tour?
At Caravan, we believe safety is paramount when traveling. That’s why we prioritize safety and comfort in each and every one of our tour packages.
Our experts cultivate each trip by hand-picking hotels and experiences with a reputation for excellence. Every place we book for our guests has excellent security, and premium safety features to prevent illness and accidents. Our tours build in ample time to rest, safe, delicious meals, and secure transportation from one locale to the next.
Caravan’s tour of the Dominican Republic is all-inclusive. All you have to do is sign up! After that, you’re free to leave your stress at the door and enjoy.
Relax, Stay Safe, And Have Fun With Caravan’s All-Inclusive Tour
The Dominican Republic is an incredible vacation destination. And, right now, Caravan is the only travel organization offering an all-inclusive tour.
Caravan’s 7-Day Dominican Republic Tour is the only one of its kind. No other travel organization offers the unique access to, and experience of, the best of the Dominican Republic.
Join us, and enjoy an all-inclusive tour where everything’s ready for you. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the trip of a lifetime—at a truly affordable price!
If you’re interested in learning more about the Dominican Republic, or any other destination, call us at toll-free at 1-800-CARAVAN. Or, book your place today by calling 1 (312) 321-9800.
