How to Prepare for a Trip to Punta Cana -
Travel Check-List 2024

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1. Look Into the Weather Forecast

7-Day Weather Forecast, Punta Cana

Punta Cana 7 Day Weather Forecast
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2. Book Your Perfect Accomodation

Check the best Punta Cana villas or apartments

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3. Choose the Best Activities & Tours

Check the best tours (view all excursions →)

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4. Get Your Activities Calendar for Free

We can organize whatever you and your budget desire. Save your time and money and get everything you need in one place. Just send us your inquiry and we will organize your unforgettable vacation!

Example of Personal Vacation Plan

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    5. Double-Check Your Packing List

    Don’t forget to include some important things to your luggage! Travelers who are going on a trip to Punta Cana should consider such factors as weather conditions, tropical climate and availability of products and medications in this area.

    • Sunglasses
    • Mosquito Repellent
    • Brimmed hat
    • Light, airy clothing
    • Beach sandals
    • Basic medications
    • Two swim suits
    • Single dollar bills
    • Waterproof case
    • Plug adapter
    • Power bank
    • Baby food

    Here is a small article about what to pack for Punta Cana →

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    6. Check All the Required Documents

    Correct documents and permissions are essential when traveling to the Dominican Republic. Here’s a list from most to least necessary:

    Passport Ensure it has at least six months of validity from your planned departure date.
    Tourist Card / Visa Citizens of Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Israel, Japan, Perú,South Korea, and Uruguay do not need a visa or tourist card. Citizens from countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and a list of European countries do not need a visa but a tourist card to enter. You can stay up to 30 days in the Dominican Republic with a tourist card. Other visitors may need to obtain a visa. Please, check the Dominican Republic’s official government website for the most accurate information.
    Return or Onward Flight Ticket Although not always checked, it’s essential to have proof of your intent to leave the country, which could be a return or onward flight ticket.
    Travel Insurance This isn’t mandatory, but it’s highly recommended for dealing with any potential medical emergencies or travel disruptions.
    Driver’s License / International Driving Permit If you plan to rent a car, you’ll need your driver’s license and possibly an International Driving Permit, depending on your country of origin.

    Here You can read more about passport and visa requirements to the DR

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    7. Check Your Insurance Coverage

    There is no obligation to have medical insurance to visit the Dominican Republic. However, you need insurance policies to get medical care on time.

    Moreover, medical care here is expensive in the DR. The bill can range from $300 to several thousand dollars, depending on the case’s complexity. And with local insurance, coverage can be up to 100% for emergencies.

    So, we strongly recomment to have medical insurance.

    Most insurance policies start working in a month. Therefore, it is recommended to insure your trip in your home country before you leave.

    Often you will be asked to pay the bill first and then request reimbursement from the insurance company, especially when you cannot contact the insurance office because of the time difference.

    Packaged tourist trips include some insurance, but the coverage and terms vary. We recommend you clarify this with your tour provider. If insurance is not included, it is better to arrange for additional coverage yourself.

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    8. Fill Out E-ticket in Advance

    All travelers must complete an e-ticket before arriving or departing the Dominican Republic. The e-ticket collects data for immigration, customs, and health information, providing authorities with the data required for entry and exit procedures and public health security.

    The E-Ticket makes travel easier in many ways:

    • It combines migration service documents, customs declarations, and traveler’s medical certificate into one copy, simplifying your life.
    • Reduce airport wait time. Fill out digital forms before the trip, anywhere and anytime, for faster processes upon arrival and departure.
    • In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, having a digital form reduces the need for physical contact and paper exchange.

    The QR code is strictly required to board the flight. You can read here FAQ about e-ticket

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    9. Plan to Visit Great Local Restaurants

    Punta Cana is rich in local restaurants and street food stands. Here you will find a rich tapestry of world cuisines emphasizing fresh vegetables, fruits, and seafood that will delight the taste buds of travelers worldwide.

    La Bruja Chupadora Here you'll find a vibrant mix of Caribbean, grill, modern, gastropub, South American, Latin, and barbecue cuisine. Delicious food and cosu atmosphere. ... Show all ↓

    Top Noah Restaurant It can become your go-to spot in Punta Cana. Every dish exceeds expectations, from outstanding ribeye steaks to delicious sushi rolls. ... Show all ↓

    Jellyfish Restaurant Beautiful location with a great view of the beach. We highly recommend the tuna tartare and the lobster. ... Show all ↓

    La Casita de Yeya Authentic Dominican food . Prepare yourself for an authentic experience, as the staff at this restaurant may not speak English, adding to the charm of immersing yourself in the local culture ... Show all ↓

    SBG Punta Cana One of the most beautiful restaurantsin Punta Cana. Good music is playing, stylish and well-balanced cocktails, impressive wine list and delicious food. ... Show all ↓

    Citrus Fusion Cuisine Chill, modern, and clean space with fantastic service and a great selection of meals. ... Show all ↓

    You can learn more here about top places to eat in Punta Cana →

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    10. List of Emergency Contacts

    To contact the English-speaking tourist police (POLITUR), dial +1-809-200-3500. In case of an emergency, dial 911.
    However, please note that 911 services may not have complete coverage across the country. If you are unable to reach 911, contact the tourist police for assistance.

    Punta Cana Clinics Contacts

    Name Address Phone
    Medintur Clínica y Laboratorio Plaza Friusa, Av. España, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic +1 809-831-3949
    Medic Service Punta Cana Plaza Roque, Avenida Barceló KM1, 1er. Nivel, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic +1 809-831-1676
    Punta Cana Doctors Edificio Las Arenas, blvd. 1ro. de Noviembre 303, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic +1 809-959-4002
    Hospiten Bavaro Carretera Verón-Bávaro, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic +1 809-686-1414
    Centro Medico Punta Cana Av. España, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic +1 809-552-1616

    Here you can get medical care at no cost, even without insurance – Hospital General Y De Especialidades Nuestra Señora De La Altagracia (HGENSA). Address: Av. Juan XXIII 175, Higüey 23000, Rep. Dom. Phone: +1 (809) 933-3506. But Public clinics are usually under-equipped, and finding a doctor who speaks English takes time and effort. Therefore, we strongly recommend getting private health insurance.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the best month to go to Punta Cana?

    It is absolutely from March to May. The average temperature during this time ranges from 26°C to 29°C, providing ideal conditions for your vacations. If you prefer a quiet experience and don’t mind occasional rain, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (from October to February). The weather is generally lovely during this period, and you’ll likely find lower prices and fewer tourists.

    How to complete an e-ticket to Punta Cana?

    This procedure is as simple as possible. You need to visit an electronic travel document portal and fill out the form step by step.

    What do I need to do before traveling to Punta Cana?

    Here is a 10-step onboarding checklist to assess your readiness for traveling to Punta Cana.

    1. Look into the weather forecast
    2. Book lovely accommodation
    3. Check all the required documents
    4. Fill out the e-ticket in advance
    5. Take mosquito repellent and sunglasses
    6. Choose activities & tours
    7. Check your insurance coverage
    8. Get your activities calendar
    9. Choose the restaurants to visit
    10. Make a list of emergency contacts

    How can I avoid getting sick in Punta Cana?

    In addition to standard hygiene practices, such as refraining from eating unwashed fruit, washing your hands before meals, and avoiding sitting directly under air conditioning, strive to stay well-hydrated. Ensure to drink plenty of bottled water and steer clear of tap water.

    Also, apply an insect repellent suitable for your skin type to prevent mosquito bites. Use high-SPF sunscreen, and don’t forget to bring sunglasses with high-quality lenses.

    Is E-ticket required for the Dominican Republic?

    Of course, all visitors entering the Dominican Republic on commercial flights are required to complete an electronic entry and exit form, which is free of charge.

    How much is the Dominican e-ticket cost?

    This is a free electronic travel document for entering and leaving the Dominican Republic. There is no fee required.

    Is there a fee to enter Punta Cana?

    Yes, all tourists entering the Dominican Republic pay a cash entry fee of US $10, except for those arriving by air as the fee is now included in the airfare.
    However, if you are entering via Haiti, Cuba, or another Caribbean location, please be prepared to pay the fee.

    What can you not bring into Dominican Republic?

    Do NOT bring illegal drugs, animal products, and agricultural items. All drug offenses carry severe penalties.

    When should I fill out my e-ticket for the Dominican Republic?

    It is advisable to fill out the form 72 hours before arrival in the Dominican Republic and immediately before going through immigration control.

    What documents do I need to enter the Dominican Republic?

    The required documents list depends on which country you are a citizen of. Here is the most common package of documents relevant to citizens of the United States and most European countries.

    • a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months and with blank pages
    • a tourist card
    • E-ticket

    Do I need to test for Covid before flying to Dominican Republic?

    From February 16, 2022, all COVID-19 measures, including mandatory mask wearing, social distancing, and proof of vaccination for public spaces and private spaces for public use, were immediately suspended.

    Do you need a QR code to leave the Dominican Republic?

    Yes, the QR code is necessary for boarding the flight. After completing the E-ticket form, you will receive two QR codes—one for entry and another for departure.

    What is the rainy season in Punta Cana?

    Contrary to common belief, Punta Cana doesn’t really experience a traditional rainy season. While there might be occasional rains in May, they aren’t typically substantial enough to disrupt your travel plans.

    What is storm season in Punta Cana?

    Severe hurricanes in Punta Cana are not a frequent occurrence, even though it is in the Atlantic hurricane belt, and technically the hurricane season lasts from June 1 to November 30.

    Mid-August to late October is traditionally the peak time for hurricanes, but the likelihood of your trip being affected is relatively low. And remember, every cloud has a downside – if you travel during this less predictable period, you can take advantage of fewer tourists and potentially more competitive prices.

    In addition, modern technology allows for accurate hurricane prediction, giving you plenty of time to change your travel plans if necessary. We also recommend you consider travel insurance, which covers weather-related disruptions.

    How much cash do I need to take to the Dominican Republic?

    To enjoy a comfortable vacation in the Dominican resorts, you should budget around $800 for a week, accommodating two people. This amount covers various expenses such as meals ($350), two excursions ($160-180), shopping and souvenirs ($120), as well as three to four taxi rides ($150).

    Please ensure that you convert large denominations of money into smaller bills ranging from $1 to $50

    How much do I have to pay if I overstay in the Dominican Republic?

    If you fail to request an extension of your stay, you will be subject to a fine when you leave the country. These fines vary depending on the duration of your overstay. For stays of up to one month, the fine is approximately $55 USD. However, for overstays of 10 years or more, the fine can be as high as $1,555 USD.

    Is a tourist card required for the Dominican Republic?

    Absolutely! If you’re traveling by air, you’ll typically receive a travel card along with your airline ticket. However, if you’re entering the Dominican Republic by land or water, you’ll need to apply for the card separately.

    The process usually takes just one day, and once approved, you’ll receive an email containing your travel card. With this card, you can enjoy a legal stay in the Dominican Republic for a maximum duration of 30 days.

    Are beaches free in Punta Cana?

    Yes, you can enjoy beautiful beaches without paying an entrance fee. However, some beachfront resorts may have private areas reserved for their guests.

    Can you swim in the ocean in Punta Cana?

    Of course, you can! That’s the whole reason for your visit. The beaches in Punta Cana are a delightful tropical paradise. Just remember to follow the safety rules for water activities, and everything will be fine.

    Which is the nicest beach in Punta Cana?

    The “best” beach definition is subjective, depending on individual preferences. However, Bavaro Beach is often considered one of the picturesque beaches in Punta Cana, known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy shores. If you are not personally impressed with Bavaro, we recommend you visit the next beaches:

    • Macao Beach. The stunning and less crowded beach offers a more serene atmosphere and natural beauty, making it a favorite spot for surfers.
    • Playa Blanca. It is located within the Punta Cana Resort & Club. Playa Blanca is a secluded, idyllic beach known for its pristine beauty and calm waters.
    • Juanillo Beach. In Cap Cana, Juanillo Beach boasts turquoise waters, soft sands, and a tranquil ambiance, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and water activities.
    • Cabeza de Toro Beach. Known for its peaceful and laid-back environment, Cabeza de Toro Beach offers calm waters and a quieter beach experience away from bustling crowds.

    Should I bring pesos to Punta Cana?

    It is advisable to travel to the Dominican Republic with American dollars, as they are widely accepted. This will make it easier for you to handle transactions, especially in tourist areas like Punta Cana.

    However, it is recommended to visit an exchange place upon arrival to obtain the local currency, which is the Dominican peso. Having the local currency will allow you to make purchases and access services more conveniently during your stay.

    Is it safe to leave Punta Cana Resort?

    Visiting Punta Cana is perfectly safe. Just like when you’re traveling to any new destination, it’s important to take the same precautions you would take at home or when exploring unfamiliar places around the world.
    Explore Punta Cana with enthusiasm, this beautiful place offers so much, from stunning beaches to vibrant culture.

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