Some useful information to help plan your Visit !
Climate
Situated in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic enjoys sunshine throughout the year. Whether you’re in the mountains or the cities, it’s rare to go a day without blue skies.
From December to early March—when North America and Europe experience their coldest months—the weather is especially pleasant. Mornings and evenings bring refreshing breezes, with temperatures dipping to 18°C (65°F), while daytime highs remain between 25°C (77°F) and 27°C (80°F). Higher-altitude regions like Jarabacoa and Constanza see even cooler temperatures, sometimes as low as 10°C (50°F) during the day, with occasional nighttime drops below freezing.
The warmest and most humid months span from April to October, with daytime temperatures peaking at around 32°C (90°F). Rain showers are more frequent during this period but are usually short-lived.
Hurricane Season
The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, with September being the most active month. While the Dominican Republic lies within the hurricane belt, direct hits are relatively rare—only 11 hurricanes have made landfall over the past century. Hotels and airlines closely monitor weather conditions, ensuring that travelers receive timely updates and assistance if needed.
Although the rainy season coincides with the low tourist season, this is also when you’ll find great deals on hotels and flights. Recent climate changes have resulted in hotter days and unpredictable weather patterns, but one thing remains constant: the sun always makes an appearance.
Language
Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic, and locals have a distinct accent along with unique slang and expressions. Dominicans are known for speaking quickly, often dropping syllables or letters—such as the final “s” (for example, they say “La Terrena” instead of “Las Terrenas”).
However, language barriers are minimal in tourist areas. English is widely spoken, and many hotel staff and tour guides are fluent in multiple languages, including French, Italian, German, and Russian.
Packing Essentials
Packing for the Dominican Republic depends on your itinerary. If you’re heading to the beach, bring swimwear, lightweight clothing, and a long-sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection. For city visits, opt for casual but polished outfits—shorts are not commonly worn in Santo Domingo. While it’s fine to wear a bathing suit at resorts or by the pool, avoid doing so in public places like supermarkets or restaurants.
Dominicans take pride in their appearance, particularly for evening outings, so pack a couple of stylish outfits for dining or nightlife. If you’re venturing into mountainous regions like Jarabacoa or Constanza, bring a sweater, long pants, and sturdy footwear for cooler temperatures and hiking trails.
Other must-haves include prescription medications, a high-SPF sunscreen (as local options are limited and more expensive), a hat, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, and a good book or headphones for downtime. While shopping centers offer a wide variety of products, imported items tend to be pricier.
Currency & Payments
The local currency is the Dominican peso (RD$), and exchange rates fluctuate daily. As a guide (April 2025):
- RD$100 ≈ US$1.60
- RD$500 ≈ US$8.00
- RD$1,000 ≈ US$16
US dollars and euros can be exchanged at banks and authorized currency exchange offices. Some locations also accept Canadian dollars, British pounds, Swiss francs, and other major currencies.
ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas, offering competitive exchange rates. To minimize risk, use machines inside banks, malls, or supermarkets and withdraw cash during the daytime. In Spanish, an ATM is called a “cajero.”
Tipping Culture
A 10% service charge is automatically included in restaurant bills, alongside an 18% sales tax (ITBIS). However, it’s customary to leave an additional 10% for good service.
Tipping is not expected for taxis, but if a driver provides exceptional service or assistance, a gratuity is always appreciated.
Electricity & Power Outages
The Dominican Republic operates on 110 volts, making it compatible with North American devices without an adapter. However, visitors from Europe and other 220-volt regions will need an adapter and possibly a voltage converter.
Most large hotels and resorts have backup generators in case of power outages, but smaller accommodations or rural areas may experience occasional fluctuations. To protect your electronics, use surge protectors where possible.
Health & Safety
Drinking Water
Tap water is not safe for drinking. Always opt for bottled or purified water, which is widely available in hotels, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Most hotels provide complimentary bottled water in guest rooms.
Sun Protection & Mosquitoes
The Caribbean sun is strong year-round, so wearing sunscreen—even on cloudy days—is essential. Bringing your preferred brand from home is advisable, as local options may be limited and expensive.
Mosquito repellent is another must-have, especially if you plan on hiking or visiting the countryside. Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing can also help prevent bites.
Personal Safety
As with any travel destination, basic precautions go a long way in ensuring a safe trip:
- Store your passport and valuables in a hotel safe, carrying only a copy or a smaller form of ID when exploring.
- Avoid flashy jewelry and large amounts of cash. Dress casually to blend in, especially in urban areas.
- Be mindful when using smartphones in non-tourist areas—keep them tucked away after taking photos.
- Stick to well-lit, populated areas, and use only authorized taxis or hotel-arranged transportation at night.
- If renting a car, avoid leaving valuables inside, even if security personnel are present.
- Learn a few key Spanish phrases, especially for directions or emergency situations.
Emergency Services
The Dominican Republic has modern medical facilities in major cities and tourist hubs. In case of an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.
For issues related to tourism, the Specialized Tourist Security Corps (CESTUR) provides assistance to visitors and can help file reports or address concerns.
Shopping & Business Hours
Most businesses are open from 8:30 AM to 5:00-6:00 PM on weekdays, with shorter hours on Saturdays and closures on Sundays. However, malls and supermarkets in major cities often stay open until 9:00 PM and operate on Sundays.
Restaurants generally serve food until 10:00 PM on weekdays and as late as 2:00 AM on weekends.
Public Holidays
The Dominican Republic observes 12 national holidays, with Easter and Christmas being the most widely celebrated. Many locals take extended breaks around these periods.
Major Holidays:
- January 1: New Year’s Day
- January 6: Three Kings’ Day
- January 21: Our Lady of Altagracia Day
- February 27: Independence Day
- April (varies): Good Friday (Easter Week)
- May 1: Labor Day
- August 16: Restoration of Independence Day
- December 25: Christmas Day
Communication & Internet Access
Local SIM Cards
For extended stays, purchasing a local SIM card is the most affordable way to stay connected. Claro and Altice are the primary mobile providers, and SIM cards cost around US$5, usually including a small amount of credit. You’ll need an unlocked phone and a passport to purchase one.
Wi-Fi Availability
Wi-Fi is readily available in hotels, restaurants, and major public areas, though speeds may vary. For more reliable access, consider purchasing a portable mobile hotspot from a local carrier.
