How Safe Is Punta Cana For Travel?

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Safety Index: 70 * Based on Research & Crime Data User Sentiment: 87 * Rated 87 / 100 based on 23 user reviews.

Dominican Republic : Safety by City

Bayahibe
Cabarete
Jarabacoa
Las Terrenas
Playa Rincon
Punta Cana
Samana
Santo Domingo
Sosua

Dominican Republic - safety as a country

The once undeveloped jungle area of what is now Punta Cana used to have beaches that were not easily accessible to travelers.

Some American investors changed that in 1969, when they saw the true potential of the area.

Once the basic needs of the area were met and roads made the beaches of the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic more accessible to tourists, travelers flocked to Punta Cana.

Resorts and hotels opened to accommodate the ever-increasing number of travelers who wanted to experience the beautiful weather, the white sand beaches, and the gorgeous blue water of the Caribbean.

Once the airport opened, the number of tourists increased every year.

Historic numbers of tourists recently visited Punta Cana.

Some people are likely to wonder if Punta Cana is safe for travelers.

Things like the location, the reputation that some other places have that are in the Dominican Republic, and the fear of security issues may make some people wonder about safety.

Discover what Punta Cana has to offer travelers and residents who come to the area.

Warnings & Dangers in Punta Cana

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Cities that have a higher population and are known for having issues with serious crimes, are more likely to pose a risk for travelers, compared to Punta Cana. Millions of people travel to Punta Cana every year and have a wonderful time with no safety issues. The U.S. Department of State has a Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution travel advisory for the Dominican Republic. The agency says that areas of the Dominican Republic that are popular tourist areas, which would include Punta Cana, are policed better than non-tourist areas. Punta Cana is one of the areas that has a dedicated tourist police force.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Uber is available for travelers who want to use local transport services. It is often better to take an Uber from places like the airport. Travelers should be aware that there are often some tensions between local taxi companies and Uber drivers. Tourists should not use the local motor-taxi service. The motoconcho is not cheaper than a reputable taxi service or Uber. These public transport taxis often charge tourists several times more than they charge residents. Some sources say that taking a motor-taxi puts your life at risk. Do not take the public bus during rush hours. Pickpockets are very busy on crowded public buses.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpockets target tourists who travel to Punta Cana, especially on public transport. Travelers are also at risk of becoming pickpocket victims if they do not take steps to safeguard their belongings. Do not carry a wallet, credit cards, or cash in your back pocket or in an open purse. Wear clothing that has inside pockets.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

The Dominican Republic is prone to certain natural disasters. The risk of heavy rain and strong winds most often occurs from May through November. Flooding and hurricanes can occur at times. There is some risk of earthquakes, although not as much risk as heavy rain and winds. Local officials give warnings and help people during these times. Travelers should also do their best to avoid mosquitoes. The Zika virus can be an issue in Punta Cana and elsewhere in the Dominican Republic.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Although muggings do occur in Punta Cana, it is probably safer for travelers here, compared to some other areas in the Dominican Republic. Following safety tips, such as staying away from dark streets and not walking alone, can help reduce your risk of becoming a mugging victim.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

There is little risk of terrorism in Punta Cana. It is a safe place with a heavy law enforcement presence to help protect travelers and residents. Enjoy your time in Punta Cana. Stay alert to any changes.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Travelers should stay alert to scams when they are in Punta Cana. Scammers will try to fool travelers by claiming they will help with an ATM transaction. Do not use an ATM if there are people who seem to be just hanging around. Use inside ATMs. Scammers may say that they will help you with your luggage. Do not become their victim. Do not fall for dating app scams. The U.S. Department of State says that U.S. citizens have been robbed in the Dominican Republic by people whom they met through online dating apps.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Women should never travel to Punta Cana alone since there is a great risk of being assaulted. There are dangerous neighborhoods that need to be avoided.

TAP WATER RISK: HIGH

Do not drink the tap water in Punta Cana. It is not safe. Some sources even say to avoid buying ice and avoid brushing your teeth with tap water. The water in upscale resorts is most likely treated, so it is probably safe. Buy bottled water. It is affordable in Punta Cana and throughout the Dominican Republic.

Safest Places to Visit in Punta Cana

Record-breaking numbers of people have discovered the breathtaking views, great weather, and safe, exciting attractions and nightlife of Punta Cana.

Enjoy parasailing across Punta Cana.

Take a private horseback riding tour or a helicopter tour.

Enjoy an unforgettable experience when you visit Scape Park.

The eco-adventure center features opportunities for ziplining and exploring underground caverns.

Take the kids to the kid-friendly ranch.

They can see donkeys, goats, and horses.

Kids of all ages will likely enjoy visiting the parrots on Parrot Island.

Visit Hoya Azul, which is a cenote located within Scape Park.

The Blue Hole, the nickname for Hoya Azul, is a great location for viewing crystal clear waters, swimming, and jumping off the platform.

Follow the trail through the tropical forest and cross a hanging bridge to get there.

Take a half-day tour of Monkeyland Punta Cana for a unique experience.

Travelers can observe squirrel monkeys in their natural habitat while on a guided safari ride tour.

Enjoy coffee and chocolate tastings.

The pristine beaches of Punta Cana are a main reason that travelers come to visit, with some deciding to make it their permanent home.

Enjoy the white sands and the gentle waves of Bavaro Beach or the fun activities and nearby resorts of Juanillo Beach.

Juanillo Beach is often considered to be one of the world’s best beaches.

The larger waves of Playa Macao offer good waves for surfers and others who enjoy water activities.

Places to Avoid in Punta Cana

Punta Cana is generally a safe place.

Travelers still need to avoid some areas to protect their safety.

Avoid road cycling in Punta Cana.

Traffic is very heavy with people who try to cycle to their destination.

It is not safe to ride a bicycle on public roads for other reasons.

Although there are some bicycle routes in Punta Cana, vehicle drivers often do not take care to give cyclists the right of way on public streets.

Some roads may be too rough for road cycling.

Do not book lodging anywhere outside gated communities.

Keep your safety a top priority.

Do not buy excursions from non-licensed tourist providers.

Ask for a National Taxpayer Registrar Number.

Some areas on the outskirts of Punta Cana can be dangerous for travelers.

Avoid Anamuya, Allegina, and any other area that is away from the regular tourist areas.

These places may be locations where there are higher crime rates and gang activity.

Stay away from dark streets, alleyways, and neighborhoods that are not normal places for travelers to visit when they are in Punta Cana.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Punta Cana

Leave your valuables at home. You may want to flash your new phone or show off your expensive jewelry. Think about the fact that doing so increases your risk of becoming a crime victim.
Do not display cash in public places. Many shops and restaurants take U.S. dollars for payment. Avoid becoming a mugging or robbery victim by only taking the cash that you need when going out while you are in Punta Cana.
Keep your wallet and credit cards safely hidden from pickpockets. Wear clothing that has at least one inside pocket. You need this to keep your wallet, ID, and credit cards safe from pickpockets.
Do not take the local motor-taxi. Several sources say that the local motor taxi, or motoconcho, is a risk for travelers. The reason is that drivers often charge foreign travelers at much higher rates compared to what they charge residents.
Do not allow anyone to assist you with your luggage. Teenagers and younger adults often target travelers with the luggage theft scam. They offer to help travelers with their luggage. They run off with the luggage instead, hoping to find valuables.
Do not allow anyone to help you at the ATM. Some criminals lurk around ATMs hoping that travelers will use them in unsecured areas. Do not allow anyone to assist you at an ATM, no matter how helpful they seem. You may be robbed or mugged for money or other valuables.
Do not feed or touch wild animals. Do not touch or feed wild animals. They may have diseases. Some animals may become aggressive towards you.
Do not accept food or drinks from other guests at clubs or bars. Do not accept drinks or food from other people at a club or a bar. If someone offers to buy you a drink or a food item, accept the invitation if you want to, but order it yourself from the bartender or restaurant staff.
Do not drink tap water. Drinking tap water and using ice is not safe in Punta Cana. Several sources say that travelers should even use bottled water for brushing their teeth or bathing their children.
Stay with your guide. Do not stray from your tour guide or operator. Doing so may increase your risk of becoming a crime victim. You can also get lost.

So... How Safe Is Punta Cana Really?

Punta Cana is one of the safest places in the Dominican Republic.

It has low crime rates overall.

The crimes that travelers may become victims of are usually petty crimes, such as pickpockets or purse snatching.

Millions of tourists visit Punta Cana for its awe-inspiring views, the attractions, and world-famous beaches.

The effort that local government leaders and law enforcement have put into guaranteeing safety for travelers and residents helps to make Punta Cana safe for everyone.

Tourists, especially women traveling alone, should avoid deserted beaches and other places where there are no travelers.

Do not accept food, drinks, or rides from strangers in Punta Cana.

The attractions are safe for visitors, including water activities, guided tours, and hiking, among other activities.

How Does Punta Cana Compare?

City	Safety Index
Punta Cana	70
Bayahibe	52
Cabarete	53
Las Terrenas	52
Samana	78
Sosua	65
Jarabacoa	54
Pittsburgh	63
Wenatchee	80
Apex	84
Raleigh	74
Pretoria	25
Petersburg	52

Useful Information

Visas

Travelers who plan to stay in the Dominican Republic for more than 30 days need to have a tourist visa. The U.S. Embassy also says that travelers need to complete an eTicket for each entry and exit.

Currency

The official currency in the Dominican Republic is the Dominican peso. Check with each place that you visit to find out if they accept U.S. dollars.

Weather

Punta Cana's weather is usually beautiful year-round. Some travelers try to avoid the rainy months. It has a tropical monsoon climate. The temperature rarely drops below 70 degrees, but also rarely exceeds 90 degrees.

Airports

The Punta Cana International Airport is the airport that takes travelers to Punta Cana. It is the busiest airport in the Dominican Republic.

Travel Insurance

Protect yourself when visiting Punta Cana by purchasing travel insurance. The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends that travelers purchase travel insurance.

Click here to get an offer for travel insurance

Punta Cana Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Jan 79° F Feb 77° F Mar 79° F Apr 79° F May 81° F Jun 82° F Jul 82° F Aug 82° F Sep 82° F Oct 81° F Nov 81° F Dec 79° F Choose Temperature Unit Fahrenheit Celsius

Average High/Low Temperature

Temperature / Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
High°C	29	28	29	29	30	31	32	32	32	31	30	29
Low°C	22	22	22	23	23	24	24	24	24	23	23	22
High°F	84	82	84	84	86	88	90	90	90	88	86	84
Low°F	72	72	72	73	73	75	75	75	75	73	73	72

Dominican Republic - Safety by City

City	Safety Index
Bayahibe	52
Cabarete	53
Jarabacoa	54
Las Terrenas	52
Playa Rincon	64
Punta Cana	70
Samana	78
Santo Domingo	50
Sosua	65

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