Dominican Republic Travel Information Guide: Politics · Safety · Health · Travel Information Summary
The Dominican Republic is a leading Caribbean resort destination and a relatively open, politically stable country.
However, the gap between rich and poor, high unemployment rates, and rising crime due to drug trafficking are impacting society as a whole.
Major cities, including the capital Santo Domingo, are vibrant, but frequent crimes targeting tourists require caution.
Due to its tropical climate, the risk of natural disasters like hurricanes and floods is high, making seasonal preparedness crucial.
1. Country Overview
The Dominican Republic operates under a constitutional democracy and has maintained relative political stability in recent years.
However, corruption, inequality, and high unemployment rates continue to cause social unrest.
Tensions persist along the border with Haiti due to armed robbery and illegal migration issues.
Natural disaster preparedness systems are inadequate, necessitating travel schedule adjustments during hurricane season (June–November).
2. Political and Social Risks
- Political Stability: President Luis Abinader, a centrist, is in power, and the administration is relatively stable.
- Social Unrest: Fuel price hikes and unemployment rates lead to recurring labor union-led protests and strikes.
- Border Tensions: Disputes with Haiti occur intermittently, and security in border areas is vulnerable.
⚠️ Travelers should avoid visiting border areas and steer clear of locations associated with protests or political rallies.
3. Crime and Security Situation
- Violent Crime: The areas of Santo Domingo, San Juan, and Bahoruco have high homicide rates, mostly linked to drug trafficking.
- Petty Crime: Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and thefts within resorts are frequent, especially at airports and bus terminals.
- Women Travelers Caution: Exercise caution with strangers (including hotel staff) and avoid traveling at night.
- Police Corruption: Some police officers have been reported involved in crime; use official channels (like tourist police) for reporting incidents.
🚫 Do not expose cash or valuables; make it a habit to use your accommodation's safe.
4. Medical and Health Information
- Medical Infrastructure: Medical standards are low outside the capital, and upfront payment is required before treatment.
- Mosquito-borne Diseases: High incidence of dengue fever, Zika, and chikungunya → DEET mosquito repellent and mosquito nets are essential.
- Waterborne Diseases: Cases of cholera and leptospirosis exist → Drink only bottled water and avoid street food.
- Rabies: Beware of contact with animals, as there are many stray dogs.
- Travel Insurance: Treatment locally can be difficult, and evacuation to a neighboring country or home country may be necessary. We recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers medical expenses + medical evacuation costs.
5. Travel Information
- Road Conditions: Poor driving etiquette and frequent drunk driving occur. Avoid driving at night.
- Hurricane Season: Primarily occurs from June to November. Always check local weather agency or accommodation advisories.
- Ocean Safety: Strong currents exist; ask locals about sea conditions before swimming.
- Culture: A Spanish-speaking country. Locals are friendly, but haggling is common, so confirm prices beforehand.
📌 Final Summary
✅ Politics: Stable, but protests and strikes occur periodically → Avoid crowded areas
✅ Crime: Risk of petty crime and robbery in urban areas like Santo Domingo → Do not display valuables
✅ Terrorism: No specific threats
✅ Healthcare: Medical care limited outside the capital → Insurance essential, drink bottled water
✅ Diseases: Dengue, Zika, cholera prevalent → Strict mosquito and drinking water precautions
✅ Transportation: High risks from drunk driving and nighttime driving
✅ Natural Disasters: Hurricane season June–November, exercise caution
✅ Emergency Contacts: Police, Fire, Ambulance 911
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