Safety
Simple habits that keep your trip easy, and exactly who to call if you need help.
Travel smart
- In an emergency, dial 911 for police, ambulance or fire. Maya is here for questions and planning, but she never replaces 911.
- POLITUR, the tourist police, has officers in tourist areas and at the airport. Call 809-200-3500 for help.
- The U.S. State Department currently advises travelers to exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime. Check the latest at travel.state.gov and U.S. citizens can enroll in STEP.
- Leave flashy jewelry at home, use the safe in your room and keep your phone in hand, not on the table, when you are out at night.
- Use rides you booked (Uber, your hotel taxi or a ride through Maya), especially after dark.
- Drink bottled or filtered water, not tap water. Keep an eye on your drink and pace yourself in the heat.
- Respect the ocean. Watch for red flags and strong currents, and remember that many beaches have no lifeguard.
Keep planning
Where to stay
Areas, condos, villas and boutique hotels.
ExploreExplore Punta Cana
Beaches, hidden gems and local adventures.
FAQFrequently asked questions
Real answers to the questions visitors ask us most.
💬 Questions about staying safe? Ask Maya, our Executive AI Concierge, any time.
Safety questions, answered
What tourist scams should I watch for in Punta Cana?
Three to know before you even leave the airport. First, lookalike e-Ticket websites that charge a fee: the official form is free at eticket.migracion.gob.do. Second, taxi fares that change after your bags are in the trunk: airport taxis aren’t metered, so agree on the price first. Third, a car that isn’t the one you booked: with Uber, only get in when the plate and driver match the app. Beyond that, be cautious with unfamiliar offers. If something feels off, ask Maya before you say yes.
Do I need travel insurance, and what if I need medical help?
In an emergency, dial 911 for police, ambulance or fire. Maya is great for questions, but she’s never a substitute for 911. For tourist-related problems, POLITUR, the tourist police, is at 809-200-3500. We suggest considering travel insurance, especially if you’re traveling in hurricane season (June 1 to November 30). U.S. citizens can also enroll in STEP at step.state.gov before the trip.
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