Transportation in the Dominican Republic
Transportation in the Dominican Republic for both tourists and immigrants is always an exciting issue. How to travel around the country, buy a car or rent a car and many other questions let’s consider in this article.
Railroad transportation
It should be said right away that there is no passenger rail transportation in the Dominican Republic. That is, there are railroads, but they are designed only for transportation of sugar cane from plantations to processing plants. Therefore, you can forget about traveling by train.
So, let’s look at the main transportation in the Dominican Republic
Taxi in Dominican Republic
This is probably the most popular form of transportation not only in the Dominican Republic. Convenient and comfortable, but one “but”, this mode of transportation is quite expensive. Considering the cost of imported gasoline, the price for such a service can upset you. So, for example, a trip from the airport of Punta Cana to your hotel may cost 40-50$ US. “What about Uber?” – you ask. In the capital city of Santo Domingo, perhaps the price for a ride will be normal, but not “during rush hour”. However, in Punta Cana, Uber has not taken root as a “cheap cab” due to the specifics of the resort town.
Public buses
This mode of transportation is particularly popular in the Dominican Republic. City buses, called “guagua”, run inside the settlements. Their fares are the most affordable. The only disadvantage is the lack of timetables, unlike intercity buses. Intercity buses are probably the most developed form of transportation. Buses running between cities are comfortable, with comfortable seats and air conditioning. Sometimes it is even too cold during the trip, so if you are going to travel by intercity buses, take a long-sleeved sweater with you. The fare is also small, for example from Bavaro to Santo Domingo it is only 400 pesos (8 dollars)
There are also small buses that run along a specific route. In all cities they are called according to the route they run on. For example, in Bavaro and Punta Cana they are called Sitrabapu, in Higüey they are called Sitrahima, etc. They are easily identified by the common first syllable Sitra. The fare costs 40 – 50 pesos (less than 1 dollar). You can stop the bus by simply raising your hand.
Motorcycle taxi
Motorcycle taxi or “motoconcho” as they are called here, are the most inexpensive and common form of public transportation. However, we do not recommend that you use this mode of transportation for your own safety.
Poppy Taxi
This type of three-wheeled transportation has only recently appeared on the city streets of the Dominican Republic. But judging by the fact that there are more and more of them, it is in demand. It is likely to be more comfortable to get to the supermarket if you don’t have a car.
Rental Car
Renting a car is probably the most popular choice, especially if you want to see the best places and beaches in the Dominican Republic. Large car rental companies are found at airports and tourist areas. When renting a car, you should have an international driver’s license and be careful when traveling, as the driving style of the local population may be slightly different from what you are used to in your country. Also, when traveling in Dominican Republic, don’t forget that there are toll roads in the country, which should be paid only in cash. Do not forget to change your money. The cost of toll roads varies, so for example from Punta Cana to Santo Domingo the price will be 260 pesos (5$ US)
Travel Tips
Now, you are familiar with the transportation available in the Dominican Republic. However, we would like to recommend that for your first trip, book a VIP transfer. A luxurious and comfortable Suburban will pick you up at the airport and take you to your accommodation. How convenient?
- 6 people and 6 suitcases
- Fast, prestigious and safe
In conclusion, it is worth noting that roads in urban areas can be congested and road infrastructure in some rural areas may be less developed. Therefore, it is important to plan your travels and allow extra time on the road.
Have a great trips!
