Population of approximately 11.2 million, the second-most populous country in the Caribbean after Cuba.
Official language: Spanish. Dominican Spanish has distinct local expressions and influences from African and Ta�no languages.
Capital: Santo Domingo (largest city, historic colonial zone, economic hub). Other major cities: Santiago de los Caballeros (second-largest city, known for tobacco and industry), Punta Cana (major tourist destination), La Romana (home to luxury resorts), Puerto Plata (historical and beach town).
Dominican culture blends African, Taino, and Spanish influences. Music and dance, especially merengue and bachata, are central to social life. Baseball is the most popular sport, and family is highly valued.
Dominican Peso (DOP) U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, but pesos are needed for local transactions.
Traditional foods include mangu (mashed plantains), la bandera (rice, beans, and meat), sancocho (meat and vegetable stew), and tostones (fried plantains). Caribbean and Spanish influences are strong.
Tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. Coastal areas experience a dry and wet season, while mountainous regions are cooler. Hurricanes are a risk from June to November.
Notable wildlife includes rhinoceros iguanas, solenodons (rare nocturnal mammals), flamingos, manatees, and humpback whales that migrate to the coastal waters in winter.
Cultural Considerations
Warm greetings: Dominicans are friendly and often greet with a kiss on the cheek or a handshake. It's important to be polite and respectful.
Respect for family: Family is central to Dominican life, so showing respect for family ties is important.
Avoid sensitive political topics: Politics, especially related to the country's history, can be a sensitive subject, so it�s best to avoid it in conversation.
Dress casually but neatly: In general, casual dress is acceptable, but it�s important to dress neatly, especially in urban areas.
Find Flights and Travel Information Below!
Please note that travel advisories can change rapidly due to evolving situations. It's essential to consult the U.S. Department of State's official website or your local government's travel advisory resources for the most current information before planning any trips.
Search Possible Flights!
Checkout @TopTravelIndex on YouTube!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the visa requirements for U.S. travelers?
For up-to-date visa requirements, please visit our Visas & Entry Requirements page. You can use our interactive widget to easily check specific visa details, or find useful links and information related to entry requirements.
What are health and safety considerations for travelers?
The Dominican Republic has a well-established healthcare system, but there are health risks such as mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and Zika virus. Travelers should take precautions with insect repellent and wear long sleeves, especially in rural areas. Tap water is not safe to drink, so bottled water should be used. It's recommended to ensure vaccinations for hepatitis A, B, and typhoid are up to date.