The Dominican Republic, a jewel of the Caribbean, beckons millions of tourists annually with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. However, like any international destination, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. This comprehensive guide addresses key safety concerns, offering insights and advice to help you navigate your Dominican Republic adventure with confidence. Understanding the current travel warnings for the Dominican Republic is the first step in responsible travel planning, allowing you to mitigate risks and make informed decisions for a secure vacation.
Understanding the Risk Level in the Dominican Republic
Currently, the Dominican Republic is categorized as a destination where travelers should exercise a high degree of caution. This advisory, common for many countries worldwide, signals that while the country is generally safe for tourists, certain risks exist that require vigilance and proactive safety measures. These risks primarily revolve around crime, but also include health and safety considerations related to natural disasters and local conditions. It’s not a warning to avoid travel altogether, but rather a call to be informed, prepared, and aware of your surroundings throughout your visit.
Safety and Security Concerns
While the Dominican Republic offers incredible hospitality and breathtaking scenery, it’s crucial to be informed about specific safety and security concerns to minimize potential issues.
Border with Haiti
The land and sea borders between the Dominican Republic and Haiti are currently closed to travelers. This closure is a significant factor to consider if you are planning travel involving both nations. It’s important to note that consular assistance from embassies in Santo Domingo will not extend to facilitating entry from Haiti.
The border region, particularly around Dajabón, is known for its unpredictable security situation. Civil unrest, disturbances, and incidents of violence are not uncommon. Emergency services in these areas may be limited or unavailable.
If travel near the Haitian border is unavoidable, it is strongly advised to:
- Keep your passport readily accessible: Border controls and checkpoints are common.
- Avoid nighttime travel: Security risks increase significantly after dark.
- Stay informed via local media: Monitor news outlets for updates on the current situation and any potential disturbances.
- Follow instructions from authorities: Comply with directions given by local police and security forces.
For the most up-to-date information on border policies, consult the General Directorate of Migration website, the official government source for immigration matters in the Dominican Republic.
Crime in the Dominican Republic
Crime, encompassing both petty theft and violent acts, is a reality throughout the Dominican Republic, with urban centers experiencing higher rates. It’s important to be aware that police response times, particularly outside of tourist zones and resorts, can be slow.
Petty Crime
Petty theft, including pickpocketing and bag snatching, is frequent, and tourists are often targeted. Opportunistic crime is prevalent; thieves may attempt to steal visible cash, valuables, or even snatch phones directly from hands. Crime rates tend to escalate during holiday periods when crowds are larger and opportunities are more abundant.
Incidents of petty crime are known to occur in:
- Resorts and Hotels: Even within the perceived safety of resorts, including inside rooms and room safes, theft can happen.
- Rental Cars: Vehicles, especially rentals which are easily identifiable, are vulnerable to break-ins.
- Beaches: Unattended belongings on beaches are prime targets for thieves.
- Airports: Both arrival and departure areas, including baggage claim, can be hotspots.
- Bus Stations and Public Transportation: Crowded areas are ideal for pickpockets.
Drive-by robberies are a common tactic, with thieves on motorcycles, scooters, or bicycles snatching bags and valuables from pedestrians. In some instances, thieves may even reach into stopped vehicles, including taxis at traffic lights, to steal belongings. At airports, checked baggage in departure areas can also be targeted.
To minimize your risk of petty crime:
- Choose Accommodations with Good Security: Opt for hotels and resorts known for their robust security measures.
- Secure Your Belongings: Keep passports, travel documents, and valuables secure at all times, using hotel safes when available.
- Minimize Cash and Displays of Wealth: Carry only small amounts of cash and avoid showing signs of affluence that could attract unwanted attention.
- Keep Electronics Concealed: Keep cell phones, tablets, laptops, and cameras out of sight when not in use.
- Secure Vehicles: Keep car doors locked, windows rolled up, and belongings out of sight, especially in rental cars.
- Don’t Pack Valuables in Checked Luggage: Carry essential valuables with you in carry-on baggage.
Violent Crime
Violent crime, occasionally targeting foreigners, does occur, particularly in larger cities and after nightfall.
Reported incidents of violent crime include:
- Armed Robberies: Robberies involving weapons are a serious concern.
- Assaults: Physical assaults can occur in various circumstances.
- Burglaries: Break-ins into accommodations can happen.
Carjackings and armed robberies targeting vehicles are a risk, especially on roads after dark. It is strongly recommended to arrange airport arrivals and departures during daylight hours to avoid nighttime travel to and from accommodations.
During your stay, to enhance your safety against violent crime:
- Stay in Reputable Accommodations: Choose hotels or resorts with visible and effective security measures.
- Maintain Situational Awareness: Be constantly aware of your surroundings and potential threats.
- Secure Vehicles (as above): Keep doors locked and windows up, especially at traffic lights.
- Avoid Isolated Areas After Dark: Refrain from walking alone in unpopulated areas or on unpatrolled beaches after sunset.
- Do Not Resist Robbery: If threatened, cooperate and hand over valuables. Resistance can escalate violence.
Sexual Assault
Disturbingly, incidents of sexual assault and rape have been reported, even within major resorts and hotels. In some cases, resort and hotel employees have been implicated.
If you are a victim of sexual assault or any other crime:
- Report Immediately to Canadian Authorities: Contact the nearest Canadian government office for assistance.
- File a Report with Dominican Authorities: Crucially, criminal investigations will not proceed unless a formal complaint is filed with local authorities before you leave the country.
To reduce your risk of sexual assault:
- Avoid Secluded Areas: Even within resorts and hotel grounds, avoid isolated locations, especially at night.
- Exercise Caution with Strangers: Be wary of interactions with strangers or new acquaintances.
- Be Cautious of Invitations: Be wary of accepting rides or other invitations from strangers or those you don’t fully trust.
- Avoid Nighttime Public Transportation or Walking Alone: These situations present increased vulnerability.
For further assistance and resources, consult the section on reporting crime in the Dominican Republic later in this guide.
Fraud
Fraudulent activities are a significant concern in the Dominican Republic, affecting tourists in various forms.
Credit, Debit and ATM Card Fraud
Credit and debit card fraud, as well as ATM scams, are frequent. Card reader tampering (skimming) is a common tactic. Businesses may attempt to steal card information through compromised card readers during legitimate transactions. Exercise extreme caution when using debit or credit cards.
To protect yourself from card fraud:
- Shield the Keypad: Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN at ATMs and point-of-sale terminals.
- Monitor Card Handling: Pay close attention when others are handling your cards during transactions.
- Inspect Card Readers: Avoid using card readers that appear irregular, damaged, or have unusual attachments.
- Use Secure ATMs: Prefer ATMs located in well-lit public areas, inside banks, or reputable businesses.
- Regularly Review Statements: Check your account statements frequently for unauthorized transactions.
Unethical Lawyers
Unethical lawyers, known locally as “pirate lawyers,” operate in tourist areas, particularly in Punta Cana. They often congregate near tourist police stations, preying on detained foreigners. They offer legal services at exorbitant fees, often inflating charges and prolonging cases for financial gain.
The Embassy of Canada in Santo Domingo can provide a list of reputable and verified lawyers if legal assistance is required.
Cybercrime
Cybercrime, including malware attacks and online extortion, is a growing threat. Public Wi-Fi networks can be compromised by criminals to steal personal data and credit card information. Social media monitoring and phone conversation interception are also potential risks.
Romance scams through dating sites and social media platforms are also known to occur, targeting individuals seeking relationships.
To mitigate cybercrime risks:
- Limit Social Media Sharing: Be cautious about posting personal information and photos on social media, especially regarding travel plans.
- Use Secure Wi-Fi: Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive transactions. Use secure, password-protected networks or consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network).
- Beware of Online Interests: Be suspicious of individuals who show excessive interest in you online, especially those met on dating sites or social media.
- Be Cautious Meeting Online Acquaintances: Exercise extreme caution if traveling to the Dominican Republic to meet someone you’ve only met online, as it could be a scam.
- Protect Personal Information: Avoid discussing travel plans or personal details within earshot of strangers.
Spiked Food, Drinks and Other Items
Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be extremely wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items could be laced with drugs, putting you at risk of robbery, sexual assault, or other harm.
Harassment
Individuals, including women and 2SLGBTQI+ persons, have reported experiencing harassment and verbal abuse. Online harassment and abuse, including calls for violence, also occur.
Traveling alone, especially at night, increases vulnerability to harassment.
Demonstrations and Strikes
Demonstrations and protests occur periodically throughout the Dominican Republic, particularly in Santo Domingo. While resort areas are less frequently affected, disruptions can still occur.
Even peaceful demonstrations can become violent unexpectedly, and may cause disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
If demonstrations occur:
- Avoid Demonstration Areas: Stay away from locations where demonstrations or large gatherings are taking place.
- Follow Local Authority Instructions: Comply with directions from local police and authorities.
- Monitor Local Media: Stay informed about ongoing demonstrations through local news sources.
Adventure Tourism
The Dominican Republic is a popular destination for adventure tourism, offering activities like kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, and extreme sports. However, the tourism industry is not as rigorously regulated as in some countries. Tour operators may not adhere to Canadian safety standards, and staff may lack adequate training or certifications. Local authorities may not routinely inspect facilities and equipment. Many adventure tourism locations have hazards that are either unidentified or poorly marked.
If participating in adventure tourism activities:
- Purchase Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers incidents related to adventure activities.
- Assess Your Physical Condition: Be sure you are physically fit enough to handle the demands of the chosen activity.
- Verify Equipment and Supplies: Ensure you have proper equipment and sufficient water for the activity.
- Monitor Weather and Hazards: Pay attention to weather conditions and potential hazards.
- Avoid Unsafe Equipment: Refrain from using equipment if you are unsure of its condition or safety.
Water Activities
The Dominican Republic’s beautiful waters also present safety considerations.
Swimming
Coastal waters can be dangerous. Always heed the instructions and warnings from local authorities and lifeguards. Lifeguard and rescue services often do not meet Canadian standards. Many beaches have limited or no lifeguards on duty. Drownings occur every year.
To swim safely:
- Swim in Designated Areas: Respect areas marked for swimming.
- Maintain Safe Distances: Stay a safe distance from boats and restricted areas.
- Heed Warning Flags: Always respect warning flags indicating dangerous conditions.
- Consult Locals: Ask residents and tour operators about potential hazards, dangerous marine life, and safe swimming areas.
- Avoid Diving in Unfamiliar Waters: Hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death.
- Follow Local Instructions: Obey the instructions of local authorities and lifeguards.
Riptides
Tidal changes and strong winds can create dangerous riptides. Be aware of this risk, especially on open beaches.
Roads
Road Safety
Road safety across the Dominican Republic can vary greatly. Accidents are frequent. If you plan to travel extensively by road, especially outside of major tourist areas, consider hiring a licensed professional driver.
Pedestrians do not have right-of-way, even at traffic lights. Be extremely cautious when crossing streets, particularly in Santo Domingo. Local authorities treat serious car accidents as criminal investigations. If involved in an accident, it is mandatory to report it to the police.
If you receive a traffic ticket, you are not required to pay it immediately to the officer. Fines can be paid on the website of the Attorney General’s office.
Road Conditions
Road conditions also vary significantly. Major highways connecting cities and tourist areas are generally in good condition, but roads in rural areas are often poorly maintained. Many roads lack marked lanes.
Driving hazards include:
- Unmarked Speed Bumps (“Muertos”): These can be sudden and damaging if not anticipated.
- Potholes: Road surfaces can be riddled with potholes.
- Animals and Livestock: Animals frequently wander onto roads.
- Insufficient Lighting: Many roads are poorly lit at night.
- Traffic Congestion: Heavy traffic and jams are common, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Wrong-Way Drivers: Driving in the wrong direction on roadways is not uncommon.
Driving Habits
Dominican driving habits can be unpredictable. Drivers often disregard traffic laws, speed, and can be aggressive and reckless. Drinking and driving is a significant problem. Traffic accidents, drunk driving, and heavy traffic are more prevalent during holiday periods like Christmas and Easter.
If you choose to drive:
- Drive Defensively: Anticipate unpredictable behavior from other drivers.
- Plan Routes in Advance: Especially for rural areas, plan your trips carefully.
- Travel in Daylight: Travel in groups and during daylight hours whenever possible.
- Carry a Cell Phone and Charger: Ensure you have communication in case of emergency.
- Maintain Fuel Levels: Fill your gas tank before traveling, especially to remote areas.
- Keep Vehicle Secure (as above).
Roadblocks
Police and military roadblocks are common, particularly near the Haitian border. Be prepared to show identification at these checkpoints.
Public Transportation
Buses
Public buses can be unreliable. It is advisable to use private intercity buses operated by reputable tour companies. Avoid using open-door microbuses known as “gua-guas” or “carros publicos,” as these are often unregulated and poorly maintained.
Ride-Share Services
Ride-sharing services are available in major cities and tourist destinations.
When using ride-sharing apps:
- Verify Driver Identity: Confirm the driver’s identity and license plate before entering the vehicle.
- Utilize App Security Features: Use in-app security features like ride tracking and sharing your ride details.
Taxis
Taxis are generally not metered. Arrange taxi pickups through your hotel, especially when arriving at the airport. At airports, use only taxis from official stands. If unsure about a taxi’s legitimacy, seek assistance at an airport information desk.
For taxi safety:
- Use Reputable Companies: Book taxis through hotels or ride-sharing services.
- Avoid Sharing Taxis: Never share taxis with strangers.
- Avoid Motorcycle Taxis: Refrain from using motorcycle taxis (“motoconchos”).
- Negotiate Fare in Advance: Agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Air Travel
Assessments of foreign domestic airlines’ compliance with international safety standards are not conducted by the source. Travelers should be aware of this limitation when considering domestic air travel within the Dominican Republic.
Entry and Exit Requirements
Entry and exit regulations are determined by each country. The Government of Canada cannot intervene if you fail to meet the Dominican Republic’s requirements. Verify all information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada as regulations can change without notice.
Passport
Passport validity rules can be stricter than entry requirements. Check with your airline regarding their passport validity rules, as they may have more stringent requirements than Dominican Republic immigration.
Regular Canadian Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into the Dominican Republic.
Other Passport Types
Rules may differ for official travel passports, temporary passports, and emergency travel documents. Inquire with the nearest Dominican Republic foreign representative before travel.
Passport with “X” Gender Identifier
While Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, entry and transit through other countries cannot be guaranteed as not all countries recognize this identifier. Check with the Dominican Republic’s foreign representative before traveling.
Visas
For tourism, a visa is not required for stays up to 30 days. However, visas are required for work, study, and residency.
Other Entry Requirements
Upon entry, you may need to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your stay and provide the address where you will be staying. Customs officials may also request to see proof of a return or onward travel ticket.
Consult the Entry Requirements page on the official Dominican Republic tourism website for complete details.
E-Ticket
An electronic form, or E-ticket, is mandatory for both entry and exit. A new E-ticket is required for each trip. Complete this form before boarding your flight to the Dominican Republic. You can present a digital or printed copy of the E-ticket code to customs officials. This E-ticket is separate from the Tourist Card. Access the E-ticket form at the Electronic ticket for entry and exit portal.
Tourist Card
If entering by air, the tourist card fee is typically included in your airline ticket. If entering by sea, you can purchase the card at your point of entry from the General Directorate of Internal Taxes.
Extension and Overstay
You can apply for a stay extension of up to 120 days at the Dominican Directorate General for Migration in Santo Domingo after arrival and before your tourist card expires. Overstaying your tourist card or extension can result in deportation or refusal of re-entry.
Drug Screening
Drug screening may be conducted upon departure. Authorities may search luggage and request you sign a Spanish-language form confirming the search was conducted legally. In some instances, X-rays may be requested.
Children and Travel
Consult resources on travelling with children for specific considerations.
Yellow Fever
Refer to the health section for yellow fever related entry requirements.
Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
Consult with a healthcare provider or travel health clinic ideally 6 weeks before your trip for personalized health advice. It’s still beneficial to seek advice even if your trip is sooner.
Routine Vaccines
Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date, including MMR, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella, meningococcal disease, and seasonal flu.
Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications
Discuss pre-travel vaccines and medications with a healthcare provider based on your travel plans.
Recommended and Required Vaccines:
- Hepatitis A: Vaccination recommended due to risk of hepatitis A through contaminated food and water.
- Yellow Fever:
- Risk: No risk of yellow fever in the Dominican Republic itself.
- Entry Requirement: Proof of vaccination is required if arriving from specific states in Brazil or transiting for over 12 hours through airports in those states.
- Recommendation: Vaccination not generally recommended unless entering from at-risk regions.
- Measles: Ensure you are protected against measles before international travel.
- Hepatitis B: Vaccination recommended for all travelers due to risk of hepatitis B transmission through blood and bodily fluids.
- COVID-19: Complete a COVID-19 vaccine series and recommended boosters before traveling. Verify destination-specific entry/exit requirements.
- Influenza (Flu): Annual flu vaccination is recommended. Flu occurs year-round in the tropics.
- Malaria:
- Risk: Malaria risk exists in certain areas and seasons.
- Recommendation: Antimalarial medication may be recommended based on itinerary and travel timing. Consult a healthcare provider. Mosquito bite prevention is crucial.
- Rabies:
- Risk: Rabies is present in dogs and wildlife (bats).
- Recommendation: Rabies vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travelers (e.g., those working with animals, adventure travelers). Post-exposure treatment may be limited in the Dominican Republic.
Safe Food and Water Precautions
Practice strict safe food and water precautions to avoid illness. “Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it.” Avoid swallowing water when bathing or swimming, especially in freshwater.
Cholera
Cholera risk exists in parts of the Dominican Republic, but is low for most travelers. Practice safe food and water precautions. Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travelers (those visiting areas with poor sanitation or outbreaks).
Traveler’s Diarrhea
Traveler’s diarrhea is common. Practice safe food and water precautions. Carry oral rehydration salts.
Typhoid
Typhoid risk exists from contaminated food and water. Vaccination recommended, especially for those traveling to rural areas or for extended periods.
Salmonellosis
Salmonellosis is common, spread through contaminated food and beverages. Practice safe food and water precautions, ensuring food is properly cooked and hot when served.
Tick and Insect Bite Prevention
Prevent insect and tick bites to avoid diseases like Chikungunya, Dengue, Zika, and Oropouche.
Prevention measures:
- Use approved insect repellent on exposed skin.
- Wear light-colored, loose, tightly woven clothing.
- Wear socks and closed-toe shoes.
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in non-enclosed spaces.
- Perform tick checks after outdoor activities.
Specific Insect-borne Diseases:
- Chikungunya: Risk present, spread by mosquito bites. Prevention is key.
- Dengue: Risk present, spread by daytime-biting mosquitoes. No vaccine available in Canada. Prevention is key.
- Zika Virus: Risk present, spread by mosquito bites and sexually transmitted. Can cause serious birth defects. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy should discuss risks with their healthcare provider and consider postponing travel.
- Oropouche Virus Disease: Spread by midges and possibly mosquitoes. Pregnant women should be particularly cautious due to potential risks to unborn babies.
Animal Precautions
Avoid contact with animals (stray dogs, livestock, monkeys, bats, etc.) to prevent rabies and other animal-borne diseases. Avoid undercooked meat. Supervise children closely around animals.
Person-to-Person Infections
Reduce the risk of respiratory infections (flu, COVID-19) by:
- Staying home when sick.
- Wearing a well-fitting mask in crowded indoor settings.
- Frequent handwashing.
- Covering coughs and sneezes.
Reduce the risk of STIs, HIV, and mpox by:
- Vaccination against mpox (if eligible).
- Limiting sexual partners.
- Using condoms and dental dams.
Tuberculosis (TB)
TB risk is generally low for most travelers. High-risk travelers (those visiting prisons, refugee camps, hospitals, etc.) should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a healthcare provider.
HIV
HIV risk is present through contact with blood and body fluids (unprotected sex, unsterile needles).
Medical Services and Facilities
Good healthcare is mainly available in major cities. Quality varies greatly. Public facilities can be overwhelmed and may lack supplies. English/French-speaking staff may be limited. Upfront payment may be required. Private facilities are better equipped but can be expensive and may overcharge. Ambulances are unreliable in many areas, but more reliable in major cities and tourist zones. Be cautious of resort doctors who may use aggressive sales tactics.
If hospitalized:
- Inquire about fees beforehand.
- Alert administrators if overcharged.
- Request English/French assistance from guest services.
Ensure travel insurance includes medical evacuation and hospital stay coverage.
Medical Tourism
Be aware of risks associated with medical tourism, including cosmetic surgery. Legal recourse for malpractice is limited. Research providers thoroughly and use reputable facilities only.
Keep in Mind…
Travelers are responsible for their safety and preparedness. Do not expect Canadian standards of medical services. Pack a travel health kit, especially when traveling outside major cities.
Laws and Culture
You are subject to local laws. Learn about assistance if arrested or detained abroad.
Detention without charge can be up to 48 hours. Judicial processes can be lengthy, with accused individuals often detained for years in difficult conditions.
Drugs
Penalties for drug offenses are severe, including lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines. The Dominican Republic has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal drugs, including cannabis. Even small quantities can lead to severe penalties.
Drug trafficking using unwitting tourists as couriers occurs. Never carry items for others and always keep your belongings with you.
Identification
Carry valid photo identification or a photocopy at all times. Keep a copy of your passport and visa/entry stamp in a safe location and digital copies for backup.
Reporting a Crime
Victims of crime must report incidents to Dominican police, including tourist police. Contact the Canadian embassy for assistance. To pursue prosecution or compensation, you must hire a Dominican lawyer and file a formal complaint.
Reporting a Car Accident
Call the police and remain at the scene of an accident. Drivers in accidents causing serious injury or death will be taken into custody pending investigation. Register accidents at a government reporting center. English-speaking agents can assist. If detained after an accident, request police to contact the Canadian Embassy.
Arrest and Detention
If arrested or detained and needing consular services, request police or prison officials to contact the Canadian Embassy or Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre.
Legal Representation
You have the right to a lawyer during questioning, trial, or hearings. The Canadian Embassy can provide a list of local attorneys. Public defenders are available if you cannot afford legal representation.
Dual Citizenship
Dual citizenship is recognized. Consular assistance may be limited for dual citizens. Dual citizens may be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on International Child Abduction applies between Canada and the Dominican Republic. If your child has been wrongfully taken to or is being held in the Dominican Republic, act quickly and contact the Central Authority in your province/territory and consult lawyers in both countries. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene in private legal matters.
Real Estate Investments
Seek legal advice in Canada and the Dominican Republic before making real estate or other investments. Disputes can be lengthy and costly. The Canadian Embassy cannot intervene in local legal disputes.
Timeshares
Timeshare disputes occur. Review contracts carefully, consult a Dominican attorney, and avoid pressure tactics before purchasing. Keep copies of all documentation.
Marriage
Marriages legally performed in the Dominican Republic are recognized in Canada.
Driving
You can drive with a Canadian license for up to 30 days with an International Driving Permit.
Money
The currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP). Canadian currency can be exchanged at airports and exchange offices.
Natural Disasters and Climate
Climate Change
Climate change is impacting the Dominican Republic, leading to more frequent extreme weather events. Monitor local media for updates.
Hurricane Season
Hurricane season is from mid-May to the end of November. Tropical storms can rapidly intensify into major hurricanes during this period. Be prepared to alter travel plans on short notice, stay informed of forecasts, have airline/tour operator contact information readily available, and follow local authority instructions.
Flooding and Landslides
Flooding occurs due to heavy rains, making roads impassable and damaging infrastructure. Exercise caution near rivers, stay informed of weather forecasts, and follow local authority instructions, including evacuation orders.
Earthquakes and Tsunamis
The Dominican Republic is in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes and tremors occur. Tsunamis are possible after earthquakes. If on the coast, familiarize yourself with tsunami evacuation plans.
Conclusion
The Dominican Republic offers a captivating travel experience, but being informed about potential risks is paramount. By understanding and heeding this travel warning, practicing vigilance, and taking necessary precautions, you can significantly enhance your safety and fully enjoy the beauty and culture of this Caribbean paradise. Responsible travel means being aware, prepared, and respectful of local conditions, ensuring a memorable and safe trip to the Dominican Republic.
