Everything You Need to Know

Travel Essentials

Practical, up-to-date information to help you travel to Punta Cana with confidence — from visas and health to currency and transport.

Visa & Entry Requirements

What UK travellers need to enter the Dominican Republic

UK Citizens — No Visa Required

British passport holders do not need a visa for tourism. A tourist card (E-Ticket) is issued on arrival and included in most airline ticket prices.

RequirementDetails
Passport validityMust be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates
Tourist cardIncluded in most flight tickets; costs ~US$10 if not included
Maximum stay30 days (extendable at immigration offices)
Return ticketProof of onward/return travel may be requested
Sufficient fundsEvidence of funds for the duration of stay may be required

Health & Vaccinations

Recommended health precautions before you travel

  • Travel insurance with full medical cover is strongly recommended
  • Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations are recommended — consult your GP at least 6 weeks before travel
  • Use high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+) — the Caribbean sun is intense even on cloudy days
  • Drink bottled water only — do not drink tap water
  • Use insect repellent containing DEET, especially at dawn and dusk (mosquito-borne diseases present)
  • Pack any prescription medications with a doctor's note
  • Carry a basic first aid kit including antiseptic and anti-diarrhoeal medication

Dengue Fever Risk

Dengue fever is present in the Dominican Republic. Use insect repellent and wear light, long-sleeved clothing at dusk. There is no vaccine available for tourists.

Currency & Money

Managing your money in Punta Cana

The official currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP). US Dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas and most all-inclusive resorts.

CurrencyApprox. Exchange RateNotes
British Pound (£)£1 ≈ 68 DOPBest rate at local banks or ATMs
US Dollar ($)$1 ≈ 57 DOPWidely accepted as cash
Euro (€)€1 ≈ 62 DOPSome resorts accept euros

Avoid exchanging currency at the airport — rates are significantly worse. Use ATMs (cajeros) in town for the best rates. Notify your bank before travelling.

Getting There & Getting Around

Flights, transfers and local transport options

UK AirportAirlinesFlight TimeType
London GatwickTUI, British Airways~9h 30mDirect
ManchesterTUI, Jet2~10hDirect
BirminghamTUI~10h 15mDirect
GlasgowTUI~10h 30mDirect

Getting around locally:

  • Resort shuttles and organised excursion buses are the safest and easiest option
  • Licensed taxis are available — always agree the fare before getting in
  • Car hire is available but driving standards differ from the UK
  • Motoconchos (motorcycle taxis) are cheap but not recommended for tourists