Question 1

What is the "Timeshare "Winners" Presentation" scam in Punta Cana?

Accepted Answer

Tourists are approached at the pool or beach and told they have won a prize — excursion, free dinner, or shopping voucher — redeemable by attending a brief presentation. The presentation lasts 3–5 hours with extreme sales pressure to purchase vacation club memberships. Decline all prize notifications from resort staff or third parties. There are no free prizes attached to time share presentations.

Question 2

What is the "Resort Excursion Desk Overcharge" scam in Punta Cana?

Accepted Answer

Excursion desks at Punta Cana all-inclusive resorts sell tours (Saona Island, whale watching, zip-lining) at prices 40–60% higher than the same tours from independent operators in Bávaro or Punta Cana town. Compare excursion prices with independent operators in Bávaro before booking at the resort desk. The same Saona Island catamaran trip can be half the price.

Question 3

What is the "Saona Island Tour Bait-and-Switch" scam in Punta Cana?

Accepted Answer

Independent tour sellers in Bávaro and at El Cortecito advertise the Saona Island excursion with photos of fast, modern catamarans and near-empty beaches, but deliver passengers on overcrowded wooden boats with no shade and no safety equipment, docking at a beach already packed with hundreds of tourists from other operators. The "open bar" is watered-down local rum, and lunch is a basic buffet not resembling the promotional images. Operators selling below-market rates ($35–45 versus the standard $60–80) are most likely to substitute inferior boats and conditions. Book Saona Island tours only through operators with verifiable TripAdvisor reviews and the specific boat named in the booking. Avoid any seller quoting below $60 per person. Confirm the departure dock — legitimate operators depart from Bayahibe or La Romana, a two-hour drive west; be suspicious of any operator claiming a "shortcut" or alternate route.

Tour & Activity Scams in Punta Cana

Timeshare "Winners" Presentation

Resort Excursion Desk Overcharge

Saona Island Tour Bait-and-Switch

Experienced a scam here?