Is Santo Domingo Safe for Tourists in 2026?

Unlicensed taxi drivers and informal fixers at Las Américas International Airport target arriving tourists with fares that can be two to three times the standard rate for the 30-minute drive into Santo Domingo. Drivers sometimes quote in USD for maximum effect and use traffic as justification for higher prices. Some taxis divert through unofficial stops adding time and cost to the journey.

How to avoid: Use only official OMSA taxis from the regulated rank outside arrivals or pre-book a transfer through your hotel. Standard fare to the Zona Colonial should be approximately USD 35-45. Agree the price before getting in. Ignore anyone who approaches you inside the terminal offering transport.

Where: Las Américas International Airport arrivals hall and the road immediately outside the terminal, also at La Isabela International Airport for domestic connections

Bank card cloning and identity theft are formally documented risks in Santo Domingo, flagged by the UK FCDO, Canadian government, and US State Department in their Dominican Republic travel advisories. Criminals install skimming devices on card terminals and ATMs, particularly at standalone machines outside bank branches. Card data is harvested and used for unauthorized transactions, often noticed only after the tourist has departed.

How to avoid: Use ATMs located inside bank branches or major hotel lobbies rather than standalone street machines. Shield the keypad when entering your PIN. Check your account for unauthorized charges within 24 hours of any ATM use. Consider using a dedicated travel card with low limits.

Where: Standalone ATMs on Avenida 27 de Febrero, street-level machines near Zona Colonial, and ATMs at busy commercial streets across Santo Domingo

Drive-by robbery by thieves on motorcycles, mopeds, and bicycles is a formally documented and increasing threat in Santo Domingo. The US Embassy issued a specific advisory in June 2025 warning citizens against using motoconchos (informal motorcycle taxis) and flagging motorcycle-based street crime. Criminals approach pedestrians at speed, snatch phones, bags, or jewelry, and accelerate away before victims can react. The tactic can cause physical injury when items are worn or held tightly. The National Police reported a significant concentration of armed robberies in Santo Domingo in 2025.

How to avoid: Keep phones out of sight when walking on streets, particularly on the Malecón and busy tourist routes. Carry bags across the body with the strap on the side away from traffic. Remove visible jewelry before walking in public areas. If a motorcyclist slows alongside you, move toward a building entrance or group of people. Use ride-hailing apps like Uber rather than walking long distances in unfamiliar neighborhoods.

Where: Avenida George Washington (Malecón), pedestrian routes near the Zona Colonial, Gazcue neighborhood streets, and major commercial avenues throughout Santo Domingo

The US State Department travel advisory for the Dominican Republic specifically warns against leaving food or drinks unattended and against consuming alcohol alone or with new acquaintances. Incidents of drink spiking facilitating assault, robbery, and sexual assault have been reported in Santo Domingo bars, nightclubs, and resort venues. In some documented cases hotel staff or other guests were implicated. The UK FCDO and Australian DFAT also flag sexual assault risk at tourist accommodation and nightlife venues.

How to avoid: Never leave drinks unattended at bars or clubs. Do not accept drinks from people you have just met. Travel to nightlife venues with trusted companions and establish a check-in arrangement. If you feel suddenly dizzy or disoriented after a single drink, alert a trusted person immediately and seek medical attention. Stick to sealed bottled drinks when possible at informal venues.

Where: Bars and nightclubs along the Malecón, Zona Colonial nightlife venues, hotel bars in tourist accommodation areas, beach bars in Boca Chica near Santo Domingo