How to Get From Punta Cana to Santo Domingo
In 2024, nearly 10 million people visited the Domi nican Republic. This jewel of the Caribbean is a short flight from many parts of the States and has a lot to offer. One of the must-see places is the capital, Santo Domingo.
It's just two and a half hours away from the tourist hotspot of Punta Cana. Depending on your budget and comfort requirements, there are several ways to make the transfer.
We've prepared a guide to help you weigh up all your options and find the perfect Punta Cana transfer solution.
Punta Cana Bus to Santo Domingo
When you arrive at Punta Cana Airport, you will need to leave the airport walking until you arrive at the bus stop. From there, take a bus to Veron. In Veron, you will do a bus swap which will take you to Higuey, where you can catch a SITRAHIMA. The whole route from the PUJ to Santo Domingo this way will be at least 4 hours or more if the busses are full.
There is also an option to take a taxi to the Santo Domingo Bus stop in Bavaro and take a single, 3-hour bus from there.
From Bavaro Bus Terminal to Santo Domingo
Both the bus in Higuey and Bavaro leave every hour, give or take.
The bus leaves at:
7 am
9 am
11 am
1 pm
3 pm
4 pm
In total, it will cost around $15 and four hours on three buses to reach your destination.
From the bus station, you can take a local bus, taxi, or Uber to your accommodation. Then you'll be ready to explore the delights of the biggest metropolis in the Caribbean!
Punta Cana Shared Shuttles
Unfortunately, there is currently no shared shuttle service from Punta Cana Airport. The only form of mass transportation from the airport to the capital is by bus. Follow the instructions above to help you navigate the route.
Punta Cana Transfer
The most convenient and safest way to get from Punta Cana to Santo Domingo is with a private transfer company.
They typically provide vans for transfers, with 6-seater up to 54-seater options available. This allows your entire party to travel together in comfort.
Book your transfer online, and you'll receive an immediate email confirmation. Your driver will track your flight and will be waiting for you when you land. All you have to do is hand over your luggage, sit back, and enjoy a pleasant journey to the capital.
Alternatively, you can arrange for a van to collect you from your hotel.
What type of private transportation does Punta Cana Transfer offer for traveling from Punta Cana to Santo Domingo?
Punta Cana Transfer provides private transportation services in modern and comfortable vehicles, perfect for couples, families, or small groups. You can choose between standard and luxury options, all equipped with air conditioning, comfortable seating, and professional drivers to ensure a safe and pleasant journey.
What are the benefits of booking a transfer with Punta Cana Transfer for the trip to Santo Domingo in 2025?
Booking with Punta Cana Transfer ensures punctuality, comfort, and a fully personalized service. Our team guarantees a direct transfer without unnecessary stops. Additionally, we offer 24/7 customer support and competitive rates to provide the best experience possible.
How can I customize my transportation experience with Punta Cana Transfer for trips between Punta Cana and Santo Domingo?
With Punta Cana Transfer, you can personalize your transfer by choosing the type of vehicle that best suits your needs, requesting stops at tourist attractions or points of interest along the way, and coordinating flexible schedules based on your itinerary. We also offer additional services, such as bottled water or Wi-Fi, to make your journey even more comfortable.
The Cost of Transfers
A transfer in an air-conditioned, private van from Punta Cana to Santo Domingo will cost $150 one-way and $300 round-trip. The cost is usually similar, whichever size of van you choose.
If you have ten people in your party, this means that a round-trip transfer will only cost $30 per person!
Punta Cana Uber and Taxi Options
Uber does operate in Punta Cana. You can schedule a ride on arrival at the airport, but it's usually best to organize it in advance.
Uber gives you two options - UberX and Uber Select. UberX is more affordable and can accommodate up to 4 passengers. This will set you back around 6,000 DOP.
Expect the bait and switch, though. After Uber deducts its commission, the drivers are barely left with enough to cover the cost of the ride. It is a common practice for drivers to accept the ride, and arrive at your destination, to then only proceed to haggle, beg or coerce clients into paying more than the established amount.
Uber Select offers a more comfortable experience in a touristic taxi. However, this will cost you more than twice as much as an UberX. Expect to pay around 14,000 DOP for a one-way journey.
Regular taxi services are also available for a similar price. The advantage of Uber and taxis is that they take you right from the airport exit to your accommodation.
Car Rental from Punta Cana Airport
Punta Cana Airport is home to a wide range of car rental options. There are many international brands to choose from, as well as local companies. You should expect to pay from $60 per day upwards for your rental.
However, a word of warning. Renting a car is the easy part. Returning it in one piece may be harder.
Driving conditions in the Dominican Republic can be unpredictable. Road surfaces are poor in many places, and driving can be erratic. It's not for the faint-hearted and requires 100% concentration at all times.
The CDC advises that traffic laws are rarely enforced. So don't expect road conditions similar to those you're used to backing in the US or Canada.
Even though it seems like a cost-effective option, most tourists wisely choose to avoid this vacation experience.
Why Visit Punta Cana?
Punta Cana is the number one destination for tourists coming to the DR for sun, sea, and fun. It's home to over 90 all-inclusive resorts and has something for every budget.
It is everything you expect the Caribbean to be and more. There are white sandy beaches, azure waters, and endless sunshine. But there are also ecological parks, rainforests, and even a museum dedicated to chocolate!
Ever dreamed of landing your fish and cooking it right away? Take a Punta Cana fishing trip, and you can make your dr eam come true. Everything you need is provided for an amazing trip.
Is Santo Domingo Worth a Visit?
If all that sunshine and relaxation has got you craving some culture, Santo Domingo is the answer. Take a tour of its colonial heart and learn about the history of the Caribbean. It's also home to the National Botanical.
Garden, Parque Colon, and National Zoological Park.
Turn your hand to Dominican cooking or take a cruise to Isla Saona to experience island life at its best.
Travel to Santo Domingo in Style
Santo Domingo should be at the top of every traveler's list of must-see places in the Dominican Republic.
At Punta Cana Transfer, we make it easy to get from the tourist capital to the nation's capital. Our van transfers are cool, comfortable, and convenient. In less than three hours, you'll be soaking in everything this historic destination has to offer.
Click here to book your Punta Cana transfer today!