icon

  • English (EN)
  • Español (ES)
  • Português (BR)

How Safe Is Dominica for Travel?

Dominica

Dominica is an island country in the West Indies located apart from the Leeward Islands in the Carribean Sea.

Initially inhabited by African people then colonized by Europeans and afterward injected with a strong African influence, their population now resembles a multinational one with a mixture of all main historical influences.

The official language of Dominica is considered to be English, which knows its development and spread between locals from the colonization by Great Britain far back in history, however, they also speak Spanish and Franch.

  • Warnings & Dangers in Dominica

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Most visits to the island are reported to be trouble-free however there are as usually chances of getting into trouble if not attentive and taking care of your belongings.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Taxi, car rentals, as well as bus services provided on the island, are reliable and one can easily choose the most preferred option, however, for renting a car it is necessary to get a local temporary driving license.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

Pickpockets as everywhere in the world are met here as well, but this only means that you should take care of your belongings and do not carry all your expensive things with you at night.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

The hurricane season in the Carribean is from June to November as well as earthquakes can be felt there often, so it is advisable just in case to follow all pieces of advice given by public authorities.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

There are really few cases of mugging that have been registered, all of them around night, this means that you as tourists should probably avoid walking alone at night and expose luxury jewelry while walking around.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Even if there is no historic data of any terrorist attack happening on the islands these can not be ruled out and this is why you should be aware of all the measures that should be taken just in case.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Use your common sense and try to not get easily influenced by people and you will obviously avoid scams.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Women travelers are more than welcome on the island, but still, it is advisable to not travel alone, but at least get a friend of yours with you.

  • So... How Safe Is Dominica Really?

Even if there are some registered cases of crime and robberies this most of the time does not involve tourists, but still, you should be very attentive and take all the precautions measures that will make you avoid all the possible unpleasant cases.

Women are recommended to avoid putting themselves in dangerous situations as walking alone at night or go alone on isolated islands, but instead, try to go there with a group of people or in another case just avoid such places.

From the economic and political perspective, the country is stable which means that it is a well-functioning state that can in case of emergency protect its citizens as well as tourists of the island and provide them with all the necessary equipment and assistance.

From the health perspective, there are some troubles that one can encounter while traveling as a risk of Zika virus transmission, but if you get informed and keep a close look at all the information provided by the public authorities you will definitely be fine.

Keep in mind all the analysis provided above for all the listed cases and take necessary actions when in need and you will be safe while enjoying your trip.

  • How Does Dominica Compare?
  • Useful Information

It depends on the nationality you have whether you need a visa or not, but all the required information is clearly provided by the web-site of the public authorities.

The locally used currency is considered to be the Est-Caraibian dollar, but the US dollar, euro, the British pound is widely accepted as well on the islands. There is a fixed exchange rate set between these two currencies and mainly that $1.00 EC dollar is equal to $0.37 US dollar.

The climate on Dominica is tropical, which means that it is hot and humid all year round with a cool and dry season from January to April and a hot, rainy season from June to November.

Douglas–Charles Airport is one of the two airports, the other one being Canefield Airport.

Travel Insurance

As it is always recommended to have travel insurance while traveling, no matter the destination Dominica is not an exception.

Dominica Weather Averages (Temperatures)

  • Average High/Low Temperature
  • Where to Next?

5dc8244a50878

3 Reviews on Dominica

Sending this to some friends who travel to Dominica

Always hot, lovely views and less known

The greatest thing about this is that it’s a lot less known than other regions which means it is less visited which means it’s a bit more private. I loved it and will be back for sure. It has beautiful views and places to visit and is very safe. Plus it’s always hot here which I particularly like.

really it was rather cold when i went

Share Your Experience Cancel reply

Your Review

Title of your review

Article Contents

  • Overall Risk
  • Transport & Taxis Risk
  • Pickpockets Risk
  • Natural Disasters Risk
  • Mugging Risk
  • Terrorism Risk
  • Women Travelers Risk
  • Weather Averages (Temperatures)
  • User Reviews
  • Share Your Experience

Popular Destinations

Cabo San Lucas

Safety Index

Recent reviews & comments.

  • Tim on Democratic Republic of the Congo
  • Root Thelucario on Nigeria
  • Root TheLucario on Ukraine
  • Wise on United Arab Emirates
  • Lisa on Malmo

Popular US States

  • Pennsylvania

Wanderlust Chloe

17 Things To Know Before Visiting Dominica: Travel Tips For A Hassle Free Holiday

From when to visit and how much things cost, to a few island surprises, these dominica travel tips will help you plan your trip to this special caribbean island..

Dominica might be known universally as the nature island, but I’d describe it as the island of surprises. Surprising landscapes, surprising activities and… surprising prices! This is a Caribbean island, but not like the others you know.

White sandy beaches? Nope Luxury hotels? Not really…. Honeymoon destination? Nope – well, actually yes, but only if you’re an adventurous couple! Expensive prices? Nope

If you’re planning a trip, I’d recommend reading my guide to the best things to do in Dominica , which gives you the lowdown on the island’s attractions and beauty spots. But first, scroll on to read a few Dominica travel tips to make your first trip to the island totally hassle free!

Trekking to the Emerald Pool, Dominica

17 Things To Know Before Visiting Dominica

Don’t expect to laze on the beach… although you can .

While Dominica has plenty of lovely beaches, due to it’s volcanic origins, the majority of the island’s beaches have black, brown and silver sand. They’re still very pretty, with palm trees and clear, Caribbean waters, but perhaps a little different to the Caribbean postcard you have in your minds.

Instead, hike into the mountains, go whale watching , visit the island’s waterfalls, take a dip in the Emerald Pool and learn to cook Caribbean cuisine – the options are endless, so you’ll never be bored!

READ MORE: Top things to do in Dominica, Caribbean

View over Castle Bruce from Islet View, Dominica

Dominica is NOT the Dominican Republic. Not even close! 

I feel like an idiot for writing this, but when I told people I was visiting Dominica, they thought I meant the Dominican Republic… or that Dominica was the capital of the DR! Nope, they’re completely different islands, with different cultures, landscapes and reasons to visit. Make sure you book a flight to the right place!

Dominica is known as the nature island

As we landed in Dominica, I could see exactly why it’s known as the nature island! With lush rainforests, incredible volcanic landscapes and rugged bays, it looked wild – like a little Jurassic Park! There are nine volcanoes, 365 rivers, 18 named waterfalls and one boiling lake (the second largest in the world after Frying Pan Lake in New Zealand). If you love adventures, this is the island for you.

Lush views in Dominica

Dominica is one of the cheaper Caribbean islands

First up, I’ll admit I’ve always found the Caribbean an expensive part of the world to travel around, especially compared to regions like South East Asia and Eastern Europe. Despite having amazing ingredients on the doorstep, a lot of items still have to be imported. Plus, once you’re on the islands, you become a captured market. Particularly on smaller islands, there aren’t many tour companies, so the ones that exist set the price they want, and that’s what you pay.

That being said, I found Dominica to be cheaper than most Caribbean islands I’ve visited (Barbados, Antigua, St Kitts, Cuba, St Martin). Here’s a quick rundown of the prices…

How much do things cost in Dominica? 

Main course in a nice restaurant: $12 USD (33 ECD / £9.80) Whale watching tour: $69 USD (186 ECD / £55) Two tank scuba dive: $108 USD (293 ECD / £87) Half day island tour:  $45 USD (121 ECD / £36) Car rental (per day): $50 USD (135 ECD / £40) Taxi from Douglas-Charles Airport (Dominica Airport) to Roseau: $30 USD (81 ECD / £24) Room (sleeping 3) at Picard Beach Cottages: $103 USD (278 ECD / £83) Hostel dorm (at Fort Shirley): $15 (40 ECD / £12) 

Also, there’s a great value pass you can buy if you plan to visit multiple attractions in a week. About that…

Hi Rise Restaurant Receipt - Dominica

It’s CHEAP to visit Dominica’s attractions, yes really! 

Continuing the budget theme here (and a great Dominica travel tip for you!!) you can visit most of Dominica’s natural wonders for just $12 USD (33 ECD / £9.50). The special tourist site pass gives you entry to Trafalgar Falls, Cabrits National Park, Emerald Pool, Middleham Falls, Soufriere Sulphur Springs, Boiling Lake and Morne Trois Pitons Trail just to name a few!

Dominica National Park Site Pass

There’s now a luxury hotel in Dominica!

Dominica has never been associated with luxury holidays. Most people visit because they love the great outdoors. They want to go hiking, diving and explore the abundant nature of the island. Those travellers aren’t usually in need of a personal butler or swim up bar, and are happy in a more rustic hotel.

All that has now changed with the opening of Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski Dominica , just north of Portsmouth (which opened in 2019). I passed it one day, and saw the vast resort being constructed. It’s in a beautiful location, close to Cabrits National Park, in its own sheltered bay. Rumour has it, the presidential suite is around $15,000 a night – no doubt attracting a luxurious style of traveller to the island.

Just a few minutes away (and also under construction during my visit) was Cabrits Hotel Resort and Spa, which has been financed by the Kingdom of Morocco as a gift to Dominica. It’s in another lovely location, with a beautiful view over Portsmouth. 

Don’t believe what you read – Hurricane Maria hasn’t destroyed this beautiful island

Dominica hit the headlines after category 5 Hurricane Maria swept over the island in September 2017. It was regarded as the worst natural disaster on record for the islands in the region. I was actually supposed to visit in October 2017, but the trip was cancelled to allow the island time to recover. And you know what? It has. Lots of people told us that they learned lessons about construction in the aftermath of the hurricane. It was also an important time to look at the island’s economy and industries. With a combination of positivity and hard work, the island has bounced back.

During my visit in July 2019 some evidence remained, but all major attractions were open, cruise ship schedules were back to normal, and Dominica was definitely ready to welcome tourism again.

View over Roseau, Dominica

There are no direct flights from the UK or US to Dominica  

Don’t worry though – it’s a very simple journey! If you’re visiting from the UK, you’ll need to fly to Antigua (with Virgin or British Airways) and then catch a LIAT flight over to Dominica. The flight from Antigua to Dominica only takes 30 minutes, and on a clear day, the views are amazing. The quickest routes I found from London were around 12 hours (including the transfer). Plus, you don’t need a visa to visit!

Douglas–Charles Airport, Dominica

You’re guaranteed to see the Queen in Dominica… seriously!

Yes, you’ll spot a very young Queen Elizabeth II on the Eastern Caribbean Dollars – the main currency used on the island. 

The Eastern Caribbean Dollar is used in: Antigua and Barbuda, Anguilla, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

It’s worth downloading an app like XE Currency to convert currency on the go, but as a guide: 1 USD = 2.70 ECD = £0.80 While not exact, I spent the week dividing the ECD amount by 3 to work out the rough cost in £.

Eastern Caribbean Dollars

English is the principal language in Dominica

It’s the official language of the island, but you might hear a little Creole spoken too. 

Sadly, much of the indigenous Kalinago language has been lost, but there are efforts by the Kalinago people to preserve it, and you’ll occasionally hear ‘Mabrika!’ (welcome) when you meet someone. 

You could use Dominica as a base to explore the Windward and Leeward Islands in the West Indies

The ferry port in Roseau has regular ferries which connect Dominica with its neighbouring islands. You can reach Guadeloupe, Martinique and St. Lucia in just a few hours. There’s more info on the ferry website , including timetables and prices. Often it’s cheaper to travel by ferry than to fly, and by the time you’ve travelled to the airport, you might actually find it quicker going by boat.  

Peak cruise season in Dominica runs from October to May

The big cruise shops visit Dominica from the autumn to spring / summer, docking in Roseau. Carnival, Princess, Silversea, Celebrity, Cunard, Azamara and Royal Caribbean all sail there, spending one day on the island. If possible, I’d recommend visiting out of season, as I did. Rather than fighting the crowds at beauty spots like Trafalgar Falls and the Emerald Pool, you could have them all to yourself!

Visiting Trafalgar Falls, Dominica

Dominica has an incredible hiking trail going all the way across the island

The Waitukubuli National Trail is a 114-mile hiking trail which guides you through many of the island’s most impressive landscapes. If you were to hike the entire trail from Scotts Head in the south to Capuchin in the north you’d pass through Kalinago villages (where the indigenous people live), up volcanoes, past waterfalls, cross several rivers and more. It’s worth noting that a few parts of the trail are still closed after the effects of Hurricane Maria.

Emerald Pool, Dominica

Dominica is the whale watching capital of the Caribbean

If you’re visiting the island, you have to book a whale watching tour . Over 20 species have been spotted in the waters around the island, but the big draw is the pod of sperm whales. There are said to be around 300 in total, and Dominica is the only country in the world where they can be spotted all year round. 

READ MORE: Whale Watching In Dominica

The tail of a sperm whale before it dives down

Everybody knows everybody in Dominica

I’m writing this with a smile on my face, as some of my happiest memories from my time on the island are from spending time with the locals. We had some great drivers who took us to see some of the main attractions, and they seemed to know everyone!

They’d stop to say something out of the window, honk the car horn to get a friend’s attention and shake hands with people left, right and centre! It was lovely to see how close knit the island’s community is. As we headed up to a cookery class in the hills, we passed a car, and our driver mentioned the person driving was his old secondary school teacher!    

In general I found people to be friendly and welcoming. They were passionate about their home and keen to share their stories. This left me with a real feeling of warmth towards the island.

Dominica’s water is safe to drink

I always look up whether the water is safe to drink in advance and I’m SO relieved when it is. Dominica’s water is safe to drink, however some people don’t like the taste. Bottled water is available everywhere, and most restaurants will offer you the option of a proper bottle or a glass of water, which is usually filtered tap water.

Dominica is very different to Antigua

These two islands are just a 30 minute flight apart, but couldn’t be more different!

Antigua has 365 beaches (one for every day of the year) while Dominica has 365 rivers. Antigua is famed for its white sands, while Dominica’s beaches are silver and black. Antigua is relatively flat while Dominica is volcanic and mountainous. Antigua attracts families and couples wanting to relax, while Dominica attracts adventurers and nature lovers.

Rather than pick one or the other, I’d recommend a multi-stop holiday with four days in Antigua followed by four days in Dominica. You’ll get the best of both!

Trafalgar Falls, Dominica

I hope you’ve found my guide to Dominica travel tips helpful. If you have any questions, you can leave them in the comments below.

Don’t forget to check out my other Dominica travel blogs: Top Things To Do In Dominica Whale Watching In Dominica

I was invited to explore the island by Discover Dominica , but as always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Enjoyed this post? Pin it for later…

Dominica Travel Tips - Read This Before Visiting

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

4 thoughts on “17 Things To Know Before Visiting Dominica: Travel Tips For A Hassle Free Holiday”

hello! Thanks for the write up. Just started exploring hte idea of Dominica and knew nothing about it until now. Would love to be able to converse via email with you with questions i may have along the way.

Hi Collin – of course. Feel free to email me if you have any more Qs. I’d be happy to help!

What time of the year do you like to go to Dominica? We like to go off season and avoid crowds and cruise ships. But hurricane season doesn’t sound good either.

Hi Pat, I visited in July. It’s probably not peak time to visit but we had great weather and a lovely trip. I’ve travelled to that part of the world during hurricane season and never had an issue. Obviously, you can’t rely on it, but often the weather is fine still, just a few showers etc. I hope that helps. It’s the most wonderful island – definitely recommend!

Leave a comment Cancel reply

  • In Our Nature
  • History & Culture
  • Must-See Dominica

Reef Diver

  • Itineraries
  • Tour Operators
  • Events Calendar
  • voluntourism
  • Work In Nature

Dominica Catamaran Cruise and Snorkel

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Dominica: The Nature Island Logo

  • Restaurants
  • Guest Houses

Wanderlust hotel

Featured Hotel

  • Travel Advisory
  • Cruise Guests
  • Island Hopping/Ferries
  • Island Transportation
  • Useful Information

dominica tourist safety

Travel Advisory for Dominica

Latest Update:

As of Monday 22nd August 2022

The requirements for entering Dominica are as follows:

Pre-arrival testing for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers has been removed. Testing on arrival for symptomatic travelers has been removed.

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Dominica travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: January 29, 2024 10:34 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, dominica - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Dominica.

Back to top

Power outages

Nationwide power outages are occurring regularly. They occur numerous times a day and for multiple-hour stretches. They are expected to continue through 2023.

Power outages can affect the following services and businesses:

  • telecommunications and security systems
  • stores and food supply
  • hotels and other accommodations
  • banks and ATMs
  • gas stations
  • public lighting and traffic lights
  • heating and water supply

If you’re in Dominica:

  • verify the schedule of power cuts with local authorities
  • make sure your phone is always charged
  • keep supplies of food, water, and fuel on hand in case of lengthy disruptions
  • carry a flashlight

Get Prepared - basic emergency kit

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and theft from vehicles, occurs.

Robberies and violent assaults have occurred near tourist facilities.

Crime typically increases during annual celebrations such as Carnival in February/March and the World Creole Music Festival in October.

  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
  • Avoid wearing jewellery
  • Avoid unpatrolled beaches and unpopulated areas, especially after dark
  • Carry a photocopy of your passport’s identification page
  • Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Women's safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Incidents of sexual assault occur. Incidents of sexual assault occur.

Advice for women travellers

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common.

Not all beaches have lifeguards or warning flags.

  • Exercise caution when swimming
  • Don’t swim alone, after hours or outside marked areas
  • Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas

Tour operators may not adhere to international standards.

If you participate in water sports, such as diving:

  • choose a well-established and reputable company that has insurance
  • ensure that your travel insurance covers the recreational activities you choose

If in doubt concerning the safety of the facilities or equipment, don’t use them.

Water safety abroad

If you intend to hike:

  • never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
  • buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
  • ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
  • ensure that you’re properly equipped
  • stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
  • inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
  • obtain detailed information on hiking routes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails

Boiling Lake

Boiling Lake is located in Morne Trois Pitons National Park. It’s filled with bubbling water that’s heated by molten magma. Small steam explosions may occur, and the water can return to its original boiling state with little or no warning. Swimming in the lake is prohibited.

  • Visit only with an experienced guide
  • Stay a safe distance from the water’s edge

Office of Disaster Management – Government of Dominica

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country.

Driving can be hazardous due to:

  • narrow, steep and winding roads
  • lack of guardrails, traffic signs, lane markings and hazard warnings
  • lack of lighting outside the capital city, Roseau

Road conditions can deteriorate significantly during and after heavy rains. The main road from Douglas-Charles Airport is prone to landslides and has several steep drops where land has collapsed.

Roadside assistance is not widely available.

  • Avoid driving at night
  • Bring a GPS with you
  • Ensure you have sufficient vehicle insurance coverage
  • If you plan to travel off-road, such as to Batibou Bay, rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
  • In the event of an accident, call the police and don’t move your vehicle.

Public transportation

Minibuses are available and safe.

Taxis are not metered. Standard fares exist for most destinations.

  • Use only licensed taxis
  • Agree on the fare with the driver before you depart

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Dominican authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Dominica.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

  • Foreign Representatives in Canada
  • Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 6 months Business visa: not required Student visa: required

Other entry requirements

You must present proof of onward travel or a return ticket to enter Dominica.

Departure tax

You must pay a departure tax of 86 East Caribbean Dollars when leaving Dominica by ferry. 

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

  • Global Measles Notice - 31 August, 2023
  • Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
  • COVID-19 and International Travel - 31 August, 2023

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

  • There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

  • Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

  • Vaccination is not recommended.
  • Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
  • Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

  •  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
  •  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
  •  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

  • Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
  • Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
  • Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

  • Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
  • Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
  • Minimize exposure to insects
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

  • In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
  • Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
  • The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
  • Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

  • Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
  • Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

  •   washing your hands often
  • avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
  • avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Medical care is limited in Dominica. There are hospitals and clinics located on the island, but Princess Margaret Hospital in Roseau is the only hospital equipped to handle general surgery and emergency operations.

There is limited ambulance service available.

Medical treatment can be costly, even for basic services. You may have to provide immediate cash payment for medical treatment.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Camouflage clothing

It’s illegal for anyone, including children, to dress in army or camouflage clothing or to carry items made of camouflage material.

Imports/exports

Customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning the import or export of certain items, including business equipment, food and beverages, and chemicals.

Traffic drives on the left.

To drive in Dominica, you must have a valid Canadian driver’s licence. You must also purchase a temporary Dominican driving permit, which is valid for 30 days. These are available at:

  • local airports
  • car rental firms
  • the Traffic and Licensing Department on High Street in Roseau
  • the Portsmouth Police Station

Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. The legal blood alcohol limit is 50 mg per 100 ml of blood, meaning that even one drink could place you above the legal limit. If the police suspect you of drinking and driving, they could confiscate your driver’s licence on the spot. If you’re convicted, you can expect heavy fines.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Dominican law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could also be discriminated against or detained based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Dominica.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Dominica.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Dominica, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Dominica.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Dominica by an abducting parent:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Dominica to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

  • International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
  • Travelling with children
  • Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
  • Emergency Watch and Response Centre

The currency in Dominica is the East Caribbean dollar (XCD). Many businesses also accept US dollars and euros.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

  • know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
  • be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
  • stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
  • carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
  • follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
  • Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
  • Large-scale emergencies abroad
  • Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings  - United States’ National Hurricane Center

Earthquakes and tsunamis

The eastern Caribbean, including Dominica, is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes and tsunamis can occur.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

In the event of an earthquake:

  • monitor local media to stay informed of the evolving situation
  • follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Earthquakes - What to Do?
  • Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey
  • Tsunami warning system  - U.S. National Weather Service

Local services

Dial 999 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

There’s no resident Canadian government office in Dominica. You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information from the High Commission of Canada in Barbados, in Bridgetown.

Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, Sint Maarten.

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Barbados, in Bridgetown, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Dominica   Travel Guide

dominica tourist safety

Courtesy of htomas | Getty Images

dominica tourist safety

Why Go To Dominica

Dominica is the Caribbean's best kept secret. Its towering mountains, lush green forests and winding rivers are practically begging for exploration. Plus, there are no chain resorts (yes, none) and limited nightlife; in fact, commercial development of any kind is extremely sparse. But if you've heard of this island, you know that you don't visit for only the resorts and beaches. Instead, Dominica attracts the adventurous eco-tourist that treasures authenticity while on vacation. And despite the deepening of the island's main port to accommodate large cruise ships, Dominica is adamant in its preservation and conservation of local forestry and wildlife, more so than any other islands in the region. In fact, the island is considered one of the most pristine and well-preserved spots in the Western Hemisphere. This makes Dominica's many unique natural features great destinations for outdoors and nature enthusiasts, as well as shutterbugs, but the island probably ought to be avoided by travelers who are particularly averse to hiking.

Keep in mind: Dominica is still recovering from Hurricane Maria, which struck the island September 2017. While almost all of the major tourist destinations have been reopened, many hotels and tour groups are still offering voluntourism packages to speed up the recovery process.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Best of Dominica

Best hotels in dominica.

  • in Secret Bay
  • in Calibishie Lodges
  • in Fort Young Hotel

Secret Bay

Best Things to Do in Dominica

  • # 1 in Trafalgar Falls
  • # 2 in Boiling Lake
  • # 3 in Papillote Tropical Gardens

Popular Tours

PH Whale Watch & Dolphin Cruise in Dominica

PH Whale Watch & Dolphin Cruise in Dominica

(146 reviews)

from $ 89.00

Shoreside Fun-Day with Titou Gorge, Hot Springs & Champagne Reef

Shoreside Fun-Day with Titou Gorge, Hot Springs & Champagne Reef

(30 reviews)

from $ 115.00

Waitukubuli Dolphin and Whale Watch in Dominica

Waitukubuli Dolphin and Whale Watch in Dominica

(90 reviews)

from $ 99.99

Dominica Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Dominica is from October to January, when the hotel rates are lower and the humidity is less stifling. Temperatures see little variance, with monthly averages residing around 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Dominica's rainy season occurs between August and October, and the island is susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms this time of year, with peak hurricane season taking place between late August and early September.

Weather in Dominica

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

  • Come again? While English is the official language, you still might have some trouble understanding the Dominican dialect. Residents speak in Antillean Creole, bits of French and Dutch and even Kokoy. This is Kubuli country Dominica's unofficial national beer might as well be its national drink. This German styled concoction (brewed with water for Dominica’s Loubière Springs)is a must-try for visitors age 18 and older. Island time The friendly locals do things a little slower than you will be accustomed to in the States. So smile, relax and grab a Kubuli. Come again? While English is the official language, you still might have some trouble understanding the Dominican dialect. Residents speak in Antillean Creole, bits of French and Dutch and even Kokoy.
  • This is Kubuli country Dominica's unofficial national beer might as well be its national drink. This German styled concoction (brewed with water for Dominica's Loubière Springs) is a must-try for visitors age 18 and older.
  • Island time The friendly locals do things a little slower than you will be accustomed to in the States. So smile, relax and grab a Kubuli.

How to Save Money in Dominica

  • Ship your gear If you plan on doing a lot of hiking, biking, diving or snorkeling, consider mailing your gear to your hotel ahead of time. It could potentially be cheaper than renting equipment on the island.
  • Visit in the offseason Although there's a higher chance of rain, rates plummet from June to early December, so take advantage of the savings.
  • Volunteer Many of the lodging options on Dominica offer discounted rates for visitors who are willing to spend a day or two of their vacation helping repair trails.

Culture & Customs

Dominica's culture is shaped by a combination of French, African, European and Creole ancestry. You'll find that many of the island's roads and attractions can be named in either English or French, while African language, foods and customs are mixed with their European counterparts. Dominicans, many of which are of African descent, are generally friendly and welcoming. You'll get a taste of Dominica's diverse culture if you're around for its annual celebrations, including Carnival and the World Creole Music Festival. There are also prolonged celebrations around Dominica's Independence Day, Nov. 3.

English is the official language of Dominica, and it is universally spoken and understood. Dominica’s economy was originally based on agriculture (specifically bananas) but has shifted toward tourism in recent years. Despite this change, Dominica still has the fewest visitors out of the 22 Caribbean islands who track tourists.  

The East Caribbean Dollar (XCD), which is used on eight total islands, is Dominica's official currency. One East Caribbean Dollar is equal to approximately $0.37 but the East Caribbean Dollar to U.S. dollar rate often fluctuates, so check the latest exchange rate before you go. The U.S. dollar, the euro and the British pound are also all widely accepted. Money can be exchanged for East Caribbean Dollars at the banks throughout the island or withdrawn from ATMs at the airport or in some hotels . Major credit cards are accepted in most transactions, but some small vendors may only accept local currency.

What to Eat

As far as restaurants go, your best bet is Roseau (Dominica’s capital and largest city), where you can find affordable Caribbean cuisine, as well as some standard European fare. Many of the best spots to grab a bite are hole-in-the-wall eateries scattered throughout Roseau. The downtown market sells freshly caught seafood, including conch, a type of snail that is a favorite Dominican dish. Other specialties include tee-tee-ree (small fish cakes) and crab backs as well as pumpkin soup, fried plantains and goat water, a rich stew made from goat meat.

Kozy's Niche is a tourist favorite in Roseau. Diners praise its exceptionally accommodating service and fusion of Italian and Caribbean. Must-try dishes, according to recent visitors, include lionfish and grilled mahimahi.

For those visiting the popular Trafalgar Falls , be sure to grab a meal at the Papillote Rainforest Restaurant. While the menu at this restaurant consists primarily of seafood (and receives rave reviews), the main reason for a visit to this specific eatery is its ambiance. Visitors can enjoy their meals in an actual rainforest, where the line between the Papillote Rainforest Restaurant’s one-of-a-kind exterior and its cozy interior is easily forgotten. 

If you’re just looking for a drink or small plate, check out the Ruins Rock Cafe in Roseau. Previous visitors say that it has the best rum on the island. The cafe also offers a variety of fruit juices. 

Dominicans do expect to see vacationers in casual attire, but still, you might want to do away with your jeans, shorts or sandals for dinner.

Dominica is a safe island in the Caribbean; tourist-targeted crime is rare and residents are more than willing to help you out. Common sense always prevails though, so be sure to keep close track of your valuables and lock your rental car when driving or parked.

Dominicans are faster and more aggressive drivers than most Americans, plus the roads are often twisted and pothole-laden. Add in the fact that driving is on the left and many tourists face a culture shock on their first foray behind the wheel. Unless you have an adventurous spirit, many experts suggest you leave the driving to residents and seasoned visitors. Take a taxi instead, as they're inexpensive and easy to come by in the daylight hours.

Dominica also has a reputation for clean water; those who live on the island often get their supply from roadside springs. We’d recommend steering clear of both roadside springs and tap water (which is heavily chlorinated, but otherwise safe), and asking for bottled water to avoid any health issues.

Getting Around Dominica

The best way to get around Dominica is by taxi or car since the top activities are fairly spread out. Those who opt not to travel by automobile will end up confined on the southwest coast in Roseau. Rental cars and taxi services are available in downtown Roseau and at the island's two airports. And speaking of airports, there are no direct flights from the United States to either the Douglas–Charles Airport (DOM) or the Canefield Airport (DCF). Instead, visitors from the U.S. and Canada will have to resort to island-hopping from Puerto Rico , Antigua , Barbados , St. Lucia , Martinique or Guadeloupe . Most visitors fly into the island's larger airport, Douglas–Charles, which sits on the northeastern side of the island, about an hour north of the capital city of Roseau.

Entry & Exit Requirements

A valid passport is required for citizens of the United States traveling to Dominica. Immigration officials might also ask for proof of a return or onward flight, and they will charge a departure tax as visitors leave the country. Children 12 years old and younger do not need to pay the tax. Tourist visas are not required for stays less than six months. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

The town of Roseau is the capital and largest city on the island. 

Explore More of Dominica

Boiling Lake

Things To Do

Best hotels.

World Map

You might also like

Martinique

# 4 in  Best Cheap Caribbean Vacations

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico

# 3 in  Best Cheap Destination Wedding Locations

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park

# 1 in  Top 19 Cheap Family Vacations

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

dominica tourist safety

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

dominica tourist safety

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

dominica tourist safety

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

dominica tourist safety

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

dominica tourist safety

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

dominica tourist safety

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

dominica tourist safety

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

dominica tourist safety

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

dominica tourist safety

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

dominica tourist safety

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Dominica Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

  • Packing List

After Your Trip

Map - Dominica

There are no notices currently in effect for Dominica.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

  • Chickenpox (Varicella)
  • Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
  • Flu (influenza)
  • Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Dominica.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Dominica.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Infants 6 to 11 months old traveling internationally should get 1 dose of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before travel. This dose does not count as part of the routine childhood vaccination series.

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dominica is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

  • Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
  • Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
  • Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
  • Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, african tick-bite fever.

  • Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

  • Mosquito bite
  • An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

  • Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
  • Bite from an infected rodent
  • Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
  • Avoid rodents and areas where they live
  • Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

  • Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Dominica, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

  • Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
  • Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
  • Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
  • Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Dominica. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

  • Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
  • Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
  • Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
  • Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
  • Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

  • FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
  • Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
  • Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
  • 2-undecanone
  • Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

  • Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
  • Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Dominica include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

  • Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
  • Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
  • Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
  • If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
  • Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
  • Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
  • Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

  • Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
  • Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
  • Do not dive into shallow water.
  • Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
  • Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
  • To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

  • Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
  • Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
  • Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
  • Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
  • If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

  • Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
  • Go to a doctor right away.
  • Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

  • Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
  • If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
  • Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

  • Use latex condoms correctly.
  • Do not inject drugs.
  • Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
  • Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
  • If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

  • Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
  • Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
  • Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
  • Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Dominica’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
  • Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

  • Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
  • Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
  • Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

  • Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
  • Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
  • Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
  • Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
  • Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
  • Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

  • Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
  • Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
  • Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

  • Wear a seatbelt at all times.
  • Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
  • When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
  • Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Dominica may be poor.
  • Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
  • Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
  • If you choose to drive a vehicle in Dominica, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
  • Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
  • Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
  • Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
  • If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
  • Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Dominica.

  • Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
  • LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

  • Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
  • Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
  • Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
  • Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

  • Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
  • Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
  • Follow all local laws and social customs.
  • Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
  • Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
  • If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Dominica for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

  • Adobe PDF file
  • Microsoft PowerPoint file
  • Microsoft Word file
  • Microsoft Excel file
  • Audio/Video file
  • Apple Quicktime file
  • RealPlayer file
  • Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
  • Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
  • You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
  • CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.
  • Search Please fill out this field.
  • Manage Your Subscription
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Sweepstakes
  • Island Vacations

I Traveled to Dominica During COVID-19 — Here’s What It Was Like

“The Nature Island” is taking safety seriously.

Editor's Note: Those who choose to travel are strongly encouraged to check local government restrictions, rules and safety measures related to COVID-19 and take personal comfort levels and health conditions into consideration before departure.

I've had my eye on Dominica for years. After living on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica and Belize, and traveling extensively through the islands, I've always wanted to visit. It's one of those destinations that rarely comes up in social circles or pops up on lists, which heightened its appeal. I find joy in uncovering beautiful places that few are flocking to. It tends to make the experience much more authentic and pushes you to journey deeper.

The unsung archipelago of Dominica is discreet by design, which I quickly learned when I visited the island back in February via its Safe in Nature program. The program requires travelers from "high risk countries," including the U.S., to stay at certified properties with extra health and safety protocols in place.

Those who know, know , and prefer to keep this Caribbean gem all to themselves. Those who've yet to encounter the country, beware. From the moment your jet begins to descend from the sky, endless green jungles ringed by tall, lush mountains linger in the distance, confirming you've arrived to "The Nature Island." Naturally, you exhale and long for what's to come — and what's to come is divine.

Getting there isn't easy but it's worth the trek

Dominica is situated in the Eastern Caribbean between Martinique and Guadeloupe, and under normal circumstances, island hopping via L'Express des Îles ferry services is encouraged across the island-chain (ferries are temporarily suspended due to COVID-19).

Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from the U.S. to Dominica, which is a minor setback for some but beneficial for those comfortable traveling right now as crowds are nonexistent. I departed from JFK on a 9 a.m. JetBlue flight, connected through San Juan, Puerto Rico, and as the sun was slowly fading west, I landed in Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM).

Double-masked and already in awe, I disembarked from my relatively empty flight and located my luggage on the tarmac. As the other passengers lined up to be escorted inside, I hung back and filled my lungs with fresh air. After nine hours of travel and years of postponement, I had to. I earned this moment.

COVID-19 protocols are next-level

From the United States, the island requires a negative PCR test 72 hours prior to travel plus the completion of a travel authorization form the day before departure ( similar to other Caribbean territories who are letting Americans in ). But what I appreciated particularly about Dominica's thorough process was the mandatory rapid testing that happens on site.

Before you're cleared to leave the airport, your finger is pricked and a blood sample is taken. The country tests for both the virus and antibodies and if either returns positive, you're transported to a certified government property to undergo mandatory quarantine. Admittedly, waiting feels impossible in the moment, but a sense of comfort is present in the process.

I felt safer in Dominica than I have in Brooklyn. Since the start of the pandemic, the island has had less than 200 confirmed COVID-19 cases and zero deaths. Obviously they're doing something right.

Eco-luxury accommodations are the way go

The drive from the airport to Soufrière, a fishing village on the island's southwest coast and my home base for seven days, is roughly an hour. Reserve a driver in advance through your hotel , after a full day of travel, you deserve to be chauffeured around.

After much deliberation about accommodations before my trip, I settled on Jungle Bay . The award-winning Eco-luxury resort is the national model for tourism in Dominica. Sam Rapahel, the property's developer and owner, purposefully built the 89-room resort — which features two infinity pools, multiple yoga studios, walking trails, and a banana farm — around preservation of the environment. But you don't have to be a wellness or nature aficionado to appreciate an immersive and rejuvenating experience there.

The spacious villas feature bamboo furnishings and hand-painted bedding by local artisans. Organic vegetables, seasonal fruit, and fresh fish are sourced daily and implemented into the restaurant's menu selections. The spa offers a variety of wellness treatments that blend ancient traditions with natural ingredients that, Dafrica, the spa's director, uses to customize products specifically for you. According to Rapahel, "tourism should be a tool to empower people and not simply a commodity for others to enjoy. It should benefit the natives and the environment, so there's a complete circle of life."

Safe In Nature activities

Dominica's Safe in Nature program offers a lengthy list of managed activities to explore during your time on the island. From the Galion Loop Hike, which ends with a dip in a natural hot spring, an afternoon snorkeling at Champagne Beach, or a scenic drive up north to Portsmouth to experience the Indian River Boat Tour, discover Dominica while it's still low-key.

Metanoya Z. Webb is a multi-hyphenate creative, former lifestyle director at Essence , and an avid traveling mom who has visited more than 50 countries. Find her on Instagram and on her website .

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

dominica tourist safety

  • Passports, travel and living abroad
  • Travel abroad
  • Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice . 

Before you travel 

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and see support for British nationals abroad for information about specific travel topics. 

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated. 

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. 

Related content

Is this page useful.

  • Yes this page is useful
  • No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

The Wandering Quinn Travel Blog

Dominica Travel Guide! A Complete Guide To Dominica Travel!

Categories Caribbean , Dominica

Dominica, also known as the ‘The Nature Island of the Caribbean’, is an island with 365 Rivers, 9 Volcanos, 70,000 people and an airport with the smallest runway! Dominica is wild, it feels untouched, undiscovered and this is what Dominica travel is like too! It’s not a Caribbean Island you visit to relax on a beach or in your resort. Oh no, Dominica is the island you visit for adventure, for nature, and some very friendly locals! It’s a must-visit Caribbean island!

I was lucky enough to spend 1 week in Dominica with  Discover Dominica and let’s say that Dominica is now firmly one of my top favourite countries!

Here’s my Dominica Travel Guide to help you plan your trip to Dominica or help you convince you that you need to travel to Dominica! It includes things to do in Dominica, is it safe to visit Dominica, where to stay in Dominica and places to visit in Dominica!

Dominica Travel.

Dominica Travel

Keep Reading for everything you need to know about Dominica Travel!

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

About Dominica Island.

The official name of the island is the ‘Commonwealth of Dominica’ and it’s located between the islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique. Unfortunately, Dominica often gets confused as being the same country as the Dominican Republic and often gets pronounced wrong too (its ‘Dom-in-EE-ka’ by the way).

It was the last Caribbean island to be captured and colonized by Europeans due to its mountainous landscape and fierce Carib people. The British and French battled over it until the British got hold of this natural island and it was a British Territory until 1958. In fact, the young face of Queen Elizabeth is still on the Eastern Caribbean Dollars that are used in Dominica.

Dominica’s capital city is Roseau and its second-biggest city is Portsmouth but you don’t visit Dominica for its cities, just like you don’t visit for Caribbean white-sand beaches!

Scroll to the bottom of the post to see my opinion on- is it safe to visit Dominica!

dominica travel guide, Colourful building in Roseau

Roseau shows off the colourful side of the Caribbean

Best Time To Visit Dominica.

September / October to June is the best time of year to visit Dominica and for Dominica travel because hurricane season starts in July lasting until August.

With that being said, I travelled to Dominica at the start of July and it was a great time of year to visit Dominica island. The island was quiet with tourists because it was off-season but all of the tourism spots were open and available. We had a few rain showers in July in Dominica but nothing major and a bit of rain is all part of being on a wild island like this. If you do visit Dominica in the rainy season it seems that staying further South is best as I found the North a lot wetter than the South in July.

High Season in Dominica brings cruise ships to the island from October to April which dock at the port in Roseau. The cruise ship day-trippers can cause the island to get very busy so if you’re planning a vacation in Dominica, visiting outside of these months is a great time to visit if you want to avoid these big groups and it will help you plan your itinerary for Dominica better.

dominica travel guide, fort young hotel pool and ocean with rain clouds above in July

Sun and Cloud in Dominica in July

How To Get To Dominica.

Dominica’s runway and airport are tiny! I always say that the harder a place is to get to, the better it is, and this is the case with this lesser-visited Caribbean island and Dominica travel.

Getting to Dominica By Air

There are no direct flights to Dominica except from the nearby Caribbean islands. I flew from London to Antigua & Barbuda with British Airlines, I had a 2-hour wait in Antigua and then took a small plane with Liat Airlines to Melville Hall / Douglas Charles Airport. The most popular airports to transfer through when travelling from Europe and the USA to Dominica are Antigua, Barbados, Martinique and Guadeloupe.

Getting to Dominica  By Boat

If you’re visiting one of the nearby islands like Martinique and Guadeloupe it’s also possible to get a boat to Dominica which will arrive into the port in the capital city of Roseau within a few hours.

When leaving Dominica be warned that the departure room is extremely small. My recommendation is to get there 2 hours early to check-in but wait in the Oasis Restaurant next door which offers pretty decent wifi and coffee until 45-30 minutes before your flight and then go through security and to the departure gate.

Getting to Dominica  By Cruise

Dominica is included as a day stop on many Caribbean Cruises. In my opinion, the beauty of Dominica cannot be seen in one day but it’s a start.

Here’s a cruise that includes Dominica.

If you are visiting Dominica on a cruise, check out my Dominica Cruise Day Tours Ideas  to help you avoid the crowds!

Things To Do in Dominica.

Hiking in dominica..

Hiking in Dominica is extremely popular and the island has some of the best hiking in the Caribbean so make sure you fit this into your Dominica itinerary. The most well-known hike is to Boiling Lake  which is the worlds second-largest boiling lake. This is an intense hike through forests, rivers, narrow paths and through the valley of desolation taking at least 3-4 hours each way. It is not for the faint-hearted and a local guide is highly recommended.

If you are avid hiker there is the Waitukubuli National Trail (WNT)  which runs the length of Dominica for 115 miles from the South to the North of the island and goes between many Kalinago villages. The Waitukubuli National Trail is the longest walking trail in the Caribbean! Take note that you must obtain a trail pass in advance to do this walk.

For something a bit easier there are plenty more walks in Dominica to places like Middleham Fall,  and there’s a gentle walking trail around Freshwater Lake .

Essentially, make sure you pack your keen for Dominica!

FOR EVEN MORE IDEA’S OF THINGS TO DO IN DOMINICA, READ MY UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN DOMINICA POST HERE !

dominica travel guide, dominica mountain view

Views over Dominica’s Mountains

Waterfalls, Gorges & Rivers.

I was told Dominica has 18 named waterfalls and 365 rivers which means there are lots of chances to bathe and swim in water when in Dominica.

Middleham Fall  is the best waterfall in Dominica in my opinion because you need to hike for about an hour there and back which means it’s not as visited as other waterfalls such as  Trafalgar Falls . Trafalgar Falls is good to see but it’s just a short 5-minute walk from the car park and can only be seen from an observation deck quite far away so it’s not as spectacular to see.

dominica travel guide, middleham waterfall in Dominica in middle of rainforest

Middleham Fall

dominica travel guide, Trafalgar falls dominica and ellie quinn

Trafalgar Falls

Titou Gorge & Champagne Reef are the most popular and well-known places to visit in Dominica. This is mainly because they are easily accessible for day tourists from the cruise ships that arrive onto Dominica from October to April. Because of this, they can get very busy so if you’re staying on the island of Dominica for more than one day, go early in the morning or later in the day to avoid fighting for space or queuing to get in.

Titou Gorge especially is cool because you swim through the gorge to a waterfall at the back and it’s one of the many filming locations on Dominica for the Pirates of the Caribbean film! In fact, this film is one of the reasons why Dominica travel is so popular!

dominica travel guide, titou gorge dominica blue water

Titou Gorge

Emerald Pool is another popular place to visit and swim in Dominica. It’s known as the Emerald Pool thanks to the colour that the surrounding rocks give it when the sun shines on the water, and it has 40ft waterfall rushing into it!

River Tubing is a popular thing to do for cruise day tours in Dominica, I heard it can get very busy but it sounds like a lot of fun and a great way to see 1 of the 365 rivers that Dominica has!

Just be warned that the water isn’t warm in these rivers and waterfalls but the word ‘cold’ is not allowed to be said on Dominica, its called ‘refreshing’ according to the locals and you’ll remember this Dominica travel guide when you get in and hear them say this!

Snorkelling and Diving in Dominica.

Diving in Dominica is big! The locals are very proud of their marine life and dive sites. Diving was much more popular on the island before Hurricane Maria but thankfully there are some Dive Shops back open ready to take you into the clear Caribbean water because diving is a big reason why Dominica travel is so popular!

Simon runs the dive shop Nature Island Dive down in the southern tip of the island in the village of Soufriere. He’s from England and has been living in Dominica for 25 years so he knows a lot about the island! I went out snorkelling with Nature Island Dive while Sarah who runs Girls that Scuba  went out on two dives. She said it was incredible (and she knows her stuff) because she saw many schools of fish, soft coral, two turtles and the ocean was warm! Bonus!

Nature Island Dive not only offers snorkelling and diving but kayaking and standup paddle-boarding too. They can help arrange a taxi to pick you up from where you’re staying or if you fancy testing out the local transport, there’s a cheap, local bus that goes from Roseau down to Soufriere right outside the dive shop!

If you want to dive in Dominica with a female-run dive shop, check out SALT Dominica run by Kayla who is based in Toucari.

It’s worth packing some snorkelling gear for your holiday to Dominica as you can snorkel in many different parts of the island including down at Scotts Head, Champagne Reef and Mero Beach which are all easy to access if you’re hiring a car in Dominica. Read more about Diving in Dominica .

dominica travel guide, ellie quinn snorkelling in Dominica

Snorkelling in the Southern tip of the island

Whale Watching in Dominica.

Dominica is the only Caribbean island where you can see Whales all year round thanks to the huge trench that lies off its coast. Sperm Whales migrate through here and on a Whale Watching Tour in Dominica it’s very likely that you’ll see them!

I went Whale Watching in Dominica with Dive Dominica , they leave Roseau in the South of the island every Sunday afternoon and I’d recommend going with them as they are very professional and respectful of the Whales. So when planning your Dominica itinerary and Dominica travel be sure to include this bucket list activity on your Sunday in Dominica.

dominica travel guide, 3 sperm whales in Dominica

Indian River Boat Tour in Dominica.

To see another one of Dominica’s 365 rivers head to Portsmouth to the start of the Indian River. A local guide will take you out on the Indian River to a Bush Bar where you can get a Rum, or two. It’s a beautiful and relaxing experience travelling in a small canoe boat between palm trees getting you even closer to nature. This was one of my favourite Dominica day trips !

dominica travel guide, boat on indian river cruise with palm trees

The Indian River

dominica travel guide, ellie quinn on boat on indian river cruise

It’s only a small canoe boat and remember to put mosquito spray on!

Caribbean Cooking Class in Dominica.

If you like Caribbean Food why not get involved and take a Caribbean Cooking Class with Cooking Caribbean ! The JTAS Experience takes you to Daria’s house and kitchen where she’ll teach you to cook local foods such as Titiri Fishcakes, Plantain, Rice and Beans. She likes to cook with Rum too so you’ll be in for a few Rum tastings!

The cooking class lasts just a few hours so it’s a great activity to do in Dominica if you’re on a Caribbean Cruise stopping at Dominica for the day ! You can contact Daria on her Facebook Page here  and you might recognise her as she was on the famous Ainsley’s Cooking in the Caribbean series and a lot of Dominica travel was inspired by her alone!

dominica travel guide, daria from cooking caribbean with food

Daria who runs Caribbean Cooking – photo from Wanderlust Chloe

Self-Drive Pirates of the Caribbean Tour.

You may already know this and if you didn’t you’ll hear about it a lot once you get to Dominica, but the Pirates of the Caribbean film Dead Man’s Chest was filmed mostly in Dominica. It sounds like a lot of the locals got involved when the filming happened and there are lots of places you can visit in Dominica to see where scenes were filmed.

It’s worth noting that Hurricane Maria did destroy some of the iconic filming locations and some haven’t been well kept but if you’re a fan of Pirates of the Caribbean it’s worth getting a map of the locations from your accommodation to do to a self-drive Pirates of the Caribbean Tour around Dominica to see what you can find. Plus you’ll see so much of the island at the same time!

dominica travel guide, titou gorge pirates of the caribbean location dominica

Explore Roseau.

Roseau is a small, simple and colourful Caribbean City. It’s located right on the ocean and is where the cruise ships dock. There are markets from souvenir markets to fish markets, and on a Saturday there is a local Saturday Market selling fresh Fruit and Vegetables. There aren’t many things to do in Roseau apart from walking its main streets, taking in the 18th Century Creole buildings and the local shops. You may find a local spot to try out some Rum though!

To get a great view of Dominica’s capital city Roseau you can drive or walk up  Morne Bruce . Just below Morne Bruce are the Botanical Gardens which is another one of the things to do in Roseau.

Dominica travel guide, Morne Bruce Viewpoint looking over Roseau City Dominica and Ocean

Best Beaches in Dominica.

Just because Dominica isn’t known for its beaches it doesn’t mean it doesn’t have them. TripAdvisor will tell you that Mero Beach is Dominica’s best beach, I liked Mero Beach with its black sand but it didn’t impress me that much, to be honest so let me tell you in this Dominica travel guide which beach in Dominica did impress me!

The beach that did impress me and I highly recommend because it must be the best beach in Dominica is Batibou Bay . Its located in the North East of the island not far from the airport and you’ll need to drive there as it’s down a long bumpy track but once you’re there you’re welcomed into paradise. Batibou Beach in Dominica is a quiet, wild beach with palm trees, soft sand and gentle waves. Visiting this beach in Dominica was one of my highlights!

It seems that the beaches in the North East are all very quiet and very beautiful so take some time to drive around seeing which ones you fancy stopping at.

Other popular beaches in Dominica are  Picard Beach and Secret Bay which are on the West Coast not far from Portsmouth.

dominica travel guide, Batibou Bay Dominica

Batibou Bay before the drive down

dominica travel guide, ellie quinn on mero beach dominica

Mero Beach said to be the best beach on the island

Dominica Site Pass.

‘Is the Dominica Site Pass worth it??’

Dominica offers a weekly site pass which covers entrance fee’s into various sites and national parks. A pass is very reasonable in price costing $12.00 USD / $32.04 ECD . Dominica National Park site passes can be purchased from tour operators and car hire agencies in Dominica, and from official sites around the island such as the Forestry, Wildlife & Parks Division on Valley Road or in the Botanical Gardens in Roseau.

These passes will really help you save money on attraction fees in Dominica and encourage you to see more of the island so I recommend for your Dominica travel in this Dominica travel guide that you get one!

Dominica travel guide, dominica site pass

This is what the site pass looks like.

Where To Stay in Dominica.

Dominica hotels.

The main thing to know about Dominica is that it is not a resort island, there are lots of nice hotels, cottages and bungalows but you won’t find huge all-inclusive resorts in Dominica (just yet, at least). The two major cities of Roseau and Portsmouth offer the most places to stay in Dominica and more Dominica accommodation can be found in the villages and towns around the island. Luckily there’s accommodation in Dominica and hotels in Dominica to suit all budgets!

Dominica’s capital is Roseau and is a popular place to stay in Dominica because of its location. I stayed for 4 nights at Fort Young Hotel which appears to be one of the best hotels in Dominica and most popular places to stay in Dominica. It has a pool looking out onto the ocean, ocean-view bedrooms with balconies, a bar and a restaurant. It’s quiet with amazingly friendly staff and from my experience there I’d highly recommend staying here!

Check out rates and availability at Fort Young Hotel here!

Dominica travel guide, Fort Young Hotel Roseau Dominica Swimming pool and ocean view with rainbow

Fort Young Hotel Pool

Jungle Bay is a new hotel and resort in Dominica which opened in July 2019. It’s located up on a hilltop overlooking Soufriere and Scotts Head which is the most southern point of the island where the Caribbean and Atlantic Ocean meet. Jungle Bay is an upmarket, eco-friendly, wellness resort with an incredible infinity pool, a spa, a restaurant, a yoga studio and huts and bungalows with a view.

It’s pretty secluded location wise which makes it a great place to relax and they offer day tours of Dominica so you can still see the island while staying at Jungle Bay Dominica.

Check out rates and availability at Jungle Bay here!

Dominica travel guide, Jungle Bay Dominica infinity Pool and ocean

Jungle Bay Dominica Pool

Dominica is not that well known for its beaches but if you want to stay on a beach, from my trip to Dominica travels I can recommend  Picard Beach Cottages  as good Dominica accommodation. They’re pretty basic cottages but they are right on the black sand beach of Picard Beach. The cottages can sleep up to 3 people and have self-catering facilities helping you to visit Dominica on a budget. There’s a restaurant on-site and they are in walkable distance to Portsmouth city.

Check out rates and availability at Picard Beach Cottages here!

Dominica travel guide, picard beach cottages dominica

Picard Beach Cottages

Dominica Hostels

If diving is your thing or you’re visiting Dominica as a backpacker and looking for a hostel in Dominica, be sure to check out Soufriere Guesthouse  because it’s extremely well located to Nature Island Dive which is a dive shop I recommend in Dominica.

Soufriere Guesthouse has private rooms and dormitory rooms starting at $23.00 USD as well as a garden, bar and shared kitchen meaning you can stay in Dominica on a budget here, meet cool people and focus on your diving!

For more Dominica Hotels to suit all budgets and style of travel, have a look at Booking.com !

How To Get Around Dominica.

The best way to get around Dominica is to  hire a car  and drive yourself around. The only thing to be aware of is that the roads are very windy and hilly so you do need to be a confident driver. Plus, if you’re from the US or Europe you’ll be driving on the other side of the road as they drive on the left side of the road in Dominica, the same as in the UK.

For the best car hire in Dominica, I recommend  Happy Car Rentals . They have a range of cars on their website which are perfect to use on the island as well as being cheap and affordable.

If you want a driver you can speak to Happy Car Rentals too. They drove my group all around the island and the drivers were so friendly and knowledgeable.

Alternatively, there are plenty of taxi’s available in Roseau ready to take you around the island and your accommodation can help book taxis for you.

There is a public bus system all around the island which is cheap to use. Just be aware that buses stop running at about 5:00-6:00 pm.

Dominica travel guide, happy car rentals dominica

I really recommend Happy Car Rentals!

What To Pack For Dominica.

Hopefully, you can tell that you’ll need more than just swimwear and nice shoes on this Caribbean Island and for your Dominica travel trip!

Make sure you pack trainers and if you plan to do more intense hiking like going to the Boiling Lake, hiking boots will be best. I love KEEN hiking shoes .

Take a waterproof jacket as you’ll find it tends to rain in the rainforest of Dominica and there can be bursts of rain all over the island throughout the year because of how tropical it is.

Mosquito spray should be on your Dominica packing list, as should UK adapters (hotels do have US plugs but mostly they’re UK plugs).

If you suffer from travel sickness, pack some motion sickness tablets as the roads in Dominica have a lot of bends and you may need it for Whale Watching too!

Dominica travel guide, ellie quinn in hiking clothes by waterfall

Activewear is a must-pack!

Is Dominica Safe To Visit?

Tourism and Dominica travel declined a lot in Dominica after Hurricane Maria in September 2017. Maria destroyed much of the island taking many homes, lives and left the island looking brown rather than lush green like it did before.

From my experience visiting Dominica in 2019, I can tell you that the island is bouncing back , and fast. Much of the island is now cleared with roads in good condition, houses have and are being rebuilt, and nature is, of course, doing her thing and bringing the island back to life in the most incredible way.

While the locals will tell you that Dominica was much greener before Maria, I must say it looks pretty good now and to think of it looking even better is pretty amazing.

In terms of asking if Dominica is safe to visit? Well, it’s no safer and unsafer than the other islands in this area of the Caribbean. Hurricane Season in Dominica happens in August and September which are not the best months to visit Dominica anyway due to the wind and rain so if you’re concerned, be sure not to visit during these months.

As for safety in terms of theft and travelling to Dominica as a female. I felt very safe at all times in Dominica.  During my one week in Dominica, I was with a group, and either a guide or driver, a lot of the time but had I been on my own I believe I would have still felt safe. The people of Dominica were very lovely and welcoming. I received a few stares and comments from men at times, especially in Roseau but that’s the same all over the world and I never felt threatened.

Our driver told us about some tourists he had met who were driving around the island, they had some issues with their car but said to him that someone was always willing to help and they couldn’t believe the kindness of the people.

Remember that you’ll need travel insurance before your trip to Dominica. Most policies exclude the Caribbean unless you choose this area so if you have annual cover already, make sure your policy includes it or take out another policy for your trip. In addition to this, you’ll probably be doing some adventure activities in Dominica so make sure your travel insurance covers you. Standard cover is not likely to cover canyoning for example.

dominica tourist safety

Dominica Travel Tips.

The currency on the island is Eastern Caribbean Dollars . You can pay in US Dollars too but it’s likely you’ll get ECD in return.

Although you may hear locals speaking in a local Creole language known as Kokoy, English is the main language spoken in Dominica making it very easy to get around and get a better understanding of the island.

Dominica travel guide, eastern caribbean dollars

Eastern Caribbean Dollars with young-looking Queen Elizabeth

Dominica travel guide, sunset from fort young hotel dominica

Sunset from Fort Young Hotel in Roseau

There you have it! My Full Dominica Travel Guide for your Dominica Travel to the nature island of the Caribbean and I’m not sure if there’s anywhere more special in the world!

If you’d rather SEE Dominica, have a watch of my YouTube video here !

  • For more posts on Dominica see:
  • 10 Unique Things To Do in Dominica.
  • 6 Dominica Day Tours For Cruise Ship Tourists To Avoid The Crowds!
  • What To Pack For A One Week Holiday in The Caribbean!

My trip to Dominica was with Discover Dominica and Traverse Events however all thoughts and opinions are my own. 

If you liked this please share it! 🙂

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

dominica tourist safety

  • Destinations
  • Mexico Travel News

dominica tourist safety

Is Dominica Island Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2024

' src=

Dominica has a low crime rate, but if you venture off the main roads by yourself, especially after dark, you run the risk of getting attacked.

Confirm that your lodging is safe and that your valuables and documents are stored in a secure location. The same holds true if you are vacationing on a boat.

Table of contents

February 10, 2024: unlike other popular caribbean islands, dominica reports zero homicides in 1st week of 2024, and very low numbers in 2023, areas to avoid, common scams, u.s. travel advisory – level 1: exercise normal precautions, canada travel advisory, safety tips for dominica, latest news from dominica:.

On January 11, 2024: Dominica demonstrated remarkable success in maintaining public safety, recording no murders in the first week of 2024, and only 14 homicides in 2023. This achievement highlights the effectiveness of the island’s crime prevention strategies and the efficiency of its police force, which solved half of the previous year’s cases. Unlike many Caribbean nations grappling with higher crime rates, Dominica’s efforts in ensuring safety and security for both residents and visitors alike set a commendable standard.

best beaches in dominica to explore

The capital, Roseau, is a generally safe place to visit. It does, however, have some crimes that visitors should be aware of. It’s crucial to always be aware of your possessions because petty theft, including pickpocketing and bag snatching, can happen in busy places. For added safety, stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid walking alone late at night.

Despite this, most travelers will find Dominica to be a friendly and secure Caribbean destination in general.

In general, there is little chance of becoming a victim of a scam in Dominica. 

Scams can be avoided if you exercise common sense and make an effort to limit your alcohol consumption.

Official Travel Advisories

dominica tourist safety

To be safer in Dominica, just sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP ) so that alerts can be sent to you when something happens. Additionally, it will be less challenging to find you in an emergency. 

There is petty crime, like pickpocketing, purse snatching, and car theft.

There have been violent assaults and robberies close to tourist attractions.

Annual celebrations like the World Creole Music Festival in October and Carnival in February and March usually increase crime.

Women who travel alone may experience verbal abuse and other forms of harassment. There have been instances of sexual assault.

 To stay safe in Dominica, just follow these simple safety tips: 

  • Refrain from carrying substantial sums of cash.
  • Avoid wearing valuable jewelry.
  • Steer clear of unpatrolled beaches and secluded areas, particularly after nightfall.
  • Carry a photocopy of the identification page of your passport.
  • Make sure your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are kept secure at all times.

Dominica 🇩🇲 is one off the safest island to visit freshwater lake natural springwater

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Explore Dominica

From the bottom of Valley od Desolation

Plan Your Trip to Dominica: Best of Dominica Tourism

Essential dominica.

dominica tourist safety

Trending in the forums

Gene_Claude

Dominica Is Great For

Hiking tours.

dominica tourist safety

  • Titou Gorge
  • Indian River
  • Screw's Sulphur Spa
  • Ti Kwen Glo Cho Hot Springs
  • Kalinago Territory
  • Pepper's Choice : Waterfalls, Sulphur Spa & Volcanic Black Sand Beach
  • PH Whale Watch & Dolphin Cruise in Dominica
  • Dominica Shore Excursion: River Tubing Safari
  • Waitukubuli Dolphin and Whale Watch in Dominica
  • Boiling Lake Hike in Dominica

Dominican Republic Safety 2024: Is Dominican Republic Safe to Visit?

Susan Laurent

In 2022, around eight and a half million tourists visited the Dominican Republic, making it the most visited country in the Caribbean, and the fifth most visited place in the Americas.

But is the Dominican Republic as safe as it is popular? The short answer to this question is both yes and no. This is because while travel advisories consider the country only moderately safe, you’ll likely have an incident-free vacation as long as you remain cautious. Now let’s get into some details regarding the safety conditions of this beautiful Caribbean country.

Is the Dominican Republic Safe?

Dominican Republic

The UK travel advisory gives a well-balanced answer to this question:

“The Dominican Republic is friendly and welcoming and the vast majority of visits to the country are trouble-free. However, there is a high crime rate, ranging from opportunistic crime like bag snatching and pickpocketing to violent crime.”

Here’s a rough outlook of the country’s safety conditions:

  • Travel advisory : All travel advisories consider the Dominican Republic a moderately safe location. 
  • Crime rate : Crime in the Dominican Republic is very high (71.34) — the main problem areas are theft, violent crime, scams, and the harassment of women.
  • Dangerous areas : Stay away from La Duarte, Arroyo Hondo, Naco, Gazcue, Cristo Rey, Villa Agrícola, and Los Guandules.
  • Police presence: There’s a special police force for tourists called politur .
  • Natural Disasters : The Dominican Republic faces a moderate risk of hurricanes, earthquakes, and tsunamis.
  • Public transport: The public buses are unsafe, but taxi companies are both safe and reliable.
  • Medical care quality : It’s decent in the larger cities, but drops in quality as soon as you move toward the rural areas.

Travel Advisory for Dominican Republic

According to the US travel advisory, the Dominican Republic is classified in the level-2 safety category . That means you should exercise increased caution due to the high crime rate.

The US travel advisory ranks every country in four different categories, according to their safety level:

  • Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
  • Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
  • Level 3: Reconsider Travel
  • Level 4: Do Not Travel

The other travel advisories, including the Canadian and the Australian ones, are on the same page. They cite the country’s high crime rate as the main cause for concern.

The most common crimes affecting tourists in the Dominican Republic are:

  • Petty theft, including pickpocketing and bag snatching
  • Assault and violent crime
  • Scams and frauds
  • Verbal harassment and abuse of women, including spiked food and drinks

A Comprehensive Look at Dominican Republic Crime Rates

Numbeo gives the Dominican Republic a crime rating of 71.34, which is considered a high crime index . Additionally, nearly all the individual categories for different types of crime are also either rated as very high, high, or moderate.

You can see the various scores in the table below. The data is shared by 361 contributors.

The Canadian travel advisory gives the best summary of the crime situation in the Dominican Republic: “Crime occurs in the Dominican Republic, including violent crime, especially in major cities. However, most incidents are opportunistic crimes which are the most significant threat for tourists.”

However, scams, frauds, and the harassment of women are also common.

Petty Theft

Petty theft happens all over the country, and it’s usually on the rise during the holiday season, when the country is packed with tourists. Petty theft is particularly frequent at:

  • Bus stations
  • Public transportation
  • Airport terminals

Drive-by robberies and theft are also common in the Dominican Republic. Thieves on motorcycles or scooters drive beside unassuming tourists and snatch their bags or other belongings. They may even reach into a vehicle while waiting at a red light in traffic.

Violent Crime and Assaults

According to the Canadian travel advisory :

“ Violent crime against foreigners, including assault, occasionally occurs. Incidents take place mainly in large cities, at night or early morning. Some have been targeted in armed robberies when traveling to the Las Américas International Airport, sometimes in taxis.”

Most violent crimes are connected to organized crime rings and gangs , like the infamous Latin Kings. Gang-related violent crimes usually occur in poorer and more dangerous neighborhoods, but there have been cases of violent attacks affecting tourists, as well.

Anyhow, you should stay away from dangerous neighborhoods, since you’re much more likely to get attacked there. The most famous hotspots for crime in the country are:

  • Arroyo Hondo
  • Villa Agricola
  • Los Guandules

Scam and Fraud

Scam and fraud are a constant threat in the Dominican Republic . Beware of:

  • Criminals posing as policemen and fining tourists for made-up crimes.
  • Rogue lawyers who operate near police stations and often target desperate tourists who have real problems.
  • Credit card and ATM scams like cloning.
  • Dating app scams and fraud that usually result in the victim getting isolated and robbed.

Verbal Harassment and Abuse of Women

According to the Australian travel advisory women are particularly at risk of harassment and assault.

The most common strategy of the perpetrators is spiking the food or drinks of victims with drugs. The drugs may be inside alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, chewing gum, or even cigarettes. Bars and other places of entertainment are their common territory.

Finally, dating apps also pose a danger. According to the US travel advisory :

“Several U.S. citizen travelers in the Dominican Republic have reported that they were robbed by people they met through popular online dating applications. If meeting with strangers, you should strongly consider meeting only in public places and avoiding isolated locations where crimes are most likely to occur.”

Police Presence in Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is protected by the Dominican National Police (Spanish: Policía Nacional Dominicana). They have nearly 32,000 officers for a population of almost nine million.

However, the Dominican police force isn’t considered to be reliable. Amongst other things, they are infamous for corruption and violent behavior , a hot topic in the media, particularly given suspicions that the police force is involved in illegal trafficking rings.

Luckily for visitors to the Dominican Republic, the country has an alternative police force that’s specifically created to protect tourists. That force is called Politur, and they’re scattered throughout the country, especially near tourist hotspots. You can easily recognize them by their uniform: white shirt and blue bermudas. They usually drive motorcycles.

Politur is highly regarded in the Dominican Republic and it’s a significant factor in maintaining its tourism industry. Recently , they received a $2 million boost and 65 new vehicles in the form of pickup trucks and motorcycles.

How to Stay Safe in the Dominican Republic

  • If someone tries to rob you, hand over your personal belongings without resisting.
  • Do not carry or wear valuable items that will attract attention.
  • Contact the police or the hotel management if the resort or hotel staff demonstrate unwanted attention.
  • Avoid secluded places, even at your resort/hotel.
  • Don’t leave drinks or food unattended.
  • Don’t use dating apps.
  • Be careful around ATMs.
  • Always ask police officers to legitimize themselves.
  • Don’t use public buses.
  • Stay away from dangerous areas.
  • Avoid exploring the larger cities at night.

Is It Safe to Travel Solo in the Dominican Republic?

Travel to the Dominican Republic

You can travel solo in the Dominican Republic if you’re well-informed and respect all the safety measures. That being said, it’s always better to travel with a group. Solo female travelers are particularly susceptible to all kinds of crime, particularly harassment and assault.

Is It Safe to Travel to the Dominican Republic as a Family?

Although it’s not the safest destination in the world, you and your family can visit the Dominican Republic as long as you are careful. This means that you should stay away from public buses, dangerous neighborhoods, and forlorn areas in the cities, and avoid going out at night. Sticking to some common sense tips can keep your mind at ease.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in the Dominican Republic

Hurricane in the Dominican Republic

According to the Australian travel advisory , the Dominican Republic is subject to natural disasters and severe weather , such as:

  • Landslides and mudslides
  • Earthquakes

All of these can cause disruptions in the everyday lives of the local citizens as well as tourists’ vacations. More serious natural events can even disrupt essential services — such as water and electricity — or clog up the roads.

You have to stay cautious and prepared at all times, especially during the wet season, between May and November, when frequent rains are sure to cause landslides, mudslides, and flooding around the country. 

Hurricane Information and Precautions

According to the US travel advisory , the Dominican Republic is hurricane-prone. The hurricane season begins in June and has its peak from mid-August to late October .

The coastal regions are at the highest risk of hurricanes.

On average, the Dominican Republic’s sphere of influence gets affected by at least six hurricanes annually , but only half of them directly hit the country itself.

The last hurricane to reach the country was “Franklin” on August 24, 2023 . While it was cruising on the open ocean, it was classified as a category-4 hurricane, but upon reaching the island, it lost its strength and resulted in a slightly more severe tropical storm.

The US travel advisory offers a comprehensive set of  tips in case a hurricane hits the country:

  • Maintain a stock of boiled or bottled water
  • Store non-perishable food items
  • Acquire a battery-powered radio
  • Keep your vital documents (like your passport) safe and close to you
  • Obtain travel insurance – it’ll certainly come in handy in the case of natural disasters
  • Monitor all the local media, including the local radio and news reports

Also, it’s a good idea to follow the local and international sites that monitor hurricanes to stay up-to-date on the weather:

  • Dominican National Office of Meteorology
  • Dominican Emergency Operations Center
  • National Hurricane Center
  • Weather Channel
  • Weather Underground
  • Atlantic Tropical Weather Center

Earthquake and Tsunami Information and Precautions

According to the Australian travel advisory , the Dominican Republic is indeed in an earthquake-prone zone . This means that earthquakes could occur and cause destructive tsunamis. Some sources classify the earthquake hazard in the Dominican as “medium.” That means that there’s a 10% chance of a major earthquake hitting the country in the next 50 years.

On November 8, 2023 , a 5.0-magnitude earthquake affected the northwestern region of the country, near the border with Haiti. It was the strongest earthquake to hit the country that year. Fortunately, it didn’t cause any serious damage – except for two schools – or injure any people.

The UK travel advisory offers a pretty thorough procedure in case an earthquake occurs during your visit:

  • Drop to the ground and take cover. Remain in this position until the tremors and the shaking stop.
  • Don’t leave your position until it’s deemed completely safe.
  • Stay away from street lights, buildings, and electric wires outside. Basically, avoid anything that can fall on you.
  • Following the earthquake, don’t run and walk carefully. There may be aftershocks and debris.
  • If you get trapped, tap on a wall or a pipe, so that rescuers can hear you.

As you probably know, stronger earthquakes may directly cause tsunamis. For example, in 1946 , an 8.1-magnitude earthquake struck the northern parts of the island and produced a very strong tsunami that resulted in over 1,000 fatalities.

Luckily, tsunamis are rare in the Dominican Republic and don’t accompany each earthquake. According to WorldData , there have only been 6 tidal waves that can be classified as tsunamis since 1751 – less than in other tsunami-prone areas.

Beware the Silent Threat: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is one of those rare countries where you should be wary of carbon monoxide poisoning.

According to the Washington Examiner , between 2016 and 2019, 14 people vacationing in the Dominican Republic were fatally poisoned by carbon monoxide.

It’s hard to get a figure of the total incidents resulting only from carbon monoxide poisoning. For example, a Louisiana woman lost her life in 2019: it was suspected to be carbon monoxide poisoning, but pesticide poisoning or even Legionnaire’s disease were not ruled out either.

Carbon monoxide is hard to notice since the gas is tasteless, odorless, and invisible. Longer exposure may lead to serious problems like paralysis and losing your life.

For peace of mind while staying in the Dominican Republic, your best bet is to buy a portable CO detector , which costs only around $20.

Dominican Republic Weather Patterns: What to Expect

The Dominican Republic has a tropical climate, and it’s mostly warm throughout the whole year. The period between May and October is wetter and hotter, while December to January is cooler and dryer. November and April are usually considered in-between months.

Monthly Average Temperatures and Rainy Days in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Spring’s weather is sunny and dry. It’s one of the best periods to visit this country. The average temperatures never go below 68°F and higher than 89°F. Plus, there are very few rainy days per month.

Spring is the perfect time to visit the beautiful beaches of the Dominican Republic, such as Punta Cana, Bavaro, and Playa Dorada, but also to experience the excitement of the carnival in March, or the Santo Domingo de Fiesta and the Espiritu Santo Festival in May.

The beginning of summer signals the wet season in the Dominican Republic. The number of rainy days per month increases, and so do the temperatures, with a maximum daily temperature of 91°F. The weather can get stuffy and really hot, which is especially unpleasant for some.

And yet, the summer season is an undiscovered gem for many visitors who are looking for a budget trip to the island. Although the risk of a hurricane hitting the island is higher starting with August, the island is still perfectly safe during June and July. 

With the coming of fall, the wet season reaches its peak. The temperatures are very high, and the number of rainy days per month is the highest in October (13 rainy days). The island is mostly tourist-free since it’s also the peak of the hurricane season.

That being said, it’s definitely the cheapest month to visit the Dominican Republic and the best time if you want to get to know the rites and customs of the local population. In September, you can experience the fantastic processions of la Dia de las Mercedes festival and the rural traditions of the Feria Ganadera El Cupey.

The tourist season begins in December. Beaches, resorts, and hotels start to fill up, and with the arrival of visitors, the prices start to rise. The temperatures start to drop after sunset, reaching 71°F, while the days are sunny, dry, and warm.

January is all about New Year celebrations, and the crowded islands brim with excitement and activity. February, on the other hand, is the official beginning of the carnival season, which attracts even more tourists.

Public Transportation Safety in Dominican Republic

The Metro in Dominican Republic

The public transport in the Dominican Republic is not safe. However, certified taxis are both reliable and safe. In terms of renting a car, keep in mind that there’s a high frequency of road accidents in the country.

According to the UK travel advisory :

  • There are plenty of transport options available, like the expanded metro network in the country’s capital.
  • Stay away from public buses and “carros publicos” (which are shared cars, driving along semi-fixed routes), as they’re neither safe nor secure.
  • Private bus companies are completely safe , but they only provide intercity (between cities) bus services.

Public and Private Buses

The Canadian travel advisory advises against getting on public buses and gua-guas – microbuses. The latter often don’t even have doors, an additional safety concern.

Gua-guas are tiny, privately-owned buses that offer their services for either inner-city travel, or for longer destinations around the country. They are notoriously unsafe and unreliable.

Private buses, on the other hand, are quite safe and reliable. Unfortunately, they are only available for intercity travel.

Taxi Services

If you follow some simple safety tips, you’ll find that taxis are relatively safe thanks to the well-regulated taxi syndicate of the Dominican Republic .

However, make sure to only use official, marked taxis . Most of these are either beige or brown, but not always. There are over 20 official taxi companies in the country, and only official taxis can be called via telephone or a mobile app. The most famous companies are Apolo Taxi and Aero Taxi.

On the other hand, avoid using unofficial taxis at all costs . According to the Australian travel advisory, many travelers have been assaulted or robbed in unregistered taxis.

They also advise visitors not to use route taxis, better known in the Dominican Republic as carros publicos , since there’s a high chance of getting robbed. You can immediately spot carros publicos since they have no taxi markings, unlike the official taxis.

Additionally, avoid renting motorcycle taxis (motoconchos), as motor vehicle accidents are statistically more fatal than car accidents.

Lastly, keep in mind that taxis in the country are unmetered, which means that you should always negotiate the price before departure.

Renting a Car and Quality of the Roads

Finally, if you’re considering renting a car, keep in mind that the Dominican Republic has one of the highest road accident rates in the whole world. Drivers often drive while drunk and rarely respect traffic rules – including driving on the wrong side of the road! To top it all off, most vehicles are in bad condition.

According to the Canadian travel advisory , while most tourist hotspots have decent roads, less popular and less populated areas have roads of extremely poor quality.

The Quality of Medical Care in Dominican Republic

The quality of medical care in the Dominican Republic is decent in the larger cities but lacking in forlorn and rural areas. Also, private hospitals are generally better equipped and better-staffed than public medical establishments.

The Canadian travel advisory points out that private hospitals tend to overcharge for medical services. Prices might also be unstable and variable. Additionally, doctors may get a bit aggressive and pushy in their sales tactics, i.e., trying to sell you on their facility.

The best hospitals in the country, as previously stated, are located in larger cities, like Santo Domingo and its wider metropolitan area, as well as Puerto Plata. There are good hospitals in some of the smaller cities, too. Here’s a short list:

  • Centro Médico UCE – Santo Domingo
  • Hospital General de la Plaza de la Salud – Santo Domingo
  • Hospiten Santo Domingo – Santo Domingo
  • Hospital General Vinicio Calventi – Santo Domingo
  • Centro Médico Bournigal – Puerto Plata
  • Centro Médico Punta Cana – Punta Cana
  • Hospital General de la Plaza de la Salud – Higüey
  • Centro Médico Corominas – San Francisco de Macorís
  • Centro Médico Cibao – Santiago
  • Hospital Metropolitano de Santiago (HOMS) – Santiago

Dominican Republic, Here We Come!

You can have a great time visiting the Dominican Republic – provided that you keep your eyes open and exercise increased caution.

In short, don’t trust strangers, dating apps, public transportation, and unofficial taxis; don’t venture into dangerous or isolated areas; stay up-to-date on the weather forecast and follow safety protocols in case of natural disasters; be careful on the roads; don’t resist in case of theft; and finally, do bring a portable CO detector along with you. In case something unfortunate happens, you can rely on the police to help you out.

Basically, stick to the maxim “better safe than sorry,” and you’ll have a great trip in the Dominican Republic.

Cayman Islands

Cayman Safety 2024: Is Cayman Safe to Visit?

St. Lucia

St. Lucia Safety 2024: Is St. Lucia Safe to Visit?

Grenada

Grenada Safety 2024: Is Grenada Safe to Visit?

Haiti

Haiti Safety 2024: Is Haiti Safe to Visit?

Susan Laurent

I moved to Punta Cana more than 7 years ago and have never felt unsafe. I have many expat friends that take public transportation buses all the time. And many use Uber we are out late several nights a week and have never had a problem. I feel safer here then I felt in the downtown of my Ontario city.

Hi Christine, thank you for reading and appreciate your first-hand feedback on the area!

Curious, I looked at Numbeo for my city, Washington, DC. It comes in at 70.86 So the DR and DC are on par. So treat the DR like any large US city. Be aware of your surroundings. No earbuds. Walk in groups.

Thank you for reading, Linette, and for your feedback.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Meet the Team
  • Work with Us
  • Czech Republic
  • Netherlands
  • Switzerland
  • Scandinavia
  • Philippines
  • South Korea
  • New Zealand
  • South Africa
  • Budget Travel
  • Work & Travel
  • The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
  • Travel Resources
  • How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Central America » Travel Safety

Is Dominican Republic SAFE to Visit? (2024 • Insider Tips)

Rainforests, incredible beaches, savanna, highlands, and the highest mountain in the Caribbean; there’s no shortage of things that make the Dominican Republic an awesome place to travel.

It’s the most popular tourist destination in the Caribbean, but at the same time, is rife with poverty. Unfortunately, this dynamic leads to increased levels of crime; sometimes it’s pickpocketing, sometimes it’s a mugging. So asking the question ‘ is Dominican Republic safe ‘ makes sense.

Don’t worry.

Regardless if you’re wondering whether the Dominican Republic is safe for families, or if you want to know some tips for solo travel in the Dominican Republic, we’ve got you covered. All this and more will be addressed–so let’s get into it.

is the Dominican Republic safe

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Dominican Republic Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Dominican Republic.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated December 2023

Is the Dominican Republic Safe to Visit Right Now?

Safest places in dominican republic, 26 top safety tips for traveling to the dominican republic, is the dominican republic safe to travel alone, is the dominican republic safe for solo female travelers, where to start your travels in the dominican republic, is the dominican republic safe for families, getting around dominican republic safely, crime in dominican republic, what to pack for your dominican republic trip, getting insured before visiting dominican republic, faq about staying safe in dominican republic, so, is the dominican republic safe.

Traveling to the Dominican Republic is pretty safe for tourists. Dominican Republic has a recorded 8,058,670 international visitors in 2023 based on their Ministry of Tourism. Tourists mostly received a hospitable welcome.

The people of the Dominican Republic are friendly and welcoming. Despite the huge amount on offer for the casual, resort dwelling tourist, there’s plenty on offer for backpackers , too. There are sleepy villages, trekking opportunities, and some  amazing beach communities,  to give just a few examples.

As a backpacker traveling outside resorts, you’ll see some extremes, namely in terms of  poverty.  You’ll see poor living conditions, people openly carrying weapons, litter, and possible threats to your safety, not to mention sex workers. This is more a sign of the fact that the Dominican Republic is still very much a developing country.

Is it Safe to Visit Dominican Republic Right Now

Unfortunately, poverty is a still an issue here. 20% of the population struggles to get by on $2 a day.  Around 1/5 of all Dominicans live in shacks. Tourism may bring a lot of money to the country, but there are a lot of negative impacts as not every tourist is respectful of the locals. It’s partly your responsibility to make sure those serving you are taken of care of and to support local communities.

The Dominican Republic is known internationally for its sex tourism. In a 2015 study, the International Justice Mission found that roughly a quarter of all sex workers were  under 18.  There’s also a high rate of HIV and AIDS in comparison to other Central American and Caribbean countries.

The USA gives it a level 2 travel advisory because of violent crime and assault. But the reality is that most tourists never see this side of the island from the safety of their resorts.

As we said before, it’s safe to visit the Dominican Republic right now. Go enjoy the beauty of it; just but be aware of abusive and unethical businesses.

Check out our detailed  where to stay guide for Dominican Republic  so you can start your trip right!

When choosing where you’ll be staying in Dominican Republic, a bit of research and caution is essential. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. These are some of the safest places in the DR:

  • Punta Cana : The most famous place in the country, Punta Cana is filled with resorts for all budgets. It’s very much the tourist hub of the Dominican Republic, and absolutely the safest place to visit. Though if you’re looking for local life, keep in mind that Punta Cana is heavily commercialized.
  • Puerto Plata : Puerto Plata is a charming destination on the North Coast of the island. Though definitely a city, the population is small enough to give it a laid-back vibe. It’s also known for its stunning beaches, many of which come with smaller crowds than those on the southern coast.
  • Las Terrenas : Another northern destination, Las Terrenas is one of the safest cities in Dominican Republic offering huge beaches. It has low crime rates compared to other parts of the country and a thriving expat community.
  • Santiago de los Caballeros : Known simply as Santiago to locals, this is the second-largest city in the Dominican Republic. Despite the sizable population, it offers a more laid-back alternative than Santo Domingo . It’s also one of the safest destinations in the Dominican Republic. 

Places to avoid in Dominican Republic

The answer to How safe is Dominican Republic? is heavily dependent on where you go. And these places lie firmly in the category of “avoid at all costs”:

  • Sections of Santo Domingo – while much of the capital city can be pretty safe during the day, we’d recommend avoiding it completely at night, and avoiding these areas altogether: La Duarte, Arroyo Hondo, Naco, Gazcue, Cristo Rey, and Villa Agricola.
  • Any beach that has its danger flags raised – it might seem like a beautiful day and the waves are calling you, but don’t underestimate the currents and riptides. if you see warning flags, stay away from the water! Staying on the beach will be fine though.
  • Empty side streets – these are especially dodgy at night, no matter where you are. If it doesn’t seem like tourists belong there, stay far away from it!

It’s important to know that Dominican Republic is pretty safe overall, but a bit of caution and research before you start your travels will go a long way. If you want to increase your safety during your stay, refrain from leaving a resort.

Keeping Your Money Safe in the Dominican Republic

One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.

The best solution? Get a money belt.

Active Roots Security Belt

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Top Safety Tips for Traveling to the Dominican Republic

Though it’s a super popular destination for tourists, but the Dominican Republic isn’t without its problems. Violent crime against tourists, mainly in the form of robberies, definitely still occurs. By keeping your wits about you and making sure you  travel safe and smart , you’ll likely avoid any trouble. To help you even more, here are some handy travel tips to safely travel in the Dominican Republic.

  • Don’t walk by yourself at night time  – Crime is more active after dark, beaches ESPECIALLY. Get a cab home.
  • Don’t even TRAVEL at night  – same.
  • Flashing your cash in ANY way is a no-no  – SLRs, phones, jewels, actually displaying large sums of money. These things make you look rich and therefore a target.
  • Change your money at banks or official money exchange places  – anything else is not recommended at all.
  • Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
  • Learn some of the local lingo  – it’s not necessary, but if you plan on going off the beaten track, knowing some (Dominican) Spanish is a good idea.
  • Get the relevant vaccinations before you head off  – read up on what you’ll need and GET ‘EM.
  • Keep your belongings close  – pickpocketing happens in tourist areas, so be careful. Try investing in a money belt , and know how to safeguard your cash while travelling.
  • Stay in gated communities – If you’re planning to stay in one of the best villas in the Dominican Republic , choose one in a gated community for added secirity.
  • Prepare for hurricanes!  – the season is between June and November and you should know how to deal with them. Listen to local advice and keep up to date with the weather…
  • Protect against mosquitoes  – mosquitoes carry dengue fever and chikungunyi, both of which are just nasty. Cover up and apply repellent.
  • Avoid stray animals  – rabies is a thing here so it’s best to not pet stray dogs and cats.
  • Be aware of your surroundings at ATMs  – people may try to look at your pin and then steal your card. Seems simple but it happens
  • Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
  • Stay safe in the sun!  – it’s a hot place in the Caribbean. Sunscreen, shade, and hydration, people.
  • And stay safe in the water  – beaches often don’t have lifeguards. Currents and waves in hurricane season can be dangerous. Swimming drunk, for that matter, will put you in an even more disorienting situation.
  • Take care on the roads  – seriously: many people die on the roads in the Dominican Republic. The rate is 10 times that of the UK.
  • Be careful around the Haitian border  – especially if you intend to cross it. Research what you need to do when crossing so you don’t have to linger.
  • DON’T talk about Haiti either  – it’s a complex situation.
  • Don’t take drugs  – you don’t know WHAT it is, WHAT it funds, PLUS it’s illegal with hefty prison sentences to punish offenders.
  • Practise safe sex  – AIDS/HIV is a problem here. Always wrap up.
  • Don’t pay for sex  – you don’t know the situation, who’s getting the money, anything. Child prostitution is also  a big problem.
  • Get a room  – public displays of affection are uncommon. Best not.
  • Don’t resist if you get robbed/carjacked  – this can unfortunately happen. If it DOES happen, hand over the goods. Your life is worth more than a rental car.
  • Keep your wits about you in remote/residential areas  – even in daylight hours. Muggings aren’t uncommon.
  • Walk confidently  – anything you can do to look less like a tourist is going to lessen the risk to your safety.
  • Know what to do in an earthquake  – they happen here. Take shelter, and if you’re near the beach, go to higher ground – a tsunami could arrive in minutes
  • Use your room safe or locker  – things can get snatched from your room. Best to keep it out of sight.
  • Lock the doors and windows of your room  – just in case.

So whilst there is a lot to keep in mind when you travel to the Dominican Republic, most visits to here are  trouble-free.  Plenty of backpackers love it for good reasons – it’s relatively calm in terms of the backpacking scene, there’s loads to do, and locals are mostly friendly.

Follow your gut and avoid getting into bad situations. Knowing what to do in a natural disaster will help, too. Do these and you will have a great time without worrying!

Is the Dominican Republic safe to travel alone?

Backpacking is becoming more popular here and it’s easy to see why: humpback whales, colonial architecture, adventurous landscapes, and  those beaches…  Wowsers. That being said, solo travel in the Dominican Republic is as safe as one would expect.

Solo travelers are always a little more vulnerable so it’s important to be careful when you’re traveling around the Dominican Republic alone. It may be safe on the whole, but crimes against tourists  aren’t uncommon and you’re more likely to be targeted when by yourself. Obviously, it pays to know HOW to travel solo in the Dominican Republic.

  • It’s a good idea to  hop on a tour  to discover places easily and safely. Whether that tour may be a long or short one makes no difference – this is a great way to get acquainted with the island.
  • Obviously, it’s down to how you want to travel. Resorts are safe, but you’ll be less likely to meet other backpackers.  Punta Cana  is good for nightlife, whilst  Cabarete  attracts a mix of travelers.
  • Meeting other backpackers is a good idea. This will help you to keep sane and happy by talking to other like-minded people, plus you can share travel tips for the Dominican Republic – and/or further afield, too. Win-win.
  • Going around by yourself at night time isn’t a very smart move. This is a good time for a robbery, though in some areas it doesn’t matter what time of day it is. The general rule of thumb here is to avoid walking through quiet/sketchy areas by yourself. Case closed.
  • You might also want to get yourself a  local guide.  Not only will you be able to safely explore different areas of the Dominican Republic with someone who knows the local scene, but you’ll also get to learn A LOT more. Fumbling through your guidebook as you squint at bilingual signs is a both annoying and sometimes precarious.
  • Be positive and friendly!  Especially if you’re moving through more ‘local’ areas. Say  ¡Hola!  with a smile on your face and the country will open itself up to you, to an extent. Obviously, greeting some gang members chilling out at a mall in  Santo Domingo  isn’t smart, so use your common sense.
  • If you’re a male traveling alone you may be approached by prostitutes. Be aware of this and say a firm “no” before moving on. Sex tourism has created this state of affairs, so don’t contribute any further.
  • When you’re out at night,  getting crazy drunk  isn’t a good idea. You’ll lose your senses and be a lot more vulnerable to robbery or anything else unsafe.
  • Tell someone at your guesthouse, or keep in touch with people at home, if you’re going out to explore more remote places. Someone knowing where you are is better than  no one knowing where you are.

Though there are risks involved with traveling by yourself anywhere, the Dominican Republic is safe for solo travelers. Keeping your wits about you, meeting other people and even getting a local guide will really help you explore this country to the fullest. In the end, it’s an easygoing place that you’re going to love, and you’ll love it more if you stay safe!

Is the Dominican Republic safe for solo female travelers

Whilst the Dominican Republican is used to solo female travelers, as many do visit here, there are some cultural dynamics to be aware of.

Local women struggle  in the Dominican Republic due to a hyper-masculine society. In fact, many have emigrated to the US to escape this oppression. For female tourists, some could become the object of the same attention (and belittlement) as well.

To avoid becoming a victim of chauvinism or worse, it definitely helps to know how to stay safe as a female traveler . Here are a few tips on how to travel as a female in the Dominican Republic:

  • Many people are friendly and  speak English. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you think something dodgy is going on around you, you’re lost, feel like you’re being followed – anything. People will be happy to help you.
  • Walking around at night is not a good idea; don’t do it.  Get a taxi or walk with people, but whatever you do, don’t wander around by yourself after dark.
  • Dressing appropriately for the situation is a good idea; wandering around town in a bikini top and shorts is not, so we’d recommend against that. To avoid receiving to the wrong kind of attention, try blending in with the local women.
  • Don’t take drinks from strangers.  Drink spiking happens,  so be careful.
  • Men can be pushy in the Dominican Republic. In fact,  they can be quite aggressive  in their pick-up technique. This happens mainly in local bars and clubs. Our advice would be to dress conservatively and be firm in turning men down. At the same time, heading out to a local bar or club alone isn’t wise. Find some travel buddies to go with.

At the end of the day, backpacking as a solo female traveler ANYWHERE is “risky.” Being aware of your surroundings, making sure you don’t wander alone at night, and generally being smart with how you travel is going to make your trip safer.

It may have a macho society, but the Dominican Republic is safe for solo female travelers. You’ll be able to explore this amazing country safely, so get ready for some amazing times ahead!

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata may be small but it is still a city, so try to stay centrally for all of the best attractions. That being said, if you’re looking for peace and quiet then it’s worthwhile checking out the smaller villages nearby.

Completely! The Dominican Republic is very safe to travel for families. Parents and their children have been hitting up this popular destination for years – and continue to do so.

If you’re planning on staying in a resort area, and the only time you’ll be leaving is on a tour, then you won’t need to worry about anything except natural disasters.  Not staying in the sun too long, being careful in the sea, not petting stray animals, protecting against mosquitoes , being careful around pool areas are easy to do to ensure that everyone stays happy.

Is the Dominican Republic safe to travel for families

Just remember a few extra things to make sure your family holiday in the Dominican Republic is safe.

  • The Dominican Republic is small so getting around is pretty easy.
  • Cities aren’t very fun with children. They are hot and a hassle. However, there are many destinations in the Dominican Republic that are great for families.
  • When it comes to child safety, there won’t be things like car seats for children.
  • Breastfeeding is ok in public.  Discretely, in a quiet spot, but not in a restaurant for example. Again if you’re in a resort, everywhere is ok.

One of the biggest dangers in the Dominican Republic is  its roads.  Well, the roads themselves are good, b ut the drivers are terrible.

Aggressive driving and a lack of road signs and traffic laws being enforced don’t help matters. Around 3,000 people are killed on the road per year according to WHO.

The taxis are surprisingly safe in the Dominican Republic.

Is it safe to drive in the Dominican Republic

Drivers don’t cruise around looking for riders though – instead, you’ll find them at designated ranks near bus terminals, hotels, tourist areas, parks, and any other sort of big, official-looking place.

Public transport in the Dominican Republic is cheap, extensive, and highly varied. First off are the  publicos . They don’t particularly have any signage designating them as  publicos but you’ll know them when you see ’em. Safety isn’t the highest concern; they squeeze people on and drive erratically.

Buses  in the bigger cities are pretty normal. However,  overcrowding is common. 

Then there’s the  metro, which you’ll find in the capital,  Santo Domingo.  It doesn’t have to contend with traffic obviously, so it’s fast and safe. It’s clean, modern, comprehensive, and is expanding every year. This is by far Dominican Republic’s safest mode of public transport.

If you book a tour through a resort, most likely the transport you’ll encounter will be more luxury, and A LOT less crowded, than actual public options.

While the DR is far from being the most dangerous country in the world, crime is still a big issue. Armed robbery is the most common form of lawlessness, and it’s very important to be aware of valuables at all time.

Out of 197 countries, Dominican Republic is ranked 80th in terms of criminality, meaning there are a lot more dangerous nations out there. Even so, it’s ranked the 3rd most crime-ridden country in the Carribean, meaning you need to take more precautions than you would elsewhere.

In 2020, the DR had 9 homicides per 100,000 people , meanwhile the US had 7. So all in all, it’s really not as dangerous as the media may lead you to believe. Still, it’s important to avoid dangerous areas and walking around after dark.

Laws in Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a Christian country with predominantly Catholic and Evangelical communities. As such, attitudes toward LGBT communities are not the best, though relations are not illegal.

It’s also important to note that the Dominican Republic has strict laws regarding drugs–everything including weed is illegal. You can find weed and other goodies easily, though be extremely careful as this will likely involve dealing with shady characters.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Dominican Republic without…

nomatic_laundry_bag

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Gifts for backpackers

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim eSIM

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

GEAR-Monoply-Game

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Pacsafe belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

dominica tourist safety

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Dominican Republic.

What should you avoid in the Dominican Republic?

Avoid these things in the Dominican Republic to stay safe: – Don’t walk by yourself at night time – Don’t even TRAVEL at night – Avoid looking rich and flashy – Don’t withdraw money at night – be careful around ATMs

Is the Dominican Republic safe to live?

Many parts of the island are super safe to live in and have thriving expat communities. Do your research and visit a couple of times before making the decision though.

Is the Dominican Republic safe at night?

We wouldn’t recommend walking around at night in the Dominican Republic. While some parts can be safe, it’s always best to take a bit of extra caution. If possible, stick to a group and use taxis to get around after dark.

Is Jamaica or Dominican Republic safer?

If caution is taken, both places can be very safe for travellers. If you just look at the crime statistics, then Jamaica is slightly safer than the Dominican Republic.

Can you drink the water in Dominican Republic?

NOPE! Tap water is definitely not safe to drink in the Dominican Republic. Buy water from stores, or invest in an epic filtered water bottle .

The Dominican Republic is the star player of Caribbean tourism and CAN be safe – if you use your common sense and do a bit of research.

It’s well established as a tourist destination, people are very, very used to foreigners, and a lot of locals speak English. All-in-all, the Dominican Republic is  a pretty safe place to travel to.  But poverty, combined with an influx of relatively rich tourists, has meant that robberies committed against visitors aren’t all that rare.

At the end of the day, it’s all about how you travel, and we’d recommend you do so SMARTLY. That means  not being flashy or cocky . Showing any money, a wallet, wearing expensive jewelry, carrying designer bags, shouting around in English, looking lost; all of these are to be avoided.

Millions of people travel to the Dominican Republic each year. Away from the tourist areas, the crazy scenery opens itself up as a haven for backpackers looking for an adventure in the backyard of an otherwise well-trodden, cruise-ship-visited destination. Our insider guide is full of tips of how to go about keeping safe in the Dominican Republic, so you’ll get to explore with peace of mind.

Final thoughts on the safety of the Dominican Republic

Looking for more info on traveling to Dominican Republic?

  • Let me help you choose where to stay in Dominican Republic
  • Explore with the ultimate peace of mind with top-notch medical evacuation insurance
  • Take a look at my expert travel safety tips learned from 15+ years on the road
  • See exactly how to travel the world for a year , even if you’re broke
  • Get inspired by these EPIC bucket list adventures !

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

dominica tourist safety

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Lily Allen-Duenas

Lily Allen-Duenas

Is The Dominican Republic Safe Pinterest Image

Share or save this post

promotional sidebar image for booking.com

12 Comments

I would suggest renting a car or SUV at the airport for two or more people is safe. Hope they take Amex. I’m going there next week. I will be driving the whole country with my wife but I will also take a local guide who speaks very good English. If guide or driver won’t speak good English it becomes very awkward. I own a condo in gated community and airbnb once in a while. This will be my seventh trip. I have seen all the cities and they all have different terrain and beaches. Taxis are not cheap but safe. Buses are not safe and get crowded. But tour buses are great. I took a bus from Santo Domingo to Puerto Plata and taxi to Boca Chica. Our bus broke down and we had to wait for one hour in 90 degree for replacement bus. Having said that all. I think Dominican Republic is still a normal caution country if you are street smart. I travelled more than 20 countries and Dominican Republic is worth going.

Went to DR in January 2020. I returned to USA right before Covid-19. While I was there, I stayed in Santo Domingo, and northern parts of the country and my experiences were totally wonderful. I did use Uber and taxis for transportation as well as transportation offered at my lodging. Like in others countries, including the USA have delinquencies and we should be aware of our surroundings. In Paris, France and Rome, Italy have a lot of pickpockets I will definitely be back to DR.

I spend 3 years in The DR before moving to Thailand. It was my second choice. I never felt unsafe in the DR but like anywhere you have to keep your wits about you. Great article.

The worst situation is in Punta Cana and all other large resorts as well. Since there are thousands of tourists in and out of these hotel rooms, there is a massive bedbug problem (covered up of course) throughout all of these resorts. The normal way that bedbugs are killed in Canada and USA for example, is a bedbug sniffing dog identifies the infected room. Then a technician is called in with a specialized heater/timer/thermometer setup that basically raises the room temperature so hot that the bedbugs “pop” and are killed. You can imagine the expense and time to do 8000 rooms. So, in DR it doesn’t happen that way. Instead they buy poisonous pellets from/made in china. The room cleaning staff open these packets and when they are exposed to air start to emit an extremely poisonous gas into the room. This saves time and money. This poison will kill a person also. It is supposed to be used days before the room is occupied, but in DR they will just just do it anytime, the cleaning staff have no idea the room will be occupied in just hours perhaps. This poison is the cause of many tourists deaths each year. Governments of Canada, USA etc know this but play dumb anyway. The pellets are light green, sometimes under the mattresses or in corners not so easy to vacuum up. Beware of these big resorts in this regard. Your health is up to you only. Medical fees must be paid as the service is rendered upfront. Goodluck trying to collect on your travel insurance anywhere outside of your own country until you get back to your country.

I’m here in the DR now, and for a second time. So far my experience has been great. The only problem I am having is conversion of my USD to Dominican pesos. I’d suggest learning exactly how the currency works, as most places will rip you off.

Sorry to say just back after two weeks and I absolutly agree with the notion of never returning. I travel a lot and attitudes here are so bad its just not worth it.

My wife hated the constant purvy staring, I hated being ripped off at their every opportunity. Add in the ever-present dangers from both locals and tsunami (20 minor quakes during my stay all at sea) means this is not a viable holiday destination.

You really do put yourself, and your wallet, in serious harm’s way. Why bother when there are many better places to spend your time and money.

I find I am very sensitive to danger or possible danger when I travel abroad. I have lived in Asia for 14 years, and learned to read people before learning Mandarin. I have visited Cuba, and while it seemed safe… I had the feeling that if I decided to wander off alone, things could go badly very quickly… especially at night.

China didn’t have this feeling overall, Philippines was moderate (depending on region), and Thailand overall felt a little worse than the Philippines. I believe the Dominican Republic would be similar to Cuba in that respect.

The most annoying and highly harassing types would flock to the outside of resorts areas. So I can see why it is the same in the DR. As soon as you leave one, they cover you like flies… asking if you need a ride constantly or to eat their restaurants… or whatever else.

My advice to simply get away from the heavy tourist areas in exchange for more remote but hints of tourism. For example in the Philippines – You go to Boracay and you will be harassed all day long… same with Krabi in Thailand… but if you go to Coron in the Philippines (newer tourist area) or Pai (outside of Chiang Mai) in Thailand (no massive resorts, mostly locally owned accommodations) – You will find extreme beauty, kindness and much less of the parasitical types. Because either not enough tourists go there for them to harass or the locations haven’t made a name for themselves yet.

Go to smaller towns or cities that are just opening up as tourist hubs. They may not be as convenient as the larger resorts or cities… but your experience will most likely be A LOT better.

I’ve also been in Asia for 20 years, mostly based in Bangkok, a fantastic city and an excellant springboard to the whole of Asia. I’m forced to say your advice really isn’t representative of Thailand at all. Keep your wits about you of course but don’t limit your destinations because of a few locals selling junk at the gates – of wherever you happen to be. Thailand is about as safe as it gets (never get on or use a bike).

Its a shame you are so sensitive Robert as in my 20 years the only fights I’ve seen have been in the ring, of course I don’t drink in western pubs or the Khaosan road so my exposure is limited :).

If you really want to discuss danger look at NASA’s report in Dominican Today – you simply cannot compare that to Thailand; or in fact any of the other comments left here.

I’m off to DR. If you don’t hear back, send lawyers guns and money!

Keep safe friend, its a wild world 🙂

The area outside the resort is NOT safe, especially if you are a white female. Double that if you are blonde/blue eyed and/or pale-skinned. The girls in our group were subject to unwanted attention and sexual harassment constantly. And almost everyone who isn’t a sex pervert is trying to scam you or make you spend money in some way at businesses they are promoting

I visited DR once and while the island is beautiful I will never return. Corrupt police set up a roadblock the night we arrived as a way to take money from tourists because they were “out of gas” might as well set up a toll road. Taxi drivers take you to edge of town then demand more money. Only safe if you stay in your resort but then how much fun is it to visit a new destination if you locked down in the resort. No thanks.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Caution October 19, 2023

Worldwide caution, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

  • Travel Advisories |
  • Contact Us |
  • MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Dominican Republic Travel Advisory

Travel advisory june 6, 2023, dominican republic - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.

Country Summary:  Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic. The development of a professional tourist police corps, institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, and a concentration of resources in resort areas means these tend to be better policed than urban areas like Santo Domingo. The wide availability of weapons, the use and trade of illicit drugs, and a weak criminal justice system contribute to the high level of criminality on the broader scale.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to the Dominican Republic.

If you decide to travel to the Dominican Republic:

  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
  • Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
  • Follow the advice of resort and tour operators regarding local safety and security concerns.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
  • Review the Country Security Report for the Dominican Republic.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, dominican republic map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Haiti's neighbors prepare for 'drastic escalation' in violence after jailbreak

Haiti declares state of emergency amid violence

Reporting by Sarah Morland and Valentine Hilaire in Mexico City, Harold Isaac in Port-au-Prince; Additional reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Steven Grattan, and Andre Romani in Sao Paulo; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama, Rosalba O'Brien and Leslie Adler

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab

dominica tourist safety

Thomson Reuters

Sarah is a British-French journalist covering news from across Latin America and the Caribbean, including gender violence, mining developments, regional finance and conflict in Haiti. She joined Reuters in 2019 and studied investigative journalism at City, University of London. Based in Mexico City, Sarah enjoys spicy food, dad rock and befriending the local cat population.

dominica tourist safety

Valentine, a French-Panamanian who majored in journalism and philosophy, joined Reuters in December 2021 after spending eight years in Spain. She studied at the University of Navarra and after graduation held different roles at Spanish news outlets 'El Español', 'El Confidencial', and 'La Información'. Valentine has helped boost the team's win rate, broke news on high-profile developments, and collaborated with the Spanish service and polling teams. She spends her free time producing podcasts, playing violin, trying to learn Mandarin, and searching for the best cafes in town.

Haiti remains in a state of emergency in the face of violence, in Port-au-Prince

Polish government pledges grain surplus cut, farmers press on with protests

Poland's prime minister pledged to reduce a grain surplus on the domestic market at talks with farmers on Saturday, a government official said, but union leaders said they were pressing on with weeks of protests.

Former U.S. President Trump holds a watch party event to mark the Super Tuesday primary elections at his Mar-a-Lago property

Watch CBS News

Gangs in Haiti try to seize control of main airport as thousands escape prisons: "Massacring people indiscriminately"

Updated on: March 5, 2024 / 7:34 PM EST / CBS/AP

Heavily armed gangs tried to seize control of Haiti's main international airport on Monday, exchanging gunfire with police and soldiers in the latest attack on key government sites in an explosion of violence that includes a mass escape from the country's two biggest prisons. Hours after the airport assault, officials said Haiti's police academy came under attack by an armed gang.

The Toussaint Louverture International Airport was closed when the attack occurred, with no planes operating and no passengers on site. Associated Press journalists saw an armored truck on the tarmac shooting at gangs to try and prevent them from entering airport grounds as scores of employees and other workers fled from whizzing bullets.

The attack on the police academy, where more than 800 cadets are training, was repelled Tuesday after the arrival of reinforcements, said Lionel Lazarre of the Haitian police union.

Last week, the airport was struck briefly by bullets amid ongoing gang attacks, but gangs did not enter the airport nor seize control of it.

The attack occurred just hours after authorities in Haiti ordered a nighttime curfew following violence in which armed gang members overran the two biggest prisons and freed thousands of inmates over the weekend.

"The secretary-general is deeply concerned by the rapidly deteriorating security situation in Port-au-Prince, where armed gangs have intensified their attacks on critical infrastructure over the weekend," said U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric.  

Fire burns outside a prison in Haiti following a gang attack

Meanwhile, Haiti's prime minister landed in Puerto Rico on Tuesday. The embattled Ariel Henry, who assumed power following the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, has been notably absent since the country's latest and most serious outbreak of violence started last week.

Henry has stayed silent as he crisscrosses the world, from South America to Africa, with no announced date of return.

Even a decree declaring a state of emergency and curfew to restore order lacked Henry's imprint. It was signed by his finance minister, who is serving as acting prime minister.

By Tuesday afternoon, the mystery seemed to ease after officials said Henry landed in Puerto Rico. He arrived late in the afternoon to San Juan on a chartered flight that originated in New Jersey. Tracking data showed the flight was heading toward the Dominican Republic, which shares with Haiti the island of Hispaniola, but circled mid-flight before diverting to Puerto Rico.

Hours before he arrived in Puerto Rico, the Dominican government announced that it was immediately suspending all air traffic with Haiti.

When asked Tuesday by CBS News' senior White House and political correspondent Ed O'Keefe if the U.S. knew where Henry was, White House national security spokesman John Kirby said, "I'm not aware that we have any keen sense of what his whereabouts are."

A 72-hour state of emergency began Sunday night. The government said it would try to track down the escaped inmates, including from a penitentiary were the vast majority were in pre-trial detention, with some accused of slayings, kidnappings and other crimes.

"The police were ordered to use all legal means at their disposal to enforce the curfew and apprehend all offenders," said a statement from Finance Minister Patrick Boivert, the acting prime minister.

Gangs already were estimated to control up to 80% of Port-au-Prince, the capital. They are increasingly coordinating their actions and choosing once unthinkable targets like the Central Bank.

Dujarric said the secretary-general stressed the need for urgent action, especially in providing financial support for the mission, "to address the pressing security requirements of the Haitian people and prevent the country from plunging further into chaos."

Haiti's National Police has roughly 9,000 officers to provide security for more than 11 million people, according to the U.N. They are routinely overwhelmed and outgunned.

Ulrika Richardson, UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Haiti, reported that last year saw "a very steep increase" in murders, lynchings, rape and other violence committed by gang members. This trend has continued into 2024, with January being the most violent month in two years, she added,  echoing recent findings  by the UN human rights office.

The United Nations' immigration office said at least 15,000 people had been displaced due to violence.

"Armed gangs forced us to leave our homes. They destroyed our houses, and we're on the streets," a man named Nicolas told the Reuters news agency .

"Please, please help us"

The deadly weekend marked a new low in Haiti's downward spiral of violence. At least nine people had been killed since Thursday - four of them police officers - as gangs stepped up coordinated attacks on state institutions in Port-au-Prince, including the international airport and national soccer stadium.

But the attack on the National Penitentiary late Saturday shocked Haitians. All but 98 of the 3,798 inmates being held at the penitentiary escaped, according to the Office of Citizen Protection. Meanwhile, at the Croix-des-Bouquets prison, 1,033 escaped, including 298 convicts.

The office said late Monday that it was seriously concerned about the safety of judges, prosecutors, victims, attorneys and others following the mass escape.

It added that it "deplored and condemned the policy of nonchalance" demonstrated by government officials amid the attacks.

Following the raid at the penitentiary, three bodies with gunshot wounds lay at the prison entrance Sunday.

In another neighborhood, the bloodied corpses of two men with their hands tied behind the backs lay face down as residents walked past roadblocks set up with burning tires.

Among the few dozen people who chose to stay in prison are 18 former Colombian soldiers accused of working as mercenaries in the July 2021 assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse .

"Please, please help us," one of the men, Francisco Uribe, said in a message widely shared on social media. "They are massacring people indiscriminately inside the cells."

Aftermath of a prison break at the National Penitentiary, in Port-au-Prince

Colombia's foreign ministry has called on Haiti to provide "special protection" for the men.

A second Port-au-Prince prison containing around 1,400 inmates also was overrun.

Gunfire was reported in several neighborhoods in the capital. Internet service for many residents was down on Sunday as Haiti's top mobile network said a fiber optic cable connection was slashed during the rampage.

After gangs opened fire at Haiti's international airport last week, the U.S. Embassy said it was halting all official travel to the country. On Sunday night, it urged all American citizens to depart as soon as possible.

The Biden administration, which has refused to commit troops to any multinational force for Haiti while offering money and logistical support, said it was monitoring the rapidly deteriorating security situation with grave concern.

The surge in attacks follows violent protests that turned deadlier in recent days as the prime minister went to Kenya seeking to move ahead on the proposed U.N.-backed security mission to be led by that East African country.

Henry took over as prime minister following Moise's assassination and has postponed plans to hold parliamentary and presidential elections, which haven't happened in almost a decade.

Jimmy Chérizier, a former elite police officer known as Barbecue who now runs a gang federation, has claimed responsibility for the surge in attacks. He said the goal is to capture Haiti's police chief and government ministers and prevent Henry's return.

The prime minister has shrugged off calls for him to resign and didn't comment when asked if he felt it was safe to come home.

Haitian Americans are stuck in Haiti

The U.S. State Department has issued multiple travel warnings urging Americans and State Department employees to stay put and be careful while on the island.

At Miami and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airports, all flights in and out of Haiti's two airports are canceled, CBS Miami reported . Despite many warnings, countless Haitian Americans are still on the island. For them, Haiti is home and leaving is complicated.

The sister of CBS News Miami's Tania Francois is one of those people.

"I've been stuck in my city where I'm living now for about two months," she said. "Trying to make it into Port Au Prince so I can fly to the States, and I just can't leave."

Kareen Ulysse  who operates Centre Hospitalier de Fontaine, a hospital and orphanage in Cite Soleil, a suburb of Port au Prince, is also a Haitian American working in Haiti, CBS Miami reported.

"We work literally in the ghettos for the most vulnerable people and there's no help, there's no one really standing in line to help people like them," she said.

Last August, the U.S. Embassy in Haiti closed due to gunfire nearby, after months of  ceaseless violence at the hands of gangs  drove thousands of Haitians onto the streets to demand security.

AFP contributed to this report.

More from CBS News

Nigeria police say 15 school children were kidnapped by armed gunmen

What's happening in Haiti? Here's what to know.

What we know about fate of flight MH370, 10 years after its disappearance

Great Barrier Reef again undergoes mass coral bleaching event

  • Skip to main content
  • Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

3 things to know about the current crisis in Haiti

Eyder Peralta headshot

Eyder Peralta

dominica tourist safety

A demonstrator holds up a Haitian flag during protests demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on Friday. Odelyn Joseph/AP hide caption

A demonstrator holds up a Haitian flag during protests demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on Friday.

MEXICO CITY — Haiti is entering its second day of a state of emergency, after gangs attacked the capital city's most important prisons over the weekend, releasing thousands of inmates. The country's airport is under siege, and on Monday evening, it was still not clear whether Haiti's de facto prime minister had made it back into the country.

Monique Clesca, a well-known activist in Haiti, says the weekend represented "three days of terror."

"Gangs paraded throughout Port-au-Prince with their arms openly," she told NPR. "It wasn't done at night and the police was nowhere to be found."

Haiti declares a curfew as it tries to restore order after weekend jailbreaks

Haiti declares a curfew as it tries to restore order after weekend jailbreaks

Almost three years after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse , Haiti has been in free-fall. Elections haven't been held since 2017, so the term for every elected official has expired; security services are overwhelmed and millions are going hungry.

Here are three things you should know about this latest bout of violence in the country.

It marks the overt involvement of gangs in politics

Robert Fatton, who studies Haiti at the University of Virginia, says other bouts of violence in Haiti were marked by fights between gangs.

This time, he says, the gangs in Haiti have forged an alliance and at least one of the big gang leaders, Jimmy Chérizier, who is nicknamed Barbecue, has said explicitly that the point of this violence is to overthrow the government.

dominica tourist safety

Leader of the "G9 and Family" gang, Jimmy Cherizier, better known as Barbecue, in Haiti on Oct. 21, 2022. Matias Delacroix/AP hide caption

Leader of the "G9 and Family" gang, Jimmy Cherizier, better known as Barbecue, in Haiti on Oct. 21, 2022.

Fatton says working together, the gangs have flexed a powerful muscle. They already controlled most of the capital city, but over the past week, they shot at airplanes at the international airport in Port-au-Prince. International airlines stopped their flights, something that rarely happened in the past. The gangs also overpowered police at two of the main prisons and managed to release thousands of inmates.

As its only remaining elected officials depart, Haiti reaches a breaking point

As its only remaining elected officials depart, Haiti reaches a breaking point

This is a critical moment for Haiti, Fatton says.

"The situation is on the verge of a real collapse of any and every institution that remains in the country," he says.

In other words, he says, there is a possibility the gangs could become the dominant force in Haiti.

Haiti's de facto prime minister is not in the country

Haiti's de facto Prime Minister Ariel Henry traveled to Kenya last week. Last year, the East African country agreed to lead a multinational force in Haiti , but Kenyan courts have delayed the deployment. Henry was in the country trying to close that deal.

When the violence broke out, it was Patrick Boisvert, the country's finance minister who was acting as prime minister, who signed the emergency declaration .

dominica tourist safety

Haiti's Prime Minister Ariel Henry gives a public lecture at the United States International University in Nairobi, Kenya, on Friday. Henry said elections in his country need to be held as soon as possible to bring stability to the troubled Caribbean nation. Andrew Kasuku/AP hide caption

Haiti's Prime Minister Ariel Henry gives a public lecture at the United States International University in Nairobi, Kenya, on Friday. Henry said elections in his country need to be held as soon as possible to bring stability to the troubled Caribbean nation.

At a press briefing, the U.S. State Department said Henry was "returning to the country."

"We think it's important that he do so and that he be allowed to do so," State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, declining to say more.

On Tuesday night, however, several news outlets were reporting that Henry had touched down in Puerto Rico. Citing tracking data, The Associated Press reported that Henry's flight had originated in New Jersey and was heading toward Dominican Republic, which shares with Haiti the island of Hispaniola. His plane circled mid-flight before diverting to Puerto Rico.

Kenyan police are still seen as the way out of this crisis

Speaking to reporters the State Department's Miller said the crisis "underscores the urgency" of finalizing the Kenyan-led mission.

Clesca, who was part of a civil society group that has promoted a holistic approach to ending the Haitian crisis, says part of the problem is that Prime Minister Henry has been solely focused on a military solution. Henry, she says, could have ordered a state of emergency from the time he came to power, allowing the police to bring the gangs under control and at the same time plan for elections.

Haiti's Slain President Presided Over The Collapse Of Security In His Country

Haiti's Slain President Presided Over The Collapse Of Security In His Country

"Instead, a few months after [he came to power], he went to the United Nations and said 'send me some troops' and then crossed his arms," Clesca says. "And that's all they did — wait and wait and wait."

On Friday, Henry and Kenyan President William Ruto witnessed the signing of a bilateral agreement authorizing the deployment of 1,000 Kenyan police officers to Haiti. Kenya's government believes the agreement satisfies the objections of the Kenyan courts, which had stopped the deployment.

"It is a mission for humanity," Ruto said . "It is a mission in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Haiti."

Ruto said the signing of the agreement was the "final step" and that his police force would "be there at the earliest opportunity that is possible."

Correction March 5, 2024

This story was updated to reflect Haiti's de facto Prime Minister Ariel Henry arriving in Puerto Rico.

  • Ariel Henry
  • International edition
  • Australia edition
  • Europe edition

Tyres on fire near the National Penitentiary in Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Haiti declares state of emergency after thousands of dangerous inmates escape

Attack on two prisons comes amid outbreak of violence as PM in Kenya trying to salvage UN-backed security force

Haiti has declared a three-day state of emergency and a night-time curfew after armed gangs stormed the country’s two biggest jails, allowing more than 3,000 dangerous criminals, including murderers and kidnappers, to escape back on to the streets of the poor and violence-racked Caribbean nation.

The finance minister, Patrick Boisvert – who is in charge while the embattled prime minister, Ariel Henry, is abroad trying to salvage support for a UN-backed security force to stabilise Haiti – said police would use “all legal means at their disposal” to recapture the prisoners and enforce the curfew.

Jimmy Chérizier, a former elite police officer known as Barbecue who now runs a gang federation, has claimed responsibility for the surge in attacks . He said the goal was to capture Haiti’s police chief and government ministers and prevent Henry’s return.

The emergency decree was issued after a deadly weekend that marked a new low in Haiti’s spiral of violence, and which has led the US to advise its citizens to leave “as soon as possible” and Canada to temporarily close its embassy.

At least nine people have been killed since Thursday, among them four police officers. Targets have included police stations, the country’s international airport and the national football stadium, where one employee was held hostage for hours.

The UN estimates that about 15,000 people were forced to flee the violence between Thursday and Saturday, including those already in makeshift camps for displaced people set up in schools, hospitals and squares around the capital, Port-au-Prince. But even in a country accustomed to the constant threat of violence, Saturday’s attack on the national penitentiary in Port-au-Prince came as a huge shock. Almost all of the estimated 4,000 inmates escaped, leaving the normally overcrowded prison eerily empty on Sunday with no guards in sight and plastic sandals, clothing and furniture strewn across the concrete patio. Three bodies with gunshot wounds lay at the prison entrance. In another neighbourhood, the bloodied corpses of two men with their hands tied behind the backs lay face down as residents walked past roadblocks set up with burning tires.

It was unclear how many inmates were on the run but Arnel Remy, a human rights lawyer whose non-profit organisation works inside the national penitentiary, said on X that fewer than 100 of the nearly 4,000 inmates remained behind bars.

“I’m the only one left in my cell,” one unidentified inmate told Reuters.

the deserted prison

Sources close to the institution said it was likely an “overwhelming” majority of inmates had escaped. The penitentiary, built to hold 700 prisoners, held 3,687 as of February last year, according to rights group RNDDH.

The BBC cited a local journalist who said the vast majority of about 4,000 men held there had escaped.

Those choosing to stay included 18 former Colombian soldiers accused of working as mercenaries in the July 2021 assassination of the then Haitian president, Jovenel Moïse . On Saturday night, several of the Colombians shared a video pleading for their lives.

“Please, please help us,” one of the men, Francisco Uribe, said in the message widely shared on social media. “They are massacring people indiscriminately inside the cells.”

A second Port-au-Prince prison containing about 1,400 inmates was also overrun.

The violence on Saturday night appeared to be widespread, with several neighbourhoods reporting gunfire.

A man with his face covered stands on a vehicle during a protest against prime minister Ariel Henry’s government and insecurity in Port-au-Prince on 1 March 2024.

Internet service for many residents was also down as Haiti’s top mobile network said a fibre optic cable connection was slashed during the rampage. Field teams managed to fully restore the connection on Sunday afternoon.

In the space of less than two weeks, several state institutions have been attacked by the gangs, who are increasingly coordinating their actions and choosing once unthinkable targets such as the central bank.

Henry took over as prime minister after Moise’s assassination and has repeatedly postponed plans to hold parliamentary and presidential elections, which have not taken place in almost a decade.

The prime minister, a neurosurgeon, signed reciprocal agreements last week with Kenya’s president, William Ruto, in an effort to salvage the plan to deploy Kenyan police to Haiti.

In January, Kenya’s high court ruled that the deployment was unconstitutional, in part because the original deal lacked reciprocal agreements between the two countries. Henry has shrugged off calls for his resignation and did not comment when asked if he felt it was safe to come home.

Haiti’s national police have roughly 9,000 officers to provide security for more than 11 million people, according to the UN. They are routinely overwhelmed and outgunned by gangs, which are estimated to control up to 80% of the capital.

After gangs opened fire at Haiti’s international airport last week, the US embassy said it was halting all official travel to the country. On Sunday night, it urged all American citizens to depart as soon as possible. The Biden administration – which has offered Haiti money and logistical support but steadfastly refused to commit troops to any multinational force – said it was monitoring the rapidly deteriorating security situation with grave concern.

Stéphane Dujarric, a UN spokesperson, said the latest upsurge in violence underlined the need for member nations to work quickly to support and deploy the multinational security force. “We have been talking for months now about how civilians in Haiti and in Port-au-Prince are basically trapped by gang violence,” he told reporters at UN headquarters in New York. “Schools are closed, hospitals are not functioning, people are suffering on a daily basis.”

Earlier this year, the UN said that more than 300,000 people had fled their homes due to the worsening gang conflict, which claimed almost 5,000 lives last year.

The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report

Most viewed

IMAGES

  1. Dominica: Health and Safety Guidelines: Discover Dominica, the Nature

    dominica tourist safety

  2. Dominica: Health and Safety Guidelines: Discover Dominica, the Nature

    dominica tourist safety

  3. Dominica: Health and Safety Guidelines: Discover Dominica, the Nature

    dominica tourist safety

  4. Dominica: Health and Safety Guidelines: Discover Dominica, the Nature

    dominica tourist safety

  5. Dominica: Health and Safety Guidelines: Discover Dominica, the Nature

    dominica tourist safety

  6. Travel Safety Dominica

    dominica tourist safety

COMMENTS

  1. Is Dominica Safe for Travel RIGHT NOW? (2024 Safety Rating)

    Written by Travel Safe Team. Safety Index: 80. * Based on Research & Crime Data. User Sentiment: 80. * Rated 80 / 100 based on 3 user reviews. Dominica is an island country in the West Indies located apart from the Leeward Islands in the Carribean Sea. Initially inhabited by African people then colonized by Europeans and afterward injected with ...

  2. Dominica Travel Advisory

    Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Dominica. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Dominica.. If you decide to travel to Dominica: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.; Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.

  3. 17 Things To Know Before Visiting Dominica: 2024 Guide

    Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. It's worth downloading an app like XE Currency to convert currency on the go, but as a guide: 1 USD = 2.70 ECD = £0.80. While not exact, I spent the week dividing the ECD amount by 3 to work out the rough cost in £.

  4. Dominica: Health and Safety Guidelines: Discover Dominica, the Nature

    WhatsApp +1 (767) 611 3905 to make an appointment ( at least two weeks prior to departure date) you can send an email to [email protected] or visit the Roseau Health Center to book an appointment and acquire the form in order to proceed to pay. A passport is needed. Test results take between 24-48hrs.

  5. Is Dominica Safe? 10 Essential Travel Safety Tips

    Hiking safety in Dominica. If you go hiking in Dominica, pack sturdy hiking boots that have been worn in, as the terrain can be rocky and slippery. Packing wet weather gear, as the weather can change quickly, bringing heavy rainfall. Carry insect repellent and anti-itch cream in case you get bitten by something.

  6. Travel Advisory for Dominica

    Travel Advisory for Dominica. Latest Update: As of Monday 22nd August 2022. The requirements for entering Dominica are as follows: Pre-arrival testing for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers has been removed. Testing on arrival for symptomatic travelers has been removed. more from

  7. Travel advice and advisories for Dominica

    banks and ATMs. gas stations. public lighting and traffic lights. heating and water supply. If you're in Dominica: verify the schedule of power cuts with local authorities. make sure your phone is always charged. keep supplies of food, water, and fuel on hand in case of lengthy disruptions. carry a flashlight.

  8. Dominica Travel Guide

    Instead, Dominica attracts the adventurous eco-tourist that treasures authenticity while on vacation. ... Dominica is a safe island in the Caribbean; tourist-targeted crime is rare and residents ...

  9. Safety and security

    Crime. The crime rate in Dominica is low, but you could be at risk walking alone away from the main roads, particularly after dark. Make sure your accommodation is secure and your documents and ...

  10. Dominica

    Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Dominica. Infants 6 to 11 months old traveling internationally should get 1 dose of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before travel. This dose does not count as part of the routine childhood vaccination series. Dominica is free of dog rabies.

  11. Dominica International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  12. I Traveled to Dominica During COVID-19

    Admittedly, waiting feels impossible in the moment, but a sense of comfort is present in the process. I felt safer in Dominica than I have in Brooklyn. Since the start of the pandemic, the island ...

  13. PDF Welcome To

    The Nature Island Hospitality starts here. 8:00am to 5:00pm, to Friday email: [email protected][email protected] (767) 275-7298 • Monday (767) 275-7293. The Tourism Customer Service Concierge is a Unit of the Ministry of Tourism, International Transport and Maritime Initiatives.

  14. Dominica travel advice

    FCDO travel advice for Dominica. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.

  15. Dominica Travel Guide! A Complete Guide To Dominica Travel!

    A pass is very reasonable in price costing $12.00 USD / $32.04 ECD. Dominica National Park site passes can be purchased from tour operators and car hire agencies in Dominica, and from official sites around the island such as the Forestry, Wildlife & Parks Division on Valley Road or in the Botanical Gardens in Roseau.

  16. Travel Advisories

    Dominica Travel Advisory : Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions: July 17, 2023: Dominican Republic Travel Advisory : Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution: June 6, 2023: ... Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

  17. Is Dominica Island Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2024

    February 10, 2024: Unlike other popular Caribbean islands, Dominica reports ZERO homicides in 1st week of 2024, and very low numbers in 2023. On January 11, 2024: Dominica demonstrated remarkable success in maintaining public safety, recording no murders in the first week of 2024, and only 14 homicides in 2023.

  18. Dominica 2024: All You Need to Go Before You Go

    Welcome to the Nature Island. Remote, affordable and, as yet, unspoiled, Dominica deserves more than a day's visit from your cruise ship. Spend a week (or more) exploring mountains covered by tropical rainforest, endless hiking trails, some 40 dive sites and black-sand beaches. You'll soon be plotting ways to return every year.

  19. Dominica

    US does not have an embassy in Dominica; the US Ambassador to Barbados is accredited to Dominica; US citizens may call US Dept of State (202)-501-4444 for emergencies; alternate contact is the US Embassy in Barbados [1] (246) 227-4000; US Embassy in Bridgetown, Wildey Business Park, St. Michael BB 14006, Barbados, WI; https://bb.usembassy.gov/.

  20. Dominican Republic Safety 2024: Is DR Safe to Visit?

    Here's a rough outlook of the country's safety conditions: Travel advisory: All travel advisories consider the Dominican Republic a moderately safe location. Crime rate: Crime in the Dominican Republic is very high (71.34) — the main problem areas are theft, violent crime, scams, and the harassment of women.

  21. Is Dominican Republic SAFE to Visit? (2024 • Insider Tips)

    The Dominican Republic is known internationally for its sex tourism. In a 2015 study, the International Justice Mission found that roughly a quarter of all sex workers were under 18. There's also a high rate of HIV and AIDS in comparison to other Central American and Caribbean countries.

  22. Dominican Republic Travel: Is It Safe?

    The Dominican Republic's minister of tourism insists that the country — which attracts 2.7 million American tourists a year — is safe. "The Dominican Republic is a safe country," Francisco ...

  23. Cruises are still calling into port in Haiti. Here's why

    Haiti shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic, which has a Level 2, "exercise increased caution" advisory. ( Other countries with Level 4 travel advisories include Russia ...

  24. Why The Dominican Republic Is Redefining Sustainable Luxury Travel

    ResilienceThe Dominican Republic's tourism ministry has keenly observed travel trends and how they shift is key as a means to forging resilience. Emerging preferences for travelers post Covid-19 ...

  25. Dominican Republic Travel Advisory

    Reissued with updates to health information. Exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.. Country Summary: Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic.The development of a professional tourist police corps, institution of a 911 system in many parts of the country, and a concentration of resources in ...

  26. Haiti's neighbors prepare for 'drastic escalation' in violence after

    Haiti's neighbors on Monday began shoring up their defenses and recalling embassy staff as a gang conflict in the Caribbean nation escalated and thousands fled fresh fighting.

  27. Gangs in Haiti try to seize control of main airport as thousands escape

    After gangs opened fire at Haiti's international airport last week, the U.S. Embassy said it was halting all official travel to the country. On Sunday night, it urged all American citizens to ...

  28. 3 things to know about the current crisis in Haiti : NPR

    MEXICO CITY — Haiti is entering its second day of a state of emergency, after gangs attacked the capital city's most important prisons over the weekend, releasing thousands of inmates.

  29. Haiti declares state of emergency after thousands of dangerous inmates

    Haiti has declared a three-day state of emergency and a night-time curfew after armed gangs stormed the country's two biggest jails, allowing more than 3,000 dangerous criminals, including ...