Travel Vaccines and Advice for the Dominican Republic

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Dominican Republic. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for the Dominican Republic: COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

Some areas of the Dominican Republic are known to have malaria. Be sure to speak with a travel health specialist about the possible need for antimalarials.

Zika is also a risk in country. the PHAC recommends women who are pregnant or may become pregnant consider the risks before travelling. The best protection against the virus is mosquito repellents and netting.

To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now.

With a valid passport, Canadian citizens do not need a visa for business our tourism visits under 30 days. Upon arrival, all Canadians will be issued a Tourist card at the airport.

Dominican Republic Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to the Dominican Republic?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of Dominican Republic and Canadian Travel and Tourism

Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

As a Caribbean island, the Dominican Republic has tropical weather year-round. The temperature can span from the low-30’s at noon to low-20’s at sunrise during the summer. Whereas in the winter, temperatures can go as low as 18 degrees. With the warmest months being between June through September.

In the more mountainous areas of the country the weather is cooler. Going as low as 10 degrees early in the morning and even below -15 degrees higher up in the mountains during winter.

Tropical islands are subject to rainstorms that can occur during any time of the year. As well as hurricanes between the months of June and November. Rain falls for small periods of time in the afternoon and evening.

Within touristic areas such as resorts, hotels, and beaches the Dominican Republic is fairly safe. Outside of these areas, especially at night, take extra precautions.

Crime persists to be one of the major concerns of safety in the Dominican Republic. Crime rates tend to increase during the holiday season and during Carnival.

To stay safe in the Dominican Republic:

• Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or name brands.
• Pay attention to potential scams.
• Take caution when entering a public bathroom.
• Keep your hotel room keys with you if possible.
• Leave valuables in your hotel room.
• Cash, electronics, expensive jewelry, and your passport should be kept in a safety box.
• Keep a copy of your passport with you.
• Steer clear of renting vehicles or driving unless acquainted with the local traffic laws and way of driving.
• Avoid travelling at night.
• Avoid using public transportation such as taxis known as carros públicos and buses are known as guaguas in Spanish.

You can go zip lining almost anywhere in the Dominican Republic.

Compare prices before booking your zip line experience. Make sure that the operator of the zip line tour is authorized, as well. Ask questions about any concerns and what their safety record is.

Listen carefully to your zip line operator’s instructions and advice to avoid getting hurt. Keep in mind that you should avoid zip lining if you are pregnant or have any heart issues.

Be sure to wear the proper attire; such as a helmet, comfortable and closed shoes, and no dresses or skirts. The longer the pants the better as the straps may cause some discomfort against bare legs.

Often, travellers only think of bringing their swimsuit and lightweight clothing. While those items are vital to your trip, here are a few more items to consider taking with you.

• Cash is key if you are not from the Dominican Republic. Locals may try to take advantage and up-charge you. Try to negotiate on price when purchasing souvenirs and always pay with Dominican pesos. Use credit cards only in safe places like hotels or resorts.
• Sunscreen is essential when travelling near the equator! Make sure to pack some to protect yourself from the sun rays you’ll be catching while tanning on the white sand beaches of DR. Be aware that most hotels and resorts sell sunscreen, but very overpriced.
• Wear the right clothing for what you are doing. Being fashionable is a plus but not always right for the situation, like zip-lining. Bring a light jacket for chilly nights and hat or sunglasses for warm days.
• Bug repellent to keep mosquitoes at bay.
• Do not forget your passport at home and keep a copy of it with you if you plan to go outside a resort or hotel.
• Anti-Diarrheal medicine is key to ensuring a good trip. Many travellers will fall prey to diarrhea during their trip.

If you find yourself in need of help while travelling in the Dominican Republic, there is a Canadian Embassy in the capital city of Santiago.

Canadian Embassy in the Dominican Republic
Av. Winston Churchill 1099
Torre Citigroup en Acrópolis Center, piso 18
Ensanche Piantini, Santo Domingo,
República Dominicana
Tel.: (809)-262-3100

If you have any questions about travelling to the Dominican Republic or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now! and protect yourself today.