Travelers to Punta Cana are worried about needing a COVID test to travel to the Dominican Republic. The short answer is NO, but only for residents of certain countries.
Traveling from the United States don’t need a COVID test to travel to the Dominican Republic, but they do need a test to travel back to the United States. That is a mandate by the U.S. Government and the CDC and not a decision made by the Dominican government.
How Bad Is COVID in the Dominican Republic?
Official statistics reflect a low incidence of COVID in the Dominican Republic. Even when comparing in relation to the size of the country, you are 6-7 times less likely to catch COVID in Dominican Republic than in the United States.
Most companies related to tourism have implemented strict COVID protocols, such as Transekur, so you and our drivers remain safe during your Punta Cana transportation and Punta Cana Airport Transfer.
Vaccination rates are very high, reaching up to 75% of the population of the country with at least one dose, and more than 50% fully vaccinated. (sept 2021)
Punta Cana resorts have required all its employees to be fully vaccinated since the beginning of the summer, so outbreaks at resorts are very rare.
How Do I Get a COVID Test to Travel Back to the U.S.?
There are many ways you can get a COVID test to travel back to the United States, but most resorts offer the test either for a low fee ($20-$30) or in some cases for the high-end resorts, it is included in the package.
Most resorts have established areas where you can schedule COVID travel testing within hours, and ge your results in a few minutes or hours at the most.
Make sure you book your COVID test appointment with the hotel reception at least 48 hours before departing, as you will need a print version of the results upon check-in at the airport. Either an antigen or a PCR test is accepted by airlines traveling to the United States.
There are many labs that conduct COVID tests for travelers in Punta Cana, such as Referencia Laboratorio or Laboratorio Amadita. You can find more information at the U.S. Embassy website regarding authorized covid labs in the Dominican Republic.
Do I Need to Wear a Mask In Resorts in Punta Cana?
Most resorts will not demand that you wear a mask when in public areas, but most will enforce the use of masks when interacting with employees such as:
- Ordering drinks at a bar
- Serving your food at the buffet.
- At the lobby or front desk.
Resorts want their employees and guests to be safe and they have implemented many protocols to do so. Numbers indicate that they have done a good job in this regard.
What Happens If I Catch COVID in Punta Cana?
The U.S. government won’t let you back in without a negative COVID test, and airlines for obvious reasons will not allow you to board their planes without one.
If you catch COVID there are many options for COVID insurance, under which they cover for your extended stay as well as possible medical expenses abroad. Make sure you buy some insurance if you are unvaccinated and don’t want to take the financial or medical risk of catching COVID abroad.
