Getting around

Rent a car, orskip it entirely?

Most Punta Cana visitors never leave their resort. But if you're planning to explore local beaches, eat off-property, or stay in a condo rental, you'll need to figure out how you're getting around — and whether that means renting a car.

Do you actually need one?

Honest answer: probably not. If you're at an all-inclusive resort and plan to stick to the property or take one or two excursions, ride-sharing apps and taxis will cost less than a rental. But if you're staying in a condo near El Cortecito, want to beach-hop to Macao or Los Corales, or explore beyond the hotel zone multiple days, a car gives you freedom without negotiating fares every trip. March (peak season) means more traffic in Santo Domingo, but the resort areas are manageable.

Your options

Compared from real traveler answers.

Skip the car: Uber, taxis & resort transfers

Ride-sharing is cheap enough in Punta Cana that most travelers use it exclusively. Uber works well for trips to restaurant plazas like Citrus Fusion or beaches like Macao. Some resorts include airport transfers when you book three+ nights direct. You can also arrange private transport through your hotel concierge.

Why you'll love it

Ride-sharing is affordable compared to many destinations
No dealing with rental paperwork, deposits, or fuel
App-based payment prevents overcharging scams
Resort transfers often included with direct bookings

Worth knowing

Some taxi drivers try to overcharge if you pay cash
You're negotiating or waiting for rides on every outing
Less practical if you're doing multiple trips daily
Airport transfer costs can run higher than expected

Best for: Resort guests making occasional off-property trips, or travelers uncomfortable driving in unfamiliar areas

Rent a car (standard vehicle)

If you're staying in a vacation rental, planning daily excursions, or want to explore freely without app-based rides, a standard car rental makes sense. The community notes that a regular vehicle often offers better value than long-term golf cart rentals, especially if you need real mobility.

Why you'll love it

Freedom to explore beaches, restaurants, and towns on your schedule
Better value than golf carts for longer stays
No waiting for rides or negotiating fares
Practical if staying in a condo and cooking/shopping locally

Worth knowing

Driving in Santo Domingo during peak season means serious traffic and parking challenges
You'll need to understand local driving behavior (one traveler joked about 'crazy' Dominican drivers)
Rental deposits and insurance to navigate
Unnecessary cost if you're mainly at one resort

Best for: Condo renters, families doing frequent beach/restaurant trips, or travelers who want independence beyond the resort zone

Golf carts (for village stays)

Golf carts come up for travelers staying in communities like Cocotal Golf or near Juanillo, where they're the main way to get around the village. But long-term rentals get expensive fast, and a regular car might be smarter if you're leaving the community often.

Why you'll love it

Standard transport within resort villages
Easy parking and navigation in compact communities
Fun for short trips to nearby facilities

Worth knowing

Long-term rentals are typically expensive
Limited range — not practical for off-village exploring
A standard vehicle often offers better value

Best for: Guests staying exclusively within a golf/resort village and making very short trips

Compare live rental prices across agencies — including the local ones.

Compare rental prices →

Book your airport transfer before you land

A driver waiting with your name, fixed price, free cancellation. Cheaper than the taxi line for most groups.

Welcome Pickups →Compare on Kiwitaxi →

Still torn?

Five questions, one straight answer.

Where are you staying?

How long is the trip?

Day trips to the far corners on the list?

How many of you?

Comfortable driving in another country?

Answer all five and we'll make the call.

Before you book

Use app-based payment in Uber to avoid overcharging — some drivers will quote inflated fares if you pay cash
Download WhatsApp and an e-SIM app before arrival for easy connectivity and coordinating rides
If booking a resort direct, check if airport transfers are included (often free with 3+ night stays)
March is peak season: expect heavier traffic in Santo Domingo and advance booking pressure
Platforms like Booking.com may show cheaper rates but often exclude transfers, taxes, and room category choice
For beach exploring without a car, boat taxis are an option — one traveler used them for return trips after long beach walks
If you're staying in a condo near El Cortecito, you'll likely want either a car or be comfortable with frequent Uber use
Private transport arranged through your hotel concierge is another option, though pricing varies

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