You’ve just landed in Punta Cana or you’re planning your trip, and like most travelers, your first thought is probably: “Can I just call an Uber?” It’s a question that is asked often, and the answer is YES! You may hear some folks say its not possible or not reliable but that’s the way it “used” to be when Uber here was a new threat to the taxi industry. It works now. However, using Uber in Punta Cana has some caveats. Read on to be fully prepared.
What Transportation Options are Available in Punta Cana?
Before we go further with how to use Uber in Punta Cana, let’s break down ALL your transportation options while visiting the Bavaro area or Punta Cana in general.
- Resort Shuttles: If you’re staying at a resort, absolutely take advantage of their shuttle services which are almost always free. Most offer complimentary transportation to nearby shopping areas like Downtown Punta Cana or popular beaches or the airport.
- Uber: Make sure you have a clear understanding of the caveats in this article.
- Traditional Taxis: They’re everywhere, especially around resorts and popular areas. Always negotiate the price before getting in, or ask them to use the meter.
- Motoconchos: Commonly referred to as “motos,” these motorcycle taxis are everywhere and perfect for short distances. Just make sure you’re comfortable riding on the back of a motorcycle.
- Tuk Tuk or Poppi: – These small, three-wheeled motorized vehicles serve as informal local taxis. Think of them as a motorcycle in the front with a covered two-seat bench in the back, usually with a small roof or canopy.
- Private Transportation: You can often arrange this through your hotel, rental property or travel agent. It’s more expensive than other options but offers reliability and drivers can often offer local knowledge.
We highly recommend our partners at Passports ‘n Paradise for private transportation. They are more affordable than most and personally ensure you can find your way through the airport, easily find your driver, and arrive at your destination happy.
- Rental Cars: While driving in the Dominican Republic can be tricky, intimidating, and quite frankly, a little dangerous, having your own wheels means you can explore wherever you choose to go. Choose this option at your own risk.
- Public Transportation (Guaguas and Voladoras): These are local buses and shared vans that run regular routes. They’re very affordable but can be crowded and aren’t always comfortable for tourists with luggage. We often use the bus to get to the Downtown mall and Uber back.
Transportation Costs in Punta Cana
Here is the list of transportation options in order by affordability.
- Resort Shuttles – usually free
- Public Transportation (see How to Get to Jumbo Supermarket for 75 Pesos)
- Motoconchos – negotiable, very affordable, about the same as a Tuk Tuk or Poppi
- Tuk Tuk or Poppi – negotiable, very affordable, about the same as a motoconcho
- Uber – varies based on distance but generally less expensive than taxis
- Traditional Taxis – varies based on distance but generally more expensive than Uber
- Private Transportation – most expensive but most convenient, often the same as a taxi.
- Rental Cars – varies based on rental agency policies
Generally speaking:
- Travelling from the Airport to Bávaro/Punta Cana resorts by taxi or typically runs $30-50 USD, depending on your negotiation skills and exact destination. Private transfers are usually in the same range but offer more reliability.
- Short trips within Bávaro, Punta Cana, or between nearby resorts usually cost $6-$8 by Uber, $10-20 by taxi, while motoconchos or Poppis might charge $3-8 for the same distance.
- For longer trips, like Bávaro to Cap Cana or to some of the attractions, expect to pay $40-80 on taxis or private transportation depending on wait time and return trip arrangements. Note – most excursions include transportation from your resort or central location
How to Choose the Best Transportation for You
Here are the best transportation methods, depending on your situation and where you want to go.
To and From the Punta Cana Airport
- Resort or hotel shuttle (if available)
- Uber (on demand or scheduled in advance for a shorter wait)
- Private transportation arranged in advance
- Taxis at the airport (don’t worry, they will find you)
Local Travel
- Uber (on demand or scheduled in advance for a shorter wait)
- Taxis
- Motoconchos
- Tuk Tuk or Poppi
- Private transportation arranged in advance
Day Trips or Longer Distances
- Uber (depending on distance)
- Private Transportation
- Rental Cars
Special Considerations when Using Uber
Using Uber for a Day Trip
If you’re taking an Uber to a close by beach or an excursion, do NOT try to cram too many people or tons of beach gear into a smaller Uber. We have had a driver cancel our ride when they got a look at all the people and “stuff” we were wanting to transport.
Using Uber to or from Your Resort
While your Uber may be able to drive you to the lobby of your resort when that is your destination, typically, resorts do not allow Uber PICKUPS from inside the resort. In that case, use the resort’s golf cart service to take you to the gate and order your Uber from there.
Using Uber to or from the Punta Cana Airport
While Uber is available for those arriving at the Punta Cana airport, we highly recommend using private transportation, if possible because:
- Your driver is waiting for you with a sign — no hunting, no app refreshing
- Price is agreed upon in advance — no surge pricing surprises
- Vehicles are typically larger and more comfortable (especially important for families with luggage)
- It’s one less thing to stress about when arriving in an unfamiliar country
Confirm Uber has Return Service from Your Location
We’ve personally used Uber well over 100 times while in the Bavaro area of Punta Cana to travel to and from the Downtown Mall, the Blue Mall, White Sands, Macao Beach, Coco Bongo and many other places with absolutely no problems. However, because most Uber drivers operate around major resorts and popular tourist spots in Bávaro, the most important thing is to ensure Uber also will PICK UP from wherever you are headed.
A Lesson Learned
We took an Uber to Macao Beach during low season, not realizing we wouldn’t be able to Uber home. That’s when panic mode set in. But, thankfully, Bavaro Babe Dawn of Passports ‘n Paradise was with us and called one of her private transportation folks (which of course cost more but a small price to pay for not being stranded). More about private transportation later.
Know Your Numbers
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- Because the Dominican Uber app charges in Dominican pesos, you might want to check the conversion from pesos to your native currency before booking your ride. Just Google something like “368.17 dop to usd”
- If you have money in your native currency in your Uber wallet, those will not be able to be used in the app while in the Dominican Republic. You will get the best conversion using a standard credit card.
- If you do not know how to provide your PIN in Spanish, you can show it to the driver instead.
10 Practical Tips for Getting Around Punta Cana
- Plan Ahead: Don’t assume you can just hail a ride when you need it. If you have dinner reservations or need to catch a flight, arrange transportation in advance.
- Keep Multiple Options: Have a few different transportation methods in your back pocket such as the taxi driver’s WhatsApp number and the Uber app.
- Learn Basic Spanish Transportation Phrases: Knowing how to say where you want to go and asking “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (How much does it cost?) will save you time and money.
- Carry Cash: Many transportation options here operate on cash only, especially motoconchos and some taxis. Most will accept USD or Dominican pesos. Make sure you have small bills, sometimes the drivers don’t have change.
- Know Your Locations: Learn the names of major landmarks and hotels. Instead of giving an address, it’s often better to reference a well-known resort or shopping center nearby or use Google Maps.
- Tuk Tuks and Poppis are part of the authentic local experience and a great way to support local drivers directly. They are perfect for quick trips to nearby restaurants, shops, or beaches when you don’t want to pay for an Uber or taxi.
- Most poppi and moto drivers speak limited English, so having your destination written down or on your phone helps.
- With taxis, poppis, and motos, always negotiate the fare before getting in — there are no meters
- Poppis and motos are not air-conditioned (open-air experience!), so be prepared for the heat and wind
- Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory
Where is Transportation Available in Punta Cana?
Transportation options can vary significantly depending on exactly where you are. The main Bávaro strip has plenty of Ubers, taxis, motoconchos, and Poppis but if you’re staying in a more residential area or some of the newer developments, your options may become more limited.
The beach areas generally have good transportation access during the day, but late-night options might be scarce. If you’re planning a night out, make sure you have a way to get back to your accommodation, preferably arranged in advance.
Our Final Tips
Punta Cana Airport – Use resort shuttles when available. If not, pre-arrange private transportation from the airport to your destination. To return to the airport, use either Uber or private transportation.
Your Resort – Use resort shuttles when available. If not, understand that your Uber or private transportation driver may be able to deliver you to your resort but may not be able to pick you up at the lobby or inside the gate to leave the resort.
Other local locations – We tend to use Uber above all other options except the occasional moto or Poppi.
The transportation situation in Punta Cana reflects the broader character of the area – it’s laid-back, relationship-based, and requires a bit of flexibility. Once you adapt to this approach, getting around becomes part of the authentic Dominican experience rather than a source of frustration.
Remember, part of the charm of being in a place like Punta Cana is that it’s not exactly like home. The transportation might require more planning and local knowledge, but it’s also an opportunity to interact with locals and discover places you might otherwise miss.
