Are Punta Cana Taxis Safe? Located on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana is a popular vacation destination for both international and local travelers. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and abundance of outdoor activities, it’s no wonder that Punta Cana welcomes thousands of tourists each year.
To explore this paradise in depth, taking one of the local taxis becomes popular among travelers as well.The topic of taxi safety is always one of the travelers’ concerns when they visit a new destination. With this guide, you will learn how to stay safe when taking a taxi in Punta Cana.
Punta cana taxis are safe
Are Punta Cana taxis safe? Yes, provided you take the appropriate safety measures. Make sure to only utilize authorized taxi services, and agree on the fee in advance of the journey. For a more pleasurable journey, take extra care with your possessions and refrain from hitching a ride with random people.
To guarantee higher safety standards, the Dominican Republic’s government is working to improve the system for transport, particularly in tourist-heavy areas.
There are precautions travelers can take to feel more secure:
- Reliable taxi companies offer a much safer experience compared to unregistered ones.
- Make sure to use only the officially licensed taxi services when you’re in Punta Cana.
- Talk to your hotel staff or the locals and ask for reliable recommendations.
Usually, the official taxis have clear signage that identifies the license. Set the Fare Before Taking the Ride One of the best ways to avoid being scammed is to agree on the fare before getting into the car.
Be mindful of your belongings while riding a taxi. Make sure to keep your bag close to you and locked, if possible. Avoid putting valuables or anything easily stolen in your pockets.
- Try to sit near the driver, as it makes it harder for someone to steal your things while you’re distracted
- Taxis provide an excellent way of exploring the city and making memories.
- Smile and greet your driver whenever you get in and make some small talk.
- Showing politeness can go a long way, as it can help you feel more at ease.
Despite being an overall safe experience, avoiding Punta Cana’s unregistered taxis provides better security for your trip.

Taxis prices
Discuss the price with your driver and make sure they’re willing to accept the amount you both agreed on before starting the trip. Double-check the fare on a taxi app to get a sense of the usual rates in the area.
Avoid Sharing Rides with Strangers It’s always best to find a private car or a taxi service that only allows one or two rides at a time. If you’re required to share a ride with a stranger, make sure both of you feel comfortable with the arrangement. Several ride-hailing companies operating in Punta Cana use GPS to track the trip giving ride-sharing tourists more peace of mind.