Is Santo Domingo Safe for Tourists?

Leaving the comfort of your all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana can sometimes feel daunting. A common question we receive is: “Is Santo Domingo safe for tourists?”.

The answer is YES, especially in the main tourist areas like the Colonial Zone. However, like any big capital city in the world, you need to be street-smart. Here is the reality of safety in Santo Domingo.

The Colonial Zone is Highly Policed

The Zona Colonial is the crown jewel of Dominican tourism. Because of this, there is a specialized police force (Cestur – Tourist Police) constantly patrolling the streets on foot, bikes, and cars to ensure visitor safety. It is very safe to walk around during the day.

Guided Tours vs. Solo Exploration

If you are unfamiliar with Spanish or big Latin American cities, we highly recommend booking a Guided Tour.

Why? A guide keeps you in the safe zones, handles interactions with street vendors, and ensures you don’t wander into non-tourist neighborhoods by mistake.

Safety Tips

• Jewelry: Leave expensive watches and flashy gold jewelry at your hotel safe. Don’t draw unnecessary attention.
• Phones: Keep your phone in your pocket when not taking photos.
• Vendors: You will encounter street vendors selling cigars or souvenirs. A polite but firm “No, gracias” is enough.