Getting around — Punta Cana

In the Punta Cana and the East region, internal travel is limited — most time spent at the resort and beach. Taxis (USD 5-30 per ride depending on distance) ease movement between resorts, to excursion sites and to the airport. Uber available and reliable at Punta Cana and Santo Domingo (often cheaper than official taxis). Official taxis from hotels are pricier but secure.

Access from Europe is mostly by direct flight or direct charter to Punta Cana (PUJ): Air France (Paris CDG), Corsair (Paris Orly), Air Europa (Madrid), Iberia (Madrid), Iberojet (Madrid), TUI Fly (multi-destinations), Air Transat (multi-destinations). 9-10h direct flight. Return fares: €500-700 in low season (May-June, September-November), €800-1,100 in high season (December-February, Easter, July-August). All-inclusive packages (flight + 1-week resort) from €700 in low season, €1,500-2,500 in high season.

For Bayahibe, the closest airport is La Romana (LRM) — seasonal charter flights from Europe (TUI, Iberojet) and North America. Otherwise, Punta Cana (PUJ) flight then private transfer 1h15 (USD 60-90 for 4 people) or Caribe Tours bus (USD 5, 1h30). For Santo Domingo, direct flight or transfer from PUJ (2h30 by private taxi, USD 100-130).

Airport-resort transfer: included in all-inclusive packages. Outside packages, official taxi PUJ → Bávaro USD 25-40, PUJ → Cap Cana USD 25-30, PUJ → Bayahibe USD 60-90. Uber cheaper at Punta Cana but not always allowed near the airport (check with your driver).

In the region, car hire (€35-55/day, agencies at PUJ and main resorts) offers maximum freedom for excursions to Santo Domingo, Macao, Higüey. Beware of risky local driving and vehicle break-ins — never leave visible objects. Long-distance buses (Caribe Tours, Expreso Bávaro) link Bávaro to Santo Domingo (USD 15-20, 3-4h) — economical, comfortable, air-conditioned.