WHEN TO TRAVEL to the Dominican Republic

Location

Climate

The seasons in the Dominican Republic: what can you expect?

Located in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic enjoys a tropical climate with pleasant temperatures all year round. However, there are two main seasons to bear in mind when planning your trip:

• The dry season (December to April): characterized by a cooler, less humid climate, this period is ideal for enjoying the beaches and tourist sites without fear of the tropical showers that are frequent in summer.
• The wet season (May to November): marked by higher temperatures and high humidity, this season also sees an increase in rainfall, particularly between August and November.

Although the weather can vary from region to region, this general information will help you determine the best time to visit the Dominican Republic according to your climate expectations.

Tourist numbers: high and low season

In addition to weather conditions, it's important to take tourist numbers into account when choosing the period of your stay. In the Dominican Republic, there are two main seasons:

• High season (December to April): corresponding to the dry season, this period attracts large numbers of visitors in search of sun and warmth. Prices for accommodation and activities are generally higher, and advance booking is recommended to guarantee availability.
• Low season (May to November): less popular due to less favorable weather conditions, this season nevertheless offers more affordable rates and a more relaxed atmosphere. However, some activities and attractions may be closed or limited due to the weather.

If you'd like to avoid the crowds and the high prices, you should opt for the low season, while being aware of possible climate-related drawbacks. If you prefer sunny, dry weather, high season is probably the best choice for you.

Public holidays and major cultural events

The Dominican Republic celebrates numerous public holidays and cultural events throughout the year. Planning your stay around these festivities can help you discover unique aspects of Dominican culture, but it's also important to be aware of possible disruptions or service closures during these periods.

Public holidays not to be missed

• Independence Day (February 27): commemorating the country's independence from Haiti in 1844, this day is marked by parades and celebrations across the country.
• Semana Santa (week before Easter): this holy week is a period of great religious importance for the Dominicans, with numerous processions and ceremonies in churches and streets.
• Christmas and New Year (December 24 and 31): although the festivities are more family-oriented, hotels and restaurants often offer special evenings to celebrate these occasions.

Major cultural events

In addition to public holidays, several cultural events attract visitors from all over the world every year:

• Santo Domingo International Jazz Festival (October): bringing together local and international artists, this festival offers several days of concerts at different venues in the capital.
• The Merengue Festival (July): celebrating merengue, the national dance of the Dominican Republic, this event offers a varied program of workshops, shows and free concerts.
• La Vega Carnival (February): considered one of the most important carnivals in the Caribbean, this event attracts thousands of people to admire parades of traditional floats and masks.

Depending on your interests, don't hesitate to find out about the various cultural events and festivities taking place in the Dominican Republic during your stay.

Trade winds and water sports

If you're a fan of water sports such as windsurfing or kitesurfing, the trade winds generally blow regularly between December and June. This period is therefore ideal for enjoying optimal conditions for these activities. However, it is also possible to find suitable spots all year round, depending on the region.

Statistics on immigration to the Dominican Republic

According to data provided by the National Statistics Office (ONE), the foreign population residing in the Dominican Republic has increased in recent years. In fact, over the last decade, the number of foreigners living in the country has almost doubledfrom 245,000 in 2010 to over 500,000 in 2020. Among the nationalities most represented are mainly Haitian, American, Venezuelan and Spanish nationals. Haitians make up the majority of immigrants, accounting for around 70% of the foreign population. There is also a strong presence of Venezuelans, fleeing their country's economic and political crisis.

Most popular visas in Dominican Republic

Visa applications for the Dominican Republic are quite varied, ranging from tourist visas to work or study visas. Here are the most popular types of visa:

• Tourist visa The most commonly requested visa, allowing you to stay in the country for vacations or family visits. The maximum duration of this visa is usually 30 days.
• Business Visa The Dominican Republic: for professionals wishing to travel to the Dominican Republic for meetings, conferences or business negotiations.
• Work visa for foreigners who have obtained an employment contract with a local company and need to move to the country to carry out their professional activity.
• Study visa granted to international students wishing to pursue their studies at a Dominican institution.
• Temporary residence visa For foreigners wishing to live in the Dominican Republic for a specific period, generally between six months and two years.

It should be noted that nationals of certain countries, such as the United States, Canada and the European Union, are exempt from visa requirements for tourist stays of less than 60 days.

International tourism figures for the Dominican Republic

The tourism sector is one of the pillars of the Dominican economy, accounting for around 8% of national GDP. In 2019, the Dominican Republic recorded a record year for tourist numberswith over 6.4 million international visitors. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on global tourism, and the Dominican Republic has not been spared. Figures for 2020 show a drastic fall in visitor numbers, with only 2.4 million foreign tourists. Despite this, recovery appears to be underway, with 2021 data showing that the country welcomed around 3.5 million international visitors in the first three quarters of the year.

The main sources of foreign tourists

Historically, the United States has been the Dominican Republic's leading outbound tourist market, accounting for almost 40% of international visitors. Canada and Europe also play an important role in the Dominican tourism sector:

• UNITED STATES : 39,7%
• Canada : 12,8%
• United Kingdom : 6,3%
• Germany : 4,3%
• France : 3,9%

Diversification of outbound markets is a priority for the Dominican government, which is seeking to attract tourists from new countries such as Russia, Latin America and Asia.

The most popular tourist destinations

The Dominican Republic offers a wide variety of tourist destinations, from heavenly beaches to verdant mountains. Among the places most popular with foreign visitors are :

• Punta Canawith its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, is a favorite destination for tourists. It accounts for almost 70% of international arrivals.
• Santo Domingothe country's capital, attracts lovers of history and culture with its colonial zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Puerto Platalocated on the island's north coast, is renowned for its beaches, natural parks and cable car offering breathtaking views over the city.
• Samana is an unspoilt peninsula where visitors can observe humpback whales on their annual migration.
• La Romana And Bayahibe are top destinations for beach lovers, scuba divers and seafarers.