How to Get From Santo Domingo to Samana
Did you know Samana is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, including Playa Rincon and Playa El Valle? But before you can kick back and enjoy the tropical paradise, you must figure out how to get there. Luckily, several transportation options are available, from buses to private taxis to private transfers.
In this article, we'll go over all the different ways to travel from Santo Domingo to Samana, so you can choose the one that suits you best. Read on to start planning your perfect trip to one of the DR's best destinations.
Private Transfer Service
Choosing the suitable Santo Domingo airport transfer is crucial, as it can make or break your vacation. Before booking your transfer, you should know what is included and its benefits. As an add-on, you'll enjoy advantages like fixed pricing, comfortable and spacious vans, and VIP services.
Airport transfer services in Santo Domingo are usually comfortable, reliable, and affordable. You can choose from a variety of vehicles, including vans and SUVs. If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, luxury airport transfers are also available.
A private transfer that seats up to 6 people should cost 160 USD from the Santo Domingo airport to Samana.
Driving to Samana
Driving from Santo Domingo to Samana can be a wonderful and scenic experience. It is a good option for those who prefer to have the freedom and flexibility to drive independently. Here are some essential things to know before embarking on this journey:
Route and Distance
The driving route from Santo Domingo to Samana is about 83 miles long. The journey takes approximately 2 - 3 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions and your final destination on the Samana Peninsula. The route consists of a mix of highways and more minor roads.
Renting a Car
Renting a car is an excellent option for those who want the flexibility to explore the area on their schedule—many car rental companies in Santo Domingo, including Avis, Budget, and Hertz.
To rent a car, you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver's license. You'll need to pay a deposit and provide a credit card for the rental. You must also purchase insurance for your rental car, as it is mandatory in the Dominican Republic.
Renting a car in the Dominican Republic can be a great way to explore the country's idyllic beach towns and 871 miles of coastline. However, it's essential to be aware of the following considerations before planning your trip:
Book your car rental reservation ahead of time from the US to save money and avoid stress
A valid state-issued driver's license is all you need to rent a car in the Dominican Republic, but an International Driving Permit can be helpful.
Familiarize yourself with the rules of the road in the Dominican Republic, including right-hand driving, seat belt laws, and speed limits in kilometers.
Pay for your rental in Dominican pesos to avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion fees.
Understand your insurance requirements, and consider opting for the Casa del Conductor insurance to avoid jail time in case of an accident.
Expect a hefty security deposit if you decline the rental car company's damage waiver.
Inspect the car thoroughly for any damage before driving away, and take photos to document imperfections.
Tips for Driving in the Dominican Republic
Driving in the Dominican Republic can be different from what you are used to. Here are some tips to help make your journey safer and more enjoyable:
Be aware of your surroundings and drive defensively, as traffic can be unpredictable
Stay alert for pedestrians and motorcycles, as they are standard on the roads
Keep an eye out for speed bumps and potholes, as they are also common on Dominican roads
Always wear your seatbelt and make sure all passengers do the same
Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you, as many drivers in the Dominican Republic may suddenly brake or change lanes.
Be prepared for erratic driving behavior, such as sudden lane changes or turning without signaling.
Be alert for motorcycles and scooters, which are common on Dominican roads and may weave in and out of traffic.
Keep your windows rolled up and doors locked when driving in urban areas, as vehicle theft is a common problem.
Avoid driving at night, as many roads are poorly lit, and there may be unexpected obstacles.
Follow the speed limit and avoid speeding, as traffic enforcement is strict and fines can be high.
If you get lost, ask for directions from a gas station or other official location rather than stopping on the side of the road.
Be aware of pedestrians who may cross the street without warning and not use crosswalks.
If you are involved in a traffic accident, stay at the scene until the police arrive and do not admit fault, as this could affect insurance coverage.
Finally, consider hiring a local driver if you are unfamiliar with driving in the Dominican Republic.
Scenic Routes and Attractions
The drive from Santo Domingo to Samana takes about two or three hours, depending on which of the resort areas you need to get to: Las Galeras, Las Terrenas, or Samana Town. Along the way, you'll pass through the Dominican countryside, where you'll see rice farms and various other agricultural products. As you turn to the east, the rice fields transform into coconut trees.
You'll also pass by one of the most beautiful bays in the Dominican Republic, which is the primary jump-off point for daily boat excursions into Los Haitises National Park, Cayo Levantado, and Samaná's renowned whale-watching expeditions.
Public Transport
Taking the bus is the best option if you're on a tight budget and looking for the cheapest way to get from Santo Domingo Airport to Samana. Although it will take longer than other modes of transportation, it's a cost-effective way to travel.
It's important to note that there are no direct buses from Santo Domingo Airport to Samana. You will have to walk for 20 minutes outside the airport or take a moto-taxi ride for 5 minutes, which costs around $2.
The Expresso Samana Bus
The local buses in Santo Domingo leave from outside the airport on the Highway (La Autopista). You'll need to catch a bus to the Espresso Samana Bus Station. The bus fare from Santo Domingo Airport is 50 DOP or $1, and you must pay in cash inside the bus.
The travel time from Las Americas International Airport to Espresso Samana Bus Stop (Plaza Lama in Barahona Street) is around 1 hour, and the waiting and walking time could add 30 minutes.
The bus from Santo Domingo to Samana takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes, with the first stop being Juan Pablo Duarte de Las Terrenas-Samaná. The bus fare from Santo Domingo to Samana is about $8, making it an affordable option for budget travelers. Once you reach Las Terrenas, you must take a local Guagua to Las Galeras or Samana, which costs 100 DOP or $2 and takes around 45 minutes.
Espresso Samana has several scheduled bus times from Santo Domingo to Samana, including 8:30 am, 9:30 am, 11:00 am, 1:40 pm, 3:00 pm, and 6:00 pm.
Public Bus Essentials
Taking the bus from Santo Domingo airport to Samana takes upwards of 5 hours, which is twice as long as taking a taxi. However, the bus fare is significantly cheaper at around $10 from Santo Domingo airport to Samana or Las Galeras. It's important to note that taking the bus may not be the most convenient option for everyone, especially those with a limited amount of time or those carrying a lot of luggage.
How to Pre-book Your Airport Transfer
Pre-booking your airport transfer is the best way to ensure a smooth and stress-free start to your vacation. It offers several benefits, including avoiding long lines, getting a guaranteed price, and having peace of mind that your transportation is taken care of. Choosing a reputable company to pre-book your airport transfer with ensures you receive a high level of service and comfort.
To pre-book your airport transfer in Santo Domingo, start by researching airport transfer companies in the area. Many companies are available, so take the time to read reviews and compare prices. Punta Cana Transfer, for example, is a trusted company with over 600 five-star reviews on TripAdvisor.
Read through reviews on TripAdvisor by clicking here.
Once you have found a company you like, contact them to inquire about rates and availability. Mention any special requirements or requests you may have, such as child seats or ADA accessibility.
The next step is to select the type of airport transfer you need. Private airport transfers are the most popular option and offer door-to-door service. However, if you want to arrive in style, inquire about limo transfer services or the Cadillac Escalade options.
Rideshare Options from Santo Domingo Airport to Samana
Uber is a worldwide known company; many live and breathe Uber back in their home country and think of using it during their trip to the Dominican Republic.
Although the fares seem fantastic, Uber drivers are scamming clients. Don't take our word for it; click here and see a YouTube video explaining more of the scam taking place in the Dominican Republic with Uber Drivers.
What to Know Before You Book an Uber
It's important to note that you should not call an Uber from the airport or resort due to local disagreements. Taxi drivers do not welcome Uber, and Ubers are not allowed into many alternatives.
If you call an Uber in an area with a taxi stand or high traffic, an argument can break out between the Uber and taxi drivers. Thus, using Uber is not a safe choice in Santo Domingo.
Furthermore, Uber drivers only get a cut of the price you pay Uber, which means that many trips are not worthwhile. When requesting an Uber in Santo Domingo, especially for such a long trip, expect to negotiate with the driver and ultimately pay more than the rate on the app. The average journey time in an Uber will be about 2.5-3.5 hours, and the cost will be much more expensive than the quoted $150-$250.
Getting a Taxi from Santo Domingo Airport to Samana
If you're traveling to Santo Domingo and didn't have time to pre-book your transfer, taking a taxi from Santo Domingo Airport to your hotel in Samana is a good option. Taxis are the most popular airport transfer option, and they are readily available outside the airport.
The average taxi fare from Santo Domingo International Airport to most hotels in Samana is around $180-$250. It's important to note that the cost may vary depending on your destination, so it's always a good idea to ask the driver about the fare before getting in.
Getting a taxi is similar to taking an Uber. The drive time is the same as an Uber, and the price is about the same. Taxis are available 24/7, and plenty is at the airport, so you won't have trouble getting a ride.
After a long travel day, the last thing you want to do is spend a lot of time in the car. Getting a taxi is one of the easiest ways to get to your final destination quickly and with minimal hassle. Just make sure to agree on the fare with the driver before getting in to avoid surprises.
What to Know About Traveling with Pets
Traveling with pets can be a great experience, but it requires some extra planning and preparation. If you're traveling to Santo Domingo, you may be wondering about the options available for airport transfers with your furry friend.
Unfortunately, airport transfer options in Santo Domingo are pretty limited when it comes to traveling with pets. However, a few companies offer airport transfer services that can accommodate pets.
One option is Punta Cana Transfer, which offers airport transfers for various airports in the Dominican Republic and has a pet-friendly policy. They understand that pets are members of the family, and they want to make sure that they're comfortable and enjoying themselves during the trip. However, it's essential to remember that they will request that pets stay in their cage during the ride.
Here are some tips to ensure a smooth journey with your furry friend:
Check with your airline to see if they allow pets on board
Make sure your pet is up-to-date on all of their vaccinations and has a health certificate from your veterinarian
If you're traveling a long distance, you may want to consider a larger cage or carrier to give your pet more room to move around.
Pack plenty of food, water, and treats for your pet, as you may not be able to find their favorite brand of food or treats at your destination.
If traveling to a hot or humid climate, you must ensure your pet stays cool and hydrated.
Research pet-friendly hotels and accommodations in your destination
What to Know About the Santo Domingo Airport
Santo Domingo Las Américas Airport (SDQ)is one of the busiest airports in the Dominican Republic and is the second busiest after Punta Cana Airport. This airport is managed by the French company VINCI Airports and is known as one of the most modern airports in the region.
It has one runway and is the largest in all of the Dominican Republic and one of the largest in the Caribbean. The runway can support an Airbus A380, making it a popular hub for international flights.
The airport serves international destinations worldwide, including Delta, JetBlue, United, Aeromexico, and Spirit. It's also the busiest cargo hub in the Caribbean and Central America, with 355,000,000 lbs of cargo transported in 2019.
Where is the Santo Domingo Airport?
The Santo Domingo airport is located in the capital city of the Dominican Republic. The city is a port town overlooking the ocean, with many historical landmarks such as the castle of Diego Columbus and the first cathedral of the New World.
From Santo Domingo, it takes about two-and-a-half hours by car to reach Samana. However, before you can begin your journey, you need to navigate the terminals and schedule your transport.
Santo Domingo Airport Transportation And Terminals
The airport has two terminals: Terminal A (South Terminal) and Terminal B (North Terminal). Terminal A is the older of the two terminals and features three levels, while Terminal B is more modern and contains two concourses labeled A and B. To exit the airport and meet your transport, head to Terminal B, Concourse A.
Food and Entertainment
If you have time to kill before your transport arrives, the Santo Domingo airport offers plenty of dining and shopping options. The airport has local and international fast food locations, coffee shops like Black Coffee, bars like Casa Avila Tapas Bar, and restaurants serving local cuisine, such as Rincón Caribeño.
You can also find several souvenir shops to get gifts for loved ones back home. If you need some entertainment for the drive, there are several shops in the airport to buy books, magazines, and other media.
Tips for Getting through Passport Control Faster
Passengers can book seats as far forward on the plane as possible to reach passport control ahead of their fellow passengers and not find themselves at the back of a queue. Passengers can also fill in their e-tickets before arrival, which can be done online. All incoming and departing passengers must fill out this form regardless of visa status.
A QR code will be generated after completing the form, which passengers must have with them. If paying a tourist tax on arrival, it should be included in the price of the airfare.
See you at Santo Domingo Airport!
Whether traveling alone, with family, or with friends, choosing the proper transportation from Santo Domingo to Samana is crucial to a comfortable and hassle-free trip. While several options are available, including renting a car or taking a bus, booking a private airport transfer is best.
With a private transfer, you'll have a dedicated driver at the airport, ready to take you directly to your hotel in Samana. This option saves you time and guarantees comfort and safety. Book your airport transfer with us today to ensure a smooth ride from the airport to Samana!