Payment Methods in the Dominican Republic
Complete Guide for Travelers
Planning a trip to the Dominican Republic? One of the most common questions travelers ask is: “What payment methods are accepted in the Dominican Republic?”
Here’s your complete guide to using cash, credit cards, and mobile payments during your stay, plus tips to save money and avoid common pitfalls.
Local Currency – The Dominican Peso (DOP)
The official currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP), and it’s the most widely accepted payment method in the country.
Cash is king in local markets, small shops, and rural areas.
Carry small bills (100, 200, 500 pesos) to make transactions easier and avoid issues with change.
While US dollars are accepted in some tourist zones like Punta Cana or Bayahibe, prices are often less favorable than paying directly in pesos.
💡 Tip: If you search “cash or card in Dominican Republic”, most experts agree — always keep some pesos on you.
Credit and Debit Cards in the Dominican Republic
Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard mainly) are widely accepted in:
Hotels and resorts
Large restaurants and supermarkets
Tourist excursions and tours
Things to know before using your card:
Some merchants add surcharges or taxes (up to 18%) to card payments.
American Express is accepted in some upscale hotels and stores but not everywhere.
Always inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid payment declines.
Mobile and Contactless Payments
Digital payments are becoming more common in big cities and tourist hubs.
Apple Pay and Google Pay work in some supermarkets, malls, and high-end venues.
Local apps like tPago or Uepa Pay allow bill payments, transfers, and mobile wallet transactions.
However, don’t rely solely on mobile payments — cash is still the most reliable option in rural areas.
Paying for Tours and Excursions
When booking excursions or private tours, many companies in the Dominican Republic now accept multiple payment methods.
For example, at Tropical Évasion, you can pay by:
Credit or Debit Card (Visa / Mastercard)
PayPal (ideal for international travelers)
Cash in Dominican Pesos or US Dollars on-site
This flexibility makes it easy to secure your booking before your trip or settle the payment once you arrive.
ATMs and Currency Exchange Tips
ATMs are the easiest way to get pesos at a fair exchange rate — prefer machines inside banks or shopping centers.
Avoid exchanging at airports or hotels, where rates are less favorable.
Look for official casas de cambio (currency exchange offices) if you have USD or EUR to convert.
Quick Travel Tips for Paying in the Dominican Republic
Mix your payment methods – carry both pesos and a working card.
Always keep small bills for taxis, local shops, and tips.
Withdraw cash at once to avoid multiple ATM fees.
Ask for prices in pesos to avoid tourist mark-ups in dollars.
Conclusion
In the Dominican Republic, cash remains essential, but cards and mobile payments are gaining ground in tourist areas.
Whether you’re booking a beach excursion in Bayahibe, a catamaran to Saona Island, or a private charter with Tropical Évasion, having a mix of payment methods ensures a smooth, stress-free experience.
Who are we?
Tropical Evasion is a local agency specialized in Tailor-made private tours across the Dominican Republic.
We offer authenticity, comfort, and safety, with tailor-made itineraries and personalized support.
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+1 (829) 424-1391
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Explore the Dominican Republic with Tropical Évasion
Whether you’re passionate about nature, cultural discoveries, or sea adventures, the Dominican Republic is full of treasures waiting to be explored. From the paradise beaches of Saona to the breathtaking peaks of Montaña Redonda, every excursion is an invitation to escape.
With Tropical Évasion, enjoy an exclusive and immersive experience in small groups, aboard luxury boats or off-road vehicles, for unforgettable moments far from traditional tourist routes.
Book your excursion now and let yourself be amazed by the authenticity of the Dominican Republic!
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