Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic? If you're planning to go to Santo Domingo, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Based on the climate and weather in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Santo Domingo, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic by month

January

If you go to Santo Domingo in January, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Dominican Republic has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santo Domingo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. It's important that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to go to the charming Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Alcázar de Colón, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you visit Santo Domingo during February, you may see that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Dominican Republic has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santo Domingo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you are intending to go to the charming Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Alcázar de Colón, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you vacation in Santo Domingo during March, you may find that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Dominican Republic has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santo Domingo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to go to the charming Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Alcázar de Colón, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April for Santo Domingo is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Dominican Republic has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santo Domingo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

If you are intending to go to the charming Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Alcázar de Colón, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Santo Domingo is extremely warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Dominican Republic has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santo Domingo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

If you are intending to go to the charming Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Alcázar de Colón, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June for Santo Domingo is consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Dominican Republic has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santo Domingo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you pick the right kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you are intending to go to the charming Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Alcázar de Colón, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you are traveling to Santo Domingo in July, you will notice that it can be very hot and somewhat stormy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Dominican Republic has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santo Domingo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to go to the charming Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Alcázar de Colón, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Santo Domingo can be sweltering and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Dominican Republic has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santo Domingo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you are intending to go to the charming Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Alcázar de Colón, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September here can be very hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Dominican Republic has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santo Domingo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to go to the charming Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Alcázar de Colón, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you go to Santo Domingo in October, you will notice that it can be sweltering and somewhat stormy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Dominican Republic has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santo Domingo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to go to the charming Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Alcázar de Colón, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you are traveling to Santo Domingo in November, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Dominican Republic has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santo Domingo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to go to the charming Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Alcázar de Colón, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Santo Domingo is extremely warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Dominican Republic has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santo Domingo. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. It's important that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to go to the charming Basilica Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to the Alcázar de Colón, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo, the capital city of the Dominican Republic, is a vibrant and colorful destination with plenty of exciting tourist attractions. From historic landmarks to exciting activities, there is something for everyone in this beautiful Caribbean city. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Santo Domingo:

1. Zona Colonial

The Zona Colonial is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the oldest inhabited area of Santo Domingo. It is rich in history and culture and is home to a wide variety of beautiful buildings, museums, and landmarks. Some of the must-see sites in Zona Colonial include Alcazar de Colón, Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor, and the National Pantheon of the Dominican Republic.

2. Malecon

The Malecon is a popular waterfront promenade that runs along the Caribbean Sea, providing stunning views of the ocean and the city skyline. It is a great place to take a stroll or ride a bike, and visitors can also enjoy restaurants, bars, and street performers along the way.

3. Los Tres Ojos

Los Tres Ojos (The Three Eyes) is a natural wonder located just outside the city center. It is a series of three underground caves filled with crystal-clear blue water, surrounded by lush greenery and towering boulders. Visitors can take a boat ride through the caves and marvel at the beauty of this hidden gem.

4. National Botanical Garden

The National Botanical Garden is a massive green space filled with over 80 acres of beautiful plants and flowers. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

5. Plaza de la Cultura

Plaza de la Cultura is a bustling cultural hub located in the heart of the city. It is home to several important museums, including the Museum of Modern Art, the National Museum of History and Geography, and the Museum of the Dominican Man.

6. El Conde

El Conde is a vibrant pedestrian street that runs through the heart of Santo Domingo’s historic district. It is lined with shops, restaurants, and street vendors selling everything from souvenirs to local delicacies.

7. Santo Domingo Zoo

Santo Domingo Zoo is a popular attraction for families and animal lovers. It is home to over 400 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and monkeys.

In conclusion, Santo Domingo is a city filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can spend days exploring all that this vibrant Caribbean destination has to offer, from stunning landmarks to exciting activities. These top tourist attractions are just a starting point for a memorable trip to Santo Domingo.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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