Taxis in the Dominican Republic - accept US$? Can you pre-arrange?

Question

I am headed for a vacation in the DR and would like to know if the taxis accept US dollars and generally how much a ride is. I am staying at a resport in San Pedro de Macoris, which is one hour from Santo Domingo.

The US State Department warns that we should only use pre-arranged taxis. Anyone know how to do that?

Thanks!

Answer 1

Check tripadvisor DR forums, someone there may be able to give you more info on a reputable taxi service. They do take US dollars in the DR. The dollar is worth a lot more than the peso, make sure you have up to date currency exchange info so you don't get cheated.

Answer 2

The people at your hotel can arrange to call a cab for you. They will call only reputable cab drivers.

The taxi rates are fixed rates (not metered) based on destination. Always confirm rate before getting in cab, whether it's US Dollars, Euros or Pesos.

It would be wise to change some of your dollars into pesos because the cab drivers don't carry much change. It will be easier to figure out what things cost.

As of today 12/23/07

US $1.00 = 33.781 Dominican R Peso (DOP)

1.00 Dominican R Peso (DOP) = .02960 cents (US)

every DR peso is like 3 cents US.

Good Luck and enjoy)