Bávaro & Punta Cana Getting there & around

Getting around

Local buses start at the main bus terminal, passing all the outdoor malls on the way to El Cortecito, then turn down the coastal road past the large hotels to Cruce de Cocoloco, where they turn around and return the same way. Buses have the drivers’ union acronym – Sitrabapu – printed in front and cost US$0.75. They are supposed to pass every 15 to 30 minutes, but can sometimes take up to an hour.

Daytime traffic is sometimes gridlocked between the resorts clustered just north of Bávaro and El Cortecito. Despite the stop-and-go pace of driving, renting a car for a day or two is recommended if you prefer to see the surrounding area independently. Consider paying more for extra insurance coverage, especially if you’ll be driving north toward Playa Limón, Miches and Sabana de la Mar. Some agencies allow you to drop off the car in Santo Domingo, usually for an extra charge, but check in advance. Rental agencies include Avis (809-688-1354; Plaza Caney, Carr Arena Gorda), Europcar (809-686-2861; near Plaza Punta Cana, Bávaro) and Alamo (809-466-1083; Carr Bávaro Km 5).

Otherwise, there are numerous taxis in the area – look for stands at El Cortecito, Plaza Bávaro and at the entrance of most all-inclusive places. You can also call a cab – try Siutratural taxi (809-221-2741) or Arena Gorda taxi (809-552-0786). Fares vary depending on distance, but are typically from US$5 (pretty much minimum charge on a short trip within Bávaro) to US$35 (to the airport). Water taxis also can be found on El Cortecito beach and cost between US$10 and US$50 per ride. Motoconchos congregate around Plaza Punta Cana in Bávaro and along the beach road in El Cortecito, and you can generally find one or two parked in front of the entrance to most resorts. Fares, while negotiable (US$2 to US$4 from El Cortecito to Bávaro), are always cheaper than taxis but the ride can be uncomfortable over long distances and at night.