Getting there by Air ?
Most international tourists reach Punta Cana by charter flights. With nearly 2.4 million arrivals annually, Punta Cana International Airport ranks as the second most popular airport in the Caribbean.
Check here for cities with Direct Flights to Punta Cana.
Punta Cana International Airport
Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is one of the Caribbean’s busiest airports, second only to Puerto Rico’s main hub. With three terminals and service from over 50 airlines, PUJ offers quick access from many North American cities within just a few hours.
Alternatively, travelers can fly into Aeropuerto Internacional de las Américas (SDQ), located about 30 minutes from Santo Domingo. However, PUJ is far more convenient and closer to Punta Cana’s numerous resorts. If you do choose SDQ, it’s about a two-hour drive to Punta Cana, with an affordable commuter express bus option available for just $8 USD.
La Romana International Airport
The La Romana Airport is a great alternative for reaching Punta Cana, located just a 45-minute drive from the major hotels. Primarily used by affluent property owners in Casa de Campo and cruise passengers embarking on Caribbean cruises from the Port of La Romana, this airport offers a convenient gateway to the region.
With the 2012 opening of the Autopista del Coral, the drive between Santo Domingo and Punta Cana has been streamlined to just 2 hours over roughly 220 km.
Driving Directions from Santo Domingo:
1. Start on the Autopista Las Americas and drive about 30-40 km to reach Boca Chica.
2. From Boca Chica, take the Autopista del Este, which connects to La Romana (approximately 90 km).
3. From La Romana, continue on the Autopista del Coral for about 70 km to Punta Cana.
Thanks to this route, there’s no need to pass through the town of Higuey.
