About La Altagracia

La Altagracia is the Dominican Republic's premier tourist destination, home to the world-famous Punta Cana resort region. This eastern province offers stunning contrasts between luxurious all-inclusive resorts along pristine white-sand beaches and authentic Dominican culture in historic towns. The region's crown jewel is the Basilica of Our Lady of Altagracia in Higüey, the country's most important religious site where pilgrims gather annually. Beyond the resorts, visitors can explore the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park's freshwater lagoons, witness humpback whales in Samaná Bay (seasonal), and discover the remote beauty of Isla Saona with its protected marine life. La Altagracia's unique appeal lies in its perfect blend of Caribbean luxury and cultural depth, where you can enjoy championship golf courses, gourmet dining, and vibrant merengue rhythms while experiencing the warmth of Dominican hospitality. Adventurous travelers will find exceptional windsurfing in Macao, cave exploration at Fun Fun Cave, and the ecological wonders of Los Haitises National Park nearby.

Travel Tips for La Altagracia

Getting Around

Most tourists use resort shuttles or taxis. Uber operates in Punta Cana. Car rentals are available but driving can be challenging outside resort areas. Public transportation includes guaguas (minibuses) and motoconchos (motorcycle taxis) for local travel between towns. For longer distances, Caribe Tours buses connect to Santo Domingo. Popular apps: Uber, Google Maps (download offline maps). Many resorts offer free airport transfers.

Best Time To Visit

December to April offers perfect beach weather with low rainfall. Avoid September-October (peak hurricane season). February is ideal for whale watching in nearby Samaná. July-August brings higher temperatures and more crowds. Shoulder seasons (May-June, November) offer good weather with fewer tourists and better prices.

Local Customs

Dominicans are warm and friendly—greet people with 'buenos días/tardes.' Dress modestly when visiting churches (cover shoulders/knees at Basilica). Tipping: 10% in restaurants if service not included; tip bellboys, maids, and tour guides. Bargaining is expected at markets. Respect religious processions during festivals. Learn basic Spanish phrases beyond resort areas. Sunday is family day—many businesses close early.

Safety Information

Resort areas in Punta Cana are generally safe with private security. Exercise normal precautions: don't leave drinks unattended, use hotel safes, avoid displaying valuables. Be cautious in Higüey and less touristy areas, especially at night. Common scams include timeshare presentations with unrealistic promises, overcharging taxis (use hotel taxis or Uber), and fake tour operators. Only use licensed tour companies. Avoid isolated beaches after dark. Police presence is visible in tourist zones.

Health Information

Medical facilities in Punta Cana are good with several private hospitals and clinics (Hospiten, Centro Médico Punta Cana). Outside resort areas, facilities are more limited. Drink bottled water, use mosquito repellent (dengue and Zika are present), and ensure travel insurance covers medical evacuation. Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, routine vaccines. Pharmacies are widely available in tourist areas. Sun protection is essential. Medical services in resorts are typically excellent but expensive without insurance.

Languages Spoken

SpanishEnglish (tourist areas)

Quick Facts

Currency

Dominican Peso (DOP)
$

Timezone

America/Santo_Domingo -04:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+1

Electricity

Type A, B; 110V, 60Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

430,000

Area

3010 km²

Government

Provincial government with municipal divisions

ISO Code

11

Frequently Asked Questions