Buying a Punta Cana SIM card and sorting out cash are the first two jobs after you land. This guide covers both, plus Wi-Fi and which currency to use.
Book a private ridePhoto: Michael gerard burns · Public domain · Wikimedia CommonsShort answer: the currency is the Dominican peso (DOP / RD$), but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. Use ATMs inside malls and banks, carry some small bills for tips and tolls, and pick up a local SIM or eSIM from Claro, Altice or Viva if you need data outside your hotel.
Dollars or pesos?
Hotels, tours and most tourist businesses quote in US dollars. Supermarkets, local restaurants, guaguas and tolls usually work in pesos, and paying in pesos often gets a better rate. Cards are accepted in malls, resorts and most restaurants; tell your bank you are travelling.
ATMs and banks
- Use ATMs inside shopping centres, banks or your hotel rather than free-standing machines on the street.
- Both Downtown Punta Cana and San Juan Shopping Center on Avenida Barceló have banks and ATMs.
- Withdraw during the day and cover the keypad.
- Bank branches keep shorter hours than the malls.
SIM cards, eSIMs and phone stores
The main mobile networks are Claro, Altice and Viva. San Juan Shopping Center has stores for all three, and Downtown Punta Cana has an Altice store. Bring your passport to buy a SIM. Many phones can also use a travel eSIM bought online before you fly.
Wi-Fi
Most resorts, malls and many restaurants have Wi-Fi, but resort Wi-Fi can be slow on beaches and in rooms far from the lobby. A local SIM or eSIM is the easiest way to use WhatsApp, maps and ride apps.
Why staying connected matters on arrival
At Punta Cana Airport (PUJ), data or Wi-Fi lets you message your driver, check your booking and avoid touts. If you have no connection, your Punta Cana Transfer Pro driver will still be outside arrivals with your name; you can also call our direct line, +1 829-731-2207.
Working remotely in Punta Cana
Many resorts have business centres or quiet lounges. For a full workday, check that your hotel’s Wi-Fi reaches your room, keep a mobile hotspot as back-up, and look for cafés in Bávaro and the malls.
After the Punta Cana SIM card: getting to your hotel
Once you are connected, message your driver on WhatsApp. Book your private transfer from PUJ ahead of time, and your driver will be waiting outside arrivals with your name. See your price and book your private transfer, or message us on WhatsApp. You can also read more guides in Where to Go in Punta Cana.
A Punta Cana SIM card or eSIM is useful from the moment you land, for maps and WhatsApp. If you buy your Punta Cana SIM card at the airport, compare prices with the phone stores in the malls first.
Quick answers about your Punta Cana SIM card and money
Where is the safest ATM in Punta Cana?
Use an ATM in Punta Cana inside a mall, a bank branch or your hotel, and cover the keypad when you type your PIN.
Should I carry Dominican pesos?
Yes. A small amount of Dominican peso cash is useful for tips, tolls and small shops.
Is there free wifi in Punta Cana?
Most hotels, malls and restaurants offer wifi in Punta Cana, but speeds vary, so a local SIM card or eSIM is a good backup.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use US dollars in Punta Cana?
Yes, US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, but pesos are better for local shops, guaguas and tolls.
Where can I buy a SIM card in Punta Cana?
Claro, Altice and Viva stores at San Juan Shopping Center in Bávaro, or Altice at Downtown Punta Cana. Bring your passport.
Are ATMs safe in Punta Cana?
Use ATMs inside malls, banks or hotels, withdraw during the day and cover the keypad.
Sources
Checked November 2026. Stores, prices and opening hours change, so confirm before you go.
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