Taxi Travel

Taxis, which are government regulated, line up outside hotels and restaurants. They're unmetered, and the minimum fare is about $4.50, but you can bargain for less if you order a taxi away from the major hotels. Though they're more expensive, hotel taxis are the nicest and the safest option. Freelance taxis, which are technically illegal but tolerated, aren't allowed to pick up from hotels, so they hang out on the street in front of them and can be half the cost per ride (in a hotel taxi) depending on the distance. Carry some small bills, because drivers rarely seem to have change.

Recommendable radio-taxi companies in Santo Domingo are Tecni-Taxi (which also operates in Puerto Plata) and Apolo. Tecni is the cheapest, quoting RD$80 as a minimum per trip, Apolo RD$90. Hiring a taxi by the hour—with unlimited stops and a minimum of two hours—is often a better option if you're doing a substantial sightseeing trip. Tecni charges RD$240 per hour, but will offer hourly rates only before 6 pm; Apolo charges RD$280 per hour, day or night. When booking an hourly rate, be sure to establish clearly the time that you start. There are also set rates to most out-of-town locations. Call Tecni-Taxi for a rate quote.