Stay Connected in Dominican Republic
Navigate, share, and stay in touch with our comprehensive eSIM guide for Dominican Republic.
1Introduction to Dominican Republic as a Travel Destination
Visiting the Dominican Republic (DR) – whether for the sunny beaches of Punta Cana or the historic streets of Santo Domingo – means you'll want a dependable way to stay online. This guide is designed for international travelers looking for the best SIM or eSIM for the Dominican Republic. We'll explore how to get internet access as a tourist, comparing convenient international eSIMs to local SIM card options. With the right setup, you can easily navigate with Google Maps, share your tropical adventures on social media, and keep in touch with family during your trip.
2Mobile and Internet Infrastructure
The Dominican Republic has a relatively modern telecom infrastructure, especially in cities and tourist regions. The main mobile operators are Claro, Altice, and Viva.
Claro is the largest provider and offers extensive nationwide 4G coverage, including many rural areas. It's known for having the widest reach; even in smaller towns or off-the-beaten-path villages, Claro often still has a signal. Claro's network also typically provides fast data speeds in urban centers and resort zones. Altice (which was formed from the merger of Orange and Tricom) is another big player. Altice's 4G coverage is continually expanding but is focused mostly in major cities and towns. It has excellent service in places like Santo Domingo, Santiago, Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, etc. In more remote or rural parts of the country, Altice might not have coverage as consistently as Claro. Altice does offer some 5G in parts of Santo Domingo and Santiago. Their speeds are good, slightly trailing Claro on average. Viva is a smaller operator. It has been improving its network and expanding 3G/4G coverage outside cities, though coverage can be variable. Viva often targets budget-conscious users. You might find Viva signal in cities and many towns, but in rural stretches or less populated provinces, Viva's coverage could be spotty compared to the big two. In practical terms, tourist hotspots and populated areas have great coverage. For example, all three networks have strong signals in Punta Cana, Bavaro, La Romana, Puerto Plata, Samana (Las Terrenas), and of course the capital Santo Domingo and other cities. Along highways connecting tourist areas, you'll usually stay connected, especially with Claro or Altice. In some rural mountainous areas (like parts of the central mountain range or deep in the countryside), Claro is most likely to still have coverage, whereas Altice might drop to 2G or none, and Viva likely none. For instance, if you're exploring the interior or smaller villages, a Claro SIM or eSIM roaming on Claro would serve best for maintaining a signal. It's also worth noting that the DR has started rolling out 5G (Claro and Altice have launched 5G in select areas of Santo Domingo and Santiago), but 4G LTE is the standard everywhere else and is plenty fast for travel needs. Overall, the Dominican Republic's mobile networks are robust where tourists go; only truly remote or off-road areas (some parts of Samana peninsula or border regions) may see limited service.
Network Providers Overview
| Provider | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Claro | Extensive nationwide 4G coverage, including rural areas | Largest provider with widest reach, fast data speeds in urban centers and resort zones |
| Altice | Good 4G coverage in major cities and towns, some 5G in Santo Domingo and Santiago | Formed from merger of Orange and Tricom, expanding network with good speeds |
| Viva | Improving 3G/4G coverage in cities and towns, more variable in rural areas | Smaller operator targeting budget-conscious users, may have spotty rural coverage |
3Guide to Getting Mobile Internet
Local SIM vs eSIM
Travelers in the DR can either use an international eSIM for quick setup or purchase a local SIM card (often called a "chip" or "SIM prepago") from a Dominican carrier. An eSIM for the Dominican Republic can be bought online from providers like Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, etc. This option is super convenient – you can set it up before you even fly. As soon as you land and turn off airplane mode, your phone connects to a local network and you have data. No need to find a SIM vendor or deal with registration. These eSIM plans are typically data-only (no local phone number for calls, but you can use WhatsApp/Skype for voice needs). The eSIM will usually connect to one of the major networks (often Claro or Altice in DR, since those have the best coverage). For example, Airalo's eSIM uses Claro's network, which is excellent for coverage. The cost for eSIM plans might be a bit higher than local SIMs per GB, but still affordable – expect something like $10 USD for 1-3 GB, up to around $30 for 5-10 GB (varies by provider and package). For a week-long vacation doing standard things (maps, social media, emails), 3-5 GB is usually plenty. The benefit of eSIM is also that you keep your primary SIM in the phone for any important calls/texts you might receive (roaming turned off, of course, to avoid charges – but you could still get SMS like bank codes if needed).
Where to Buy
The DR makes it fairly easy for tourists to get local SIMs. At the main airports like Punta Cana (PUJ) and Santo Domingo Las Américas (SDQ), you'll often find kiosks or stores for Claro, Altice, and Viva right after customs. This is very convenient – you can buy a SIM as soon as you land. Airport SIM deals might be slightly more expensive than in town, but they save time. Otherwise, you can visit any telecom store or authorized reseller in the cities (they are common; e.g., Claro shops in malls or Altice stores in commercial areas). You'll need your passport to register the SIM. The process is usually quick – the rep will register your name/passport in the system and activate the SIM. Local prepaid SIMs are cheap: the SIM card itself may cost around 100 Dominican pesos (~$2 USD) and then you add a prepaid plan. For instance, Claro offers tourist-friendly packages like perhaps 5 days of unlimited data for RD$250, or a 2GB package for around RD$300. Plans can include unlimited social media or WhatsApp. Altice and Viva have similar offerings. One nice thing: with a local SIM, you get a Dominican phone number. If you need to make local calls (say to reserve an excursion or call your hotel) or receive texts, you can do so. However, many tourists may not need a local number if they rely on apps. In terms of data pricing, local SIMs usually give you more GB per dollar than eSIM, so for longer stays or heavy data use (like streaming YouTube or lots of video calling), a local SIM could be cost-effective. One minor downside: swapping SIMs means if someone calls your regular number, you won't receive it (unless your phone is dual-SIM or eSIM capable to run both). Also, instructions and top-up menus might be in Spanish, but the carrier staff can help set up your plan and you can use carrier apps (which sometimes have English) to monitor data.
4Major Mobile Providers and Plans
Airalo
Airalo is a highly regarded eSIM store and offers a DR eSIM called "Quisqueya" (named after the island's traditional name). It operates on Claro's network, which means you benefit from Claro's extensive coverage and 4G speeds. Plans as of 2025 range from 1 GB for 7 days (~$6.50 USD), up through 3 GB, 5 GB, etc., up to maybe 10 GB for 30 days (pricing increasing with data). These plans are data-only. Activation is easy via the Airalo app. Because Airalo uses Claro, you'll likely have service in even remote areas and all tourist spots. They support LTE and possibly 5G where available. Tethering is allowed, so you can hotspot your laptop if needed. Airalo is known as one of the cheapest eSIM options (often the cheapest eSIM brand for many countries) – for the DR it gives great value and coverage combination.
| Plan | Data | Validity | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dominican Republic 1GB | 1 GB | 7 days | ~$6.50 USD |
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| Dominican Republic 3GB | 3 GB | 30 days | ~$15 USD |
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| Dominican Republic 5GB | 5 GB | 30 days | ~$22 USD |
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| Dominican Republic 10GB | 10 GB | 30 days | ~$35 USD |
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Holafly
Holafly provides unlimited data eSIM plans in the Dominican Republic. They partner with local networks (often Telefónica or partner networks; in the DR, likely Altice or Claro). Holafly's selling point is that you don't have to worry about running out of data. For example, you can get 5 days unlimited for around $19 USD, 10 days for ~$34, 15 days ~$47, and so on. This is convenient for heavy data users – feel free to video stream, upload Instagram stories all day, or join Zoom calls without calculating data usage. Holafly eSIMs in the DR support 4G (and 5G if the network has it) so speeds are good in coverage areas. Keep in mind the fair use policy: though unlimited, if you use an extreme amount in a short time, your speed might be throttled to ensure network quality. Also, Holafly eSIMs do support tethering but with daily limits (commonly ~1GB/day for hotspot). For most vacationers who just need maps and social media, an unlimited plan might be overkill – a smaller plan would suffice – but it's a nice worry-free option especially for longer stays.
| Plan | Data | Validity | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dominican Republic 5 Days | Unlimited | 5 days | ~$19 USD |
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| Dominican Republic 10 Days | Unlimited | 10 days | ~$34 USD |
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| Dominican Republic 15 Days | Unlimited | 15 days | ~$47 USD |
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| Dominican Republic 30 Days | Unlimited | 30 days | ~$64 USD |
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Nomad
Nomad also has eSIM plans for the Dominican Republic, often competitively priced. Nomad may use either Claro or Altice networks (their documentation sometimes notes which network, but either way those are the top two networks). A typical Nomad data package could be 3 GB for ~$15 USD, 5 GB for ~$20-25 USD, or 10 GB for more. Sometimes Nomad runs promotions or offers coupon codes. Nomad's eSIM app is user-friendly, and you can top up more data if needed through it. Coverage using a major network means you'll be covered in resorts, cities, and most excursions (for instance, if you do an island tour to Saona, you might even have some signal offshore via the coastal towers). Nomad allows tethering as well. It's quite similar to Airalo in what it provides; choosing between them might come down to price or personal preference in app interface.
| Plan | Data | Validity | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dominican Republic 3GB | 3 GB | 30 days | ~$15 USD |
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| Dominican Republic 5GB | 5 GB | 30 days | ~$20-25 USD |
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| Dominican Republic 10GB | 10 GB | 30 days | ~$35-40 USD |
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Local Dominican SIM Cards
The Dominican Republic makes it fairly easy for tourists to get local SIMs. You can purchase prepaid SIMs from the three main carriers (Claro, Altice, and Viva) at airports, malls, and carrier stores throughout the country. These provide the most cost-effective data packages and include a local phone number, which can be useful for local calls and receiving verification texts.
| Plan | Data | Validity | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Claro Tourist SIM | Various packages available | Typically 5-30 days | From ~RD$250 (~$4-5 USD) |
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| Altice Prepaid | Various packages | Typically 7-30 days | Competitive with Claro |
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| Viva Prepaid | Various data bundles | Typically 7-30 days | Often cheaper than Claro/Altice |
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5Device Compatibility and Activation
For eSIMs, your device must be eSIM-compatible and unlocked. This includes iPhone XR/XS and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, Google Pixel 3 and later, and many other recent smartphones. For physical SIM cards, your phone simply needs to be unlocked to use with Dominican carriers. All networks in the Dominican Republic use standard GSM technology compatible with most international phones.
6Tips and FAQs for Staying Connected
Airport SIM Purchase
If you want a local SIM and didn't get an eSIM, take advantage of the airport. Right after you exit customs, look for telecom kiosks. At Punta Cana airport, for example, there's often a Claro stall where you can buy and activate a SIM on the spot (sometimes in the departures or arrivals hall). At Santo Domingo SDQ, you'll typically find both Claro and Altice stores in the arrivals area. They usually have "tourist plans" pre-packaged. Yes, prices can be a tad higher than in town, but many travelers find it worth it to be connected immediately, especially if they need to arrange transport from the airport.
SIM Registration
To buy a SIM, you will need your passport. The representative will take down your details. This is normal procedure as per government regulations. After activation, they will likely test that your data is working. Keep the SIM card packaging or take note of your new Dominican phone number (it may be printed on the SIM pack or the rep will give it to you). You might need this number to register for certain apps or top-up services.
Recharging (Top-ups)
If you have a local SIM and need to add credit or extend your plan, you can do so at countless shops. Colmados (mini-markets), pharmacies, and supermarkets often offer electronic recharges – just look for signs that say "Recarga Claro/Altice/Viva". You give them cash and your phone number, and they add the credit. Alternatively, download the carrier's app (e.g., Mi Claro or Altice app); these sometimes allow top-up via credit card. For eSIM users, if you need more data, you'll top-up via the eSIM provider's app or website (e.g., buy another package from Airalo or Nomad online).
Coverage Tips
While in resorts and cities you'll have no issues, if you go on excursions to more remote areas (like hiking in Jarabacoa or visiting the Samana rainforest), it's wise to have some offline maps and not rely solely on cell coverage. Generally, tour guides will have radios or knowledge of where coverage is spotty. Along the highways and in all towns, you'll stay connected, especially with Claro. On some of the less developed roads or rural countryside (like the southwest towards Barahona/Sierra de Bahoruco), expect that only Claro might have a signal and it could drop occasionally.
Using Wi-Fi
Many hotels, cafes, and restaurants in the DR offer free Wi-Fi, particularly in tourist areas. Feel free to use these to save your mobile data for when you're out and about. But be cautious on public Wi-Fi networks (standard advice: don't do sensitive banking without a VPN). For normal browsing and uploading photos, it's fine.
Data Usage Management
If you have a limited data plan, keep an eye on high data activities. Streaming video (YouTube, Netflix) or uploading lots of media can burn through your data. Perhaps download playlists or shows via hotel Wi-Fi for offline use if you plan to watch them on a bus ride, etc. Social media scrolling is usually moderate in data use, but Instagram stories and TikTok can consume more if you watch a lot of videos. Modern smartphone OSes often have a data usage monitor – you can even set a warning threshold to alert you when you've used a certain amount.
Navigation & Apps
Google Maps works well in the DR's cities and tourist zones. Rideshare apps like Uber are available in Santo Domingo and Santiago (and a limited presence in Punta Cana). Uber will require an internet connection and will usually send an SMS verification if you sign up – using your hotel Wi-Fi to set it up with your home number is recommended, then you can use it on data. For local services, you may also encounter the DiDi rideshare app (in some cities) and WhatsApp Business for tour operators. Having data means you can make free calls via WhatsApp to local tour companies or taxi drivers, which is commonly done.
Local Calls
If you have a local SIM, you might get some included local call minutes or at least the ability to make calls at a per-minute rate. This can be handy if you need to call a restaurant or clinic, etc. If you only have an eSIM (data only), you won't be able to call local numbers in the traditional sense, but you can use WhatsApp (which most Dominicans use widely) or Skype-out if needed. Many businesses in the DR list their WhatsApp numbers and will communicate that way.
Emergency and Other Info
The emergency number in the Dominican Republic is 9-1-1 (in populated areas it works and they have an English-speaking line for tourists). If you have a local SIM, 911 calls are free even without credit. If you have an eSIM (no voice service), you'd need to find another way to call 911 (borrowing a phone, or perhaps the eSIM will still connect a 911 call — some data SIMs might not support voice at all). Hopefully never needed, but good to know.
Hotspot
If you're traveling with a laptop or a tablet, you can tether from your phone. Local SIMs typically allow it from your data allowance. E.g., if you bought a 5 GB plan on Claro, you can use that 5 GB on any device via hotspot. With eSIMs, tethering is allowed on Airalo and Nomad normally. Holafly allows it but recall the daily limit for hotspot usage on unlimited plans. So if you need to work on a laptop, you can share your phone's connection – just monitor your data if it's not unlimited.
Conclusion
The Dominican Republic offers excellent mobile connectivity for travelers in all major tourist areas and cities. For most visitors on shorter trips, international eSIMs provide the most convenient solution – simply purchase before your trip and you're connected immediately upon arrival. Airalo's eSIM running on Claro's network offers the most extensive coverage across the country, including in more remote areas, making it ideal for travelers planning to explore beyond the main tourist spots. Holafly's unlimited data plans offer peace of mind for heavy users, though at a premium price. For budget-conscious travelers or those staying longer, local SIM cards from Claro, Altice, or Viva provide more data for your money and include a Dominican phone number. Claro offers the widest coverage nationwide, while Altice provides good service in cities and tourist areas with some 5G availability in major cities. By choosing the right connectivity solution, you'll be able to easily navigate the country, share your beach photos instantly, and stay in touch with loved ones while exploring all the Dominican Republic has to offer.