June - November

In June, hotel prices can drop by as much as 50%. Cruise and airline prices also fall during this time of year. The temperature is only slightly warmer during the summer months and the country still hosts many activities. If you feel like taking your chances with the weather, you’ll find cheaper hotel prices and discounts on vacation packages, especially in September and October when the tourist volume is at its lowest, beaches and golf courses are rained out, and the threat of hurricanes is at its highest. Keep in mind, however, that local businesses often use this time of year for construction projects and renovations, including hotels and restaurants. If you’re traveling during this unpredictable period, make sure you contact your hotel to ensure there are no weather-related closures and or renovations.

Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, but the odds are strongly in your favor of a hurricane-free vacation, even if you book during these months. Storm activity and chances for hurricanes increase from the second week of August and peak through September. It’s a good idea to buy trip insurance if you plan to travel to the Dominican Republic during these 2 months. For most tourists, the increased humidity, rain, higher temperatures, and strong Caribbean storms make this a less desirable time to visit the country. However, if saving money is the goal, this is a great time to visit.

Events and Festivals

-Third week of June: The Puerto Plaza Cultural Festival takes place. A displays of various dancing, from African tribal to salsa to merengue.

-June: Food and Wine Festival takes place in the luxurious environs of Punta Cana.

-Late July: The Merengue Festival is a week of live music and dancing (as well as delicious food) along the boulevard of El Malecon in Santo Domingo.

-August 16: The Dominican Republic celebrates Restoration Day, marching the streets in celebration of regaining their independence from Spain (for the second time) in 1863.

-September24 : The Dia de las Mercedes is an annual procession in honor of Our Lady of Mercy, the Virgin who helped assist Christopher Columbus in battle.

-October: The Puerto Plata Festival occurs every October on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, with Fuerte San Felipe serving as the go-to destination for the musical festivities. Expect lively dancing, enthusiastic parades, and vivid costumes.

-November 6: The Día de la Constitución (Constitution Day) is a public holiday every year.