Punta Cana Layover Guide (PUJ)

What are you looking for in PUJ?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) is an international airport located in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. It’s situated about 5 km (3 miles) from the resort area. The airport officially opened in 1984. Punta Cana is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean, known for its all-inclusive resorts, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters. It offers a vibrant mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences for travelers year-round.

Can you leave Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
During a layover you can clear immigration at Punta Cana Airport and leave the international terminal. For stays under 30 days most nationalities do not require a visa, although a US $10 tourist fee is charged with airfare. A passport valid for six months is required. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Bavaro Beach Relax on powdery white sands beneath swaying palms at Bavaro Beach, swim in turquoise waters, sip cocktails at beachfront bars, rent loungers, and enjoy water sports in this tropical paradise. (Time required: 1–2 hours. / Airport to here: Approximately 25 minutes by taxi.)
• Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park Explore nine pristine freshwater lagoons within a lush tropical reserve at Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, guided nature trails showcasing native flora and fauna, learn conservation efforts, relax by clear waters. (Time required: 2–3 hours. / Airport to here: Approximately 20 minutes by taxi.) Official site
• Altos de Chavón Village Visit a stunning 16th-century Mediterranean-style replica village perched above the Chavón River, wander cobblestone streets, admire artisan workshops, dine overlooking the river amphitheater, and enjoy truly breathtaking panoramic Caribbean views. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: Approximately 30 minutes by taxi or shuttle.) Official site
• Saona Island Excursion Embark on a scenic boat excursion to Saona Island, sunbathe on pristine beaches, snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, savor a Dominican-style beach barbecue, and experience absolute idyllic tropical island serenity. (Time required: 5 hours. / Airport to here: Tour pickup with 1 hour combined transfer by bus and boat.)
• Scape Park Zipline & Adventure Soar across the jungle canopy on adrenaline-pumping ziplines, explore ancient caves, swim in subterranean cenotes, and wander scenic lagoons at Scape Park’s eco-adventure playground for an unforgettable exhilarating half-day thrill. (Time required: 4–5 hours. / Airport to here: Approximately 15 minutes by car.) Official site
• Macao Beach Discover untouched golden sands at Macao Beach, swim in clear waves, rent surfboards to catch Caribbean swells, explore nearby cliffs, and sample fresh street-side Dominican snacks under the warm sun. (Time required: 1–2 hours. / Airport to here: Approximately 25 minutes by taxi or rental car.)
• Punta Cana Village Market Immerse yourself in local culture at Punta Cana Village Market, browse stalls of handcrafted souvenirs, sample Dominican coffee, fresh fruit, and street food, interact with artisans, and enjoy vibrant atmosphere. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Approximately 10 minutes by taxi or shuttle.)
• Coco Bongo Show Experience an electrifying and unforgettable night at Coco Bongo Punta Cana, marvel at spectacular acrobatic performances, live music, Broadway-style shows, and interactive dance parties in an immersive high-energy nightclub atmosphere. (Time required: 3–4 hours. / Airport to here: Approximately 20 minutes by taxi.) Official site

Things to Do in Punta Cana Airport (PUJ)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Punta Cana International offers two premium lounges in Terminals A and B, including the Caribbean Premium Lounge. Comfortable recliners, complimentary snacks, hot and cold beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, shower facilities, day-beds, workstations and panoramic runway views create an ideal pre-flight retreat between 5:00 AM and closing times. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
There are no on-site airport hotels at PUJ, but the Four Points by Sheraton at Puntacana Village lies just 5 km away. Guests enjoy spacious rooms, day-use options, a swimming pool, gym access and complimentary shuttle service. Numerous beachfront resorts also provide private transfers for overnight stays near the airport. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
PUJ lacks dedicated sleep pods or capsule hotels, but travelers can rest on fixed benches or padded seating in both terminals. Quiet corners near Gates 9–14 offer minimal foot traffic. Some lounges provide day-use passes with recliner chairs and shower access, making it easier to catch a few restful hours between flights.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout Punta Cana Airport. Simply connect to the “PUJ Free Wi-Fi” network, accept the terms and enjoy unlimited access for up to two hours per session. Charging stations and USB ports at gate lounge areas ensure devices stay powered while you browse, stream or catch up on work.

SIM/eSIM Card: Several telecom kiosks in the arrivals hall sell prepaid SIM cards from Claro, Altice and Viva. Packages include data, local minutes and SMS, starting at 3 GB for 15 USD. No passport copy is required. International eSIMs can be purchased online before travel with providers like Airalo, offering instant digital activation upon landing. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Taxis queue outside customs at Punta Cana Airport, operating on regulated zone rates paid in USD or DOP. Typical fares to nearby Bavaro resorts run around 25 USD one-way; Uvero Alto and Cap Cana zones range from 55 to 75 USD. Prepaid booths ensure transparent pricing and 24/7 availability for all arrivals.

Train: As of 2025, there is no train or rail connection serving Punta Cana International Airport. All ground transfers rely on road transport like buses, shuttles, taxis or rental cars. Passengers interested in upcoming rail projects can consult the Asociación de Transporte Ferroviario (APTRA) website for proposed timelines. more info

Bus: The APTRA public bus service connects PUJ with Higüey, Punta Cana Village and Blue Mall Puntacana. Buses depart hourly from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM at the south forecourt. Tickets cost about 2 USD, payable at the on-site booth. more info

Shuttle: Most resorts and hotels offer pre-arranged shared or private shuttle transfers to and from the airport, coordinated through tour operators. Additionally, the Four Points by Sheraton provides a complimentary shuttle for its guests. Independent travelers can book shared-ride services via local providers like Caribbean Airport Express in advance online.

Car rentals: Major car rental companies operate inside the arrivals hall kiosks, including Avis, Hertz, Dollar, Budget and Europcar. Rentals include unlimited mileage, air conditioning and basic insurance; additional coverage is extra. Operating desks are open 24/7. Advance reservations are recommended to guarantee vehicle availability and best rates during peak travel periods. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: PUJ provides both short-term and long-term parking adjacent to Terminals A and B. Short-term parking rates start at 1 USD per 30 minutes, with a daily maximum of 7 USD. Long-term lots charge around 5 USD per day. Drop-off and pick-up zones offer free 15-minute parking for passenger turnaround. All areas feature 24/7 security, lighting and card/cash payment kiosks.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

There is no luggage storage or locker facility inside PUJ terminals. Travelers seeking secure luggage holding can use services at Blue Mall Puntacana, a 5-minute drive away, which offers hourly and daily rates (approximately 3 USD per hour). Many nearby hotels and resorts also provide short-term storage for non-guests. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks