Punta Cana International Airport
Punta Cana, DO · approximately 5 km (3 mi) east of Punta Cana village
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time |
|---|---|
| AMSTAR DMC Transfer Shuttle service · Coaches dispatched to match major charter/holiday flights | 30-60 min depending on stops |
| APTP Punta Cana Airport Taxi Taxi service · On demand by reservation aligned to flight times | 20-45 min to Bavaro reported by users |
| Avis Rental car · Counter open daily with hours tied to flight arrivals | — |
| Budget Rental car · Counter staffed daily during airport operating hours | — |
Insider notes
Fast food in both terminals can reach US$15–20. Consider eating before arriving if you're budget-conscious.
Arrive 3 hours before your flight during peak seasons to manage long queues.
Priority Pass only grants access to Sala VIP lounges which get crowded by noon; arrive early for space.
Welcome
Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) brings a unique vibe to the busy world of Caribbean travel. Picture this: stepping off the plane into a palm-thatched, open-air terminal that feels more like a resort arrival than an airport. But, hold on to your wallet, because once you're airside, the prices and crowds channel a different kind of resort experience — that of the captive kind, particularly when fast food meals soar past the US$15 mark.
At a glance
Handling over 8 million passengers annually, PUJ serves as a crucial hub for Air Caraïbes and Arajet with just two terminals — A and B. Both display the signature open-air design that captures a laid-back, beach-like atmosphere. Located just 5 kilometers east of the Punta Cana village, it's a short ride from your flight to cocktails on the sand.
Terminals & layout
Punta Cana International operates two primary terminals: Terminal A and Terminal B. Terminal A is comprised of 16 gates, servicing high-traffic routes like those operated by American Airlines and JetBlue. Across the tarmac, Terminal B has 14 gates and is the base for Arajet, British Airways, and Condor. Despite their cozy, scenic settings, expect a good walk through open-air bridges that make these terminals unique among bustling international gateways.
Terminal A
In Terminal A, you'll find popular dining spots such as Taco Bell and Cinnabon, alongside accessibility to lounges like the Sala VIP and VIP Lounge American Express. Shopping includes things like Puntacana Resort and Club Logo Shop and DFA’s duty-free outlets.
Terminal B
Terminal B hosts a similar mix of eateries, such as Wendy’s and Pizza Hut, and offers exclusive lounges such as the VIP Lounge TUI and VIP Lounge Air France KLM. For souvenirs or last-minute gifts, the Puntacana Resort & Club Logo Shop remains a hit among travelers.
Getting to and from the city
Reaching Punta Cana village from the airport is straightforward with multiple options. The Four Points Hotel Shuttle is free for guests, operating a 15- to 20-minute service. Public buses are available for approximately 50 DOP, taking 30 to 45 minutes. Taxi services, including the APTP Punta Cana Airport Taxi, usually take between 10 to 45 minutes depending on the destination and time of day. Prices for these can vary, so have small USD bills or Dominican Pesos ready for easier negotiation.
Traveller essentials
Prepare for your departure by checking in early; arriving three hours before your flight can save you from long waits at security and immigration, especially during peak turnover times. There is short-term parking at RD$20 per day; alternatively, long-term parking offers a lower rate at RD$10 per day. Amenities like rental car services from Avis or National Car Rental are available if you prefer driving yourself.
Dining & shopping highlights
Food might be pricy, but variety is aplenty. The Hard Rock Café stands out as a lively pre-flight spot in both terminals, offering a more authentic vacation vibe than the fast-food court options. For coffee lovers, the Segafredo in Terminal A is your best spot for a morning espresso. Don’t overlook the convenient and well-stocked Puntacana Resort & Club Logo Shop for classy souvenirs.
Lounges
The airport features Sala VIP lounges in both Terminal A and B, alongside the exclusive VIP Lounge American Express, VIP Lounge Copa Club, and others under various airline banners. Lounges frequently experience crowding, so getting there early is an advantage if you're hoping for some relaxation before a transatlantic flight.
Insider tips
- Price: Fast food in both terminals can reach US$15–20. Consider eating before arriving if you're budget-conscious.
- Time: Arrive 3 hours before your flight during peak seasons to manage long queues.
- Lounges: Priority Pass only grants access to Sala VIP lounges which get crowded by noon; arrive early for space.
- Local: Segafredo in Terminal A brews the most consistent espresso, scoring high among coffee lovers.
- Avoid: Be wary of unsolicited ‘VIP arrival’ services online; seek verified options tied to resorts or airlines.
- Money: Have small bills ready for taxis; leveraging exact cash offers better control over fare negotiations.
- Avoid: Steer clear of timeshare pitches in arrivals; they are unrelated to hotel transfers.