When is the best time to go to Santo Domingo?

The best time to visit Santo Domingo, depending on the weather conditions, is from November to April, during the dry season. These months offer ideal weather conditions, with mild temperatures and low precipitation, making the discovery of this beautiful Caribbean city particularly enjoyable.

If you are looking to avoid crowds, it may be wise to plan your trip outside of the peak tourist season, which peaks in August, November, and December. Although the weather is slightly less favorable outside of these periods, Santo Domingo remains an attractive destination throughout the year.

At the end of July and beginning of August, the Merengue and Caribbean Rhythms Festival in Santo Domingo will warm your heart even though it is one of the rainiest months, as this celebration highlights dance and crafts, all accompanied by rum tastings and concerts.

For beach lovers, Santo Domingo is a dream destination. Indeed, the water is pleasantly warm, ranging from 26 to 31°C (88°F) , throughout the year. Several equipped beaches (Boca Chica, Playa de Guibia...) will delight both young and old.

Considering a stay during the less favorable months, from May to October, is not necessarily a bad idea. Even though these months correspond to the rainy season, showers are generally short-lived and do not significantly hinder tourist activities. Furthermore, this time of year offers a significant advantage: fewer tourists, for a more authentic and serene experience.

In conclusion, regardless of the time of year you choose for your trip to Santo Domingo, you are guaranteed to enjoy pleasant weather, warm seawater, and a city rich in cultural and natural attractions.

So, when is the best time to go to Santo Domingo? Here's some more information to help you in your decision:

  • The weather is good all year round in Santo Domingo
  • On average, it is hot all year round
  • The rainiest months are May, July and August
  • The sea temperature is suitable for swimming all year round



Annual weather in Santo Domingo

Infographic of the best times to visit Santo Domingo
Infographic of the best times to visit Santo Domingo ©whereandwhen.net

Weather details in Santo Domingo month by month

To get all the information about the climate and weather in Santo Domingo for a specific month, click on the corresponding link below:

January February March April May June July August September October November December



Weather and climate in Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, is a popular destination for many travelers. It is a city with a tropical climate, specifically a tropical savanna climate with dry winters according to the Köppen-Geiger classification. This means that the city experiences distinct seasons, with a rainy season and a dry season. The intensity and frequency of rainfall can vary from moderate during the dry season to very intense during the wet season. Therefore, to make the most of your stay in Santo Domingo, it is best to plan your vacation during the dry season, which is the ideal time to visit the beaches and go swimming.

Dry Season in Santo Domingo (November to April)

The dry season in Santo Domingo extends from November to April. During this period, the climate is ideal for tourists. Temperatures are generally mild, ranging between 22°C (72°F) and 30°C (86°F) . Like in Punta Cana, rainfall is rare (but possible!), making this period perfect for exploring the city and enjoying its many attractions. Days are mostly sunny, with occasional clouds and rare rain showers.

Rainy Season in Santo Domingo (May to October)

The rainy season in Santo Domingo starts in May and ends in October. However, even during this period, the climate remains favorable for visitors. Temperatures are slightly higher, ranging between 26°C (79°F) and 32°C (90°F) . Rainfall is more frequent, but usually short-lived and does not hinder tourist activities. The sky is typically a mix of sunny periods, some clear skies, and rain showers.

Transition between Seasons in Santo Domingo

The transition between the dry season and the rainy season, and vice versa, usually occurs gradually in Santo Domingo. The months of November and April are transition months where the weather can be a mix of both seasons. However, it generally remains pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

In conclusion, Santo Domingo is a destination that can be visited throughout the year thanks to its tropical climate. However, if you prefer dry and sunny conditions, the dry season, which runs from November to April, is the best time to visit Santo Domingo. If you don't mind a few rain showers and prefer higher temperatures, the rainy season, from May to October, will be more to your liking. Whichever season you choose, you will be sure to enjoy the beauty and cultural richness of Santo Domingo.

Santo Domingo : Saint-Domingue



Charts: temperature and rainfall in Santo Domingo

In the charts below, you can see the following seasonal norms for the city of Santo Domingo: the minimum and maximum outdoor temperature, the risk and amount of monthly rainfall, daily average sunshine, sea temperature, and relative humidity for each month of the year.

Outside temperature

Precipitation (rainfall)

Daily sunshine hours

Sea temperature

Humidity


Peak visitor numbers and tourist seasons in Santo Domingo

Find out when Santo Domingo has its high tourist season (the period when the influx of tourists is highest) and off-peak tourist season using our data and figures.

Tourist seasons in Santo Domingo

  • Very low season in Santo Domingo
    The months with the lowest number of tourists are: April, May, June, July and September.
  • Low season in Santo Domingo
    The months with low numbers of tourists are: January, February, March and October.
  • High season in Santo Domingo
    The number of visitors to Santo Domingo is high in: August and November.
  • Peak season in Santo Domingo
    The largest number of tourists visiting Santo Domingo is during: December.

Figure: Visitor index for Santo Domingo month by month



Best time for low prices in Santo Domingo

Average prices of hotels in Santo Domingo month by month

Generally, October is the month with the lowest hotel prices in Santo Domingo. So this is a great time to save on your holiday! In contrast, May is statistically the most expensive month of the year for hotels.

Find the best price for your hotel room

Average price for flights to Santo Domingo

A return flight between London and Santo Domingo is generally cheaper if you go in march ($ 724 on average): this is the best time for travellers on a tight budget. In contrast, you may end up paying $ 353 more for your airline ticket to Santo Domingo if you go in august.

Find the best price for your flight Flight prices to Santo Domingo

Average price of hiring a car in Santo Domingo

On average, it costs $ 63 per day to hire a car in Santo Domingo. This price varies by $ 21 depending on the month. In october, hiring a car costs an average of $ 52 per 24 hours, so this is the best time to save money! In contrast, the average price in july is $ 72.

Find the best price for your car rental


Other cities and places near Santo Domingo

Best time to go to the Dominican Republic

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Legend: Santo Domingo other locations

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