PUJ Airport Transfer | Punta Cana International

Punta Cana International Airport (IATA: PUJ) is the Dominican Republic's busiest airport by passenger volume and one of the most distinctive major airports in the world — the terminals are open-air pavilions with thatched palm-frond roofs rather than enclosed concrete buildings. PUJ sits 20 kilometres south of the Bávaro resort strip and 12 kilometres north of Cap Cana. Apolo Taxi holds the ground transport concession and operates a fixed-tariff USD zone system from the rank outside arrivals. Private transfers are allowed with prior booking and clear a separate meet-and-greet area. Arrivals peak on Saturdays when most all-inclusive packages rotate. A LocalsRide pre-booking delivers directly to the resort lobby at a confirmed USD fare.

PUJ Transfer Times

Cap Cana Marina: 12 km, 15–20 min. Bávaro (Hard Rock, Riu, Iberostar strip): 18 km, 20–30 min. Playa Bávaro and El Cortecito: 18 km, 20–30 min. Cabeza de Toro and Melia: 18 km, 22–32 min. Uvero Alto (Excellence, Dreams, Zoëtry): 45 km, 45–65 min. Macao Beach: 32 km, 35–50 min. Higüey Basílica: 45 km, 45–65 min. La Romana and Casa de Campo: 115 km, 1.5–2 hours. Santo Domingo: 200 km, 2–2.5 hours.

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Why is there a queue outside Punta Cana Airport arrivals?

PUJ's open-air terminal routes arrivals past the Apolo tariff counter and private-transfer meet-and-greet area. On peak Saturdays the Apolo queue can exceed 20 minutes before driver assignment. Pre-booked private transfers bypass the counter at a fare confirmed in USD.

Can I take an Uber from Punta Cana Airport?

No — Uber is not permitted to pick up at PUJ. Apolo Taxi holds the concession; Uber drivers face fines and decline airport requests. Use the official Apolo tariff taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. Uber works for local rides once inside the resort strip or Bávaro town.