Private Transfer from the Santo Domingo Airport to Las Galeras
If you’re planning a trip to Las Galeras — a hidden gem on the Dominican Republic’s Samaná Peninsula — your adventure will likely begin at Santo Domingo Airport (SDQ), also known as Las Américas International Airport. The journey from the Santo Domingo Airport to Las Galeras is about 116 miles (188 kilometers) and typically takes 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic.
But this is no ordinary airport transfer. As you leave the capital behind, you’ll pass rice fields, royal palm groves, and colorful villages before reaching the rolling hills and ocean views of the Samaná Peninsula. Along the way, you’ll glimpse Samaná Bay and drive through charming towns like Sánchez and Samaná — making the trip feel more like a scenic tour than just a ride.
Whether you’re a couple seeking seclusion, a family looking for ease and comfort, or a group ready to explore the coast, our private transfers offer a safe, relaxing, and beautiful way to get from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras — without the stress.
Where to Stay in Las Galeras
Las Galeras offers a range of accommodations, from a full-service all-inclusive resort to boutique hotels and charming bed-and-breakfast rentals. Many properties are perched on hillsides or along the coast, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean or Rincón Bay. Whether you’re seeking beachfront luxury or a peaceful eco-stay, Las Galeras has the perfect place for you.
Wyndham Alltra Samana All-Inclusive Beachfront Resort
Located in the quiet village of Las Galeras, Wyndham Alltra Samana is the area’s top all-inclusive resort. It features four pools, five bars (including a swim-up and oceanfront option), and five restaurants offering everything from Italian and fresh seafood to Dominican and international cuisine.
Guests enjoy a full-service spa, yoga classes, water sports like snorkeling and kayaking, and island excursions. Families will love the kid-friendly programming, while couples can upgrade to the VIP Club for exclusive beach access and private check-in. With scenic views, great dining, and all-day activities, it’s the perfect stay after your private transfer from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras.
Charming Boutique Hotels and Eco-Stays in Las Galeras
Reasons To Visit Las Galeras
Las Galeras is a dream destination for travelers craving rustic charm and raw natural beauty. This quiet corner of the Samaná Peninsula is filled with outdoor adventures, from unspoiled beaches and rainforest hikes to world-class snorkeling and seasonal whale watching. Whether you’re exploring by foot, boat, or horseback, Las Galeras offers unforgettable experiences for couples, families, and groups alike.
Things To Do And See
There is no shortage of unforgettable moments. Adventurous visitors can explore coral reefs while snorkeling and diving at Frontón and Madama, ride through lush jungle trails on horseback, or hike to the breathtaking Salto del Limón waterfall. For those craving true seclusion, a trip to the dramatic cliffs and clear waters of Playa Frontón is a must.
Often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, Playa Rincón boasts nearly two miles of golden sand and calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming or relaxing. It’s a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy nature at its best. Small beach shacks along the shore serve up freshly grilled fish, fried plantains, and cold Presidente beer under swaying palms.
If you are lucky enough to visit Las Galeras from December to March you can see one of the largest Humpback whale migrations in the world.
Thousands of humpback whales migrate to Samaná Bay each winter. Take a boat tour to see these giants breach and slap the water — a truly awe-inspiring experience.
Las Galeras is surrounded by some of the Dominican Republic’s best snorkeling and diving spots, especially around Playa Frontón and Playa Madama. These sites are home to vibrant coral reefs, sea caves, and an abundance of colorful marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced diver, the clear waters and rugged underwater terrain offer unforgettable adventures.
Board a boat on the Samana Bay and head to the National Park – not a bad way to arrive. A park filled with mangroves, limestone caves, animals, birds, islets and an undulating topography – this is the best way to see and enjoy the nature and wildlife on the remote north-eastern coast of the Dominican Republic.
Explore the lush jungle, rolling hills, and hidden beaches of Las Galeras on horseback with a knowledgeable local guide. Popular routes include rides to Playa Colorado or La Playita, where you can stop for a swim. It’s a peaceful and authentic way to see the countryside and connect with the area’s natural beauty.
Located just outside of Las Galeras, the hike to Salto del Limón (the El Limon Waterfall) leads you through tropical forest trails, coconut plantations, and river crossings. After about 45 minutes on foot or horseback, you’ll reach the stunning 130-foot waterfall cascading into a cool, natural pool. It’s a refreshing and rewarding stop for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Accessible only by a 20–30 minute boat ride or a 1.5 to 2-hour jungle hike, Playa Frontón is one of the most remote and spectacular beaches in the Dominican Republic. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lined with powdery white sand, it’s a top spot for snorkeling, rock climbing, and total seclusion. The untouched setting makes it perfect for those looking to escape modern life for a few hours.
Restaurants and Bars
Las Galeras may be a small village, but it offers a surprisingly diverse food scene that blends Dominican tradition with global flavors. From fresh-caught seafood served on the beach to French-inspired crepes and wood-fired pizzas, the local eateries reflect the laid-back yet adventurous vibe of the area.
Most restaurants are open-air, independently owned, and full of character — think rustic beach huts, cliffside terraces, and garden patios under the stars. Whether you’re craving a cold Presidente, artisan pasta, or grilled lobster by the ocean, dining in Las Galeras is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the flavor.
Las Galeras
Questions & Answers
Facts about transportation from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras
Distance from the Santo Domingo Airport to Las Galeras?
The distance from the Santo Domingo Airport to Samana is about 188 kms or 116 miles.
How long does it take to get from the Santo Domingo Airport to Las Galeras?
It takes about 3 1/4 to 3 1/2 hours to reach Las Galeras from the Santo Domingo Airport.
Distance from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras?
The distance from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras is about 201 kms or 125 miles.
How long does it take to get from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras?
From Santo Domingo to Las Galeras will take about 3 1/4 to 3 ¾ hours.
Note: Santo Domingo is large metropolitan area of 3 million people. Travel times can vary greatly based on traffic.
What is the cheapest way to get from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras?
The cheapest way to get from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras depends on the number of passengers in your group.
While the #1 preferred way to get from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras (private transfer) is not always the cheapest, it is not that much more than the least expensive way, but it is a lot simpler, safer and more enjoyable.
The bus is probably the cheapest way to get from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras, but keep in mind the buses don’t pick up at the airport so you will have to pay for a taxi to the bus station, wait for the next bus, buy the tickets, and then when you are arrive in Las Galeras you will have to take a taxi from the bus station to where you are staying. While the bus tickets are only about $15 USD per person, the multiple taxis, etc. will add up quickly and you will be quickly at or over $100 USD.
There are shared shuttles services and we advise taking these if you are a solo traveler. At about $75 USD per person for a shared shuttle service, a solo traveler can save money. With two passengers you are within the cost of a private transfer and with three or more passengers it will be more expensive to take a shared shuttle then a private transfer.
A private transfer is a few dollars more, but a lot easier, a lot less time and a lot more comfortable.
How to travel from The Santo Domingo Airport to Las Galeras without renting a car?
The easiest way to get from the Santo Domingo Airport to Las Galeras is with a car service. With a car service your driver will be waiting for you and once you clear customs, the driver will help you with your luggage and have you on your way to your final destination. Need a quote? Transfer from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras.
Is the transfer from Santo Domingo To Las Galeras safe?
The short answer –Yes. The longer answer to if the transfer from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras is safe, it is of course safe. We would never allow our passengers or drivers to be put in a bad situation. This is one of our primary routes and a route that our drivers like a lot. This main road to Las Galeras is a private highway and is probably the best road in the country which makes the drive that much easier.
At night the drive to Las Galeras from Santo Domingo can still be done and done safely but our drivers will drive a little slower. Not only is there obviously less light but because much of the drive is through the countryside there is always a chance for a cow or two to be on the road. Not typical, yet occasionally it happens -so we are always on the lookout.
How much is a private transfer from Santo Domingo Airport (SDQ) to Las Galeras?
$185 to $250 USD depending on vehicle type and group size.
Can I stop along the way?
Yes. Stops include coconut vendors, photo stops, local eateries, or grocery stores. Short stops are free; meal or grocery stops average $10 USD.
What types of vehicles are used?
Modern air-conditioned vans and SUVs with child seats on request.
What Our Clients Are Saying
Transportation From Santo Domingo To Las Galeras.
If you need transportation from Santo Domingo to Las Galeras (from the city or airport), our English-speaking reservations department is standing by to assist you.