Punta Cana Airport
transfer to Cayo Levantado

Private transfers from $575. No additional charges.
Where to?
Fixed price
No hidden fees
Free cancellation
24/7 support

Why choose CanaCar for your transfer from PUJ to Cayo Levantado

Pay on arrival Book Now, Pay on Arrival

What you see is what you pay

Pay on arrival Local Company

No intermediaries

Pay on arrival Best Price Guarantee

Safe and hassle-free

Pay on arrival No Extra Fees

Tolls and tips included

Pay on arrival New Vehicles

Mercedes and Toyota

Pay on arrival 20+ Years of Experience

in Punta Cana

Distance and route to reach Cayo Levantado

~4h 26m

Travel time

207 miles

From PUJ Airport

$575

Starting price

Your private transfer from Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) to Cayo Levantado is a fast and comfortable journey.

Traveling from the east coast to Cayo Levantado is a journey of approximately  200 miles.

The journey typically takes  5 hours under normal traffic conditions.

To reach the Samaná Peninsula efficiently, our drivers utilize the country’s most modern highway network:

1. Autopista del Coral (Highway 3):

Entrance: Your trip begins at Punta Cana Airport, heading west on this smooth, four-lane expressway.

2. Circunvalación Santo Domingo (Highway 100):

The Bypass: We avoid the heavy traffic of the capital by using the modern beltway. We exit Hwy 3 and transition seamlessly toward the northern corridor.

3. Autopista Juan Pablo II (Highway 7):

Entrance: After the bypass, we enter the “Samaná Highway.” This is a scenic toll road that cuts through the lush Los Haitises region.

4. Boulevard Turístico del Atlántico:

Final Segment: Once on the peninsula, this road leads us to the Samaná Port (Simón Bolívar), where your boat transfer to the island awaits.

The Journey to the Island of Dreams: From Punta Cana to Cayo Levantado

Your destination is a secluded jewel in the middle of Samaná Bay, but the magic starts long before you board the ferry. The transfer from Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) to the Cayo Levantado boarding point is a stunning 3-hour odyssey that takes you across the most diverse landscapes in the Caribbean.

With Canacar.com, you can sit back in air-conditioned comfort and watch the heart of the Dominican Republic unfold through your window:

1. The Eastern Savannas and Cattle Ranchlands

As we leave the airport and head north, the manicured resort lawns disappear. You’ll enter the vast, rolling plains of El Seibo. This is the Dominican “Wild West,” where you’ll see white cattle grazing under massive, umbrella-like trees against a backdrop of distant, blue-tinted mountains. The sense of space and freedom here is the perfect palate cleanser after a long flight.

2. The Emerald Ascend: The Oriental Mountain Range

The scenery takes a dramatic turn as we climb the Cordillera Oriental. The road begins to wind through lush, tropical highlands. You’ll see deep valleys filled with cacao and coffee plantations. Keep your eyes peeled for the “Casitas de Colores”—vibrant, traditional wooden houses painted in bright Caribbean yellows and turquoises, often surrounded by blooming hibiscus and bougainvillea.

3. The Majesty of Samaná Bay

As we descend toward the coast, the Atlantic Ocean meets the Samaná Bay. This is one of the most beautiful sights in the country. The water shifts from a bright turquoise to a deep, royal blue. You’ll drive along the coastline, passing through the town of Miches, where you can see the unique limestone formations of Los Haitises National Park rising like green islands from the mist in the distance.

4. The Coconut Forests of the North

Approaching the peninsula, the landscape becomes a dense, prehistoric forest of millions of coconut palms. The sheer verticality of the mountains meeting the sea creates a dramatic, “Jurassic” feel. Finally, as we reach the port, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the “Bacardi Island” itself—Cayo Levantado—a white-sand speck floating in the crystal-clear bay, waiting just for you.

Ready to book your transfer to Cayo Levantado?

No payment until arrival. Free cancellation. 20+ years in Punta Cana.

Book my transfer now

Our fleet for your transfer from Punta Cana Airport to Cayo Levantado

All our vehicles are 2024-2025 models, fully inspected and equipped for long-distance journeys.

Hyundai Staria
SUV / Private Van Most popular

Hyundai Staria – 2024-2025

  • Up to 6 passengers
  • Air conditioning
  • Wi-Fi on board
  • Extra-large trunk
  • Child seats available
  • Pre-chilled to 68ºF
Hyundai Staria
Family Minivan

Toyota Hiace – 2024-2025

  • Up to 10 passengers
  • Air conditioning
  • Wi-Fi on board
  • Ideal for families
  • Child seats available
  • Ample cargo space
Hyundai Staria
Private Coach Large groups

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter – 2024-2025

  • Up to 16 passengers
  • Air conditioning
  • Ideal for groups
  • Large cargo capacity
  • Full mechanical inspection
  • Spotless interior

Most popular hotels in Cayo Levantado

We drop you off directly at your hotel’s entrance – no intermediate stops.

hotel
Cayo Levantado Resort

5★ All inclusive luxury resort


hotel
Eurostars Grand Cayacoa

5★ luxury resort


hotel
Hacienda Samana Bay Hotel

5★ luxury resort


hotel
The Bannister Hotel

5★ luxury resort


CanaCar vs. other options: private, direct and no surprises

Fixed price, your name on a tablet as soon as you exit customs, and a direct route to Cayo Levantado. No negotiations, no waiting, no charges you didn’t see coming.

✓ Fixed price from the start 0 minutes waiting Direct route to Cayo Levantado
FeatureCanaCar privateAirport taxiShared shuttle
Waiting time0 min15-20 min45-60 min
PriceFixed & prepaidNegotiablePer person
Child seatsOn requestRarelyNot available
RouteDirectDirectMultiple stops
Flight trackingIncludedNoNo

How to find your driver at the airport for your transfer to Cayo Levantado?

The moment you land, your transfer is already underway. Follow these steps depending on your arrival terminal.

Terminal A

Exit through the glass doors and look for the “Pre-booked / Tour Operators” area. Your driver will be waiting with a digital tablet displaying your name.

Terminal B

Exit customs and follow the signs towards Transport / Taxi. Our uniformed driver will be near the café area, away from the taxi queues.

💬 Communication protocol: You’ll receive a WhatsApp message before departure and, upon landing, your driver’s name and real-time location.

What travelers say about their transfer to Cayo Levantado?

Thousands of customers have trusted CanaCar to reach their destination.

4.8

32 Reviews

Google
Trustpilot
TripAdvisor
S
Sarah W

We used the service for our family vacation and it worked perfectly. The van had plenty of space for our bags, the AC was great, and the driver was very kind with our kids. Great start to our trip.

(5/5) - Tripadvisor
M
Michael Thompson

Excellent airport transfer. Clear communication before arrival, fair pricing, and no surprises. The driver was professional and drove safely. A solid option if you’re landing in Punta Cana and want everything arranged in advance.

(5/5) - Google
A
Amanda Brooks

Good service overall. Booking was simple and the driver was friendly. We had a small delay leaving the airport because of traffic outside, but that was not their fault. I would use them again.

(4/5) - Trustpilot
J
Jason Miller

Very reliable service. We booked round-trip transportation and both rides were right on time. The vehicle was clean, the driver was polite, and everything felt well organized from start to finish.

(5/5) - Tripadvisor
E
Emily Carter

Great transfer experience in Punta Cana. Our driver was waiting when we arrived, helped with the luggage, and the ride to the resort was smooth and comfortable. Much easier than trying to figure things out at the airport.

(5/5) - Google
V
Valeria R.

El traslado estuvo muy bien organizado. Tardamos un poquito en encontrar al conductor al salir, pero nos respondieron rápido y enseguida lo solucionamos. El viaje al hotel fue cómodo y seguro.

(4/5) - Trustpilot
B
Brandon L.

Nice and easy transfer from Punta Cana Airport. The car was clean and the driver was courteous. I would have liked a little more detail in the pickup instructions, but once we connected, everything went smoothly.

(4/5) - Trustpilot
C
Carlos Méndez

Muy buena experiencia. Reservamos el traslado para la llegada y también para el regreso al aeropuerto. Fueron puntuales las dos veces y la comunicación por WhatsApp fue clara. Lo recomiendo para viajar tranquilo.

(5/5) - Tripadvisor
J
Jessica Morgan

Highly recommended. Fast confirmation, easy pickup, and a comfortable ride to our hotel. The return transfer was also punctual, which is always the most important part when going back to the airport.

(5/5) - Google
M
Mariana López

Excelente servicio desde el aeropuerto de Punta Cana hasta nuestro hotel. El conductor nos estaba esperando con un cartel, fue muy amable y el vehículo estaba limpio y cómodo. Todo salió sin estrés después de un vuelo largo.

(5/5) - Google
J
Juan Manuel J

Excellent Service. Andres the very respectful driver very nice and very responsible in his handling!! The car in perfect condition. Highly recommended 👌👌👌

(5/5) - Tripadvisor
J
Jeannine

Excellent service.Willy Feliz arrived promptly to pick us up. He was friendly and professional! Definitely recommend.

(5/5) - Tripadvisor
Relax

The flight was delayed and they were waiting for us. The vehicle and its prime driver. Highly recommended the Pickup Service

(5/5) - Tripadvisor
M
Mary G

Peňa was an amazing driver. Friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable and safe! He knew a lot about the island and shared some interesting information.

(5/5) - Tripadvisor
T
Thomas B

Great service, on time and friendly! Great job Marino Zano! Made it to the air port with plenty of time to get through immigration with no stress.

(4/5) - Tripadvisor
G
Guest

The drivers were great and the communication was great also

(5/5) - Tripadvisor
I
Ignacio Rivera Herrera

The driver Carlos was very kind and funny. The car was clean a very fresh specially for the sunny dayPd: the car has wifi

(5/5) - Google
P
Promize Simon

Carlos was my driver, we had a smooth safe ride, Vehicle was nice and clean, and he got us to our destination just in time!

(5/5) - Google
M
MB

Carlos was great. He picked us up ahead of time and with a smile. I would definitely use this service again.

(5/5) - Google
T
Tion Mattox

Carlos pick me up and transported me to the hotel. Ride was good and smooth. Car clean and he was very friendly and offered some good spots to check out. Thanks Carlos.

(5/5) - Google
E
Elizabeth DeRobertis

Great smooth ride from the airport to our resort!! Arrived timely and very nice vehicle. Def recommend! Ask for Willy!!

(5/5) - Google
T
Timbuktu Azul

I decided to give this company a try and I have not regretted it, on the contrary! I was very pleasantly surprised by the friendliness and professionalism of the drivers, a pure pleasure to be picked up from the airport like that! The return journey was also easy, the car was already waiting for us. We'll be booking again on our next visit to Punta Cana! Gracias!

(5/5) - Google
E
Elias Burguera

Brand new vehicles and polite and timeñy drivers. Completely recommend.

(5/5) - Google
L
Luis Torres

Great service! Our driver was Wilqui who was professional and helpful. Our reservation was roundtrip from the airport to the hotel. I would use them again in the future and highly recommend their shuttle service.

(5/5) - Google
M
Matt Briggs

Carlos M Cuevas is a great driver. He was on time helpful and got us where we needed to be and on time and in a safe manner. The other staff member that brought us in the airport showed us exactly where to go and what to do. This made are time leaving that much smoother and stress free. I would recommend and use this service again.

(4/5) - Google
R
Rubén G.

Carlos was waiting for us at the airport holding a sign with our name on it. He was very punctual and friendly. Thank you so much for the impeccable service! We’ll definitely book with you again.

(5/5) - Trustpilot
J
Jaime Rodríguez

Best transfer company in Punta Cana. We have used them several times and we have always received a professional and friendly service.

(5/5) - Trustpilot
A
Angel Ruiz

They were very punctual, very friendly, and the vehicle was in perfect condition. The ride to Miches was perfect.

(5/5) - Trustpilot
J
José Magallanes

I've just returned as I've done on previous occasions, after hiring them for the transfer from Miches to Punta Cana Airport. The service was perfect once again.

(5/5) - Trustpilot
A
Alejo

Great service. Our driver was Willy Feliz. He was very attentive and friendly.

(5/5) - Trustpilot
J
Jevaughn Wright

He arrives on time loves his estarlin

(5/5) - Trustpilot
M
Milton Masaya

He's a great communicator and drives very carefully

(5/5) - Trustpilot

Frequently asked questions about the transfer from PUJ to Cayo Levantado

Everything you need to know before booking your transfer from Punta Cana Airport.

About the transfer to Cayo Levantado

Yes, the road trip from Punta Cana to Cayo Levantado is safe, provided you travel with an experienced driver. The journey takes you from the eastern tip of the island to the Samaná Peninsula on the northeast coast, utilizing major, well-maintained toll roads like the Autopista del Coral (DR-3) and the Autopista Juan Pablo II (DR-7).However, driving this 190-mile route on your own in a rental car is highly discouraged for US tourists. The highway to Samaná features winding mountainous stretches, sudden rain showers, active toll booths requiring local currency, and local driving habits that can be very stressful to navigate.The safest and most reliable choice is booking a private transfer from Punta Cana to Cayo Levantado. Our professional, bilingual drivers know the Samaná routes perfectly, handle the toll logistics seamlessly, and operate modern, fully insured vehicles so you can enjoy a stress-free ride.

Absolutely! Since the drive from Punta Cana to the Samaná coast takes about 4 to 4.5 hours, strategic rest stops are highly recommended. When you book a private shuttle from Punta Cana to Cayo Levantado, you are reserving a dedicated vehicle and driver, which gives you 100% flexibility over your travel schedule.Our private transfers from Punta Cana Airport to Cayo Levantado can be customized with optional stops along the route. Travelers often request breaks for meals, refreshments, sightseeing, or photo opportunities while traveling toward Samaná. Popular stop locations may include scenic viewpoints, local restaurants, or attractions along the northeastern coast of the Dominican Republic.When booking your transfer, you can usually arrange these stops in advance to create a more flexible and personalized travel experience. Unlike rigid public buses or shared excursion vans, our private transfer service is tailored entirely to your pace.

Yes, the journey from Punta Cana Airport (PUJ) to Cayo Levantado is absolutely worth it. Cayo Levantado is a world-renowned paradise featuring powdery white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush tropical vegetation. It offers an exclusive, upscale island experience that feels worlds away from the mainstream resort rows of Punta Cana.Cayo Levantado, also known as Bacardí Island, is one of the Dominican Republic’s most iconic tropical destinations. Located in Samaná Bay, the island is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, relaxing on pristine beaches, and exploring the beauty of the Samaná regionHowever, trying to figure out public transit with heavy luggage, or dealing with multiple bus connections after a long international flight to PUJ airport, can completely ruin the start of your vacation.By choosing a private Punta Cana Airport transfer, you transform a long travel day into a seamless, premium experience. You can relax in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, catch up on sleep, or enjoy the stunning changing scenery—from eastern palm plantations to the dramatic mountains of Samaná—knowing every logistical detail is handled.

Yes, when you book our transfers service from Punta Cana to Cayo Levantado, our ground transportation drops you off directly at the exact pier (muelle) required to board your boat. Depending on whether you are staying at the luxury resort on the island (Cayo Levantado Resort) or visiting for a day trip, we will coordinate the drop-off at either the Simi Báez Public Pier or the resort's private reception lounge on the mainland.Please note that our standard transfer service covers 100% of the overland private vehicle transportation to the maritime port. The boat ride or ferry tickets across the bay to the actual island must be coordinated with your hotel or tour operator, but our driver will ensure you and your luggage arrive safely, directly, and exactly on time for your scheduled boat departure.Since Cayo Levantado is accessible only by water, travelers must complete the final portion of the journey by boat. Most private transfer services provide direct transportation from the airport to the marina or ferry departure point, ensuring a seamless connection between your flight and your boat transfer.

The island is a year-round destination, but timing can significantly affect your experience.Peak season (December to April)Ideal weather: sunny, low humidity Best ocean visibility Higher tourist activityShoulder season (May to June, September to November)Fewer crowds Better hotel deals Occasional tropical rain showersHurricane season (June to November)Lower prices Watch weather forecasts closely Flexible booking recommendedFor American travelers seeking perfect beach conditions, winter and early spring are the most popular months.
Do you have more questions about your transfer to Cayo Levantado?

Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We'll answer all your questions before you even land.

WhatsAppWhatsAppMailContact formMail+1(849) 7522-262

Discover Cayo Levantado before you arrive: travel blog

Guides, tips and everything you need to know to make the most of your stay in Cayo Levantado.

 

 

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Ready to book your transfer to Cayo Levantado?

No payment until arrival. Free cancellation. 20+ years in Punta Cana.

Book my transfer now
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