Getting Around

The historic centre of Puerto Plata is compact and walkable. The central park, the cathedral, the Amber Museum, and the Malecón are all within ten to fifteen minutes of each other on foot. The fort is at the western end of the Malecón — a twenty-minute walk from the park along the seafront.

Motoconchos — motorcycle taxis — are the main way locals get around quickly within the city, and they are cheap, numerous, and willing to go almost anywhere. Agree the fare before getting on; a short hop within the centre costs less than a dollar. Conventional taxis are available for longer trips such as the ride to the Teleférico lower station, the airport, or along the coast to Sosúa or Cabarete. Carros públicos (shared cars running fixed routes) operate within the city on a few key corridors. You can flag them down on main roads and pay a flat fare.