PUJ Airport: A Guide to Punta Cana's International Airport
Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean, serving millions of passengers each year. Located in the eastern region of the Dominican Republic, the airport is the gateway to the popular tourist destinations of Punta Cana, Bavaro, and La Romana.
Here’s everything you need to know about PUJ airport, from its history to its facilities and services.
History of Punta Cana (PUJ) Airport
Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is the main airport serving the eastern region of the Dominican Republic. It is a popular destination for tourists visiting the area, with millions of passengers passing through its gates each year. In this blog post, we will explore the history of Punta Cana airport and how it has grown over the years.
History
Punta Cana airport was originally built in the 1960s as a small airfield to serve the nearby town of Higüey. At the time, it was used primarily for private flights and small commercial aircraft. In the 1980s, however, the airport underwent a major expansion to accommodate the growing number of tourists visiting the region.
As part of the expansion, a new terminal building was constructed, along with a longer runway capable of handling larger aircraft. The airport also received upgraded navigation and communication systems, making it safer and more efficient.
In the years since the expansion, Punta Cana airport has continued to grow, adding new amenities and services to better serve its passengers. Today, it is one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean, handling millions of passengers each year.
Services and Amenities
Punta Cana airport offers a wide range of services and amenities to make travel more convenient and comfortable for passengers. These include:
Duty-free shopping: The airport has a variety of duty-free shops selling everything from local souvenirs to luxury goods.
Restaurants and cafes: There are several restaurants and cafes at the airport serving a variety of cuisines.
Currency exchange: Visitors can exchange their currency for Dominican pesos or other foreign currencies at the airport.
Car rentals: Several car rental companies operate at the airport, making it easy for visitors to rent a vehicle and explore the surrounding area.
Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport for passengers to stay connected.
Conclusion
Punta Cana International Airport has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a small airfield serving a local town. Today, it is a modern, bustling airport that serves as a gateway to one of the Caribbean’s most popular tourist destinations. With its wide range of services and amenities, Punta Cana airport offers a convenient and comfortable travel experience for all passengers.
Transportation from Punta Cana Airport
Punta Cana International Airport is the main airport serving the east coast of the Dominican Republic. It is the second busiest airport in the country, with over 7 million passengers passing through its gates every year. If you are planning a trip to Punta Cana, it’s important to know the distance between the airport and the hotels you’ll be staying at, as well as the transportation options available.
Distance to Hotels
Most of the hotels in Punta Cana are located within a 20-30 minute drive from the airport. The exact distance can vary depending on the location of the hotel. Some of the closest hotels to the airport include the Four Points by Sheraton, the Club Med Punta Cana, and the Westin Punta Cana Resort and Club.
Transportation Options
There are several transportation options available for travelers arriving at Punta Cana airport. The most popular options include:
Taxi – Taxis are readily available outside of the airport terminal. The cost of a taxi ride to most hotels in Punta Cana is typically between $30-$40 USD.
Shuttle – Many hotels offer shuttle service to and from the airport. This service is often included in the price of your hotel stay. Check with your hotel to see if they offer shuttle service.
Rental Car – If you prefer to have your own transportation, there are several car rental companies located at the airport. Prices for rental cars vary depending on the company and the type of vehicle you choose.
Public Bus – The local public bus system is a cheap option for transportation, but it can be difficult to navigate if you don’t speak Spanish.
Cost of Transportation
The cost of transportation from the airport to your hotel will depend on the mode of transportation you choose. Taxis are the most expensive option, with fares ranging from $30-$40 USD. Shuttle service is often included in the price of your hotel stay, so it may be the most cost-effective option. Rental cars can be a good option if you plan to do a lot of exploring during your trip, but keep in mind that rental fees and gas can add up quickly. Public buses are the cheapest option, but they can be difficult to navigate if you’re not familiar with the area.
Hotels Near Punta Cana Airport: Distance and Price
If you’re planning a trip to Punta Cana, finding the right hotel can make all the difference in your travel experience. One important factor to consider is proximity to the airport. Luckily, there are many great hotels near Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) that offer convenience and comfort. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top hotels near the airport, their distance from the airport, and their price range.
Four Points by Sheraton Punta Cana Village: This hotel is just 2.5 miles from the airport, making it a convenient choice for travelers with early morning or late-night flights. The price range is between $90-$120 per night.
Hotel Tropicana Deluxe: Located only 1.9 miles from the airport, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations and a convenient location. Prices range from $50-$100 per night.
Club Hotel Riu Bambu: This all-inclusive resort is just a 20-minute drive from the airport, and features a private beach, outdoor pools, and many other amenities. Prices range from $150-$300 per night.
Iberostar Dominicana: Located 15 minutes from the airport, this all-inclusive resort offers a range of activities and amenities, including water sports, golf, and a spa. Prices range from $150-$350 per night.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana: This luxury resort is just a 30-minute drive from the airport, and offers an array of amenities, including a casino, spa, and golf course. Prices range from $300-$700 per night.
No matter your budget or preferences, there is a hotel near Punta Cana Airport to suit your needs. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the season, so be sure to check with each hotel for current rates. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, these hotels offer a convenient and comfortable place to stay during your visit to Punta Cana.
Activities from Punta Cana airport
