Cheap Car Hire Dominican Republic's Cibao International Airport
Welcome to Cibao International Airport!
Welcome to the Dominican Republic, a vibrant Caribbean island known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural history, and welcoming locals. Whether you’re exploring lush mountain trails, pristine beaches, or bustling cities, the Dominican Republic has something to offer every type of traveler. Your journey begins at Cibao International Airport (STI), located just 15 kilometres (about 9 miles) from Santiago, the country's second-largest city. Positioned in the heart of the Dominican Republic’s agricultural Cibao Valley, this airport provides a convenient gateway to explore the island’s inland beauty, offering a different perspective than the popular coastal routes. The airport is an important regional hub, with flights from the United States, Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean. Carriers like JetBlue, Delta, and American Airlines serve the airport, connecting visitors from cities such as New York, Miami, and San Juan. It is one of three major international airports, connecting the country to global travellers. Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is the busiest, welcoming millions annually to the eastern resort region. Known for its open-air terminals, it offers easy access to Punta Cana’s beaches and luxury resorts. Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) near Santo Domingo serves the capital city and features modern facilities, making it ideal for exploring the country’s historic and cultural heart. Once you’ve collected your car keys, and stowed your luggage in the boot. It’s time to hit the road! From the moment you drive out of Cibao International Airport, you’ll be immersed in the Dominican Republic’s beautiful countryside. The Cibao Valley is a rich ecological region, home to diverse wildlife and bird species thanks to the fertile plains, rivers, and forested areas that are habitats that support unique flora and fauna. It’s a haven for bird enthusiasts, offering sightings of many endemic and migratory species. Key birds include the Hispaniolan parrot, Hispaniolan woodpecker, and the vibrant Hispaniolan trogon, the island's national bird. Wetland areas attract egrets, herons, and ducks, while higher elevations host tanagers, todies, and warblers. Butterflies, such as the striking Julia heliconian, add bursts of vibrant colour to the valley, while rivers and streams teem with freshwater fish and crabs. Whether exploring its forests, farmland, or waterways, the Cibao Valley offers a glimpse into the Dominican Republic's rich biodiversity. Cruise through the magnificent agricultural heartland, to pass miles of fertile fields growing crops such as rice, plantains, and tobacco. You’ll likely spot farmers tending to these fields, along with cattle grazing along the roadside, giving you an authentic glimpse of the country’s rural life.
Driving in the Dominican Republic
Rental car services at Cibao International Airport are conveniently located within the arrivals area, so you can swiftly pick up your vehicle and set off to explore the scenic wonders of the Dominican Republic. Once you’re in the driver’s seat, it’s time to soak up the scenery as you travel towards Santiago. Watch as the landscape opens up to rolling hills and mountains, particularly the impressive Cordillera Central mountain range. Known as the “Dominican Alps,” this region is filled with scenic vistas, lush forests, and rivers that wind through the valleys. The drive offers stunning views of patchwork farmland, clusters of palm trees, and verdant hills dotted with rural communities. Santiago de los Caballeros, often simply called Santiago, is the Dominican Republic’s second-largest city and a cultural heart of the Cibao Valley. Nestled in a lush, mountainous region known for its fertile soils, Santiago pulses with life, history, and the vibrancy of the island’s agricultural roots. Founded in 1495, Santiago is one of the oldest cities in the Americas, established by Spanish settlers shortly after Columbus’s arrival. It played a key role in the Dominican Republic’s fight for independence, a spirit of resilience still seen in its people and preserved landmarks. The city’s streets are lined with palm trees and colonial-era architecture, with the Monumento a los Héroes de la Restauración—a tall, marble structure standing as a tribute to the heroes of Dominican independence—dominating the skyline. This monument provides sweeping views of Santiago and the surrounding mountains, a reminder of the city’s proud history and its vibrant connection to the land. Known as the capital of Dominican tobacco, Santiago thrives on the production of cigars, rum, and other agricultural goods, with a culture infused by this rural heritage. Buzzing street markets overflow with fresh produce, local crafts, and the rhythm of merengue music, drawing locals and visitors alike. With a rich arts scene, lively carnivals, and close proximity to the serene Cordillera Central mountains, Santiago is a captivating blend of history, tradition, and the everyday warmth of Dominican life—a city that welcomes all who wish to experience its dynamic essence. Small towns like Moca and La Vega offer charming stops where you can sample local dishes, explore local markets, and enjoy the laid-back ambiance of authentic island life.
If you choose to venture further afield, the route towards Jarabacoa provides some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the Dominican Republic. This highland region is known for its cool climate, pine forests, and outdoor activities such as rafting, hiking, and waterfall excursions. Driving along the winding roads of the Cordillera Central, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views, picturesque villages, and the sight of locals selling fresh fruits and vegetables along the roadside. It’s a journey that highlights the Dominican Republic’s diverse terrain and cultural richness.
Tips and FAQs
Reserving your rental car early ensures the best rates and availability, especially during peak travel seasons. Consider downloading offline maps or using GPS, as road signage may be limited in rural areas. Be prepared for tolls on some highways, especially if traveling toward Santo Domingo. Dominican drivers can have a relaxed approach to road rules, so stay alert and drive defensively. Before heading out, document any pre-existing damage on the rental car with photos to avoid disputes upon return.
Cibao International Airport (STI)
Number of Terminals: 1
Location of Car Rental Desks: Arrivals Hall
Distance to Nearest Fuel Station: Approximately 1 mile from the airport
Nearest City: Santiago
Major Roads: Autopista Duarte, Route 1
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