Airport Guide

El Catey Samaná International AirportAZS

The small gateway to the Samaná Peninsula — serving Las Terrenas, Las Galeras, and Santa Bárbara de Samaná.

Who arrives here?

AZS is used by eco-travelers, expats based in Las Terrenas, and visitors arriving for whale watching season (January–March), when humpback whales gather in Samaná Bay. Flights are mostly charter and seasonal — this airport suits travelers who have specifically chosen the Samaná Peninsula as their destination.

What to expect on arrival

1
Deplaning
AZS is a very small airport. You will walk directly from the aircraft to the terminal building in a matter of minutes.
2
Immigration
Present your passport and e-ticket QR code. With low passenger volumes, immigration is typically fast — often under 10 minutes.
3
Baggage claim
The baggage area is compact. Luggage arrives quickly. There is minimal waiting infrastructure, so be prepared to move promptly.
4
Customs declaration
Submit your customs declaration (part of the e-ticket process). Proceed through the green channel if you have nothing to declare.
5
Exit and transport
The arrivals area is very small. Your pre-arranged pickup will be waiting outside. If you have no transfer booked, options are extremely limited.

Getting to your destination

Pre-arranged hotel pickup

Varies by hotel and distance

The most reliable option at AZS. Very few taxis wait at this airport, so coordinate directly with your accommodation before you arrive.

Best for: All travelers — strongly recommended

Rental car

From ~$40 USD/day

A small number of rental agencies operate at AZS. Renting gives you flexibility to reach Las Terrenas, Las Galeras, or Santa Bárbara on your own schedule.

Best for: Independent travelers exploring the peninsula

Shared van (transfer service)

$15–$30 USD per person

Some transfer companies offer shared van services from AZS to Las Terrenas and other peninsula towns. Book in advance online.

Best for: Budget travelers with flexible timing

Private taxi (limited)

$30–$60 USD depending on destination

Taxis occasionally wait at the airport, but availability is unreliable especially on low-traffic days. Do not count on finding one without a booking.

Best for: Backup option only

Practical tips

✓Have your e-ticket QR code ready before joining the immigration line.
✓Confirm your flight is operating well in advance — AZS schedules are limited and subject to change.
✓If no direct flights are available, Santo Domingo (SDQ) is about 3 hours by road and has far more connections.
✓Whale watching season runs January through March — book both flights and transport early during this period.
✓The airport has minimal amenities; bring snacks and water for your onward journey.
✓Las Galeras is 1.5 hours from the airport — factor that into your arrival plan.

Common mistakes to avoid

✕Arriving without a pre-arranged transfer — there are almost no taxis at AZS.
✕Booking flights without first confirming the route operates on your travel dates (seasonal schedules apply).
✕Expecting standard airport services — AZS is very basic with limited food, ATMs, and waiting areas.
✕Forgetting the e-ticket QR code required for immigration.

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Other airports

Punta Cana (PUJ) →Santo Domingo (SDQ) →Santiago (STI) →Puerto Plata (POP) →La Romana (LRM) →La Isabela (JBQ) →