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Cabo Rojo Travel Guide

Updated April 2024 ,  Cabo Rojo Travel Guide was originally written in March 2016

Cabo Rojo was by and far my favorite destination In Puerto Rico (aside from beautiful little  Culebra  of course). Cabo Rojo truly is Puerto Rico off the beaten path, located on a stretch of rugged coastline in the southwest corner of the island.

With not another tourist in sight, we enjoyed the beaches of Cabo Rojo which seems to only really be known by locals. Learn everything you need to know to plan your visit in this Cabo Rojo travel guide!

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Cabo Rojo Quick Tips

• Rent A Car:  The easiest way to get around the island of Puerto Rico, in general, is by renting a car.
• Visas:  Puerto Rico is a part of the USA and thus many travelers will need a visa or an ESTA. Check out the  US gov website  to find out if or what sort of visa you may need to visit. US citizens only need to show a real ID compliant driver’s license/ID card to enter Puerto Rico.
• Weather:  November-April is the best time of year to visit Puerto Rico with the driest weather. April and May are great months as the winter crowds will have died down. June-September has wetter and stormier weather.
• Language:  Spanish and English are widely spoken in Puerto Rico.
• Money:  Puerto Rico uses the US Dollar.
• Avoid Holiday Weekends:  Weekends, in general, are busy with locals in Cabo Rojo, but holiday weekends can be quite crowded.
• Download A Map:  Map.me and Google Maps will help you navigate this section of Puerto Rico more easily.
• Mobile:  If you have a US carrier SIM card your phone should work as it would anywhere else in the USA.

Looking for more ideas for Puerto Rico? Don’t miss the beautiful island of  Culebra

Where To Stay

There aren’t a lot of options for accommodations around Cabo Rojo. If you want to book affordable beachfront cabins in nearby El Combate Beach and get $20 off your next Airbnb booking  click here .

BOHO Beach Club in Boqueron |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Copa Marina Sea Resort & Spa |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |

How To Get To Cabo Rojo

Although Google Maps will tell you 2.5 hours to reach Cabo Rojo from San Juan, expect to take longer because it is an absolutely gorgeous drive.

As you leave San Juan you’ll climb up into the mountains where it becomes lush and green and rainforest-y. Then as you pop out the other side of the mountains it starts to look arider as you get closer to Ponce. You’ll know you’ve reached Ponce because of the giant letters as you come up to it.

After you leave Ponce you’ll start to get glimpses of the turquoise sea below as you continue to decline further into some beautiful green farmlands before reaching Cabo Rojo.

Where To Go In Cabo Rojo

Las Salinas Salt Flat & Wildlife Refuge

Yes, Puerto Rico has salt flats and pink lakes! There is a small visitor center with information on the flora and fauna in the refuge. Across the road from the visitor center there is a lookout where you can see out over the pink lakes.

If you are into birding this is a must-see, over 40,000 birds from North and  South America  will come here every winter.

Just a little further down the road, you can go walk around the salt mines where you’ll see pyramids of salt among pink ponds. The water gets its pink color because of the evaporation of water from the hypersaline pools and from organisms in the water, the same organisms responsible for flamingos’ pinkness.

Looking for more salt flat action? Check out  Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia Love pink lakes? Check out  Maharloo Lake, Iran

La Playuela

This thin arc of white sand between the cliffs just below the Los Morillos Lighthouse is the perfect place to lay in the sun all day.

Los Morillos Lighthouse

Perched up on the red cliffs of Cabo Rojo in which Cabo Rojo, meaning ‘red cape’ got its name from. You can go inside the lighthouse (if it’s open). From up on the cliffs you’ll have stunning views of Bahia Salinas and La Playuela below.

Heading to the USVI? Check out  Trunk Bay, St. John

El Combate Beach

This long, thin beach seems to go on forever, located just north of Cabo Rojo. It can get crowded in the small town of Combate near all the restaurants and bars, but if you head far enough in either direction you can find a nice quiet spot.

I have read reports of Combate Beach being dirty and strewn with garbage, but I did not find it to be too bad on my visit. With that said, we stayed on the part of Combate slightly north of the town (and by slight, I mean less than a mile). I can’t say about the stretch of Combate Beach that is the most frequented. The beach is slightly more pebbly and darker in color compared to La Playuela.

Because of Cabo Rojo’s position on Puerto Rico’s west coast you are in prime sunset gawking location. We were told by some locals back on  Culebra  that this was where we needed to head for the best in Puerto Rican sunsets. They were pretty, though not quite on par with my favorite Indian Ocean sunsets in Gili Trawangan and Socotra, I’ll let that slide seeing that they were some of the best we did see while in the  Caribbean .

Boqueron is home to calm nice beaches in a bay of the same name. Note that many accommodations in Boqueron still haven’t re-opened after the devastation from Hurricane Maria, but the beach is still worth visiting.

Isla Ratones

Isla Ratones is a gorgeous little island off the coast but unfortunately closed after the destruction of the pier during Hurricane Maria. If the island does re-open, you can take a boat from Joyuda Beach to Isla Ratones for $25 roundtrip (holding up to four passengers).

Where To Eat

Take your pick in the Combate Beach area, there were plenty of restaurants and cars serving up Puerto Rican food. Empanadas, mofongo, tostones, local seafood… it’s all good. Even on the way to Las Salinas, there are a few restaurants. If you’re planning to spend your day hanging out at La Playuela and the cliffs around Cabo Rojo I recommend packing a picnic lunch for the day.

What To Pack

• Microfiber Towel
• Camera /Phone

Normal precautions should be enough to keep safe in Cabo Rojo, but Puerto Rico, in general, does have a high rate of crime. The Cabo Rojo area did suffer the wrath of Hurricane Maria and has slowly been coming back life since.

Have Any Questions About Visiting Cabo Rojo?

Ask in the comments section below.

More Posts from Puerto Rico:

Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico Travel Guide

The Ultimate Culebra Travel Guide

3 thoughts on “cabo rojo, puerto rico travel guide”.

The salt flats are hardly pink anymore. Nor is there a visitor center. It is shut down and locked up. However, the views from the lighthouse are phenomenal!

Great introduction to Cabo Rojo! It does look like a nice place to relax.

Thanks Mary, I loved Cabo Rojo, it was a nice get away from the already popular Puerto Rico stops.

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Cabo Rojo Unveiled: Dominican Republic's Coastal Jewel

Cabo Rojo is one of the most beautiful places on the south coast of the Dominican Republic, about twenty kilometers from Pedernales and 120 km from Barahona. Located near Bahia de las Aguilas, it is one of the province’s most popular beaches.

Its name comes from the abundant bauxite in the surroundings, and it remained closed for years. Access to Cabo Rojo is not as easy as other tourist destinations in the Dominican Republic due to the lack of tourist investment in the area and its semi-pristine conditions. However, these conditions add to the place’s allure, ensuring that once you reach the beach, you experience complete immersion in nature. Visits are regularly conducted in the region, but some prefer to approach the area in a particular way.

Cabo Rojo’s crystal-clear waters stand out as the best-preserved coral reefs in the Caribbean Sea region. From the shore, the beach exhibits an intense turquoise blue. The coasts are favorable areas for the West Indian manatee, an endemic species of the Dominican Republic, and for the nesting of hawksbill turtles. Pelicans also abound along its shores in impressive flocks.

The inhabited areas consist of a typical fishing village. Full of picturesque wooden houses, it is common to see fishermen at work from the shore. It is the perfect place for ecotourism and to enjoy nature in its most natural state.

Things to do in Cabo Rojo

Cabo Rojo is a hidden gem on the south coast of the Dominican Republic. This coastal paradise is not just about pristine beaches; it offers a myriad of experiences for those seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and a deep connection with nature. Let’s explore the top things to do in Cabo Rojo for an unforgettable getaway.

• Discover Playa Bahia de las Aguilas: Start your Cabo Rojo adventure with a visit to Playa Bahia de las Aguilas, one of the most breathtaking beaches in the region. Enjoy the powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
• Snorkeling and Diving Adventures: Dive into Cabo Rojo’s underwater wonders with snorkeling and diving expeditions. Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, and discover the magic beneath the surface of the turquoise waters.
• Relaxation and Wellness: Unwind and rejuvenate in Cabo Rojo’s serene atmosphere. Consider yoga on the beach, spa treatments, or simply lounging in a hammock with the sound of the waves as your backdrop.
• Jaragua National Park: Exploring Jaragua National Park offers a diverse range of activities for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those interested in cultural exploration. Here are some things to do in Jaragua National Park: 
• Hiking Trails: Embark on scenic hikes through the park’s diverse landscapes. Trails like the Los Cerros de Enriquillo offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, while the El Quita Espuela trail takes you through dry forests teeming with unique flora and fauna.
• Beach Bliss at Bahia de las Aguilas: Visit Bahia de las Aguilas, a pristine and secluded beach within the park. With its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, it’s a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the untouched beauty of the Caribbean coastline.
• Bird Watching: Jaragua is a paradise for bird watchers. Bring your binoculars and explore the park’s diverse habitats to spot a variety of bird species, including flamingos, herons, and the endangered Ridgway’s Hawk.
• Explore Caves and Taino Rock Art: Delve into the park’s cultural heritage by exploring limestone caves adorned with ancient Taino rock art. These petroglyphs offer a fascinating glimpse into the indigenous history of the Dominican Republic.
• Wildlife Safari: Take a wildlife safari to encounter the park’s diverse fauna. Keep an eye out for Rhinoceros Iguanas, an endangered species that finds refuge in Jaragua, along with other reptiles, mammals, and marine life.
• Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the marine wonders of Jaragua by snorkeling or diving in the clear waters. Discover vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the elusive West Indian manatee in designated areas.
• Boat Tours to Isla Beata: Embark on a boat tour to Isla Beata, an island just off the coast of Jaragua. This excursion offers a chance to relax on pristine beaches, explore coastal ecosystems, and experience the charm of a less-visited island.
• Fishing Expeditions: If you enjoy fishing, consider joining a local fishing expedition. The coastal waters around Jaragua National Park are rich in marine life, providing a rewarding experience for fishing enthusiasts.
• Photography Safari: Capture the beauty of Jaragua’s landscapes, wildlife, and cultural sites through a photography safari. The park’s diverse scenery provides ample opportunities for stunning shots.
• Camping and Stargazing: For a truly immersive experience, camp within the park and witness the breathtaking night sky. Jaragua’s remote location ensures minimal light pollution, creating a perfect setting for stargazing.
• Laguna de Oviedo: Offers a range of activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here are some things to do in Laguna de Oviedo:
• Boat Tour: Embark on a boat tour to navigate the tranquil waters of Laguna de Oviedo. Knowledgeable guides will provide insights into the lake’s biodiversity, including bird species and other wildlife.
• Bird Watching: Laguna de Oviedo is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Bring binoculars to observe a variety of bird species, including flamingos, herons, and pelicans, against the picturesque backdrop of the lake.
• Flamingo Observation: Witness the graceful presence of flamingos, a prominent resident species in the lagoon. Capture stunning photographs of these elegant birds as they wade through the shallow waters.
• Mangrove Exploration: Explore the mangrove forests surrounding the lake. Take a guided tour to learn about the importance of mangroves in supporting marine life and protecting the shoreline.

Remember to check with local authorities or park rangers for any guidelines or restrictions before engaging in certain activities to ensure a respectful and responsible visit to Jaragua National Park.

Conclusion: Cabo Rojo is a destination that goes beyond the ordinary, offering a tapestry of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you seek adventure, cultural immersion, or relaxation, Cabo Rojo invites you to create memories that will last a lifetime. Pack your sense of adventure and embark on a journey to discover the magic of this coastal haven.

Dive into Paradise: Exploring the Best of Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic

Cabo Rojo’s underwater world stands as a diver’s paradise, boasting some of the Caribbean’s best-preserved coral reefs. Home to West Indian manatees and hawksbill turtles, the sea bottom teems with vibrant marine life. Dive into this unique experience, whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner eager to learn. Classes are available for novices, drawing thousands each year to explore the mesmerizing depths.

As you submerge into the sea, marvel at the delicate coral formations. Exercise caution not to touch them, as their fragility requires protection. Opt for reef-safe sun protection to contribute to the preservation of these underwater wonders.

Encounter the grandeur of hawksbill turtles, a protected species admired for their underwater grace. As we strive to safeguard their existence, participating in responsible diving practices becomes paramount. Cabo Rojo, with its rich marine life and pristine waters, promises an immersive journey into the wonders of the Caribbean’s underwater realm.

Navigating Paradise: A Guide on How to Get to Cabo Rojo, Pedernales

Cabo Rojo in Pedernales, Dominican Republic, beckons with its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and underwater wonders. To embark on this tropical adventure, it’s crucial to plan your journey wisely. In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to reach Cabo Rojo, ensuring your arrival is as seamless as the turquoise waters that await.

Choosing Your Starting Point: Before you set out on your journey to Cabo Rojo, decide on your starting point. The capital, Santo Domingo, is approximately 300 kilometers away and serves as a common departure city.

By Air: Cabo Rojo Airport is a coastal airport situated along the Caribbean in the Dominican Republic, approximately 16 kilometers southeast of the town of Pedernales.

By Car: Renting a car provides flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore the stunning scenery at your own pace. The journey from Santo Domingo takes approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, offering the chance to witness the changing landscapes as you approach Cabo Rojo.

By Taxi: For those preferring a more relaxed journey, hiring a taxi is a comfortable option. Taxi services are available in Santo Domingo, providing a hassle-free ride directly to Cabo Rojo. While it may be a bit pricier than other options, the convenience is worth considering.

By Bus: Public buses do operate in the Dominican Republic, but it’s important to note that they don’t offer a direct route to Cabo Rojo. Buses from Santo Domingo typically terminate in Barahona. From there, you’ll need to hire a taxi for the remaining 123 kilometers to reach Cabo Rojo. While this option is more economical, it may be less convenient, especially if you’re carrying a lot of luggage.

Navigating the Last Stretch: Cabo Rojo’s charm lies in its remoteness, making the final leg of your journey an adventure in itself. The roads wind through picturesque landscapes, revealing the untouched beauty of the region.

Conclusion: Getting to Cabo Rojo in Pedernales is a journey worth taking. Whether you choose the flexibility of a rental car, the convenience of a taxi, or the adventure of combining bus and taxi travel, the destination promises an immersive experience. As you approach Cabo Rojo, the anticipation builds, setting the stage for a tropical getaway that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and the allure of the Caribbean’s hidden gems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cabo Rojo in Pedernales is unique for its pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and untouched natural beauty. It offers a tranquil escape away from more touristy areas, providing a genuine and immersive experience.

To reach Cabo Rojo from Santo Domingo, you can either rent a car for a scenic 4-hour and 45-minute drive or hire a taxi. Public buses are also available, but they typically end their journey in Barahona, requiring a taxi for the remaining 123 kilometers.

Cabo Rojo has the domestic Cabo Rojo Airport (CBJ)  and also  travelers can fly into Maria Montez International Airport in Barahona and then drive or take a taxi to reach Cabo Rojo.

Cabo Rojo is known for its incredible white sand beach, mangrove exploration, and the stunning Bahia de las Aguilas. The area is also famous for its red-hued paths, named after the mineral bauxite.

Absolutely. Cabo Rojo is a paradise for diving enthusiasts. The sea bottom features some of the best-preserved coral reefs in the Caribbean, and the area is home to West Indian manatees and hawksbill turtles.

Yes, Cabo Rojo offers cultural experiences, particularly in the nearby fishing villages. Visitors can interact with locals, observe traditional fishing practices, and gain insights into the authentic way of life in this coastal region.

The dry season, from November to April, is considered the best time to visit Cabo Rojo, offering ideal weather conditions for beach activities and outdoor exploration. However, the shoulder seasons of May-June and September-October provide fewer crowds and pleasant weather for a more tranquil experience.

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9 Things to See in Moscow's Red Square

 Sir Francis Canker/Getty Images

In most cases, you'll be entering Red Square from the north, passing landmarks such as the Bolshoi Theatre and Duma parliament building as you make your way southward. Although you don't necessarily have to pass through the Voskresensky (or Resurrection in English) Gates in order to gain access to the square these days, they definitely provide a sense of arrival, to say nothing of the way their left arch frame's St. Basil's Cathedral if you look from just the right angle.

An interesting fact is that while a gate of some kind has stood here since the mid-16th century, the one you currently see wasn't built until 1994, having been destroyed in 1931 so that tanks could enter and exit Red Square during military parades.

St. Basil's Cathedral

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

Few sights are as iconic not only of Moscow and Red Square but indeed of Russia than St. Basil's Cathedral, whose colorful, onion-shaped domes are a symbol of the country around the world. Officially known as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, this church has stood since 1561, which is quite miraculous when you consider all the turbulent history that has transpired since then.

Among other things, religion was severely prohibited during the Soviet period , which led some to believe that this emblem of the Russian Orthodox church might not withstand the tenure of the USSR. 

An interesting fact is that St. Basil's is the so-called "Kilometer Zero" of Russia; all of Moscow's main roads (which can take you anywhere in Russia) begin at the exits to Red Square. In this way, St. Basil's iconic status also has an extremely tangible element.

The Kremlin

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

When you think of The Kremlin, it's unlikely that positive images enter your mind. The fact that simply saying the word "Kremlin" is too vague a descriptor (most Russian cities have their own Kremlin complexes; you should say "Moscow Kremlin") notwithstanding, this misunderstood place is incredibly beautiful, even if you don't like the policy that comes out of it.

Senate Square

In spite of its name, which refers to the role the building that rises above the square played during Imperial Russia, Senate Square is actually home to Russia's presidential administration, currently helmed by Vladimir Putin. In order to see where Russia's legislature operates from, walk just outside Red Square to the Duma parliament building.

Dormition Cathedral

Dating back to the year 1479, the gold-domed Dormition Cathedral pays homage to an Orthodox religious feast that commemorates the death of the Virgin Mary . As is the case with St. Basil's, it is curious that such a conspicuously religious structure was able to survive through the Soviet period.

Armoury Chamber

Though it takes its name from the fact that it housed Russia's royal arsenal when it was built in the 16th century, the most notable resident of the Kremlin's Armoury Chamber today is the Russian Diamond Fund.

Notable Kremlin Towers

Robert Schrader

The interior of the Moscow Kremlin is more beautiful and inviting than you'd expect, but the walls and towers that rise around it better live up to the intimidation with which the complex is associated. 

Borovitskaya Tower

Named to commemorate the dense forest that once stood atop the mount where it's built, this tower is extremely picturesque. Built in the late 15th century, it's visible from most places in the square, and also as you walk along the Moskva River.

Nikolskaya Tower

Also built in the year 1491, this tower currently suffered destruction at the hands of Napoleon's army in the 19th century. What you see now is the result of an 1816 re-design and renovation, though artillery fire during the Russian Revolution also caused superficial damage to the tower, named to honor St. Nikolas of Mozhaysk , so it's difficult to know which elements of it are original.

Spasskaya Tower

Known in English as the "Savior's Tower," this iconic, star-topped tower is perhaps the best-known of all the Kremlin's towers. Built in 1491 like the other two towers on this list, it's certainly the most photographed. As a result of its proximity to St. Basil's, it often makes its way into tourists' pictures.

Mausoleum of Lenin

Just as it's strange to learn how many religious monuments survived through the Soviet period, it's a bit odd to think that Lenin's preserved body still sits in a mausoleum just beneath the walls of the Kremlin on Red Square, given the lack of consensus about the ultimate impact of his Revolution, even in Russia.

It's not guaranteed that you'll be able to see the body (which, believe it or not, seems to be improving with age ) when you go, and if you do you will likely have to wait in line, but even strolling past the outside of the Lenin Mausoleum, flanked by stone-faced guards that almost look like statues, illuminates the gravity of his body still being here.

GUM Shopping Center

You might cringe, at least initially, when you realize that one of the most iconic stops on a tour of Red Square is a department store—until you see said department store, that is. Built in 1893 and known during Soviet times as the State Department Store, GUM  ( Glávnyj Universáľnyj Magazín​ or Main Universal Store in English) hearkens back to the grandeur of the late 19th century, both seen from the outside (especially, when lit up at night) and the interior, which might have you feeling like you're further west in Europe.

A trip inside GUM is a particularly good idea during winter, when frigid temperatures outside will have you savoring the heat, the quality of souvenirs, confections and other goods sold inside notwithstanding. Also, make sure not to confuse GUM with CDM, which sits near the Bolshoi Theatre, even though both are stunning and iconic in their own right.

State Historical Museum

The Russian State Historical Museum is located near Voskresensky Gates, though you should wait until after you've seen the first few attractions of Red Square and the Kremlin to head back there and go inside. To be sure, as you pass by its facade (whose late-19th century grandeur somewhat obscures that fact that it's currently a museum accessible to the public) you might not even think to try and gain entry.

Once inside the museum, you can plan to spend at least a couple of hours, given that artifacts here date back to the very beginning of the Russian state in the ninth century. As is the case with GUM, this will be a particularly alluring prospect if you visit in winter, when Moscow is arguably at its most beautiful, but certainly at its least tolerable. 

Minin-Pozharsky Monument

It's somewhat easy to disregard this monument, which pays homage to the two Russian princes who ended the so-called "Time of Troubles" in the mid-16th century, during which Polish-Lithuanian forces occupied Russia, among other awful things including a famine. That's because the statue currently sits just at the base of St. Basil's Cathedral, which makes it very difficult to photograph or even see without being overwhelmed by that much more famous edifice.

Though the statue originally sat at the very center of Red Square, it came to be an obstacle to the movement of tanks during the Soviet period, much like the Voskresensky Gates. As a result, authorities moved it during that time, and it's stayed where you currently find it ever since.

Kazan Cathedral

Taken by itself, the smokey-pink Kazan Cathedral is an architectural marvel; originally built in the 17th century, the church you find here today, located just north of the GUM department store, dates back only to 1993.

Unfortunately, since it sits not only in the shadow of GUM, but also in the shadow St. Basil's and the Towers of the Kremlin, it's easy to miss entirely if you aren't looking. As a result, you might wait until you've seen just about everything else in Red Square before coming here to take photos, and to appreciate the understated beauty of this oft-overlooked cathedral.

Moskva River

As you head south from St. Basil's Cathedral to exit Red Square, make sure to walk onto Bolshoy Moskvoretskiy Bridge, which crosses the Moskva River. If you look due north, you can get an excellent shot of the church framed, on the left, by the towers of the Kremlin. Directing your gaze a bit to the west allows you to see the skyscrapers of Moscow City as they rise above the Kremlin's walls.

Walking westward along the riverbank is also a worthwhile excursion, for the views it provides of Red Square and the Kremlin, as well as the fact that doing so takes you to other iconic Moscow attractions, including Gorky Park and the Pushkin Museum. The views you enjoy from the river and the bridge are particularly stunning at night, though you should make sure you bring a tripod if you want to get a clear picture, given how strong winds over and near the river can be.

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Is it possible to visit Russia as a tourist right now? (Q&A)

Who can enter Russia as a tourist?

At present, people from 80 countries can enter Russia. There are two main conditions: first, one must be a citizen of that country or have a permanent residence permit; and second - one needs to enter Russia by plane. The primary document that regulates entry during the coronavirus pandemic is Order no. 635-r (March 16, 2020), which is regularly updated. 

Some of the countries on the list include the United States, Britain, Greece, Germany, Tunisia, Israel, Japan, Armenia, Qatar, Portugal, Mexico, Croatia, Belgium, China, France, Denmark, New Zealand, Iran, Peru, Norway and Argentina. Click here for the full list. 

In the meantime, any country with which Russia currently has a travel agreement can serve as the port of departure (however, the transit country must be on the above list).

What type of visa is required?

Those who already have a valid Russian visa - and citizens of the above countries - can enter Russia using that visa. Those who do require a visa can submit their documents at the Russian consulate in their home country.

What is still not possible at this point is obtaining a unified electronic visa (a type of visa that is valid for up to 16 days, takes only four days to process and does not require submitting any documents relating to the purpose of visit). Therefore, in order to receive a regular tourist visa (valid up to six months) it is necessary to have a confirmed accommodation booking or an agreement with a travel agency.

Is a COVID test required?

Yes, PCR tests must be performed no earlier than 48 hours before arriving in Russia. The results must be printed in Russian or English (this is required even if you received a Sputnik-V vaccine shot). If you’re flying with children, they, too, must obtain a test, irrespective of age. And a form for arrivals must be filled in before entering the country.

Who is not affected by the rules? 

These restrictions don’t apply to foreigners with a valid Russian residence permit or those with close relatives. They can enter Russia from any country using any means of transportation, including by land.

They also do not apply to partially recognized republics of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, as well as citizens of Belarus (or those with Belarusian permanent residence permits), Kazakhstan and citizens of the Donetsk and Lugansk national republics. Entering by land is also possible when traveling from Mongolia or China. 

Furthermore, if Eurasian Economic Union citizens cross over by land, they don’t have to submit a coronavirus test or fill out the arrivals form. 

Is vaccination required? 

No. The QR codes required for visiting public gatherings before spring (including cafes, bars, hotels, etc.) are no longer required in the majority of regions. The same goes for various other COVID restrictions: regions have the final say, but almost all have been lifted.

What about masks?

Masks are also no longer a requirement. However, some regions still require people to wear masks in some places, including stores, pharmacies, shopping malls, movie theaters and so on. In Moscow, the rule on masks has been completely lifted, while, for example, in Kaliningrad, some places still enforce them. 

Are there any quarantine regulations in place?

No, you will not be required to quarantine on arrival to Russia. However, if you get sick in Russia, you will have to be quarantined for a period of seven days at your own expense. Those who have come in contact with infected people do not require quarantining (provided they did not contract the coronavirus). 

Important! In many countries, there are still restrictions on LEAVING for the purpose of tourism, so having a Russian visa does not guarantee you will get permission to leave your country. This must be clarified before making any trips.

The information listed here is valid as of June 1, 2022. 

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.

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Everything you need to know about... Marcos Rojo

Manchester United seem to have a new left-back. Or is Marcos Rojo a left-sided centre-back? Ask Louis van Gaal... or Tom Kundert...

The 60-second story

Full name Faustino Marcos Alberto Rojo

Born La Plata, Argentina, 20 Mar 1990

Height 6ft 1.5in

2008-11 Estudiantes  43 apps (3 goals)

2011-12 Spartak Moscow 8 (0)

2012-14 Sporting 49 (5)

2011- Argentina 28 (1)

Marcos Rojo's journey from Argentina to Manchester United has been neither simple nor smooth. Lured in December 2010 from hometown club Estudiantes to Spartak Moscow, the then 20-year-old struggled – and a summer 2012 switch to Sporting Lisbon began in similar style. 

Rash tackling, suspect positioning and an over-belligerent approach made him a liability at centre-back in his initial displays. Although he looked far more comfortable on the few occasions he was used at left-back, he made a full contribution to literally the worst season in the club’s 106 years of existence. 

But in 2013/14, a rejuvenated Sporting finished second, and the night-and-day transition from the previous season was perfectly reflected on an individual level by the Argentine defender. Without losing his bristling aggression, Rojo showed he was intelligent enough to learn from his mistakes and was the club’s most improved player. 

He became a pillar and a leader at the centre of defence, utilising his lightning pace to make endless timely interventions. He also became a potent goal threat with his powerful aerial game and thunderous left-foot shot, scoring six goals during the season – before impressing again at this summer's World Cup in Brazil.  

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Why you need to know him

Because he's signing for Manchester United. Marcos Rojo is a player perfectly suited to the unmatched physicality and pace of Premier League football. “I always liked English football. I’m sure I’ll adapt quickly to the style of play,” Rojo said yesterday. 

His attributes back up that belief. Pacy and powerful, there is no doubt the Argentine will be up to the physical demands of English club football. 

Two of Rojo’s foremost assets are his speed and strength. He is also excellent in the air, posing a real threat in the opposition box at set pieces. He has a wonderful left foot which he uses to good effect, firing off thunderous shots and delivering dangerous crosses from the left flank. While the way he forced his move out of Sporting left an unpleasant taste, on the pitch there was never any doubting his commitment was absolute. 

He was the best left-back among the four World Cup semi-finalists"

Without being a malicious player, Rojo can be reckless in his efforts to get to the ball first, flying into tackles, as attested by 27 yellow cards and five reds in two seasons in Portugal. He has improved this facet of his game considerably, but there is still work to do: he managed to pick up a suspension after just four matches at the World Cup. When playing at centre-back, he has a tendency to be pulled out of position. 

They said...

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone: “Rojo won the hearts of the Argentines at the World Cup. He was very good both attacking and defending. [Alejandro] Sabella put his trust in him and he responded really well. He had an excellent World Cup and was the best left-back among the four semi-finalists.”

Did you know?

Rojo was the only Argentine named in the Castrol Index Top 11 for the Brazil World Cup.

Dribbling 6

Creativity 5

Work-rate 7

What happens next?

Opinion is very much split regarding whether or not Rojo’s move to Manchester United will be a success. The defender would appear to have the perfect assets to fit on the left of Louis van Gaal’s desired three-man defence: experience at both left-back and centre-back, pace to burn to cover for lack of numbers, accurate short and long-distance distribution, and unstinting energy and staying power. 

He will have to work hard on his positioning and some growing pains are to be expected as he learns the new system, but just as at the World Cup, he could well prove the doubters wrong and do well at Old Trafford.

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