Turks and Caicos are British-controlled islands in the Caribbean, south of the Bahamas. They have beautiful beaches, clear water, abundant marine life, luxury resorts, and fine dining. Turks and Caicos are safe destinations if you take the same precautions as in any major metropolitan area.
Latest news and safety updates on traveling to Turks and Caicos:
US Travel Advisory
On July 17, 2022, the U.S. State Department issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory statement urging Americans to use caution when traveling to the islands. American tourists are not specifically targeted for crimes; however, crimes of opportunity do occur. These crimes include theft, burglaries, and violent crimes, such as armed robbery, rape, and murder. The islands have limited criminal investigative capabilities.
Canada Travel Advisory
The Canadian government’s travel advisory for the Turks and Caicos Islands, updated on January 15, 2024, advises travelers to take normal security precautions. The advisory highlights concerns about petty crime, including theft from rental vehicles, muggings, and armed assaults, particularly in tourist areas and Providenciales.
It also warns of home break-ins and assaults at private villas, urging visitors to stay in secure accommodations and take safety precautions. The advisory further includes precautions regarding spiked food and drinks, demonstrations, road safety, and public transportation.
UK Travel Advisory
The UK government’s travel advice for the Turks and Caicos Islands, as of November 23, 2023, recommends caution due to the potential for petty crime and emphasizes the importance of travel insurance.
The advisory notes that there is no British diplomatic or consular representation in the territory and that the hurricane season runs from June to November. While there is no recent history of terrorism, the possibility cannot be ruled out. Travelers are advised to monitor updates and follow local authority guidance, especially during hurricane season.
October 17: Turks and Caicos engulfed by gang warfare, says Foreign Office report
The Turks and Caicos Islands are currently experiencing significant gang-related violence, according to a report from the UK Foreign Office. This situation has led to an increased risk for both residents and visitors in the region. The report emphasizes the urgent need for awareness and caution due to the escalating gang warfare. For more details, you can read the full article on The Guardian’s website here.
Crime in Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos have about the same crime as most U.S. metropolitan areas. Travelers should use common sense and avoid providing opportunities to potential criminals. Armed robbery of villas in remote areas is a particular problem.
Common scams in Turks and Caicos
The most common scam against tourists on the islands is taxi overcharging. To avoid this:
- Settle a fee upfront before taking the ride.
- Specify that the fee covers all riders; a common scam is multiplying the fee times the number of riders but only telling you this once you arrive at your destination.
- Do your homework and research appropriate taxi fares before you go.
You can rent a car if you are comfortable driving on the left. Beware of taxis and buses because they often speed and ignore traffic signs.
Hurricanes
Hurricanes are rare in the Caribbean. If they occur, they do so between June and November. The island also has many hurricane shelters where you can flee if the weather worsens.
Health Care
Turks and Caicos have two hospitals that can handle non-life-threatening conditions. Severe medical conditions will require air evacuation. The U.S. State Department recommends insurance that covers medical evacuations.
Safety measures to keep in mind when visiting Turks and Caicos
- Avoid isolated rental villas because they are more often targets of armed robberies than hotels in populated areas that have safety measures.
- Avoid leaving valuables unattended in public places like beaches or hotel lobbies.
- Avoid going out alone. Instead, go out with companions, especially at night, and avoid unsafe venues.
- Avoid ostentatious displays of jewelry or cash.
- Use only clearly marked taxis and do not accept rides with strangers.
- Avoid leaving drinks unattended in public areas. Unattended drinks allow the use of “date rape” drugs.
- Use caution when attending crowded events or shopping in crowded areas.
- Stick to well-lighted areas.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Only carry what you need and avoid having a lot of cash.
- Avoid parking cars downtown or on the beach, as they present opportunities for vandalism and theft. Avoid placing valuables in sight in your car, and be sure your rental insurance policy covers window breakage.
- Avoid picking up hitchhikers, including lone women. Lone women hitchhiking are often part of a larger scheme.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to notify the embassy and receive information.
Why visit Turks and Caicos?
The islands offer a relaxing paradise experience close to home for U.S. tourists. Some of the key attractions are:
- Grace Bay Beach, which has won countless awards.
- Cockburn Town, the capital of Grand Turk, and the site of many historical buildings.
- Wonderful weather. The islands average 350 days a year of sunshine.
- A perfect snorkeling and diving playground.
- Mangrove channels that allow the opportunity to see a variety of marine and avian life via kayak or paddleboarding.
- The Turks and Caicos National Museum that features more than 700 years of artifacts.
- Cheshire Hall, which features nature and history