While Turks and Caicos is considered to be a generally safe tourist destination, the U.S. State Department does have a Level 2 travel advisory (exercise increased caution) active because of a rise in crime, primarily in Providenciales.
Many people recommend staying at a resort that has onsite security around the clock (like Beaches Turks & Caicos) rather than a vacation rental, if safety is a concern for you.
However, many tourists visit Turks and Caicos safely each year and you should be able to do the same by following some common sense safety precautions.
Also, know that it is illegal to bring firearms or ammunition into Turks & Caicos, even single bullets and even if you aren’t aware they’re in there, so be sure to check your luggage thoroughly. These laws are strictly enforced. There have been cases of tourists getting stopped at the airport and detained for small amounts of bullets that had been forgotten, with hefty fines and legal cases ensuing. If convicted there is a mandatory minimum of 12 years in jail for this offense. Drugs are also illegal and even small amounts can incur arrest, fines, and jail time.
Turks and Caicos Safety Tips
Drive safe
Note that driving in Turks & Caicos is on the left, as in the UK, so if you plan to rent a car be sure you know how to drive on the left. There have been increasing numbers of car accidents especially at night and on Leeward Highway in Providenciales, so drive carefully. Keep an eye out for wandering livestock, especially on Grand Turk. Street lighting is limited, particularly when not on the main roads.
Don’t walk alone
Avoid remote areas, walking alone, and walking around at night. It’s safest to travel in pairs or groups, but even then stick to the main tourist areas. Never tell anyone you meet where you are staying.
Don’t flash cash
Stay aware of your surroundings and don’t be flashy. Leave expensive jewelry at home and don’t carry a lot of cash.
Protect belongings
Hide valuables or store them in the hotel safe, and always keep an eye on your belongings when at the beach or a restaurant. If you rent a car, don’t leave anything in it and be sure to lock the doors.
Keep important documents and ID safe
Always keep a copy of your passport with you, rather than the original; leave your actual passport in your hotel safe or in a hidden spot at your rental. This will ensure that you have identification if needed, while keeping your original document safe. Also keep a copy of your driver’s license and credit cards in a safe location in case any of these are stolen.
Stay safe at your hotel
While in your hotel room or holiday home, keep the door locked, don’t answer the door without checking to see who it is, and be sure to lock the door when you leave. Keep anything valuable in the in-room safe or the hotel’s safe deposit box.
Take only licensed taxis
If taking a taxi, be sure to choose a licensed service instead of unregistered “jitneys” (it’s best to get a recommendation from your hotel) and settle on a fare with the driver before getting in. Most destinations in Turks and Caicos will have set fares.
Be careful if going out
Although it is recommended not to go out at night in Providenciales, if you go out to bars, take the usual precautions: don’t go alone—always in pairs or groups; stick to main streets and brightly lit areas, and always keep your eyes on your drink. If you consume alcohol, do so responsibly so you can stay alert.
Don’t resist robbery attempts
If you encounter someone trying to rob you, don’t resist. Fighting back could cause you to get injured. Give what you have, then get to a place of safety and report the crime to the local authorities.
Enroll in STEP
If you’re a US citizen, the State Department recommends you enroll in the Safe Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Get travel insurance
Purchase travel insurance that includes loss and medical benefits as well as evacuation assistance.
Pay attention to the weather
If you’re traveling during hurricane season (June to November), pay attention to the weather and be prepared to evacuate in the case of storms. You will definitely want to have travel insurance if you’re visiting during these months.
Use insect repellant
As a Caribbean island, there is a risk of mosquitoes carrying diseases such as dengue fever and Zika. Use a repellant with at least 20% DEET.
Additional Turks & Caicos safety tips on Reddit include:
- Stay in a secure resort as opposed to a standalone vacation rental
- Don’t do drugs
- Don’t take taxis
- Stay in Grace Bay/main touristy areas at night
