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4,089 mi away
£1 EC$3.68
Today
6:29 am
-4h from you
Weather & climate
Weather in Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda
29°
Light drizzle
Sat
24°
29°
Sun
24°
30°
Mon
25°
28°
Tue
25°
30°
Wed
25°
30°
Thu
26°
30°
Fri
26°
30°
SPF level in Antigua and Barbuda
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Before you go
Entry requirements for Antigua and Barbuda
What British travellers need to know
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your arrival date.
You do not need a visa and can stay for a maximum of 90 days.
You must be able to show proof of an onward or return ticket to enter.
You can use the ArriveAntigua.com website within 72 hours of travel to speed up entry, though it is not mandatory.
Most airlines include departure tax in their flight costs, but you should check this if flying with regional airlines.
Good to know:
You must declare any goods that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty on entry.
You must have a yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from a country listed as a transmission risk.
Safety in Antigua and Barbuda
Tips when travelling
Antigua and Barbuda is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Avoid isolated areas, including beaches, particularly after dark.
Take particular care around large gatherings, including street and beach parties, especially after dark or during the festival season.
Do not carry large amounts of cash or jewellery and leave valuables in a hotel safe.
It is illegal to smoke in public places and you may face arrest for doing so.
Take care when swimming as currents can be strong and not all beaches have lifeguards or warning flags.
Bonus tips:
It is illegal for anyone to dress in camouflage clothing.
Agree the taxi fare in local currency with the driver before you set off, as taxis are not metered.
Stay connected on your trip
More information
Driving in Antigua and Barbuda
A valid UK driving license is accepted for a limited period. An international driving permit is recommended.
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
65 km/h
Urban speed limit
40 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Health in Antigua and Barbuda
It's important to ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, for the duration of your trip to Antigua and Barbuda. Check that your policy covers all planned activities. While Antigua and Barbuda doesn't participate in the GHIC/EHIC scheme, comprehensive travel insurance is crucial.
No vaccinations required
Consult your GP or a travel clinic for the latest health advice and recommended vaccinations for Antigua and Barbuda. Dengue fever, chikungunya virus and zika virus are present, so take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as using repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and staying in air-conditioned accommodation. Tap water is generally considered safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended for those with sensitive stomachs.
Cards & payments
Card payments are widely accepted in tourist areas, hotels, and larger establishments, but less so in smaller shops and local markets.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1096
Tipping in Antigua and Barbuda
Tipping is appreciated in Antigua and Barbuda for good service. While not always explicitly expected, it is a customary way to show appreciation.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill
Bar/Café
10% of the bill, or a small amount for good service
Taxi
10% of the fare, especially for assistance with luggage
Hotel Porter
1-2 XCD per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
2-5 XCD per day
Tour Guide
10-15% of the tour price
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply. Check with your UK mobile provider about roaming charges in Antigua and Barbuda. Roaming charges can be high, so consider local SIM options for longer stays.
Local SIM
5GB for 135 XCD (~£40)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Electrical in Antigua and Barbuda
Voltage
230V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B
UK adapter needed
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes in tourist areas. Coverage may be limited in more remote areas.
Average speed
25 Mbps
WiFi is generally accessible in tourist hotspots. Mobile data is an option, but can be expensive without a local SIM. Average speed listed is suitable for basic browsing and streaming, but connection quality can vary.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Calling Antigua and Barbuda
Country code
+268
To call the British High Commission in St John's from the UK you would dial 00 1 268 462 0008.
The country code for Antigua and Barbuda is 1-268. When calling from abroad, dial your country's exit code, followed by 1-268, and then the local number. Mobile phone coverage is generally good across the islands.
Languages in Antigua and Barbuda
UK Embassy
British High Commission St John's
Coolidge Corporate Complex Sir George Walter Highway St John's Antigua
Phone
Website
Recent updates
Airports in Antigua and Barbuda
Beaches in Antigua and Barbuda
Frequently asked questions
British citizens do not need a visa to enter Antigua and Barbuda for tourism purposes for stays up to six months. You will need to have a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay, and a return or onward ticket.
Antigua and Barbuda is generally a safe destination, but petty crime can occur. Take precautions against theft, especially in tourist areas and at night. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas and keep valuables out of sight. Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
The best time to visit Antigua and Barbuda is during the dry season, which runs from mid-December to mid-April. The weather is typically sunny and warm with lower humidity. This period avoids the higher rainfall and potential for hurricanes during the wet season (June to November).
While tap water is generally considered safe, it's often recommended to drink bottled water, especially if you have a sensitive stomach. Bottled water is readily available in shops and restaurants throughout the islands.
Light and breathable clothing is ideal for the tropical climate of Antigua and Barbuda. Pack swimwear, shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses. If you plan to visit churches or more formal establishments, it's advisable to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Evening temperatures can be pleasant, but a light sweater or wrap may be useful.
As with any tourist destination, be aware of potential scams. Common scams include inflated taxi fares and unsolicited offers of assistance with luggage. Agree on a taxi fare before starting your journey and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited services. Protect your belongings and be cautious when using ATMs.
The official currency of Antigua and Barbuda is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). US dollars are widely accepted, but you may receive change in XCD. Credit cards are accepted in many establishments, particularly in tourist areas, but it is always good to have some local currency for smaller purchases.
Taxis are readily available, but it's a good idea to agree on a fare before you start your journey. Rental cars are also available, providing more flexibility to explore the islands at your own pace, but be aware that they drive on the left. Local buses are a cheaper option, but they can be less reliable and may not serve all areas.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.