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4,682 mi away
£1 JMD 214.86
Today
5:27 am
-5h from you
Weather & climate
Weather in Jamaica
Jamaica
30°
Moderate drizzle
Sat
21°
30°
Sun
22°
31°
Mon
22°
31°
Tue
22°
30°
Wed
21°
30°
Thu
21°
31°
Fri
23°
32°
SPF level in Jamaica
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 Jamaica
What British travellers need to know
You do not need a visa to visit Jamaica and will usually be granted entry for up to 90 days, with the departure date stamped in your passport.
Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay and have two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
You must complete the Immigration and Custom Form C5 online where possible before you arrive in Jamaica.
If you want to extend your stay beyond the permitted 90 days, you must apply to the Jamaican Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency.
You must have a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are arriving from a country listed as a transmission risk.
Good to know:
Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is $10,000 US dollars or more on your C5 form.
It is illegal to bring meat and dairy products into Jamaica, as they will be destroyed if found.
Safety in Jamaica
Tips when travelling
Jamaica is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Do not walk in isolated areas or deserted beaches, even during the day.
Be careful when withdrawing money from ATMs and avoid using them at night.
Do not display valuables, leave them in your car, or wear expensive jewellery.
Avoid walking at night and be wary of people who approach you.
Use hotel safes for your valuables, including your passport, and lock windows and doors.
Bonus tips:
Drink-driving is a serious offence which may result in a fine and possible imprisonment.
It is illegal to smoke marijuana and penalties apply for all drug offences.
Stay connected on your trip
More information
Driving in Jamaica
A valid UK driving license is accepted for up to three months. After this period, you will need an international driving permit or a Jamaican driving license.
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
110 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.035%
Health in Jamaica
While Jamaica doesn't have a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK, it's crucial to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including emergency treatment and repatriation. Make sure your policy covers the activities you plan to participate in, such as water sports.
No vaccinations required
It is recommended to consult your GP or a travel health clinic for the most up-to-date advice on vaccinations and health precautions for Jamaica. Dengue fever, chikungunya and zika virus are risks, so take mosquito bite prevention measures. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are accepted at many businesses in tourist areas, but cash is more common elsewhere.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1096
Tipping in Jamaica
Tipping is customary in Jamaica for good service. While not mandatory, it's a common way to show appreciation.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill
Bar/Café
10-15% of the bill
Taxi
10-15% of the fare, or round up
Hotel Porter
100-200 JMD per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
100-200 JMD per day
Tour Guide
10-15% of the tour price
Mobile & roaming
Roaming charges can be high in Jamaica. Check with your UK mobile provider for specific rates and consider purchasing a local SIM card for cheaper rates. EU roaming agreements no longer apply post-Brexit; standard international roaming rates apply.
Local SIM
5GB for 1500 JMD (~£8)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Electrical in Jamaica
Voltage
110V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B
UK adapter needed
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, restaurants, and cafes, especially in tourist areas. However, the speed may vary.
Average speed
10 Mbps
Free WiFi is sometimes offered, but you may need to pay for access. Internet speed may be slower compared to the UK.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
119
Ambulance
110
Fire
110
Save 119 in your phone before travelling.
Calling Jamaica
Country code
+1-876
To call the British High Commission in Kingston from the UK, you would dial 00 1-876 510 0700.
To call Jamaica dial 00 1-876, then the local number. Mobile coverage is generally good in populated areas.
Languages in Jamaica
UK Embassy
British High Commission Kingston
28 Trafalgar Road, Kingston 10, Jamaica
Phone
Website
Recent updates
Safety and security
2 days ago
Safety
- Advice for rape and sexual assault now specifically mentions incidents involving British nationals in tourist areas, including beach resorts.
- Provides new, specific preventive advice: avoid isolated areas at night, use reputable service providers, do not disclose personal details to new acquaintances, and inform someone of your plans when solo.
Airports in Jamaica
Beaches in Jamaica
Frequently asked questions
Most visits to Jamaica are trouble-free, but petty crime, including theft, is common, especially in tourist areas. Be vigilant, avoid walking alone at night, and safeguard your valuables. Exercise caution in certain areas of Kingston and Montego Bay.
British citizens do not typically need a visa to enter Jamaica for tourism purposes for stays up to 90 days. You will need to show a valid passport with at least six months validity remaining, and a return or onward ticket.
The best time to visit Jamaica is generally during the dry season, from December to April. The weather is sunny and warm, with lower humidity. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices.
Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for Jamaica's tropical climate. Pack t-shirts, shorts, skirts, and swimwear. For evenings or visits to more formal establishments, consider packing some smart-casual attire. Swimwear should be reserved for the beach or pool.
While tap water is treated, it is generally recommended to drink bottled water in Jamaica, especially if you have a sensitive stomach. Bottled water is readily available in shops and hotels. Avoid ice in drinks unless you're sure it's made from purified water.
Be wary of unsolicited offers of assistance, as these can lead to scams. Common scams include overpriced taxi fares (agree on a price beforehand), vendors selling fake goods, and attempts to lure tourists to secluded areas. Remain vigilant and trust your instincts.
The official currency is the Jamaican Dollar (JMD), but US dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors and tipping. Check exchange rates before you travel.
Jamaican cuisine is flavorful and diverse. Be sure to try jerk chicken or pork, ackee and saltfish (the national dish), curried goat, and bammy (cassava flatbread). Street food is popular, but exercise caution and choose vendors with good hygiene practices.
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.