St Kitts and Nevis Travel Advice
St. Kitts and Nevis is a two-island nation located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. It is a stable, democratic country and a member of the British Commonwealth.
St. Kitts and Nevis is renowned for its scenic beauty, characterized by cloud-covered mountains and stunning beaches. Many of the islands' historic sugar plantations have been transformed into charming inns or preserved as atmospheric ruins.
The larger island of St. Kitts is dominated by the majestic Mount Liamuiga, a dormant volcano that boasts a stunning crater lake at its peak. Surrounding the volcano are lush rainforests, home to a diverse ecosystem that includes green vervet monkeys and a variety of tropical flora and fauna. The rainforests are also popular with visitors for their extensive hiking trails, offering a chance to explore the island’s natural beauty while enjoying panoramic views and the unique wildlife that thrives in this vibrant environment.
The island's rainforests are also popular for hiking, with trails crisscrossing the terrain, offering breathtaking views and access to diverse wildlife.
Politically, St. Kitts and Nevis enjoys peaceful relations and participates in regional organizations such as the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). The country maintains friendly international relations, particularly with the United States, the United Kingdom, and other Caribbean nations. It has not been involved in any major geopolitical conflicts.
St. Kitts and Nevis offers a Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, attracting foreign investment, but this has also drawn scrutiny over concerns related to financial transparency and risks of money laundering.
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Key Information for St Kitts and Nevis
Emergency Services
Police, Fire, Ambulance emergency: 999
Fire emergency: 999
Ambulance emergency: 999 (333 in Nevis)
Country Overview
Capital City: Basseterre
Official State Language(s): English and French
Official State Religion(s): Christianity (Protestantism)
State Currency: East Caribbean Dollar (EC$)
Current Capital Time:
How safe is St. Kitts and Nevis?
St. Kitts and Nevis is a two-island nation located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. It is a stable, democratic country and a member of the British Commonwealth.
St. Kitts and Nevis is generally considered a safe destination for both tourists and residents, with low levels of violent crime compared to many other Caribbean nations. The country experiences typical petty crime, such as theft and pickpocketing, particularly in tourist areas, but violent incidents targeting tourists are rare. The local police force is visible, especially in urban areas like Basseterre and Charlestown, and the government maintains strong efforts to ensure public safety.
Petty crime and scams:
Petty crime is the most common concern for tourists. Visitors should take standard precautions, such as securing personal belongings and avoiding isolated areas after dark.
Tourist scams in St. Kitts and Nevis are relatively rare, but visitors should be cautious of overpriced taxi rides, inflated prices at markets or for services, and fake tours or excursions offered by unlicensed operators. Additionally, while uncommon, credit card skimming can occur, so using cash for smaller purchases is advisable. It's always best to use trusted, reputable services to avoid potential scams.
Viloent crime:
While violent crime is relatively low, there have been occasional incidents in residential neighborhoods, but these generally do not affect tourists.
As of 2023, St. Kitts and Nevis recorded 31 murders, marking one of the highest annual totals in its history and placing the country among the top 10 globally for homicide rates per capita. The murder rate has been steadily increasing, particularly due to a rise in gun-related violence, and now stands at 65 per 100,000 people, making it one of the most violent countries in terms of homicide rates. Much of the violence is linked to gang and drug-related activity, with firearms playing a major role in these crimes.
Efforts by the government to curb crime, including previous successful programs like the PEACE Programme, have faced setbacks under recent leadership, contributing to the ongoing challenges with public safety. While tourists are rarely the direct targets of violent crime, the rising homicide rate is a significant concern for both locals and visitors.
Law enforcement is responsive, and crime is often localized rather than widespread.
Note: There has been incidents of discrimination towards the LGBT community on the islands, visitors are asked to respect all and not get involved in any hostile situations.
Natural Disasters:
The country is vulnerable to hurricanes, particularly from June to November, and travelers should be aware of seasonal weather risks. The government has preparedness measures in place for natural disasters, but storm damage can disrupt travel and infrastructure.
Health Emergencies in St Kitts and Nevis
Health emergencies in St. Kitts and Nevis are generally well-managed, but the islands face unique challenges due to their small population and limited healthcare infrastructure. While basic healthcare services are available, advanced medical treatments and specialized care can be harder to access. Here are some key health concerns:
Limited Healthcare Resources: While both islands have hospitals—Joseph N. France General Hospital in St. Kitts and Alexandra Hospital in Nevis; the facilities may lack certain advanced medical equipment or specialized treatments. For severe or complex medical cases, patients are often medically evacuated to nearby countries, such as the United States or Barbados, for more comprehensive care. This makes travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage essential for visitors.
Mosquito-Borne Illnesses: Due to the tropical climate, mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya are concerns, particularly during the rainy season when mosquito populations increase. The islands have public health initiatives in place to control mosquito breeding, but travelers should take personal precautions, such as using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing, to avoid bites.
Natural Disasters: St. Kitts and Nevis is located in the Caribbean hurricane belt, which makes it vulnerable to hurricanes, especially during the hurricane season from June to November. Severe storms can lead to injuries, flooding, and infrastructure damage, which may disrupt healthcare services. Travelers should monitor weather updates and follow local disaster preparedness protocols.
Waterborne Illnesses: Although the islands have good water quality in urban areas, it's advisable to drink bottled or boiled water in more rural or less developed regions to avoid potential waterborne illnesses, such as traveler’s diarrhea or other gastrointestinal issues. Basic food hygiene practices should also be followed.
Pharmacies and Medications: While pharmacies are available, they may not always have the same variety of medications found in larger countries. Travelers with specific medical needs should bring enough prescription medication for their stay, along with documentation.
Despite these challenges, St. Kitts and Nevis has made efforts to improve healthcare access, and most common medical needs can be addressed effectively. However, visitors are advised to take precautions and have a plan for more serious health issues that may require evacuation or specialized care.
FAQs for visiting St Kitts and Nevis
You can find the following embassies in St Kitts and Nevis for the US and UK:
There is no American Embassy in St. Kitts and Nevis, you will have to contact the Embassy in Barbados if you require consular assistance:
U.S. Embassy Barbados
Wildey Business Park,
Wildey,
St. Michael BB 14006,
Barbados, W.I.
Telephone: +1 246 227-4000
Email: [email protected]
There is no British Embassy in St Kitts and Nevis, you will have to contact the British High Commission in Barbados if you require consular assistance:
British High Commission Bridgetown
Lower Collymore Rock,
PO Box 676,
Bridgetown,
Barbados
Telephone: +1 246 430 7800
Email: [email protected]
Visa requirements for visiting St. Kitts and Nevis depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Here's an overview:
Visa-Free Entry: Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and most EU nations, can enter St. Kitts and Nevis without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Visitors must have a valid passport, a return or onward ticket, and proof of accommodation.
Visa on Arrival: Some travelers may be eligible to receive a visa on arrival at the port of entry, depending on their country of origin. This visa is typically granted for short-term stays.
Visa-Required Countries: Nationals of countries not eligible for visa-free entry must apply for a visa through a St. Kitts and Nevis embassy or consulate before traveling. The visa application typically requires a valid passport, completed application form, proof of travel, and sometimes a letter of invitation if visiting friends or family.
Extended Stay Visa: If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, or for purposes like study or employment, you may need to apply for an extended stay visa or permit.
It’s always recommended to check with the nearest St. Kitts and Nevis embassy or consulate or the official government website for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements specific to your nationality.
Before visiting St Kitts and Nevis, it's essential to ensure you're up to date on several vaccinations and immunizations to protect against potential health risks. Here are the recommended vaccines:
Routine Vaccinations: Make sure you're up to date on standard vaccines, including:
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP)
- Polio
- Influenza
Hepatitis A: This is recommended for all travelers, as you can contract Hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in St Kitts and Nevis.
Hepatitis B: If you plan to have close contact with local residents or engage in activities that may expose you to bodily fluids, such as healthcare work, this vaccine is recommended.
Typhoid: Particularly advised if you're traveling to rural areas or eating outside of major tourist hubs where food hygiene may be less regulated.
Rabies: While not common in urban centers, rabies vaccination is recommended if you plan to engage in outdoor activities, such as hiking or camping, or if you expect to be in close contact with animals.
It's always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to St Kitts and Nevis, to ensure you're fully protected based on your specific health history and travel itinerary.
Public Transportation in St. Kitts and Nevis
If you plan to drive in St. Kitts and Nevis, here are the main points to consider:
Foreign Driving License:
Visitors can drive with a foreign license, but you will need to obtain a temporary local driving permit to do so. This permit can be purchased from the Traffic Department or through car rental agencies upon arrival.
The temporary driving permit is usually valid for 3 months.
Driving Conditions:
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, a practice inherited from British influence.
Roads are generally in good condition in the main towns, but in more rural areas, they can be narrow and winding. Drivers should be cautious, especially in more remote areas where road maintenance may be lacking.
Car Rentals:
Renting a car is a popular option for tourists who want more flexibility. Major car rental companies are available on both islands, and rentals typically include help in securing a local driving permit.
Conclusion: While public transportation exists, many visitors prefer to rent a car for convenience. If you're planning to drive, remember to obtain a local permit and drive on the left.
Our closest office
For any enquiries about our security services in St Kitts and Nevis, please contact our London office and our team will assist you.
Intelligent Protection International
330 High Holborn
WC1V 7QT
London
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 207 4566740
Email: [email protected]
Disclaimer
You are responsible for your own safety abroad and for making the decision to travel. The information contained in this Travel Advice for St Kitts and Nevis is provided for information only.
Whilst care is taken to ensure that this country brief is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, it is provided on an “as is” basis without any representation or endorsement made and without warranty of any kind, express or implied. Intelligent Protection International Limited does not assume responsibility and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.