Essential information for Jamaica

When to go

December to March is the high season in Jamaica, serving up warm, sunny days and very little rainfall throughout the country, except in the northeast. It may become chilly in the evenings, particularly in the mountainous areas.

April and May are good months to visit as the tourist trade is slightly less full-on with more varied weather and little to no intense heat on the beach. This quieter season is also the ideal time to source cheap holidays to Jamaica.

From June to November, you can expect some storms and more unpredictable weather conditions. A number of tourist destinations and attractions close their doors and the beaches are virtually uninhabited for the most part.

Health and safety

As with any holiday, you should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover yourself and family on your trip. If you’re visiting Jamaica specifically to take part in sports or watersports, including hiking, you should make sure your insurance covers this. See our holiday extras page for more information and for the latest health and safety information visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/jamaica/health

It is recommended that you contact your GP to find out if you will require any vaccinations before visiting Jamaica. Also, take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes whenever possible, such as using a repellent.

Passports and visas

British citizens don’t need a visa to enter Jamaica but must have a valid passport. Visitors are usually granted entry for a maximum of 90 days, and your required departure date should be stamped in your passport upon arrival.

By law, you must carry your passport with you and may need to show it when paying by credit card. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/jamaica/entry-requirements

Getting around

‘Contract Carriages’, or Licensed Taxis, are the most popular private transportation method for people on holiday in Jamaica. Check for the red PPV licence plates for authenticity, and share with a friend if you can to make the rates more affordable.

Buses operate in more built up areas like Kingston, while coaches take people to resorts and beaches. On average tickets cost JMD $100, but students, children, disabled passengers and pensioners often pay half price.

Advice for travellers with children

There are a number of different hotels to choose from when on holiday in Jamaica, All Inclusive resorts with kid’s clubs being one of them. Many such resorts also offer splash parks and children’s entertainment. Negril is particularly suitable for families with lots of things to do and a big beach. Ocho Rios and Montego Bay are also very family friendly. Whether in or out of resorts, most restaurants in Jamaica are child-friendly, and some are able to offer high chairs or children’s menus.

Electricity

Connector type: American two pin connector

Voltage Info: 110-120v at 50 hz

Emergency information

For the general emergency services directory call 110. This is the equivalent of the British 999 service.

British Consulate

If you’re a victim of crime or affected by a crisis overseas, or if something happens to a relative or partner contact the British Consulate in Kingston.

Address: PO Box 575, 28 Trafalgar Road, Kingston 10, Kingston, Jamaica

Telephone: +1 (876) 936 0700

Hospitals

There are over 30 hospitals in Jamaica, the main one being the general hospital in Kingston.

Address: Kingston Public Hospital, North St, Kingston, Jamaica

Telephone: +1 (876) 922 0210

Departure tax

Departure tax will be included in the total cost of your holiday starting on or after 1st May 2019 with TUI and First Choice holidays.