Orientation briefing in Jamaica

Europeans first saw Jamaica when Christopher COLUMBUS arrived in 1494, and the Spanish settled the island early in the 16th century. The Native Taino, who had inhabited Jamaica for centuries, were gradually exterminated and replaced with African slaves. England seized the island in 1655 and established a plantation economy based on sugar, cocoa, and coffee. The abolition of slavery in 1834 freed a quarter-million slaves, many of whom became small farmers. Jamaica gradually increased its independence from Britain. In 1958, it joined other British Caribbean colonies in forming the Federation of the West Indies. Jamaica withdrew from the Federation in 1961 and gained full independence in 1962. Deteriorating economic conditions during the 1970s led to recurring violence as rival gangs affiliated with the major political parties evolved into powerful organized crime networks involved in international drug smuggling and money laundering. Violent crime, drug trafficking, corruption, and poverty pose significant challenges to the government today. Nonetheless, many rural and resort areas remain relatively safe and contribute substantially to the economy.

Hurricane Melissa

Hurricane Melissa made landfall as a major hurricane in Jamaica in October 2025. All Western parishes suffered significant damage and some communities are still without electricity and piped water. In the worst affected areas, access to healthcare is limited, and there is still debris and standing water that carries health risks, including water-borne and mosquito-borne diseases.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and see support for British nationals abroad for information about specific travel topics.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Jamaica

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Jamaica, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Political situation   

Zones of Special Operations

The government can put enhanced security measures in place in response to outbursts of violence and shootings, such as a State of Emergency (SOE) or Zone of Special Operations (ZOSOs). A SOE or ZOSO will have specific boundaries and will temporarily give the police and military additional powers. These can include imposing curfews, cordons, searching of persons, vehicles, and places. Curfews can be imposed with little notice and are usually a short-term measure. Tourists and visitors are not usually affected by SOE or ZOZOs. Check locally whether any security measures or curfews apply and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Crowds and demonstrations

Protests and demonstrations occur across Jamaica and can cause significant disruption to traffic and public transportation. Any event with large crowds has the potential to turn violent, including large celebratory gatherings. They can also be used by criminals as cover for robbery and theft. Stay away from areas where protests, demonstrations or marches are taking place. Monitor local and social media updates.

Crime

Crime and homicide rates are high in Jamaica. Gang violence and shootings mostly occur in inner city areas. Tourist areas are not usually affected by gang-related crime and violence.

Be cautious particularly when travelling in and around:

• Kingston
• Spanish Town
• Savanna-la-Mar
• parts of Montego Bay including Flankers, Barrett Town, Glendevon, Rose Heights and Mount Salem

Protecting yourself and your belongings

The motive for most attacks on tourists is robbery. Take extra care in more run-down areas and those less visited by tourists.

 Be aware of your surroundings and:

• do not walk in isolated areas or deserted beaches, even during the day
• travel with others or go on a tour with a reputable company when possible
• be careful when withdrawing money from ATMs. Do not withdraw a lot of money at one time or use ATMs in badly lit areas. It is generally safer to use ATMs during daylight hours
• avoid using buses at night
• do not display valuables or leave them in your car
• consider removing expensive jewellery
• stay alert and be wary of people who approach you
• avoid walking at night 
• be aware that resisting a robbery could lead to a violent response, including the use of weapons, that could result in physical injury

Most hotels and resorts are well guarded, but burglaries can occur. Follow hotel security instructions, use hotel safes for your valuables, including your passport, and lock windows and doors. In residential accommodation ensure that proper locks and window grilles are fitted.

Rape and sexual assault  

Some British nationals have reported incidents of rape and sexual assault in tourist areas, including beach resorts. In many cases, the alleged perpetrator was someone the victim met socially, for example at a bar, hotel, beach or excursion.  

Although incidents are infrequent, simple habits such as increased awareness and extra precaution can greatly reduce risk:  

• avoid isolated areas, particularly at night  

• use reputable, licenced providers for services and excursions, including taxis. Carry out your own research and consult resort staff/your tour operator.  

• do not disclose personal information, accommodation/ room number or social media accounts to new acquaintances  

• if traveling solo, tell someone you trust (at home or at the hotel) where you’ll be and always ensure you have transport arrangements in place to get back to your hotel independently 

If you experience sexual harassment or assault, or if you feel threatened or unsafe, report it as soon as possible to hotel staff or your tour operator.  

You can also contact:  

• the British High Commission in Kingston on + 1 (876) 936 0700 

• the Centre for Investigation of Sexual Offences and Child Abuse (CISOCA). A dedicated police service providing safe and confidential investigative and emotional support to victims, on +1 (876) 926 4079 or use this email address [email protected]

Refer to the advice for women travelling abroad and our information page for victims of rape and sexual assault for further information.

Laws and cultural differences

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

It’s illegal to smoke marijuana (ganja) in Jamaica. There are penalties for all drug offences including those involving marijuana. For possession of amounts of up to 2 ounces you will get a fine of 500 Jamaican dollars, to be paid within 30 days. Severe penalties apply for all other drug related offences, including attempting to export narcotics.

All prison sentences are served in full in Jamaica. Prison conditions are harsh. Always pack your own luggage and do not carry anything through customs for someone else.

LGBT+ travellers

Male same-sex sexual activity is illegal, but the law is not always strictly enforced. The attitude of many Jamaicans towards same-sex relationships is hostile. Be mindful of local attitudes and be aware that showing affection in public may receive unwanted attention.

Take care when using dating apps in Jamaica, especially those used by the LGBT+ community. Criminals have used apps to lure victims to meet in a public place but later assault and rob them.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Transport risks

Travel to and from Norman Manley International Airport

There’s been sporadic violence in recent years in the Mountain View area – one of 2 routes between Kingston and Norman Manley International Airport. Most people take the Humming Bird route via South Camp Road to reduce the risk of being robbed on route.

British nationals have been tracked and robbed when travelling from the airport to their private accommodation. Be cautious when driving and getting out of the car.

Road travel    

If you are planning to drive, see information on driving abroad.

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Jamaica. If you still have a paper driving licence, you need to update it to a photocard licence. Your UK driving licence can be used to drive in Jamaica for up to 6 months.

If you are unfamiliar with Kingston, do not drive in the city. If you get lost, you and your passengers may be at risk.

Drink-driving is a serious offence in Jamaica. If convicted, you may get a fine and possible imprisonment.

Road conditions and driving standards

Many roads are badly maintained with poor signage. In some locations a 4-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended. Road accidents and fatalities are common. Roads in rural areas are often narrow and winding and poorly lit at night. Weather conditions can exacerbate poor driving conditions.

Driving standards vary. Lane discipline is poor.  Speeding and drink-driving is common. Many drivers do not have car insurance.

Drivers and front-seat passengers must wear a seatbelt at all times. However, hire cars and minibuses do not always have rear seatbelts.

Motorbike riders must wear a helmet.

Taxi safety

Use Jamaican Tourist Board (JTB) approved taxis and minibuses for excursions, airport transfers and sightseeing. Most hotels and resorts have assigned JTB drivers who carry photo ID and display a blue JTB sticker on the front windscreen. Taxi-hailing apps such as Uber are now available in some areas of the island (including Kingston).

Extreme weather and natural disasters   

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Hurricanes

Hurricane season is normally from June to November. We are seeing more uncharacteristic weather in Jamaica and the region is increasingly vulnerable to climate change impacts.

Hurricanes can cause fallen trees, damaged or blocked roads and flooding. Check your route in advance. Exercise caution in areas close to swamps, rivers, gullies and mangroves.

Monitor local news and check World Meteorological Association weather reports for Jamaica.

See Extreme weather and natural hazards for advice about how to prepare effectively and what to do if you’re likely to be affected by a hurricane.

Earthquakes

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 110 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Jamaica
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Jamaica.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Jamaica

The standard of medical facilities – both private and government-operated – varies and may not meet UK standards. Access to healthcare in the areas worst affected by Hurricane Melissa is limited, with some areas still operating field hospitals.

Treatment can be expensive with doctors and hospitals expecting immediate cash payment for health services.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Jamaica.

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Jamaica.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.