St Vincent and the Grenadines travel guide
About St Vincent and the Grenadines
Scattered across the Caribbean Sea like so many emeralds, St Vincent & the Grenadines is a glorious-looking archipelago. The country’s name makes it sound like an old soul band, and aptly there’s something timeless about the place. Lush mountain peaks, white sands, secluded coves, volcanic landscapes and spectacular coral reefs all go towards making this one of the region’s most diverse spots. For hikers, sailors and those who just fancy kicking back in wave-lapped sunshine for a week or two, it’s some proposition.
The country, which found Hollywood fame when it was used as a setting for the Pirates of the Caribbean films, is made up of 32 islands and cays. St Vincent itself is by far the largest, and has a laid-back capital city, Kingstown, to show for it. Colonial architecture, botanical gardens and a fish market are among the attractions. The latter hints at the dishes that dominate the archipelago’s food scene – fresh seafood, usually washed down with a cold Hairoun beer, is a speciality. Elsewhere on St Vincent there’s some fantastic walking to be had, most notably the trail that leads up to La Soufrière volcano.
The smaller islands that make up the Grenadines offer an even quieter pace of life. Among the most appealing spots are Bequia, which has good claim to that overused adage “the Caribbean as it used to be,” and Mustique, a long-established A-list bolthole that has welcomed the likes of Mick Jagger, Kate Moss and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
The best way to experience the outlying islands is to hop between them by boat, and the country as a whole has near-legendary status in the yachting community. The most obvious focal point on a sailing trip is the stupendously scenic Tobago Cays, which is made up of five uninhabited islands and offers excellent potential for divers and snorkelers.
Key facts
389 sq km (150 sq miles).
109,644 (UN estimate 2016).
263.8 per sq km.
Kingstown.
Constitutional monarachy.
HM King Charles III since 2022, represented locally by Governor-General Dame Susan Dougan since 2019.
Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves since 2001.
Travel Advice
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
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.
Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.
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.
This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in St Vincent and the Grenadines set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact St Vincent and the Grenadines’ High Commission in the UK .
COVID-19 rules
There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Passport validity requirements
To enter St Vincent and the Grenadines, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Importing food
Because of foot and mouth disease, you will need an import licence if you bring any food to the island.
Visa requirements
You do not need a visa to visit St Vincent and the Grenadines.
On entry, you will be granted a period of 6 months. To stay longer, you must apply and pay for an extension from the St Vincent Immigration Department.
It’s illegal to stay longer than the period allowed or to work without a work permit.
Vaccination requirements
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s St Vincent and the Grenadines guide.
Depending on your circumstances, this may include a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Customs rules
There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of St Vincent and the Grenadines. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
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 abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
Terrorism in St Vincent and the Grenadines
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in St Vincent and the Grenadines, attacks cannot be ruled out.
Crime
Protecting your belongings
Most visits are trouble-free, but there have been crimes including murder, robbery and assault.
Take precautions such as:
- avoiding isolated areas, including beaches, after dark
- keeping valuables secure and out of sight
- making sure your accommodation is secure, including if you’re staying on a yacht
Do not carry large amounts of cash or jewellery. If possible, leave valuables and travel documents in a safety deposit box or hotel safe.
Carnival
St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Vincy Mas carnival takes place in early July. Theft and opportunistic crime may increase during carnival. Only use licensed taxis and take particular care at late-night street parties.
Drink spiking
Do not leave drinks unattended. You should:
- be cautious at crowded events
- have a clear plan to get home safely after an evening out
Laws and cultural differences
Illegal drugs and prison sentences
There are severe penalties for all drug offences. Pack your own luggage and do not carry anything through customs for anyone else.
Laws on clothing
It’s illegal for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing.
LGBT+ travellers
Attitudes towards the LGBT+ community are mostly conservative throughout the Caribbean. LGBT+ travellers should be aware that showing affection in public may attract unwanted and negative attention. Some homosexual acts are illegal.
Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
Outdoor activities and adventure tourism
Swimming safety
Some beaches may have strong undercurrents known as riptides. Not all beaches have lifeguards or flag warning systems. Make sure you follow any local advice.
See more information on safe swimming on ABTA’s swim safe webpages.
Transport risks
Road travel
If you’re planning to drive in St Vincent and the Grenadines, see information on driving abroad.
You must get a local temporary driving licence. Car hire companies will usually help with this process. You must show a valid UK driving licence to get your temporary licence.
Driving standards
You should:
- watch out for potholes and speed bumps
- take care on minor roads where there can be very steep drops with no safety barriers
- watch out for blind corners on narrow roads
- keep car doors locked when driving – do not stop if you’re flagged down by pedestrians
If you’re involved in an accident, call the police and do not move the vehicle. If the accident happens at night in a remote area, drive to the nearest police station.
Be aware that:
- pedestrians often walk on the roads
- drivers do not always use indicators
- some roads are unlit at night
- road signs and hazards may not be visible
- taxi vans make random stops
Taxis
Taxis are not metered. There are set fares for most destinations. Agree the fare in local currency with the driver before you set off. You can often pay in US dollars instead of East Caribbean dollars.
Extreme weather and natural disasters
Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
Hurricanes
The hurricane season in the Caribbean runs from June to November. Monitor local and international weather updates from the World Meteorological Organization and the US National Hurricane Center and follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders.
Earthquakes
Earthquakes are a risk. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.
Volcanic eruptions
The last explosive eruption of La Soufrière volcano on St Vincent was in 2021.
You should also monitor the alert level of the underwater volcano Kick ‘em Jenny, located 5 miles off the coast of nearby Grenada. Keep out of maritime exclusion zones and follow the advice of local authorities if there is increased volcanic activity or an eruption.
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 911 and ask for an ambulance.
Contact your insurance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Vaccinations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip check:
- vaccination recommendations in TravelHealthPro’s St Vincent and the Grenadines guide
- health risks in TravelHealthPro’s St Vincent and the Grenadines guide
- where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
To avoid mosquito-borne viruses, such as dengue and Zika virus, take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
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.
The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad.
Healthcare facilities in St Vincent and the Grenadines
The main government hospital can cope with many types of treatment but serious cases may need emergency evacuation.
FCDO has a list of doctors in St Vincent and the Grenadines.
There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in St Vincent and the Grenadines.
Travel and mental health
Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
Emergency services in St Vincent and the Grenadines
Telephone: 911 or 999 (ambulance, fire, police)
Ambulance: 911
Police: 999 or landline 457 1211
Contact your travel provider and insurer
Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
Refunds and changes to travel
For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
- where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
- how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim
Support from FCDO
FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
- find lawyers and funeral directors in St Vincent and the Grenadines
- dealing with a death in St Vincent and the Grenadines
- being arrested or imprisoned in St Vincent and the Grenadines
- getting help if you’re a victim of crime
- what to do if you’re in hospital
- if you’re affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack
Contacting FCDO
Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
You can also contact FCDO online.
Help abroad in an emergency
If you are in St Vincent and the Grenadines and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British High Commission in Barbados, which provides consular assistance for St Vincent and the Grenadines.
FCDO in London
You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
