Turks & Caicos Travel Tips

The Turks & Caicos Islands is one of those locations that most people have heard of but really do not know much about. It is a laid back country much like the Family islands of Bahamas, its immediate neighbor.

The country is made up of two island groups, one named the Turks and the other Caicos. The two groups are separated by about 20 miles of water. However, it is a deep trench and it helps provides the islands nutrient rich waters to create intense reefs and is a pathway for pelagic marine life. The combination gives this small country outstanding diving.

In this page you will find practical information to plan a scuba diving trip to Turks & Caicos:

Where to stay?

There are 40 islands and cays that make up the country. These eight islands: Providenciales (Provo), Grand Turk, Salt Cay, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos, East Caicos, and West Caicos are the only ones inhabited. There are three other islands referred to as the boutique islands that are wholly occupied by a resort. These are Pine Cay, Ambergris Cay and Parrot Cay.

Most of tourist infrastructure are on Providenciales (Provo), Grand Turk, Salt Cay, and the three boutique islands. The first three are also where most of the dive operators are located.

There are a few outstanding liveaboard operators that sail from the islands.

Activities and excursions in Turks & Caicos

The leading attraction for the Turks & Caicos Islands is scuba diving. The outstanding diving conditions attract divers of all skill levels from around the world.

Snorkeling is also an important activity here. Water sports and sports fishing are another set of activities that tourist come here to explore. For those less active, there are always the great beaches. One aspect of the island living is the outstanding selection of local foods. The cuisine of the Turks & Caicos Islands has many of the same attributes of Caribbean foods with their own twist and local variations.

Best time to visit Turks & Caicos

Let’s start with the fact that the Turks & Caicos Islands average 350 days of sunshine a year.

Year round the temperature does not from below 80 degrees (27 degrees Celsius) in the winter it may reach 84 degrees (29 degrees Celsius). Summer temperatures reach 90 degrees (32 degrees Celsius) and may hit the mid 90’s (35 degrees Celsius). Water temperatures 74 to 78 degrees (23-26 degrees Celsius) in the winter and in the summer it is 82 to 84 degrees (28-29 degrees Celsius).

Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30th, however, the islands are outside the main track area.

Health and Safety

There are two main hospitals in the Turks and Caicos Islands. One is located on the Providenciales Island and the other on Grand Turk Island. These are managed by InterHealth Canada and are accredited by Accreditation Canada International. Each of the inhabited islands except Salt Cay have medical clinics.

The islands have a low crime rate and are considered safe. However, low crime does not mean no crimes and normal safety precautions should be taken.

If you are planning an upcoming dive trip or travelling to Turks & Caicos, it is a really good idea to invest in travel insurance for scuba diving, because you never know what could happen and when you might need it (because accidents do happen!). I recommend this diving insurance as they offer worldwide coverage and focus on providing scuba divers a quality insurance and medical assistance service.

Where is Turks & Caicos located in the world?

The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of 40 islands and cays, of which only 8 are inhabited. The islands are located some 550 miles southeast of Miami, Florida, just below the Bahamas chain, and together they form the Lucayan Archipelago. Technically, the Turks & Caicos are located in the Atlantic Ocean, but they are globally acknowledged as a Caribbean destination.

How to get to Turks & Caicos?

The Turks & Caicos Islands have 8 airports. Providenciales International Airport (PLS) and Grand Turk JAGS McCartney International Airport (GDT) are international airports with immigration stations. However, only Providenciales International Airport has regular scheduled international flights serviced by seven international airlines. Grand Turk JAGS McCartney International Airport (GDT) is used primarily as a domestic service and for private international arrivals.

Do I need a visa for Turks & Caicos?

According to the Turks & Caicos government website, citizens of the countries list below are not required to obtain a visa before coming to the country. A passport and proof of ongoing transportation is required. Entry is valid for 90 days.

Anguilla, Argentina, Aruba,
Australia, Austria, Bahamas,
Barbados, Belgium, Belize,
Bermuda, Bonaire, Brazil,
Bulgaria, Canada, Cayman Islands,
Chile, China, Costa Rica,
Croatia, Curacao, Cyprus,
Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica,
Ecuador, Estonia, Finland,
France, Germany, Gibraltar,
Greece, Grenada, Guyana,
Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland,
Ireland, Israel, Italy,
Japan, Korea (ROK), Latvia,
Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg,
Macau, Malta, Mexico,
Monaco, Montserrat, Netherlands,
New Zealand, Niue, Norfolk Island,
Norway, Oman, Panama,
Poland, Portugal, Qatar,
Romania, Russia, St Helena,
Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Singapore,
Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands,
South Africa, Spain, St Kitts and Nevis,
St Lucia, St Vincent, Surinam,
Sweden, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago,
UAE, United Kingdom, United States,
Venezuela.

Citizens of countries not on the list require a visa and should consult their local British Embassy or consulate for details.

Getting Around

Getting around the islands is not overly difficult, but there is a lack of public transportation. In some places, taxis are available, but these are very expensive and do not have meters. Rental cars are the best option for visitors that wish to roam around the islands. However, most tourists will find everything they need on site, wherever they stay at, or at walking distance.

Between islands the tourist has the option to fly or by boat. There are 8 airports, so the tourist destinations are covered. Ferry service between the main islands are the most frequent means of travel. Privately chartering a boat is also possible.

The Turks & Caicos Islands provides divers and water sport enthusiasts with a experienced not easily matched.

Turks & Caicos Photos

Scuba diving

You will find all information about sea life, best time to visit, top dive spots, etc. in our review: Turks & Caicos Diving