last edited Dec 11, 2019
Health and Safety in Jamaica
Official Recommendations
In France, both for individuals and professionals, the "travel advice" from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding precautions for each country has legal value. A similar online travel advice system exists in several countries:
Health
As always, it's best to be up to date with your vaccinations, even if nothing is officially required to enter the country.
Diseases
Jamaica doesn’t pose major health risks, though dengue fever and, more recently, chikungunya—both spread by mosquitoes—are present, as in many parts of the Caribbean. However, there is no malaria on the island.
For protection, the best approach is to use a good repellent, cover your arms and legs at dusk when mosquitoes are most active, and bring an impregnated mosquito net if you’re sleeping in a place without air conditioning or airflow.
Hygiene
As always, good personal and especially food hygiene is essential if you want to "eat local." So, outside of hotels, avoid tap water, which isn’t reliably safe everywhere, and steer clear of dishes or foods that don’t seem fresh—if only to avoid traveler’s diarrhea. Of course, remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, and don’t forget to wash your hands regularly.
Healthcare Facilities on Site
Safety
Crime and Delinquency
Jamaica has a relatively high crime rate, the highest in the Caribbean, largely due to drug trafficking and the presence of numerous gangs. Theft and assaults against tourists do occur, and many neighborhoods in Kingston, Montego Bay, and especially Spanish Town (the worst!) should be avoided day and night. That said, crime is primarily urban, and risks are much lower in rural areas (or within hotel zones). It’s wise to stay cautious in cities, use official taxis, avoid flaunting wealth, and use hotel safes. Also, steer clear of deserted beaches, isolated spots, and solo hikes. When in doubt, ask your hotel staff for advice. But, as often, with a bit of common sense and basic precautions, you can enjoy a peaceful stay.
As for ganja, the local (and quite potent) herb, it’s part of Rastafarian culture and Jamaican society more broadly. However, its production, possession, and use are illegal and strictly enforced, particularly for foreigners.
Scams and "Tourist" Harassment
Beyond dealers selling all kinds of ganja, the main harassment visitors may face comes from Jamaicans—known as hustlers—who stick to tourists in popular areas and around hotels, doing whatever it takes to extract money from visitors. This is a real issue that has started to negatively impact tourism, prompting the Jamaican government to launch an anti-harassment campaign in 2015. Claiming to be non-English-speaking can help shake them off; otherwise, firmly (but not aggressively) decline their advances.
Socio-Political Risks
Jamaica has experienced periods of socio-political tension in the past, but things are much calmer today.
Climate, Nature, and Animals
Foreign Consulates on Site
If you run into trouble while traveling abroad, your country’s consular services can assist you. Also, if you’re an EU citizen and your country isn’t represented, you can turn to any other EU member state’s consulate.
France
Consulate General: 13 Hillcrest Avenue, Kingston 6. Tel.: +1 876 946 4000.
Belgium
Consulate General: 6 St Lucia Avenue, Kingston 5. Tel.: +1 876 754 7903.
Canada
High Commission of Canada: 3 West Kings House Road, Kingston 10. Tel.: +1 876 926 1500.
There is also a Canadian consulate in Montego Bay: 29 Gloucester Avenue, Montego Bay. Tel.: +1 876 632 0371.
Switzerland
Consulate General: c/o Swiss Stores Ltd., 107 Harbour Street, Kingston. Tel.: +1 876 948 9656.