Jamaica : Safety by City
Jamaica, a vibrant island nation in the Caribbean, has long been a magnet for travelers seeking sun, culture, and adventure.
Located south of Cuba and west of Haiti, it’s the third-largest island in the Caribbean.
Jamaica’s landscape is stunningly diverse—think white-sand beaches, lush mountains, and cascading waterfalls—all providing a dream setting for iconic films like Cocktail and Dr. No.
Its cultural legacy is just as rich.
The Taino people first inhabited Jamaica before European colonization brought centuries of conflict and slavery.
After gaining independence from Britain in 1962, Jamaica developed a global identity through music, with reggae legend Bob Marley becoming a national icon.
Tourism has flourished, with resort hubs like Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios bringing visitors by plane and cruise line.
Attractions like Dunn’s River Falls and Seven Mile Beach are perennial favorites.
However, outside tourist areas, crime has risen over the years due to economic hardships and gang violence.
Despite these challenges, Jamaica remains a beloved destination.
Its irresistible mix of natural beauty, music, cuisine, and warm, resilient people continue to enchant visitors from around the world.
However, before you start humming One Love, we need to have a serious talk about safety.
Warnings & Dangers in Jamaica
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
Jamaica poses a medium risk overall due to crime in certain areas, though tourist zones with heightened security tend to be safer. Stay tuned for a long list of places that are part of a high risk.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
There is a medium risk with transportation. Official taxis and licensed shuttles are generally safe, but unregistered taxis and public transport can be risky due to theft or harassment. Renting a car is very risky, with poor road conditions, aggressive driving, and reports of crime against tourists.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
This is a medium risk, especially in crowded tourist areas. Limit what you carry, and don't flash valuables. For example, don't walk around with Beats headphones on looking at your iPhone 16. Never let your bags out of your sight.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Jamaica has a medium risk for natural disasters, particularly hurricanes during the June-November season. Flash floods and landslides are also possible. You'll want to check the weather forecast daily for potential disruptions.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
There is a medium to high risk of muggings in certain urban areas or less touristy spots, especially at night. Avoid walking alone, particularly in downtown Kingston or off-resort areas. Please review the places to avoid below.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
The risk of terrorism in Jamaica is low, with no recent attacks or credible threats reported. However, gang violence and inter-country crime mean you still need to watch your back and report suspicious activity.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Scams present a medium risk, especially in tourist areas where visitors might encounter overcharging, fake tour guides, or drug offers. Be wary of unsolicited offers and double-check prices before committing to services. Booking activities through trusted providers help avoid scams. Also, no matter what anyone says, you didn't win the lottery.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Women travelers face a medium risk, with occasional reports of harassment or sexual assault, particularly outside resorts. Even inside resort communities, don't assume you're safe and walk around at night alone or go to the beach at night. Don't trust hotel employees to keep you safe.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
The risk is likely low if you're staying within the confines of a resort, but beyond that, opt for bottled water or bring a filter.
Safest Places to Visit in Jamaica
Jamaica’s official tourism website is visitjamaica.com.
I recommend sticking to the Resort Areas listed on the website for the safest experience.
Many cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norweigan, Celebrity, Princess, and Disney, have trips that go to one of the ports in Jamaica.
Those ports include:
- Ocho Rios
- Montego Bay
- Falmouth
- Port Antonio
- Kingston
Since there are so many risky areas in Jamaica, we’ll focus on the things to do in those port areas and resort communities.
Kingston
Though Kingston has a reputation for higher crime, you can safely explore some cultural landmarks with caution.
The Bob Marley Museum offers insight into Jamaica’s most famous musician.
The National Gallery of Jamaica is the largest and oldest public art museum in the Caribbean.
The National Gallery of Jamaica showcases incredible Caribbean art.
Devon House is a historic Georgian mansion built by Jamaica’s first black millionaire, George Stiebel.
It’s famous for its beautiful architecture, lush grounds, artisan shops, and the renowned Devon House I-Scream.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay is one of Jamaica’s most secure resort areas.
Relax at Doctor’s Cave Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and family-friendly atmosphere.
For history, explore Rose Hall Great House, a restored plantation with legends of the “White Witch.”
Martha Brae River rafting offers a tranquil experience led by knowledgeable guides.
Negril
Negril’s iconic Seven-Mile Beach is both scenic and safe, with numerous resorts providing direct access.
Adventure seekers can visit Negril Cliffs, offering dramatic views and spots like Rick’s Café for cliff jumping.
For nature lovers, Negril’s Royal Palm Reserve provides a peaceful escape with scenic boardwalks.
Ocho Rios
Dunn’s River Falls is one of Jamaica’s most famous and well-maintained attractions, perfect for guided climbs.
Mystic Mountain offers thrilling activities like ziplining and bobsledding with spectacular views.
For something educational, visit Konoko Falls and Park, a cultural and natural site with lush gardens and wildlife.
Port Antonio
Port Antonio remains a hidden gem with fewer crowds, and it’s referred to as the “Most Lovely Port on Earth.”
Visit the stunning Blue Lagoon, where fresh and saltwater meet in a vibrant natural pool.
If you’re looking for the bar where Tom Cruise served up drinks in the movie Cocktail, head to Dragon Bay Resort.
Reach Falls, surrounded by lush rainforest, is another breathtaking and serene destination.
This is also the same waterfall where Cruise and Elizabeth Shue got intimate.
South Coast
Jamaica’s South Coast is home to eco-friendly attractions and a relaxed vibe.
The Pelican Bar, located on a sandbar, is a unique spot to grab a drink after a short boat ride.
YS Falls offers guided access to cascading waterfalls and ziplining adventures.
Places to Avoid in Jamaica
You might want to sit down for this one.
There are a lot of places that reach the highest level of warning—Do Not Travel—from the U.S. State Department.
In the spirit of simplicity, I’m going to copy and paste the list from the government website since it’s succinct but detailed.
- Ann’s Parish – Steer Town and the Buckfield neighborhood near Ocho Rios
- Catherine’s Parish – Spanish Town, Central Village, areas within Portmore, including: Naggo Head, New Land, Old Braeton, Portmore Lane, Gregory Park, and Waterford
- Clarendon Parish – all of Clarendon Parish, except passing through Clarendon Parish using the T1 and A2 highways.
- Elizabeth’s Parish – Vineyard District Community, between the communities of Salt Spring and Burnt Savanna, St. Elizabeth
- Hanover Parish – Logwood and Orange Bay
- James Parish/Montego Bay – Inland side of the A1 highway and The Queen’s Drive from San San to Harmony Beach Park
- Kingston and St. Andrew Parish – Cassava Piece, Duhaney Park, Grants Pen, Standpipe, Swallowfield, Elleston Flats, August Town, and downtown Kingston, defined as between Mountain View Avenue and Hagley Park Road, and south of Half Way Tree and Old Hope Roads. Downtown Kingston includes Arnett Gardens, Cockburn Gardens, Denham Town, Olympic Gardens, Seaview Gardens, Trench Town, and Tivoli Gardens.
- Manchester Parish – Green Vale, Gray Ground, Red Ground, and Vineyard neighborhoods of Mandeville
- Thomas Parish – Black Lane neighborhood in Seaforth, Grands Penn, Church Corner neighborhood near Yallahs, Town of Yallahs, except when driving on the main highway.
- Trelawny Parish – Clarks Town
- Westmoreland Parish – Russia community in Savanna-la-Mar (The Southeastern quadrant of Savannah la Mar east of Darling Street and south of the A2 highway/Barracks Road), Morgan Bay, Kings Valley, The Whitehall, Bethel Town, and Red Ground neighborhoods of Negril.
It’s wise to make sure you can get deposits back between June and November, especially from August through October, during the hurricane season.
Otherwise, consider a different time of year to travel.
LGBTQ+ Travel Advisories
I do want to mention that Jamaica is not LGBTQ+ friendly.
In fact, physical intimacy between same-sex partners is considered an act of “gross indecency.”
That includes things that happen behind closed doors.
Because of some of the gory warnings I’ve read, this needed to have a unique header and section.
It’s the first time I’ve had to do this in hundreds of travel safety articles.
The U.S. State Department details risks for same-sex couples, such as:
- Assaults, including mob attacks
- “Corrective rape” of lesbians
- Being held by police for an unproven reason
- Blackmail
The laws are particularly strict against male same-sex couples.
Punishment can lead to 10 years behind bars.
In addition, the police aren’t too concerned about punishing people who commit crimes against LGBTQ+ individuals and couples.
While there might be some tours or hotels that cater to the LGBTQ crowd, use exemplary caution here.
I’d strongly recommend finding another island to enjoy that is more inclusive.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Jamaica
- You can reach the police by dialing 119 in an emergency. Jamaica also has a Tourist Safety and Security branch in areas like Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril, designed to assist travelers. Keep hotel or resort security numbers handy, too.
- The Jamaican government uses the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) to provide disaster-related alerts. Follow their social media accounts (Facebook @ODPEM.JA) or check their website to stay informed about weather and emergencies.
- Hurricanes can hit Jamaica hard, causing flooding, power outages, and infrastructure damage. They occur mainly from June to November. It’s wise to consider rescheduling travel if a hurricane is forecast or have an evacuation plan if you are already on the island. Review Hurricane Safety Tips on the ODPEM website.
- Many countries offer programs like STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) for U.S. citizens. By registering, you’ll receive real-time updates and travel advisories. Canadian and UK citizens have similar services through their foreign offices.
- Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever can be a concern. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves at dusk, and sleep under mosquito nets if in rural areas. Also, HIV/AIDS is a high risk in this community.
- Jamaica has extremely strict gun laws. Visitors cannot bring firearms into the country. Even just a cartridge means a mandatory sentence of 15 years, if not more. Do not attempt to carry weapons or ammunition of any kind. Expand that to avoid mace, pepper spray, or knives.
- Do not wear camouflage in Jamaica, whether it’s for fashion or as part of your military pride. It’s illegal for anyone but the police to wear this pattern in Jamaica. If you do wear it, you can be arrested for impersonating an officer.
- In the event you are a victim of crime in Jamaica, you should report it to the police (of course), but also to your embassy. Since the police don’t always prosecute crimes with diligence or speed, you need your home country to be aware of the situation. They can help you for free.
- Those traveling to Jamaica on a cruise should only book port excursions and transportation through the cruise line. This ensures you’re using vetted and official travel partners. When you walk around the port area, stick to the tourist areas only.
- Fishing in Jamaican waters without a permit is illegal. If you’re planning to fish, get a license through Jamaica’s Fisheries and Aquaculture Information System. Commercial charters often handle permits but verify this in advance to avoid fines.
So... How Safe Is Jamaica Really?
Most countries have a rating scale of 1 to 4 for travel advisories.
One is the lowest and four is the highest.
The United States puts Jamaica at Level 3: Reconsider Travel with that above hefty list of Level 4: Do Not Travel locations.
Their Canadian, Australian, and United Kingdom counterparts put the risk at Level 2.
This generally means using a high degree of caution.
What’s particularly odd to me, as someone who researches crime statistics and travel advisories for a living, is that Canada is usually one of the most aggressive with warnings.
It’s also rare that all countries aren’t on the same page with the risk levels.
While Level 2 makes sense, the Canadian advisory also lists 50 neighborhoods to avoid due to violent and gang crime.
Even as I was researching this article, I saw that 35 murders were reported in the first 11 days of 2025.
The best advice for those who need to go to Jamaica (or refuse to be swayed by travel advisories) is to stick to the tourist areas of the tourist cities.
Don’t go into inner cities or unknown neighborhoods.
Even the U.S. advisory states, “Tourist areas generally see lower rates of violent crime than other parts of the country.”
I wouldn’t take that to mean it’s safe, but it does mean it’s not as dangerous.
If you’re looking for safer alternate options, consider Turks & Caicos, Puerto Rico, or The Bahamas.
How Does Jamaica Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Jamaica | 55 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Portugal | 57 |
| Japan | 83 |
| Ghana | 73 |
| Australia | 86 |
| Slovakia | 80 |
| Greece | 73 |
| Norway | 85 |
Useful Information
Visas
Most travelers, including U.S., Canadian, and UK citizens, don’t need a visa to enter Jamaica for short stays up to 90 days. However, a valid passport and return ticket are required. Longer stays or business visits may need special permits, so check entry requirements before departure.
Currency
Jamaica's official currency is the Jamaican dollar (JMD), though U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted at tourist spots. Just be sure to ask which currency is used for the listed prices. Avoid currency exchange shops in town. Try to use a bank for the lowest rates. ATMs are hard to find in many busy areas.
Weather
Jamaica enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Average highs range between 80°F and 90°F. The rainy season runs from May to November, with hurricanes possible between June and November. December to April offers the best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Airports
Jamaica's two main international airports are Norman Manley International (KIN) in Kingston and Sangster International (MBJ) in Montego Bay. We recommend using Montego Bay since it has more activity and due to safety risks reported while driving between Kingston and hotels.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for Jamaica, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and theft. While healthcare facilities are available, medical costs can be high for uninsured tourists. Even the best insurance policy can be invalid if you visit a section of Jamaica considered to be a high risk.
Jamaica Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 29 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 29 | 28 |
| Low °C | 23 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 22 |
| High °F | 84 | 82 | 84 | 86 | 88 | 88 | 88 | 88 | 88 | 86 | 84 | 82 |
| Low °F | 73 | 73 | 73 | 75 | 77 | 77 | 79 | 79 | 77 | 75 | 73 | 72 |
Jamaica - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Kingston | 48 |
| Montego Bay | 73 |
| Negril | 51 |
| Portmore | 67 |
| Spanish Town | 68 |
This information is not correct!
The information on this is scandalous at best and need to be removed and reviewed. How do you manage to get even the biggest Airport name wrong? Take this down and stop spreading lies
NOT CREDIBLE get yo facts straight author
how can I report this webpage? the lies and misleading information has my blood boiling. speak facts! tinson what is the largest airport?? I’m Jamaican and I’ve never heard of such a place. I won’t even waste my energy correcting this bullshit. if you’re looking to visit Jamaica do not use this site’s review. There are other credible sites you can check where nothing is sugarcoated but definitely not misleading like this.
Read again
It says “largest DOMESTIC airport”. And this is true, according to wikipedia.
get yo facts straight author
who wrote this????? obviously they are not from Jamaica because this information incorrect and misleading. tinson what is the largest airport? I’m Jamaican and I’ve never heard of such an airdrome. The two main airPORTS are the Donald Sangster Int’l airport, Montego Bay, St. James and Norman Manley Int’l in Kingston.
I’m confused after reading both your posts
It says on google that Tinson Pen Aerodrome is the biggest airport in Jamaica. But then wiki says and I quote “The airport caters mainly to business travellers”. so maybe it’s just a private airport for the rich and famous or something I don’t know.
Clarification
Tinson Pen is not an international airport. There are two international airports, one in Kingston and one in Montego Bay. Tinson Pen is the largest domestic airfield used for small craft travel within the island, other airfields are located in Clarendon and Portland. The one in Portland has recently been considered for upgrading to international status.
As a Jamaican I can say the information provided is adequately correct for a careful reader.
Proud Jamaican who fled to the US
Let me guess, you are one of those numerous “proud” Jamaicans who already fled for the U.S.?
JAMAICA UNSAFE=WRONG
JAMAICA IS SAFE.IF I NEED TO GO TO CUBA THE DOMINICAN REP OR JAMAICA, I WILL GO TO JAMAICA+ITS BEAUTIFUL+I DONT CARE IF ITS POOR,NO ONE LIVES THERE.
I went to Jamaica for my honeymoon 25 years ago. We went again for our 20th 5 years ago and it is not as safe as it once was. I think the changes are more noticeable for people who don’t go all the time. Maybe that is why it is rated more poorly than it seems? I am not sure. I think it also depends on where you stay. If you have money, you have little to worry about because you will be in a gated and maintained area.
Since when?
Since when did Cuba move to the south of Jamaica? Who wrote this balderdash? If the writer(s) cannot get his/her/their geography correct why should I pay attention to anything else? I have flown in and out of Jamaica at least sixty times and I’ve always found Cuba to be NORTH of Jamaica by about 90 miles. Jamaica is reasonably safe, but be a lot more careful in Kingston.
Had a good time
It was part of a cruise stop so I was only there a few hours, lovely beaches and I don’t remember much else because it was about 6 years ago.
Unsafe for gay men
Jamaica is safe if you’re straight and avoid the gangs. it has the highest murder rate for homosexuals in the world though, including a relative of mine. hence I will not be going and, even if I wanted to, I don’t think I’d be welcome.
Everything here is absolutely true, was mugged at gunpoint on my first day here