Is Montego Bay Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Montego Bay commonly referred to as MoBay, is the second-largest city in the island nation Jamaica, a member of the British Commonwealth.

Montego Bay is the capital of St. James Parish, one of the 14 parishes in Jamaica and one of the famous tourist arrival destination.

Montego Bay has long received the title of “tourist capital of Jamaica.”

It takes most of Jamaica’s international flights.

This is a tourist destination known for its duty-free shops, cruise line terminal, and Doctor’s Cave sheltered beach with clear turquoise waters, which is one of the most famous beaches on the island.

Warnings & Dangers in Montego Bay

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

In general, Montego Bay can be safe if you follow common sense and be careful at night. Central areas may be less secure than the outskirts. Any contact with drug dealers and prostitutes should be avoided.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Public transport is well distributed and reliable. However, it is worth watching your pockets, and things as pickpockets can wield. Taxis are preferred if you return to the hotel late at night. Use only licensed taxi services.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpockets are more common on beaches and in crowded places. At the bazaars, they may also try to distract you and empty your pockets at this time. Always be mindful of your surroundings. Local can be very intrusive if they see you as a tourist. However, if you firmly tell them no, they will lag behind you.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH

Jamaica is subject to many natural hazards. The island is located in the hurricane belt and has survived many hurricanes. Jamaica also has a history of seismic activity. Strong earthquakes affected Montego Bay and Kingston in 1958. Investigate reliable sources for these risks before you travel here.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Armed robberies also sometimes occur in the region. Most often, this is a showdown between drug dealers. However, tourists can also become an accidental victim of an attack. Avoid walking at Montego Bay late at night and alone. Do not be in the dangerous areas of the city alone.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Jamaica, the possibility of attacks cannot be ruled out. Explore the political situation on the island before your trip. It is best to avoid mass crowds, political, and other rallies.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Most Montego Bay scams involve lottery tickets when you are offered to buy them to win. Be sure you will lose. Also, tourists can be deceived with the price of trinkets and taxi rides. Haggle and discuss the cost of the trip in advance.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

In Montego Bay, women are better off traveling in the company. If you walk alone, especially at night and in disadvantaged areas, then there is a high probability of becoming a victim of the increased and persistent attention of local men. Use a taxi to return to the hotel late at night, always get behind the driver and close the windows of the car.

So... How Safe Is Montego Bay Really?

Montego Bay has an average level of travel safety.

The crime rate is medium to high.

The main problems are related to the theft of things, car theft, and hacking, attacks, vandalism, and corruption problems.

Some concern is the growing level of drug-related crimes.

While Montego Bay is a relatively safe city, reasonable precautions should be observed.

Stay in groups, and stick to tourist areas.

The rural areas are especially dangerous.

Most locations close to the resorts are safe.

Travelers should be aware that Jamaicans are amiable people.

However, they always try to do a service for Western tourists for money.

Themselves will offer you somewhere to take, help – and they will wait for this monetary incentive, sometimes very persistently.

Do not be afraid to say no and avoid these people from the very beginning.

Also, note that the stores will have staff in front of the stores to get you in.

Simple is not, thank you will be enough.

The areas inside the city are especially dangerous, as it is here where poor people live.

More distant from downtown Montego Bay are safer areas.

Prostitution is common at night in Montego Bay, in the dead streets, on the Fashion Strip, and in “sketchy” bars.

How Does Montego Bay Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

Visitors to Jamaica must obtain a visa from one of the Jamaican diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the 116 countries designated as visa-exempt countries or countries whose citizens may obtain a visa on arrival. Most Commonwealth Citizens can visit Jamaica for up to 180 days visa-free. A valid passport is a must.

Currency

The Jamaican Dollar is the currency of Jamaica. The currency code for Dollars is JMD, and the currency symbol is J$. It is divided into 100 cents.

Weather

The best time to visit Montego Bay, Jamaica, is from November to mid-December when the weather is pleasant, and the room rates are reasonable. Average temperatures in Montego Bay vary very little, and the weather feels hot all year with a low chance of precipitation most of the year.

Airports

Sangster International Airport is an international airport located 5 km east of Montego Bay, Jamaica. The airport is capable of handling nine million passengers per year. It serves as the most popular airport for tourists visiting the north coast of Jamaica.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Montego Bay Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Jamaica - Safety by City