British Virgin Islands Travel Safety

Precautions

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Road safety

Road conditions are generally good, but exercise extra caution on steep and narrow mountain roads. Excessive speed and reckless driving may pose risks. Roadside assistance is not widely available.

Taxis

Rental cars are also available.

Public transportation

Taxi service is reliable, confirm the fare before departure. Public bus transportation is available, but service is unpredictable. Reliable ferry services are offered between Tortola and its sister islands of Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke, as well as to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Crewed yachts and sailboats are also available.

Women's safety

British Virgin Islands is generally safe, women travelling alone should maintain personal security awareness. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Women, particularly foreigners may be subject to unwanted male attention and catcalls in certain places. Be vigilant if approached by strangers seeking assistance and exercise common precautions throughout your travel.

Crime

The crime rate is very low, but petty crime occurs. Avoid unpopulated areas and unpatrolled beaches. Local authorities can help you determine which beaches are safest. Avoid deserted beaches and poorly lit, isolated areas after dark. Exercise normal precautions and ensure that your personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times. Ask your hotel for the safe box.

LGBT

Homosexuality is legal under BVI law. There's no provision for marriage or civil partnerships between same-sex couples. Attitudes in the main tourist destinations are tolerant. Throughout BVI, hotels and resorts are generally welcoming regardless of sexual orientation. Outside the tourist areas local attitudes can be conservative and some people may not approve of public displays of affection between same-sex couples.

Illegal or restricted activities

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs (including marijuana) are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines. Pack all luggage yourself and do not carry any items that do not belong to you. Taking any marine organism is illegal for non-residents without a recreational fishing permit. Visit the British High Commission website for further information.

Driving

Traffic drives on the left. You need a local temporary driving permit to drive in the British Virgin Islands. You can obtain a permit at any car rental agency or from the Traffic Licensing Office upon presentation of a valid foreign driver's licence or an International Driving Permit.