Turks and Caicos Islands travel guide
Turks and Caicos Islands Tourism | Turks and Caicos Islands Guide
You're Going to Love Turks and Caicos Islands
Secluded and almost completely off-the-radar for most travelers, Turks and Caicos Islands are a paradise destination of gorgeous coral reefs and clear-water beaches.
With a little over 30,000 people living on the islands, it's a place to relax and enjoy a laidback atmosphere.
What to do in the Turks and Caicos Islands
1. Dive to See the Coral Reefs
On a more deserted island, like West Caicos, or the busy Providenciales, diving to see the coral reefs is one of the top activities on Turks and Caicos Islands.
2. Go Whale Watching
Every year, between February and March, Salt Cay is the place to observe humpback whales on their migration path.
3. Visit the Grand Turk Lighthouse
This lighthouse came from England in 1852 and was reassembled, piece by piece, on the Grand Turk island. It's now one of the biggest attractions in the Turks and Caicos Islands for the amazing views.
4. Explore the Beaches
It's hard to pick a favorite beach on the Turks and Caicos Islands when they're all postcard-perfect stretches of white sand and turquoise waters. Grace Bay is considered one of the best beaches in the world.
5. Visit Iguana Island
Referred to by locals as Iguana Island, Little Water Cay is a protected natural reserve for the endangered community of iguanas.
When to visit the Turks and Caicos Islands
The best time to visit the Turks and Caicos Islands is between December and April. At that time of year, the weather is warm and dry and it's the ideal time to observe migrating whales.
How to Get to the Turks and Caicos Islands
Entry requirements
Nationals from most countries don't need a visa to enter the Turks and Caicos Islands, unless they're staying for more than 90 days.
A return ticket or a ticket to the destination you're traveling next is not mandatory but may be requested when entering the country.
Plane
Most international flights to the Turks and Caicos Islands from the United States and other Caribbean countries arrive at the Providenciales International Airport.
Turks and Caicos Islands are served by one more international airport, on Grand Turk Island, which only receives flights from Providenciales.
Boat
There are no international ferry services to the Turks and Caicos Islands, so the only way to reach the islands by sea is on a private boat or a cruise ship.
Cruise ships usually stop at Grand Turk Island. Private chartered boats can dock on designated harbors on Providenciales, South Caicos, and Grand Turk. Within 24h of their arrival, passengers on private boats must clear immigration and customs.
Popular airports in the Turks and Caicos Islands
Popular airlines serving the Turks and Caicos Islands
Where to stay in the Turks and Caicos Islands
When it comes to accommodation, don't expect to find budget-friendly options. The islands are known as a luxury tourism destination.
Where to stay in popular areas of the Turks and Caicos Islands
Most booked hotels in the Turks and Caicos Islands
How to Get Around the Turks and Caicos Islands
Public Transportation
Taxi is the only means of public transportation available, charging a fixed price between the airport and most hotels and resorts on the island. Expect to pay approximately $20-40 for a ride for two passengers.
Occasionally some taxis on Providenciales Island double as minibuses for groups of up to 12 people if you'd rather split the cost of the trip.
Car
You need to be 25 years old or over to rent a car on Turks and Caicos Islands. An International Driving Permit is only required if your local driver's license isn't issued in English.
On Turks and Caicos Islands you must drive on the left side of the road.
Scooters
If you know how to ride a motorcycle, renting a scooter is a great option to get around Turks and Caicos Islands.
You must be 18 years old or over to rent a scooter. Remember to always drive on the left side of the road.
Plane
The best way to travel between islands is by taking a domestic flight from Providenciales. Most flights are operated by local airline interCaribbean Airways.
The Cost of Living in the Turks and Caicos Islands
The official currency is the US Dollar. ATMs are only easy to find on Providenciales and Grand Turk islands. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most large businesses, like hotels and resorts. Groceries for a couple of days cost approximately $60-70. An average meal is around $20.