Safest Places to Travel in the Caribbean during Covid in 2022
Those looking to engage in international travel are encouraged to focus on the countries that the CDC has placed in Level 1, 2 or even 3 of epidemiology risk, which means that visitors should simply “practice usual precautions” to be safe.
A few countries have been moved to “levels 3 or even 4 (high risk)” but the number of real cases is low when compared to other countries.
Read: Countries Open to Vaccinated Tourists Without Quarantine – 2021
Montserrat
Level 2: COVID-19 Moderate
Montserrat is one of the smallest Caribbean British overseas territories, with a population of just 5,000. This has been reduced from 13,000 over the past 25 years after volcanic activity rendered much of its southern part uninhabitable.
The country only allows entry fully vaccinated visitors who must complete the Access Declaration Form at least three days prior to arriving.
A negative PCR COVD-19 test result within 5 days prior to entry is required. Those who test positive for COVID-19 at upon arrival or departure will be subject to quarantine.
Most visitors arriving in the country may be subjected to clinical medical examinations. If health authorities consider a person to be a risk they can and will isolate them until they can produce a negative COVID-19 test result.
Keep in mind that all travel to or from Montserrat is via Antigua. If you are traveling to Montserrat you must comply with all Antiguan entry requirements. It is advised to check travel advice for Antigua to avoid unexpected inconveniences.
Madeira Islands – Portugal
Level 2: COVID-19 Moderate
Although, the archipelago is known for its breathtaking landscapes and amazing natural beauty, it also hosts a variety of entertainment events all year long.
This safe destination is open for both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers who can produce a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 prior to departure.
Keep in mind that outbound passengers must also present a negative COVID-19 test to be permitted exit the country.
Saint Martin / Sint Maarten
Level 3: COVID-19 High
Saint Martin, a Caribbean island peacefully shared by the Netherlands and France since 1648, is ideal for anyone seeking a tropical holiday. Come and enjoy the touristy Dutch side and then go to the more natural French side to sunbathe on any of its 37 beaches.
Saint Martin is welcoming fully vaccinated passengers without quarantine. Those arriving at Princess Juliana Airport (SXM) must present a negative rt-PCR test taken within 120 hours prior to departure.
However, passengers arriving at Grand Case L’Esperance Airport must carry out a PCR test 72 hours before their departure or a rapid antigen test taken within 48 hours before their departure.
Unvaccinated visitors must observe a 7-day mandatory quarantine and take and additional PCR test on day seven.
In any case, all travelers must also present a sworn statement saying they have no COVID-19 symptoms in the 14 days before the flight.
San Andres and Providencia, Colombia
Level 3: COVID-19 High
A seven-color sea, sugar sand beaches, luxurious resorts and one of the most stunning natural aquariums in the world are open for tourism on San Andres Islands.
Cheap and direct flights to San Andres depart daily from every major Colombian city. Flight time is 1h 48m from Medellin, 2h 20m Bogota, 2h from Cali, and only 1h 29m from Cartagena.
As per entry requirements, Colombia requires passengers to present a negative COVID-19 test and proof of vaccination since Dec. 14.
Both foreign and local tourists must pay a US $35 tax fee to access the islands.
Bonus! – Although Colombia is a Spanish-speaking country the residents of San Andres and Providencia speak English as a first language and Creole and Spanish as a second, which makes things easier for most travelers.
Puerto Rico
This “unincorporated U.S. territory” better known as the Island of Enchantment boasts a blend of Spanish, Indian, and African traditions all set in a landscape of mountains, waterfalls, and tropical rainforests.
U.S. travelers must present a negative PCR or antigen COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of arrival.
Unvaccinated travelers are now subject to a 7-day quarantine regardless of whether they have a negative test result.
International arrivals must submit a negative PCR or antigen COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of arrival and proof of vaccination.
Dominican Republic
Level 3: COVID-19 High
With an average of fewer than 850 cases per day, this paradise Caribbean island famous for the all-inclusive beach resorts of Punta Cana is once again open for tourists with just a few entry restrictions.
First and foremost, the Dominican Republic does not require visitors to be vaccinated or even present a negative COVID-19 test to allow them in.
In some cases, authorities will perform some rapid COVID-19 tests on randomly selected travelers upon arrival.
There is a nationwide curfew but it is expected it will be eased soon.
Anguilla
Level 3: COVID-19 High
Renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, colorful sunsets, and its 23-30°C (73-85°F) all year round, Anguilla has also become one of the safest places to visit during COVID-19 according to the CDC.
This British overseas territory in the Caribbean is welcoming back visitors from all over the world from May 25.
In order to be allowed entry, the first step is to request authorization to travel to the island. Once travelers get it, they will need to submit proof of a negative PCR test taken within 3-5 days prior to their arrival.
Unvaccinated travelers are no longer granted entry to Anguilla.
Jamaica
Level 3: COVID-19 High
Jamaica is nothing less than the cultural capital of the Caribbean. This island country is frequently visited by those looking to experience live reggae music, street dances, festivals, and carnivals as well as crystal clear waters and sugar-white beaches.
The CDC ranks Jamaica at level 3 – High risk of contagion.
Most visitors need to obtain a travel authorization within 72 hours of their planned travel date. The document can be obtained at https://www.visitjamaica.com/travelauthorization.
All visitors must present a negative COVID-19 test and undergo a 14-day mandatory quarantine.
Dominica
Level 3: COVID-19 High High
Dominica is an island country located in the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean, about halfway between Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago.
Travelers visiting the island must fill out a health questionnaire 24 hours before arrival, submit a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 24-72 hours of their flight.
Fully vaccinated travelers must undertake a Rapid Diagnostic Test upon arrival. If negative, they can scrap quarantine..
Unvaccinated visitors will be required to take a rapid diagnostic test upon entry and quarantine for a minimum of 5 to 7 days.
The CDC categorizes Dominica at level 3 risk (High) but according to official data Dominica only has 695 active COVID-19 cases at the moment.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Level 3: COVID-19 High
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is located in the southeast Caribbean, about 130 miles north of Venezuela. It consists of a chain of 33 islands; Saint Vincent is home to more than 90% of its population.
To be granted entry, fully vaccinated visitors will need to complete a pre-arrival travel form and submit a recent negative PCR test taken less than 72 hours prior to arrival.
Unvaccinated travelers must additionally get retested on arrival, undergo quarantine for 14 days and arrive with a fully paid reservation.
Saba
Level 3: COVID-19 High
Saba is a five square mile island located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, 28 miles southwest of its international hub St. Maarten. Visitors can make it to this hidden gem by taking a 12-minute flight or 90-minute ferry. Its surrounding Saba Marine Park, a renowned dive site, is home to coral formations and very popular with avid hikers.
This small island is a relative safe place to visit as of right now.
Visitors are required to fill out an online immigration (EHAS) card prior to travel at www.sabatourism.com/entry-form.
They must also bring proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken no longer than 72 hours upon arrival.
Vaccinated travelers are required undergo testing on day 2 and 5 after arrival on Saba.
Unvaccinated travelers are required to complete mandatory 5 days quarantine.
Saint Barthelemy
Level 3: COVID-19 High
Travelers looking to have a holiday to remember should head up to St. Barthelemy (St. Barts for friends!) This French Caribbean territory has become a popular winter getaway for the French, Europeans, and Americans.
Visitors will have a hard time deciding between going on a hike, sunbathing at the beach, spotting dolphins, or relaxing at one of its multiple spas and villas.
Fully vaccinated travelers arriving from Orange and Green countries or zones are permitted to enter.
In any case, they must bring proof they were immunized at least 14 days prior to arrival.
Additionally, visitors aged 10+ must submit a negative PCR test taken no longer than 72 hours before boarding or a rapid antigen test within 48 hours of their departure.
St. Barts has been ranked at level 3 risk (High) which makes it a relative place to visit for the time being.
Trinidad and Tobago
Level 4: COVID-19 Very High
This cosmopolitan two-island Caribbean nation is open to visitors and happy to share its unique blend of cultural activities and eco-adventure.
While Trinidad offers a vibrant nightlife in its modern capital, Port-of-Spain, Tobago, which is only two hours away by ferry, is perfect to connect with nature.
To be allowed entry, visitors must be fully vaccinated with WHO’s approved vaccines or vaccine combinations.
A negative Covid-19 test is required as well as obtaining a TTravel Pass.
Unvaccinated travelers are currently barred from entering the country.
The Bahamas
Level 4: COVID-19 Very High
Come to the Bahamas to enjoy the pleasures and luxuries of large all-inclusive resorts with on-site activities, or venture outside and experience the island’s famous beaches and fantastic shopping deals.
Travelers who have been vaccinated must show proof of a negative rapid antigen or PCR test taken within 5 days of their arrival in The Bahamas. “On the test result, the name and address of the lab where the test was performed must be clearly displayed.”
Unvaccinated visitors can only bring a PCR test and must complete a daily health questionnaire for 14 days or the duration of their stay, whichever is first.
All foreign travelers aged 18 and up must fill out a Travel Health Visa Application.
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Level 4: COVID-19 Very High
Saint Kitts and Nevis, which is also known as the Mother Colony of the West Indies, is in the northeast Caribbean.
Starting May 29, 2021, only fully vaccinated travelers are allowed entry into St. Kitts & Nevis, the exception being children under 18 traveling with fully vaccinated parents.
Fully vaccinated visitors are required to “Vacation in Place” at a travel-approved hotel for 24 hours. They are allowed to interact with other tourists and take part in hotel activities only.
Grenada
Level 4: COVID-19 Very High
Famous for its festivals, parties, and astonishing beaches, this tropical Caribbean island, which is located only 1529 miles away from Miami, has reopened for fully vaccinated travelers.
All arrivals over the age of 5 must present proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
In addition to the vaccine certificate, visitors must submit a negative COVID-19 test result taken no longer than 72 hours prior to departure as well as a confirmed reservation at an approved accommodation.
Quarantine is no longer needed.
Cayman Islands
Level 4: COVID-19 Very High
The Cayman Islands, which is located 90 miles south of Cuba, has proven to be an especially popular destination for those interested in exploring its coral reefs and taking advantage of its culinary offerings.
For now, allowed arrivals need to get pre-approved at Apply to Travel Cayman, undergo pre-arrival PCR testing, and quarantine for 14 days or 5 days if they received their shots in the U.K. or in the Cayman Islands.
Also, note that the repercussions of not quarantining can be severe.
Belize
Level 4: COVID-19 Very High
Even considering that Belize is bordered on the north by Mexico and on the south and west by Guatemala, this small Caribbean country has managed to keep the COVID-19 pandemic relatively under control.
Land borders are closed but the country is open for tourism. Indeed, it is rapidly becoming one of the most popular destinations in the region due to its world-class scuba diving, its barrier reef and the always popular and interesting ancient Maya ruins.
All travelers must submit a negative COVID-19 test and take another one at the airport. If this one returns positive, the traveler will need to undergo a minimum of 14 days quarantine at their own expense.
Antigua and Barbuda
Level 4: COVID-19 Very High
Antigua and Barbuda is a tropical country made up of 3 islands in the Eastern Caribbean. Antigua, blessed with bays and sandy beaches; Barbuda, a flat coral island with a large lagoon; and Redonda, a rocky uninhabited natural place.
All arrivals must bring a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR taken within 4 days of their flight and proof of vaccination.
Turks and Caicos Islands
Level 4: COVID-19 Very High
Turks and Caicos is a pristine British overseas paradise made up of over 40 low-lying coral islands in the Atlantic Ocean. These islands offer a wealth of natural beauty and a perfect summer getaway for all types of travelers.
Both of the islands only have 606 active cases at the moment.
Here is a complete list of the documents visitors need to get in order be allowed entry:
- A travel pre-authorization via the TCI Assured Portal
- Proof of being fully vaccinated
- A negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken 3 days prior to arrival
- An online health screening questionnaire
- Proof of insurance that covers COVID-19 and full hospitalization expenses
Also read: Best COVID-19 insurance plans for travelers in 2021
British Virgin Islands
Level 4: COVID-19 Very High
The British Virgin Islands is a 60-island British Overseas Territory that has historically welcomed significant numbers of visitors from the United States, United Kingdom, and other areas of Europe.
As of today, fully vaccinated travelers must present proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test taken up to 5 days prior to arrival in the British Virgen Islands.
Regular entry requirements for partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travelers
- BVI Gateway Traveler Authorization Certificate at a cost of $175.00
- Proof of a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test taken 3-5 days before arrival
- RT-PCR COVID-19 testing upon arrival
- A 7-day quarantine for the unvaccinated and a 4-day quarantine for those partially vaccinated.
- RT-PCR COVID-19 testing on day 7 of their quarantine or on day for the partially vaccinated.
Saint Lucia
Level 4: COVID-19 Very High
With its clear-water beaches, stunning green slopes, high-end hotels, and outstanding gastronomy, The island is ideal for beachgoers, nature lovers and foodies alike.
Pre-testing is now mandatory. All visitors aged 5 years and over must present a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken five days or less before arrival on the island. Proof of vaccination is also needed.
For Britons, St Lucia accepts the UK’s proof of COVID-19 recovery and vaccination record.
Starting Dec. 3, unvaccinated travelers must undergo a 14-day quarantine.
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