Montserrat Travel Risk

Exercise normal precaution in Montserrat.

Montserrat is generally a safe destination for travelers.

Montserrat regularly experiences hurricanes. Review our information on Weather and Natural Disasters in Montserrat.

Soufrière Hills volcano

The Soufrière Hills volcano has been active since 1995. The last major volcanic activity occurred in 2010. There are 5 exclusion zones around the volcano. Visitors must obtain special permission to enter the most restricted zone in southern Montserrat. Do not enter these zones without a special permit.

• Review our Travel Guidance for Montserrat to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

Montserrat is a British Overseas Territory, so there is no British Embassy and the Montserrat authorities will support you if you need help.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Montserrat

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Montserrat, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Crime

Crime levels are low, but watch your belongings when you are travelling. Keep your accommodation locked, do not leave baggage in parked vehicles and use hotel safes or deposit boxes if possible.

Laws and cultural differences

Montserrat is a British Overseas Territory and has its own laws.

Dress code

Beachwear or swimwear is not socially acceptable except in beach areas and pools.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

The penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. If convicted, offenders can expect prison sentences and heavy fines.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is legal, but same-sex marriages are not recognised in law. Throughout the island, people are very conservative. They are tolerant of same-sex couples, but do not approve of showing affection in public.

Hotels are generally welcoming to all, regardless of sexual orientation. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Money

Most large supermarkets, restaurants and hotels accept major credit cards. The territory has limited but modern banking facilities. US dollars are widely accepted.

There are a small number of Bank of Montserrat (BoM) ATMs on the island, but they are only available to customers with a BoM bank account.

Soufrière Hills volcano

The Soufrière Hills volcano has been active since 1995. However, there has been no major volcanic activity since February 2010. There are 5 exclusion zones around the volcano – A, B, C, F and V – and only one – zone V – is currently in force. See the hazard level system (HLS) map on the Montserrat Observatory website.

Zones A, B, C, and V include some of the waters immediately around the island and there are 2 additional maritime exclusion zones – E and W. Mariners can pick up maps showing the maritime zones along with their GPS co-ordinates at the Montserrat Port Authority at Port Little Bay.

Volcanic activity is monitored 24 hours a day from the Montserrat Volcano Observatory. The volcanic hazard level system specifies the current level of volcanic activity on a scale from 0 to 5, where 5 is the highest.

The current hazard level is 1, which allows unlimited access to zones A, B, C and F. Zone V is authorised access only, and you are not allowed to enter without permission from the authorities. Vessels are not permitted to enter the maritime exclusion zones without permission.

An island-wide siren system is used to warn of volcanic activity. The sirens are tested daily at midday. If the sirens sound at a non-test time, tune to Radio Montserrat (ZJB) immediately on FM 88.3 or 95.5 to get alerts. The radio station also gives regular scientific updates and advice.

Partial regional extract; read the full official section.

Risk level

Montserrat - Take normal security precautions

Take normal security precautions in Montserrat.

Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs.

Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Water activities

Swimming

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common.

Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities.

Diving

Tour operators may not adhere to international standards.

If you participate in water sports, such as diving:

• choose a well-established and reputable company that has insurance
• ensure that your travel insurance covers the recreational activities you choose

If in doubt concerning the safety of the facilities or equipment, don’t use them.

Adventure travel health and safety

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country.

Be careful when driving after dark and in the mountainous regions due to steep, narrow and winding roads.

Volcanic ash on the roads can cause slippery driving conditions.

Public transportation

Taxis

Taxis aren’t metered. Agree on a fare before departure.

Buses

Minibuses will stop anywhere on the main road so that passengers can get on and off. They operate primarily during the day and do not follow a set schedule.

Ferries

Ferry services are available between Montserrat, Antigua and Barbuda, and Saint Kitts and Nevis.