Saint Kitts and Nevis Travel Information

Saint Kitts and Nevis are two beautiful Caribbean islands that offer a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors. From relaxing on the beaches to exploring historic sites, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are the top 10 things to do in Saint Kitts and Nevis:

1. Visit Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park

Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a glimpse into the island's rich history. The fortress is one of the best-preserved historical sites in the Caribbean and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

2. Relax on the beaches

Saint Kitts and Nevis are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, such as snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. Some of the best beaches to visit include Cockleshell Bay, Frigate Bay, and Pinney's Beach.

3. Explore the rainforest

The rainforest on Saint Kitts offers a variety of hiking trails, including the challenging but rewarding Mount Liamuiga. The rainforest is home to a diverse array of plants, animals, and birds.

4. Visit the St. Kitts Scenic Railway

The St. Kitts Scenic Railway is a unique way to explore the island, offering views of the lush rainforest, the coast, and historic sites. The railway operates on a section of the original railway that was built in the early 1900s.

5. Take a boat tour

Boat tours are a great way to explore the islands' beautiful coastline and marine life. Visitors can take a tour to see dolphins and whales, or snorkel and dive to see the colorful coral reefs and marine life.

6. Visit the Black Rocks

The Black Rocks are a unique geological formation located on the northeastern coast of Saint Kitts. The rocks are volcanic in origin and offer a unique and picturesque setting for photography and sightseeing.

7. Visit the Caribelle Batik

Caribelle Batik is a traditional batik factory located on the island of Nevis. Visitors can learn about the batik-making process and take home a piece of handmade batik as a souvenir.

8. Visit the Museum of Nevis History

The Museum of Nevis History is located in Charlestown, Nevis, and offers a glimpse into the island's rich history, including artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Nevis and its people.

9. Visit the Nelson's Spring Water Factory

The Nelson's Spring Water Factory is located on the island of Nevis and offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the process of bottling natural spring water and to taste the water.

10. Visit the Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens on Nevis offer a peaceful and serene environment to explore a variety of tropical plants, flowers, and trees. Visitors can take a guided tour of the gardens and learn about the different species of plants.

Overall, Saint Kitts and Nevis offer a wide variety of activities and attractions for visitors. From exploring historic sites and relaxing on the beaches, to hiking in the rainforest and taking boat tours, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Climate

Saint Kitts and Nevis have a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The dry season is from January to April, and the wet season is from May to December. The islands are also subject to the threat of hurricanes from June to November.

The average temperature on Saint Kitts and Nevis is around 27°C (81°F), with little variation throughout the year. The coolest month is January, with an average temperature of 26°C (79°F), and the warmest month is September, with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F).

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Saint Kitts and Nevis is from January to April, when the weather is dry and sunny, and the temperature is pleasant. It is also the peak tourist season, so prices may be higher, and accommodations may be more difficult to find.

Alternatively, the shoulder season, which is from September to December, can also be a good time to visit. The weather is still warm and sunny, and the chance of hurricanes is lower. Additionally, it is a less crowded time of year, so prices may be lower and accommodations may be more readily available.

It is important to note that the Caribbean is always at risk of hurricanes, and the best time to visit may depend on the specific weather conditions during that year. Visitors should always check the weather forecast and be prepared for any potential storms.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Saint Kitts and Nevis offer a wide variety of accommodation options for visitors, including:

Hotels

There are many hotels on both Saint Kitts and Nevis, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options. Visitors can choose from a variety of amenities, including swimming pools, spas, and restaurants. Some popular hotel options include the Four Seasons Resort Nevis, the St. Kitts Marriott Resort, and the Belle Mont Farm.

Villas

Villas are a popular option for visitors who want more space and privacy. Many villas offer amenities such as private pools and kitchens, and are often located in beautiful and secluded locations.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are a budget-friendly option and offer a more personal and intimate experience. They are usually family-run and offer a variety of amenities, such as private bathrooms, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi.

Resorts

There are a few all-inclusive resorts in Saint Kitts and Nevis, including the Park Hyatt St. Kitts and the St. Kitts Marriott Resort. These resorts offer a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, spas, and restaurants, and often include meals and drinks in the room rate.

Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals such as apartments, condos, and houses are also available for visitors to Saint Kitts and Nevis. This option can provide more space and privacy, and also give visitors a chance to experience the local lifestyle.

Overall, Saint Kitts and Nevis offer a wide variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Visitors can choose from luxury hotels, villas, guesthouses, resorts, and vacation rentals.

There are several transportation options for visitors to Saint Kitts and Nevis, including:

Rental Cars

Rental cars are a popular option for visitors who want to explore the islands independently. Visitors can rent a car at the Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport, or at one of the rental car agencies located in Basseterre, the capital of Saint Kitts.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available on both Saint Kitts and Nevis, and can be found at the airports, and in the main towns and tourist areas. Taxis are metered, but it is a good idea to agree on a fare before starting the journey, especially for longer trips.

Buses

Buses are a budget-friendly option for visitors. There are regular bus services between the main towns and villages on both islands. The buses are usually minivans that are painted in bright colors, making them easy to spot.

Ferries

Ferries operate between the two islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis, providing regular service. The ferry trip between Basseterre and Charlestown takes about 45 minutes.

Bicycle and Motorbike rentals

Renting a bicycle or motorbike can be a great way to explore the islands at a leisurely pace. Visitors can rent a bicycle or motorbike from a variety of rental agencies, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Overall, visitors to Saint Kitts and Nevis have a variety of transportation options available, including rental cars, taxis, buses, ferries, and bicycle and motorbike rentals. Visitors can choose the option that best suits their budget and travel plans.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.