Montego Bay (2024)

Written by Travel Safe Team

Safety Index:

73

* Based on Research & Crime Data

User Sentiment:

93

* Rated 93 / 100based on 3 user reviews.

Montego Bay commonly referred to as MoBay, is the second-largest city in the island nation Jamaica, a member of the British Commonwealth.

Montego Bay is the capital of St. James Parish, one of the 14 parishes in Jamaica and one of the famous tourist arrival destination.

Montego Bay has long received the title of “tourist capital of Jamaica.”

It takes most of Jamaica’s international flights.

This is a tourist destination known for its duty-free shops, cruise line terminal, and Doctor’s Cave sheltered beach with clear turquoise waters, which is one of the most famous beaches on the island.

Warnings & Dangers in Montego Bay

Montego Bay (2)

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

In general, Montego Bay can be safe if you follow common sense and be careful at night. Central areas may be less secure than the outskirts. Any contact with drug dealers and prostitutes should be avoided.

Montego Bay (3)

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Public transport is well distributed and reliable. However, it is worth watching your pockets, and things as pickpockets can wield. Taxis are preferred if you return to the hotel late at night. Use only licensed taxi services.

Montego Bay (4)

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpockets are more common on beaches and in crowded places. At the bazaars, they may also try to distract you and empty your pockets at this time. Always be mindful of your surroundings. Local can be very intrusive if they see you as a tourist. However, if you firmly tell them no, they will lag behind you.

Montego Bay (5)

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: HIGH

Jamaica is subject to many natural hazards. The island is located in the hurricane belt and has survived many hurricanes. Jamaica also has a history of seismic activity. Strong earthquakes affected Montego Bay and Kingston in 1958. Investigate reliable sources for these risks before you travel here.

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MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Armed robberies also sometimes occur in the region. Most often, this is a showdown between drug dealers. However, tourists can also become an accidental victim of an attack. Avoid walking at Montego Bay late at night and alone. Do not be in the dangerous areas of the city alone.

Montego Bay (7)

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Jamaica, the possibility of attacks cannot be ruled out. Explore the political situation on the island before your trip. It is best to avoid mass crowds, political, and other rallies.

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SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Most Montego Bay scams involve lottery tickets when you are offered to buy them to win. Be sure you will lose. Also, tourists can be deceived with the price of trinkets and taxi rides. Haggle and discuss the cost of the trip in advance.

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WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

In Montego Bay, women are better off traveling in the company. If you walk alone, especially at night and in disadvantaged areas, then there is a high probability of becoming a victim of the increased and persistent attention of local men. Use a taxi to return to the hotel late at night, always get behind the driver and close the windows of the car.

So... How Safe Is Montego Bay Really?

Montego Bay has an average level of travel safety.

The crime rate is medium to high.

The main problems are related to the theft of things, car theft, and hacking, attacks, vandalism, and corruption problems.

Some concern is the growing level of drug-related crimes.

While Montego Bay is a relatively safe city, reasonable precautions should be observed.

Stay in groups, and stick to tourist areas.

The rural areas are especially dangerous.

Most locations close to the resorts are safe.

Travelers should be aware that Jamaicans are amiable people.

However, they always try to do a service for Western tourists for money.

Themselves will offer you somewhere to take, help – and they will wait for this monetary incentive, sometimes very persistently.

Do not be afraid to say no and avoid these people from the very beginning.

Also, note that the stores will have staff in front of the stores to get you in.

Simple is not, thank you will be enough.

The areas inside the city are especially dangerous, as it is here where poor people live.

More distant from downtown Montego Bay are safer areas.

Prostitution is common at night in Montego Bay, in the dead streets, on the Fashion Strip, and in “sketchy” bars.

How Does Montego Bay Compare?

CitySafety Index
Montego Bay73
Kingston48
Portmore67
Spanish Town68
Negril51
Calgary (Canada)82
Buenos Aires (Argentina)60
Vancouver (Canada)82
Cordoba (Argentina)61
Toronto (Canada)81
Melbourne (Australia)80

Useful Information

Montego Bay (10)

Visas

Visitors to Jamaica must obtain a visa from one of the Jamaican diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the 116 countries designated as visa-exempt countries or countries whose citizens may obtain a visa on arrival. Most Commonwealth Citizens can visit Jamaica for up to 180 days visa-free. A valid passport is a must.

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Currency

The Jamaican Dollar is the currency of Jamaica. The currency code for Dollars is JMD, and the currency symbol is J$. It is divided into 100 cents.

Montego Bay (12)

Weather

The best time to visit Montego Bay, Jamaica, is from November to mid-December when the weather is pleasant, and the room rates are reasonable. Average temperatures in Montego Bay vary very little, and the weather feels hot all year with a low chance of precipitation most of the year.

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Airports

Sangster International Airport is an international airport located 5 km east of Montego Bay, Jamaica. The airport is capable of handling nine million passengers per year. It serves as the most popular airport for tourists visiting the north coast of Jamaica.

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Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Click here to get an offer for travel insurance

Montego Bay Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Jan 25° C

Feb 25° C

Mar 25° C

Apr 26° C

May 27° C

Jun 28° C

Jul 28° C

Aug 28° C

Sep 28° C

Oct 27° C

Nov 27° C

Dec 26° C

Average High/Low Temperature

Temperature / MonthJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
High
°C
292929303132323232313029
Low
°C
212121222323232423232322
High
°F
848484868890909090888684
Low
°F
707070727373737573737372

Jamaica - Safety by City

CitySafety Index
Kingston48
Montego Bay73
Negril51
Portmore67
Spanish Town68
Montego Bay (2024)

FAQs

Is it worth going to Montego Bay? ›

Montego Bay, located at the north shore of Jamaica, is a popular tourist destination with plenty of hotels and restaurants as well as a port for cruise ships. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, notably Doctor's Cave Beach, in addition to outdoor attractions like gardens, golf courses and adventure tours.

Is 3 days enough in Montego Bay? ›

Curated by Margot Bigga journalist who has lived in the UK, the US, France, and India. With three days in Montego Bay, not only can you experience many of the area's natural highlights and historical sites, but you'll also have time to immerse yourself in local culture and take an excursion or two.

What do locals call Montego Bay? ›

Montego Bay is referred to as "The Second City", "MoBay" or "Bay".

How much do you tip in Jamaica all inclusive? ›

If you're staying in a hotel in Jamaica it's standard practise to tip between 10-20%. In top end hotels with high service levels you'll likely want to tip a range of staff, such as maids, bellboys, valets and front desk employees.

How much money should I bring to Jamaica for 5 days? ›

It is recommended that you bring between $150 and $500 per person for spending depending on what you plan to do. Please have at least $200 in small bills ($1.00, $5.00 and $10.00) with the balance in twenties.

Is Montego Bay or Bahamas better? ›

While Jamaica has some amazing tropical beaches, like those in Montego bay, Ocho Rios and Negril, the Bahamas comes out on top. The beaches in The Bahamas are so plentiful, and so diverse, that you can find a breathtaking white sand beach on dozens, if not hundreds of the 700 islands across the Bahamian archipelago.

Is 7 days in Jamaica enough? ›

Exploring Jamaica in 5 to 7 days makes for a lovely vacation. This Jamaica itinerary for 5 or 7 days is focussed on the northern coastal part of the country, starting with Negril in the west and ending at Port Antonio in the east.

What is the best month to go to Montego Bay Jamaica? ›

Best Times to Visit for Good Weather

Jamaica enjoys the best weather from December through March when even the passing shower is infrequent. Warm Caribbean temperatures are the norm, with less humidity than the island experiences throughout the rest of the year.

How much money do I need per day in Jamaica? ›

You should plan to spend around $128 (J$19,987) per day on your vacation in Jamaica. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Can you walk around Montego Bay? ›

If you don't mind fending off hustlers, you can stroll through the center of Montego Bay. Allow about 1 1/2 hours to see the major landmarks.

Does Montego Bay have a nightlife? ›

In Montego Bay, Pier Pressure is a beachfront club that combines an upscale ambiance with a party vibe, offering live music, DJs, and a variety of themed nights. It's the perfect place to dance under the stars and enjoy signature co*cktails.

Where is the best place to go in Jamaica for the first time? ›

Negril: the best area to stay in Jamaica for first-time visitors. There's a certain effortless charm that Negril exudes that makes it one of the best places to stay in Jamaica. First-time visitors can look to Negril for some of the best all-inclusive resorts, including Beaches Negril and Sandals Negril.

Is it rude not to tip at all-inclusive? ›

Since there is no requirement to tip this can be left largely up to your own discretion. You could follow the aforementioned guidelines but since there is no expectation, anything you choose to give will be viewed as an additional kindness.

Do you tip at sandals? ›

Sandals and Beaches want to ensure all guests receive a quality resort experience, regardless if they tip, so with few exceptions Sandals and Beaches have a no tipping policy.

What is the service charge in Jamaica? ›

In addition to asking customers to leave a tip at checkout, there's a compulsory service charge, or gratuity, ranging from 10 per cent to 20 per cent at some restuarants — which means that a portion of your payment is already going towards tipping the entire staff.

Is Montego Bay safe to travel to right now? ›

Many large cities have areas that should be avoided due to the potential risk of crime and brutality and Montego Bay is not excluded from this –it can be a dangerous area. The State Department warns travelers to avoid the following areas within Montego Bay due to rampage and gun violence: Canterbury. Clavers Street.

Is Jamaica worth the money? ›

Yes Jamaica would fit what you are looking for. Your husband and yourself will have a great time there. "We're just after a relaxing 10 days away where we can eat, drink and do a few day excursions." There are around 500 places to stay in Jamaica (resorts, hotels, villas, b&b's, etc.).

What is the best month to go to Montego Bay? ›

The best time to visit is between December and March when the weather is most settled. The hottest month of the year is July with an average daily maximum of 32 C and an average low of 26 C. The coolest month of the year is February with an average daily maximum of 28 C and an average low of 23 C.

Is Montego Bay expensive to visit? ›

Overall, a trip to Montego Bay can be quite affordable depending on how much you're willing (and able) to spend! Airfare itself can range anywhere from $500-$1000 USD roundtrip depending on where you're flying from and when you're traveling.

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