Montego Bay, one of Jamaica’s top destinations, draws visitors from around the world with its stunning Caribbean beaches and all-inclusive resorts.
It’s a favorite among both American and European travelers, offering a mix of relaxation, adventure and some of Jamaica’s most vibrant local culture.
While Montego Bay has something for everyone, safety concerns about traveling to Jamaica can sometimes give travelers reasons to avoid it.
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Montego Bay Travel Safety Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Montego Bay, this guide will help you understand what to expect and offer tips to make your visit a safe(r) one.
Think about this: How can one of the most popular cities/international airports attract millions of visitors a year whilst also being unsafe?
I have traveled to this part of the island countless times and would like to dispel some of the drama that may have been carried over from Kingston or even one of the neighboring Caribbean islands with a bad reputation.
First, though, let’s be clear on where Montego Bay actually is…
Montego Bay on the map
Montego Bay is a city that’s situated in the northwest of Jamaica. The city is located on the north coast, meaning it’s also home to some of the best white-sand beaches on the island.
It’s part of the Saint James parish, which is bordered by the other Jamaican parishes that are Hanover, Westmoreland, Saint Elizabeth and Trelawny.
The closest major town to Montego Bay is Falmouth, which is around 40km away. Then when comparing with other top Jamaican resorts, Montego Bay is roughly 80km from Negril, and around 100km from Ocho Rios.
Is it Safe to Travel to Montego Bay?
Definitely! Compared to many other Caribbean destinations such as Haiti, Trinidad, and even the Dominican Republic, choosing Montego Bay or Jamaica as a whole in many cases is a safer bet for the average newcomer.
While the crime rate is similar to that of many U.S. cities, most incidents are limited to minor offenses, such as petty theft.
As long as you keep all of your belongings on your person and don’t flash expensive items, your visit here shouldn’t have any hiccups.
If you are thinking of doing a marajuana tour or something that may involve smoking weed, be sure to understand what is legal while here.
Most people who visit Montego Bay are here to relax, so travelers thinking of doing the same shouldn’t feel as though their safety was at risk. There are however some parts of the city that travelers should avoid going to.
Some areas to avoid in Montego Bay include:
- Canterbury
- Norwood
- Clavers Street
- Hart Street
- Rose Heights
- Flankers
If you’ll be arriving to Montego Bay late at night and are at all concerend about getting from the airport to your accommadation. I suggest that you book online with Holiday Services who will collect you from the terminal.
Safety Facts about Jamaica
- In 2017, Jamaica’s homicide rate was 56 per 100,000; in 2018, the homicide rate dropped to 47 per 100,000, but remains three times higher than the average for Latin America and the Caribbean.
- According to the UK government, over 216,000 British nationals visited Jamaica in 2018. Most visits are trouble-free.
- The hurricane season in Jamaica normally runs from around June to November. See the best time to go to Jamaica before booking your trip
- The government has stepped in to help enhance security in the travel and tourism sector by assigning special police to patrol on foot and bicycle. These police can be seen around major tourist sites.
- According to the latest in national statistics, rape and aggravated assault is on the decline whereas drug-related murder and robberies are on the rise.
- In 2017 according to the Jamaica Tourist Board, the country received 4.3 million tourists. A record number and an increase of 12.1% on 2016’s numbers.
Getting Around Montego Bay
Montego Bay lies in between the popular spots Ocho Rios and Negril, on the northwest end of the island and is the main hub for many travelers.
Montego Bay has an International Airport, which has connections to neighboring islands as well as American and European destinations.
If you know you’ll be staying around here for a while, see this guide on things to do in Montego Bay for some cool ideas on what to do and see.
Taxi services and bus services such as the Knutsford Express are frequent here, so there are always opportunities for exploring the wider area.
The main mode of transportation for getting around Montego Bay which used by both travelers and locals, is in fact by taxi.
Many travelers tend to use Mobay as a pit stop to get to other resorts.
So, if traveling from Montego Bay to Negril for example, you have a few options to choose from. Taxis are governed by JUTA, MAXI, and ICAL.
Will you be traveling to Montego Bay soon?
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Backpacking Montego Bay Safely
One thing that backpackers and adventure travelers need to consider, is that the Caribbean is wrought with hurricanes.
Even at times when the season was supposed to have ended, such as in November. There have surprise hurricanes in January.
For that reason alone, many travelers prefer to stay in an all-inclusive complex because of the safety issues in places that aren’t prepared.
Aside from the weather, petty crime is an issue of course. But one could argue that it is an issue for many places backpackers travel to.
Jamaica is not designed for backpacking necessarily, but it’s very doable and you’ll find Jamaican street food very delicious and easy to grasp.
What you’ll find here however is just the complexes and hotels that cater for the package holidays rather than free travelers. I usually suggest that backpackers go to Mobay Kotch if they are looking for a budget stay.
Montego Bay has the potential to be dangerous if you don’t take the necessary precautions! I would say you need to just talk to the right people. The local people you interact with will guide you in the right direction.
💡Smart Travel Tip
Be sure to carry some travel bug spray with you becuase there is always a risk of getting bitten by mosquitos and contracting Zika virus here.
Where to Stay in Montego Bay
The overall best area to stay in or around Montego Bay is Freeport. Lining the Caribbean coast, here you’ll find beaches, accommodation options and amenities ranging from low-key restaurants to a variety of bars and clubs.
The Hip Strip is another popular area that is better for a more commercial experience. Here there’s a bigger variety of nightlife options, and also a colorful atmosphere with some delicious street food to be tasted.
As mentioned, Montego Bay has its dangerous parts of course, so again, avoid the areas of Canterbury, Rose Heights and Norwood to name a few.
Popular tours from Montego Bay
Montego Bay Nightlife
When it comes to Jamaican nightlife, Montego Bay is arguably the most popular and “happening” hub on the island.
There really is something for everyone here, with a very wide range of venues on offer. When it comes to beach bars and chilling by the beach, be sure to head to Pier One, they have a popular karaoke on Wednesdays.
For those looking for a heavier night out, then either head to Margaritaville for themed nights out which run late into the morning hours.
Or you could check out Blue Beat Ultra Lounge for a more relaxed night filled with Jazz music and a more upscale Martini bar.
Montego Bay Travel Safety Tips
⤵️ Here are some tips to help you before you make the trip:
- Make sure to use trusted and accredited hotels/hostels. Then once you’ve booked your room, book taxis or buses through the hotel.
- If you’re traveling on a budget, some of the best hostels in Jamaica can be found in Kingston, Negril, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios.
- Keep away from crowds of people if there is any sort of protest. These aren’t just Kingston-related, they can happen across the island.
- You can contact the emergency services by calling 119 for police, ambulance, and fire.
- Don’t take too many valuables with you unless it is absolutely necessary a PacSafe backpack is perfect for concealing items.
- Whilst exploring Jamaica, look out for motorbike riders who can snatch your handbag, phone, or other valuables that are within reach.
- Don’t take too many valuables with you. If you want to take expensive equipment such as cameras or smartphones, keep them hidden, locked away, and on your person.
- Make sure to carry sunscreen. The sea breeze may fool you, but there is definitely a need to protect your skin from the sun at all times.
- Keep a hidden travel wallet for pickpockets and keep your money hidden away. Bras, money belts, or secret bag compartments will do.
- If you’re visiting between June and November, remember that this is the height of hurricane season which means you’ll need to take the necessary precautions.
- Stay aware that walking around (especially alone) after dark is not recommended. If you must walk somewhere, stick to main roads and more populated areas. Or, use one of the many route taxis.
- Some of the tourists I met along my travels spent time comparing Montego Bay vs Negril to try to reduce the probability of petty crime.
Solo Travel in Jamaica
Women get catcalled by men frequently, depending on where in the city you are. If this does happen to you, be firm yet polite – saying you are in a hurry so you can’t stop to talk is better than ignoring someone completely.
Avoid hitchhiking if you are backpacking and don’t walk alone at night or in poorly lit areas. You can choose to dress as modestly as you want (considering many complexes allow people to wear whatever they like).
Be aware of your surroundings and try to keep safe if you’re out and about at night. The nightlife of Jamaica is very hip, but there is still a chance that your drink may be spiked if unattended.
Montego Bay Safety FAQs
See these frequently asked questions about safety in Montego Bay:
Montego Bay Travel Safety Guide
Jamaica is an amazing island to visit and perhaps the comfiest island to stay in the Caribbean since it’s visited by millions every year.
It would help when visiting Jamaica if you knew how to take the necessary steps in staying safe if you explore the cities.
However, Montego Bay is one of the best places to visit for the best quality package hotels.
While you’re here, why not see how to get from Montego Bay to Ocho Rios for even more ideas on tourist-friendly places to explore on the island.
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