About Grenada
As far as paradise islands go, few come more beautiful than Grenada. A mountainous and volcanic landscape gives the country one of the loveliest environments in the Caribbean, with crater lakes, rainforests and coastal mangrove plantations giving way to white sand beaches, and brilliant blue waters filled with coral reefs. What's not to like?
Grenada is known as the Spice Island for good reason. Nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, ginger and vanilla are just a few of the scented gems found here. When it comes to food, Grenadians like it particularly hot and spicy. Pepper pot is a favourite – meat cooked with lots of garlic, onions and, you guessed it, pepper. As well as fragrant spices, music is also an important part of life on Grenada, with the calypso tunes dancing over the island evoking Grenadians' African origins.
Many will, of course, be drawn to Grenada for its beaches. They are several dozen of them, immaculate and well-preserved, while digging a bit deeper will bring you to isolated coves where it'll be just you and the sea. Bring your snorkelling gear – there are plenty of colourful fish species to be glimpsed.
If there's only so much lounging on a beach you can tolerate, pick up one of the many nature trails running across the island that'll take you through wilderness brimming with wildlife. Expect to see rare birds in the rainforest and monkeys in the loftier terrain. You're also likely to cross one or two spice plantations, whose beguiling aromas are one of the trademarks of Grenada.
The capital, St George's, is a pretty city boasting one of the finest beaches in the Caribbean, Grand Anse. Meanwhile, day trips to neighbouring islands come highly recommended for those keen on sailing, diving and fishing. For unassailable tranquility, spend some time on the islet of Carriacou, whose simple, idyllic way of life is sure to charm. In fact, on the whole of Grenada, there are no colossal resorts, meaning peace, quiet and nature are largely the order of the day, along with a friendly and welcoming population.
Key facts
344 sq km (132 sq miles).
107,327 (UN estimate 2016).
321.8 per sq km.
Saint George’s.
Constitutional monarchy.
HM King Charles III since 2022, represented locally by Governor-General Dame Cécile La Grenade since 2013.
Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell since 2022.
Travel Advice
Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Grenada’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.
If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.
It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.
The hurricane season in Grenada normally runs from June to November. You should monitor local and international weather updates from the US National Hurricane Center and follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders. See Natural disasters
Grenada is at risk of Dengue virus especially during the rainy season. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
Most visits to Grenada are trouble-free but there have been incidents of crime including armed robbery and sexual assault. See Crime
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Grenada, attacks can’t be ruled out. See Terrorism
Consular support is not available from the British High Commission in St George’s. However, the British High Commission in Bridgetown, Barbados, can provide consular support.
Coronavirus travel health
Check the latest information on coronavirus risks (COVID-19) in Grenada on the TravelHealthPro website
See the TravelHealthPro website for further advice on travel abroad and reducing the spread of respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Information on COVID testing venues can be found on Grenada Tourism Authority website.
Entry and borders
See Entry requirements to find out what you will need to do when you arrive in Grenada.
Be prepared for your plans to change
No travel is risk-free during COVID-19. Countries may further restrict travel or bring in new rules at short notice, for example due to a new COVID-19 variant. Check with your travel company or airline for any transport changes which may delay your journey home.
Plan ahead and make sure you:
- can access money
- understand what your insurance will cover
- can make arrangements to extend your stay and be away for longer than planned
Travel in Grenada
Domestic travel between Grenada and Carriacou has resumed with options available 3 days a week by Osprey Lines ferry or 5 days a week (Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday) with SVG Air.
The State of Emergency has been lifted effective 4 April. There are no longer any COVID protocols or restrictions in place.
Changes may occur at any time and should be monitored using the following platforms; Government Information Service Facebook page or Ministry of Health Facebook page.
Public places and services
Restrictions on the movement of people, operations of businesses, mandate to wear masks and maintain physical distancing, the mandate to demonstrate your vaccination status to access certain services and all other features of the emergency powers COVID-19 regulations have been repealed effective 4 April.
Accommodation
Hotels have now re-opened in Grenada. The latest information is available from the Grenada Tourism Authority.
Healthcare in Grenada
For contact details for English speaking doctors visit our list of healthcare providers.
Your emotional and mental wellbeing is important. Read guidance on how to look after your mental wellbeing and mental health.
View Health for further details on healthcare in Grenada.
See also the guidance on healthcare if you’re waiting to return to the UK.
Help and support
If you need urgent consular assistance, contact your nearest British embassy, high commission or consulate. All telephone numbers are available 24/7.
Further information
The Grenada Government Information Service Facebook page and Ministry of Health Facebook page regularly post updated information.
See the TravelHealthPro website for further advice on travel abroad and reducing spread of respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Crime
Most visits are trouble-free, but there have been incidents of violent crime including armed robbery and sexual assault.
You should maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as you would in the UK and make sure your accommodation is secure. This also applies if you are staying on a yacht. Be vigilant at all times. Take care when walking alone off the busy main roads and avoid isolated areas, including beaches, particularly after dark.
Only use licensed taxis and take particular care at late night street parties, especially during the festival season. Don’t carry large amounts of cash or jewellery. If possible, leave valuables and travel documents in a safety deposit box or hotel safe. You should check that the hotel safe is securely fixed before using it to store your items.
Road travel
Driving is on the left. To drive on the island you must get a local temporary driving licence. The car hire companies will usually help with this. You must present a valid UK driving licence.
Take care when driving on the roads as there can be potholes and speed bumps. Observe the speed limits. You should take extra care on minor roads and in rural areas where there are narrow roads and blind corners. Pedestrians often walk on the roads and indicators are not always used.
Take extra care when driving at night as some roads are unlit. Road signs and hazards may not be easily visible. Don’t stop if you’re flagged down by pedestrians. Keep car doors locked when driving.
In the event of an accident, call the police and don’t move the vehicle.
Taxis aren’t metered. Standard taxi fares exist for most destinations. Agree the fare in local currency with the driver before you set off. You can often pay in US dollars as well as EC dollars.
Public transport is available and cheaper rate. Minibuses drivers might drive above the speed limit.
Air travel
The FCDO can’t offer advice on the safety of individual airlines. However, the International Air Transport Association publishes lists of registered airlines that have been audited and found to meet a number of operational safety standards and recommended practices – IATA Operational Safety Audit and IATA Standard Safety Assessment. These lists aren’t exhaustive and the absence of an airline from this list doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s unsafe.
You can find a list of recent incidents and accidents on the website of the Aviation Safety network.
The International Civil Aviation Organisation has carried out an audit of the level of implementation of the critical elements of safety oversight in Grenada.
Swimming
Take great care at all times when swimming as currents can be deceptively strong and not all beaches have lifeguards and/or warning flags. You should monitor all beaches carefully and obey any local warnings.
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Grenada, attacks can’t be ruled out.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
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. You should remain vigilant at all times.
This page has information on travelling to Grenada.
This page reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British Citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Grenada set and enforce entry rules. If you’re unsure how Grenada’s entry requirements apply to you, contact its UK embassy, high commission or consulate.’
The testing and vaccination requirement for arriving passengers have been discontinued effective 4 April. Details are available on the Government Information Service Facebook page or Ministry of Health Facebook
All travellers
British passport holders don’t need a visa to visit Grenada.
On entry, you’ll be granted a specified period to stay. In normal circumstances, if you wish to stay longer, you must apply for an extension of stay through the Grenada Immigration Department.
It’s an offence to overstay the entry period or to work without a work permit.
Entry requirements may change from time to time. You should check with the Grenada High Commission in London before you travel.
Vaccination
The vaccination requirement for entry to Grenada has been lifted, effective from 4 April. Full details are on the Government Information Service Facebook page and the Ministry of Health Facebook page.
If you’ve had COVID-19 in the past year
Testing requirements for entry to Grenada have been lifted, effective 4 April. Full details are on the Government Information Service Facebook page and the Ministry of Health Facebook page.
These rules are subject to change and should be checked regularly.
If you’re transiting through Grenada
Transiting is when you pass through one country on the way to your final destination.
Grenada is not a transit point for travel.
Check your passport and travel documents before you travel
If you are visiting Grenada, your passport should be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.
If you are a resident in Grenada, your passport must be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.
Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.
A limited State of Emergency is in place in response to coronavirus. For more information on the measures taken, see Coronavirus
There are severe penalties for all drug offences. Pack all luggage yourself and don’t carry anything through customs for anyone else.
It’s an offence for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing.
Local attitudes towards the LGBT community are mostly conservative throughout the Caribbean. Public displays of affection (such as hand-holding or kissing) between opposite or same-sex couples are uncommon. Certain homosexual acts are illegal. LGBT travellers should be mindful of local attitudes and be aware that public displays of affection may attract unwanted and negative attention. See our information and advice page for the LGBT community before you travel.
If you have a health condition, or you are pregnant, you may need specialist healthcare abroad. Check whether your destination country can provide the healthcare you may need and ensure you have appropriate travel insurance for unexpected medical evacuation or local treatment.
See the Coronavirus travel health and Healthcare sections in the Coronavirus page for COVID-19 health information.
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad. Guidance is also available from NHS (Scotland) on the FitForTravel website.
General information on travel vaccinations and a travel health checklist is available on the NHS website. You may then wish to contact your health adviser or pharmacy for advice on other preventive measures and managing any pre-existing medical conditions while you’re abroad.
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.
While travel can be enjoyable, it can sometimes be challenging. There are clear links between mental and physical health, so looking after yourself during travel and when abroad is important. Information on travelling with mental health conditions is available in our guidance page. Further information is also available from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC).
Health risks
UK health authorities have classified Grenada as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. For more information and advice, visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre website.
Cases of Chikungunya virus have been confirmed in Grenada. Grenada is at risk of Dengue virus especially during the rainy season. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
Medical treatment
The main government hospital can cope with many types of treatment but serious cases may mean emergency evacuation. Medical treatment in Grenada can be expensive. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment and repatriation.
If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, the ambulance phone numbers are 434 for general hospital in St George’s, 724 for Princess Alice hospital in Grenville, or 774 for Princess Royal hospital in Carriacou.
You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment. Before choosing to be treated at a private facility, you should check their policies on pre-payment. Private clinics may not accept medical travel insurance as payment for treatment.
Hurricanes
The hurricane season in the Caribbean normally runs from June to November. You should monitor local and international weather updates from the US National Hurricane Centre and follow the advice of the local authorities.
See our Tropical Cyclones page for advice about how to prepare effectively and what to do if you’re likely to be affected by a hurricane or tropical cyclone.
Earthquakes
Earthquakes are a potential threat and tremors are felt occasionally in the Caribbean. In the event of an earthquake, you should follow the advice of the local authorities. To learn more about what to do before, during and after an earthquake, visit the website of the US Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Volcanoes
You should monitor the alert level of the underwater volcano ‘Kick’em Jenny’, located 5 miles off the coast of Grenada. Observe any maritime exclusion zones and follow the advice of the local authorities in the event of increased activity or eruption.
If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission. If you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad, contact the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in London on 020 7008 5000 (24 hours).
Foreign travel checklist
Read our foreign travel checklist to help you plan for your trip abroad and stay safe while you’re there.
Travel safety
The FCDO travel advice helps you make your own decisions about foreign travel. Your safety is our main concern, but we can’t provide tailored advice for individual trips. If you’re concerned about whether or not it’s safe for you to travel, you should read the travel advice for the country or territory you’re travelling to, together with information from other sources you’ve identified, before making your own decision on whether to travel. Only you can decide whether it’s safe for you to travel.
When we judge the level of risk to British nationals in a particular place has become unacceptably high, we’ll state on the travel advice page for that country or territory that we advise against all or all but essential travel. Read more about how the FCDO assesses and categorises risk in foreign travel advice.
Our crisis overseas page suggests additional things you can do before and during foreign travel to help you stay safe.
Refunds and cancellations
If you wish to cancel or change a holiday that you’ve booked, you should contact your travel company. The question of refunds and cancellations is a matter for you and your travel company. Travel companies make their own decisions about whether or not to offer customers a refund. Many of them use our travel advice to help them reach these decisions, but we do not instruct travel companies on when they can or can’t offer a refund to their customers.
For more information about your rights if you wish to cancel a holiday, visit the Citizen’s Advice Bureau website. For help resolving problems with a flight booking, visit the website of the Civil Aviation Authority. For questions about travel insurance, contact your insurance provider and if you’re not happy with their response, you can complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service.
Registering your travel details with us
We’re no longer asking people to register with us before travel. Our foreign travel checklist and crisis overseas page suggest things you can do before and during foreign travel to plan your trip and stay safe.
Previous versions of FCDO travel advice
If you’re looking for a previous version of the FDCO travel advice, visit the National Archives website. Versions prior to 2 September 2020 will be archived as FCO travel advice. If you can’t find the page you’re looking for there, send the Travel Advice team a request.
Further help
If you’re a British national and you have a question about travelling abroad that isn’t covered in our foreign travel advice or elsewhere on GOV.UK, you can submit an enquiry, or contact us on Twitter or Facebook. We’re not able to provide tailored advice for specific trips.’
Images of Grand Anse Beach
Maurice Bishop International Airport Hotels
St Georges Travel Guide
Grand Anse Beach Travel Guide