Jamaica - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution in Jamaica due to crime. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Do not travel to:

• Some areas of Kingston due to crime.
• Some areas of Montego Bay due to crime.
• Spanish Town due to crime. 

Violent crime, such as home invasions, armed robberies, and homicide, is common. Sexual assaults occur frequently, even at all-inclusive resorts. Local police lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from driving outside of Kingston at night. 

Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page. 

If you decide to travel to Jamaica:

• Avoid walking or driving at night.
• Avoid public buses.
• Avoid secluded places or situations, even in resorts.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Be aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Crime and Safety Report for Jamaica.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.  

Kingston

Violence and shootings occur regularly in some areas of Kingston. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the following areas: downtown Kingston, which is defined as the areas between Mountain View Avenue and Hagley Park Road, and south of Half Way Tree and Old Hope Roads, and includes Trench Town, Tivoli Gardens, and Arnett Gardens; Standpipe, Grants Pen, and Cassava Piece. 

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. 

Montego Bay

Violence and shootings occur regularly in some areas of Montego Bay. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the following areas: Flankers, Canterbury, Norwood, Rose Heights, Clavers Street, and Hart Street.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas. 

Spanish Town

Violence and shootings occur regularly. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to Spanish Town. 

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas