Traveling to the Caribbean during Covid-19: Essential resources to plan your journey

If you're heading to the Caribbean, here’s a collection of useful resources to help you organize your trip amid the ongoing Covid-19 situation.

Remember, the Caribbean Sea is made up of 13 independent island nations, with even more overseas territories. Each destination has its own rules, which may change frequently.

Due to damage from Hurricane Fiona in mid-September, travel to some Caribbean islands—especially the Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, and Puerto Rico—may be disrupted. Stay updated with the latest news before you travel.

Here’s a guide to 10 top Caribbean destinations, complete with links offering the latest Covid-19 updates and travel guidelines.

Aruba

Aruba is renowned for its white-sand beaches and the lively, colorful buildings of Oranjestad, its capital city. DPPA/Sipa USA/AP

What to expect: Aruba is typically sunny and dry. Explore Arikok National Park, home to caves, desert landscapes, and massive lizards. The island's expansive beaches and crystal-clear waters are major highlights.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high).

The Bahamas

Bimini Big Game Club and Marina is located on North Bimini, just off the coast of Miami, Florida.

Bimini Big Game Club and Marina can be found on North Bimini, a short distance from Miami, Florida. Francisco Blanco/Alamy

What to expect: The Bahamas consists of over 700 islands, from the vibrant and lively Nassau on New Providence to the tranquil beaches of more remote islands. You can even swim with pigs or dive with sharks.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high risk).

Discover more: Official Bahamas Travel Website | Bahamas Travel Health Visa | US Embassy | CDC Bahamas Travel Advisory

Barbados

Charles Fort, dating back to 1650, was established to defend Carlisle Bay in Barbados from pirates. Jon G. Fuller/VWPics/AP

What to expect: Beyond the beaches, this easternmost Caribbean island offers a mix of golf, history, and stunning architecture. Visit rum distilleries for tours, and indulge in the island's local cuisine, a fusion of African, Indian, Irish, British, and Creole flavors that pair perfectly with the local spirits.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high risk).

Learn more: Official Visit Barbados Website | BIMSafe Travel App | US Embassy | CDC Barbados Travel Advisory

Curaçao

The Penha Building, constructed in 1708 in Dutch colonial style, now operates as a department store in Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao. Jon G. Fuller/VWPics/AP

What to explore: Dive into the island's vibrant coral reefs and explore sunken ships through scuba and snorkeling excursions. Don't miss Willemstad, the capital, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s a must-see for history enthusiasts. Nature lovers will enjoy discovering orchids and bird species at Christoffelpark.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high risk).

Find out more: Traveling to Curaçao | Curaçao News and Updates | Digital Immigration Card | US Consulate | CDC Curaçao Travel Advisory

Dominican Republic

Tourists snap photos of flamingos in Bayahibe, located in the La Altagracia province.

Visitors capture images of flamingos in Bayahibe, La Altagracia province. Erika Santelices/AFP/Getty Images

What to explore: Stunning beaches and a variety of resorts await. The island's diverse landscapes, from dense forests and mountains to semi-arid regions, provide a striking contrast to the historic Cuidad Colonial in Santo Domingo, a charming and romantic area to discover.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high risk).

Discover more: GoDominicanRepublic.com | Electronic Entry and Exit Form | US Embassy | CDC Dominican Republic Travel Advisory

Guadeloupe

The French Caribbean islands of Guadeloupe are situated in the lower arc of the Caribbean chain. Melissa Banigan for Dinogo

What to discover: Beautiful white-sand beaches are just the beginning in this French island chain. Explore over 74,100 acres of rainforest in the National Park of Guadeloupe. Throughout the year, music groups rehearse for Carnival, performing traditional melodies in villages. Indulge in French Créole dishes, such as savory red snapper, that will captivate your taste buds.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high risk).

Learn more: Air travel to Guadeloupe | US Embassy | CDC Guadeloupe Travel Advisory

Jamaica

Reach Falls, situated close to Port Antonio, is a popular destination for visitors to Jamaica. Valery Sharifulin/TASS/Getty Images

What to experience: Jamaica's iconic reggae and dancehall music combined with its laid-back atmosphere attract travelers year-round. The island’s tropical beaches, waterfalls, and mouth-watering jerk cuisine are also big draws for visitors.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high risk).

Discover more: Visit Jamaica | Immigration Customs C5 card | US Embassy | CDC Jamaica Travel Advisory

Puerto Rico

Paddleboarders enjoy the waves near the beach in San Juan's Condado neighborhood.

Paddleboarders have fun near a beach in the Condado area of San Juan. Xavier Garcia/Bloomberg/Getty Images

What to explore: The historic and charming Old San Juan is perfect for discovery. The island’s casinos and the lush El Yunque rainforest are also must-sees, in addition to the many beaches that offer abundant water activities.

Learn more: Visit Puerto Rico | Travel Declaration Form | CDC Puerto Rico Information

Turks and Caicos

Colonial-style homes line the waterfront in Cockburn Town, located on Grand Turk.

Colonial houses stand along the waterfront in Cockburn Town, Grand Turk. Alamy

What to discover: This British overseas territory, located northeast of Cuba and southeast of the Bahamas, is famous for its vibrant coral reefs, traditional ripsaw music, and relaxed atmosphere. Activities such as whale watching, snorkeling, and other outdoor adventures complement the islands' stunning natural marine beauty.

US CDC travel advisory: Level 3 (high risk).

Learn more: Visit Turks and Caicos | US Embassy | CDC Turks and Caicos Travel Advisory

US Virgin Islands

Before the pandemic, St. Thomas was a bustling hub for cruise ship tourism.

Before the pandemic, St. Thomas was a major hotspot for cruise ships. Bonnie Jo Mount/The Washington Post/Getty Images

What to enjoy: Visitors flock to St. Croix for fine dining, scuba diving, and golf. The untouched beaches of St. John offer a peaceful retreat. Meanwhile, St. Thomas is a bustling destination for boating and duty-free shopping.

Learn more: US Virgin Islands Update | USVI Department of Health | CDC US Virgin Islands Information

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