Latest updates: Health — Travel health notice for Zika Virus removed. Exercise a high degree of caution in Jamaica due to the high level of violent crime. Back to top. Violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, is a problem in large cities and tourist areas, including parts of Kingston and Montego Bay, despite the presence of police to counter criminal activity. The availability of firearms is widespread, and most violent drug- and gang-related crimes, especially murder, involve firearms.
There is a risk of becoming the victim of crossfire in these areas. Tourists are also at risk of crimes of opportunity, especially theft and robberies.
Resistance may provoke the use of violence. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, are common in major tourist areas and crowded places. Local authorities periodically declare a state of emergency in various parishes to fight against gang-related crime.
When a state of emergency is in effect, security forces have increased rights to conduct searches, seizures, and detain persons of interest. Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics.
There have been reports of sexual assaults at tourist resorts carried out by resort staff and, in some cases, by other tourists. Women travelling alone are often harassed. Be particularly vigilant if you are staying at a smaller or isolated establishment with less security. Compounds that are gated and guarded are considered the safest accommodation option in Jamaica.
