When to go

Temperatures year round average between 24° and 32° C with constant breezes from the sea and mountains. July to November is the official hurricane season in the Caribbean, which is also when you will be more likely to encounter rain.

While diving is offered year round, the best time for divers to visit Montserrat would probably be from April through to October, which is when the visibility is at its best. Ground swells can cause visibility to drop in December. Sea temperatures vary from 26°C in winter to 30°C during the summer months.

Getting there

British Airways has daily flights from London Gatwick non-stop to Antigua. From there it is a short 15 minute hop to Montserrat on WinAir. Flight time from the UK to Antigua is about 8 hours

Getting around

Although you are not likely to get lost in Montserrat (at least not for long!), it’s advisable to have a map of the island if you’re planning on driving here. There’s basically one main road running from the north, down each side of the island (west coast and east coast). These main roads are surprisingly long because of their many steep hills, twists and turns. All routes to places of interest are approached via these main roads, or off one of their many turnings. There are no traffic lights, but look out for the few zebra pedestrian crossings (without beacons). Remember to respect the signs and closed gates that indicate the boundaries of the Exclusion Zone.

A great way to do sightseeing on the island is by organised tour or a private driver/taxi, which can be booked for you by the Vue Pointe Hotel. This way you get to see the sights with a private “guide”, who will also be able to give you local insights into island life and historical background of the island of Montserrat. Remember that you cannot drive into the Exclusion Zone without a guide.

Public transportation is limited to minibuses, whereas there are no scheduled times and no official stops

Entry requirements

European community nationals only require a valid passport and a return ticket.

Local airport tax

Departure tax from Montserrat is EC$45 (US$17)

Baggage allowance

30kg per person

Language

The official language is English, often mixed with a strong Montserratian accent.

Money

The currency of Montserrat is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, which is linked to the US Dollar at the exchange rate of 1 US$ to 2.70 EC$. US Dollar are accepted everywhere on the island. There are two main commercial banks on the island but apart from in the 2 main hotels and at car rental companies, cash is the preferred method of payment.

Health

Montserrat has one of the purest supplies of drinking water in the world, and it's perfectly safe to drink from the tap. Bottled or mineral water is also available in grocery stores, whereas it is being said that the bottled water is in fact also tap water!

No vaccinations are required unless coming from infected areas within six months of arrival.