Cayman Islands

Cayman Islands

Use Normal Level of Caution

The Cayman Islands are located in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba and northwest of Jamaica, and include Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. The population is about 55,000 people. The islands are a British Overseas Territory, and the government is a parliamentary democracy with the Queen of Great Britain as chief of state represented by a governor. A premier is the head of government. The islands have a high degree of self-government under a constitution ratified in 2009.

Christopher Columbus discovered the islands in 1503 and named them Las Tortugas, after the giant turtles that he sighted in the surrounding seas. After facing the threat of extinction, these turtles are now bred at the Cayman Turtle Farm and are released into the wild every year.

The Cayman Islands are a major offshore financial centre and tax haven. The number of registered businesses is more than the population. Tourism and international finance provide the main revenue. Tourists can enjoy the Seven Mile Beach, Pedro St. James Castle, scuba diving, and snorkeling. The Blue Iguana, an endangered reptile, can be found on Grand Cayman.

Currency KYD: Cayman Islands dollar
Language English
Capital George Town
Recent Alerts 1
Latest Alert June 25, 2021 - COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in the Cayman Islands (01 July Update)

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Cayman Islands. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

Hepatitis A

There is a risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Cayman Islands through contaminated food or water. Infection can still occur at tourist destinations and resorts.

Hepatitis B

There is a risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Cayman Islands.

Typhoid Fever

Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in Cayman Islands, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where food and water sources may be contaminated.

Rabies

Although the UK National Travel Health Network and Centre considers the islands to be free of rabies, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that rabies may be present in bats. Vaccination may be considered for travellers who might come in contact with bats.

Dengue Fever

Outbreaks of dengue fever may occur.

Chikungunya Fever

Chikungunya fever has occurred in this country.

Zika Fever

Zika fever can occur in this country.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Cayman Islands.

Hepatitis A Vaccine

There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.

Hepatitis B Vaccine

There is a significant risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.

Typhoid Fever Vaccine

There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities or rural areas, where food and water sources may be contaminated.

Rabies Vaccine

Although the UK National Travel Health Network and Centre considers the islands to be free of rabies, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that rabies may be present in bats. There may be a risk of exposure if travellers come in contact with bats.

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Cayman Islands.

None required.

Safety and Security in Cayman Islands

Emergency Numbers

911

Personal Safety

The crime rate is low in the Cayman Islands, and most travellers have no trouble. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, or other theft can occur anywhere in a crowded area or tourist destination. Always be alert to your personal safety and security. Keep valuables secured and out of sight. Safeguard your important documents, such as your passport. Avoid walking alone at night. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers.

Although homosexuality is legal in the Cayman Islands, there is a lack of acceptance towards same-sex behaviour due to the conservative nature of the island. Avoid public displays of affection.

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