Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Use Normal Level of Caution

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are a group of 27 coral islands located in the Indian Ocean, halfway between Australia and Sri Lanka. Only two of the islands, West Island and Home Island, are inhabited. North Keeling Island is home to a national park. The population of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is approximately 600 people (2014 estimate). Islam is the major religion on the islands and is practiced by most.

The Cocos (Keeling) Islands were first discovered in 1609 by the English Captain William Keeling. It wasn’t until the 1800s, however, that the islands were inhabited; the first settlers, of Chinese, Papuan and Indian heritage, were brought to the island to grow and harvest coconut. With this, the islands became important producers and exporters of copra (coconut kernels used to make coconut oil). In 1857, the islands were annexed by the UK and during World War Two, the Cocos (Keeling) Islands were under military administration. In 1955, the islands were transferred to the Australian government and became a non-self-governing Australian territory. The Queen/King of England is the chief of state, represented by the governor-general in Australia, and an administrator on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is the head of government.

Due to its location, the islands experience a tropical climate with high humidity, warm temperatures year-round, and high rainfall (especially in March through July). Tropical cyclone season is October to April.

Recently named Australia’s Best Beach, Cossies Beach on Direction Island must be visited by those wanting to snorkel, dive, swim, or surf. With its lush palm tree jungles, diverse wildlife, white sandy beaches, and small tourist industry, the unspoiled Cocos (Keeling) Islands are a perfect destination for outdoor adventure travel.

Currency	AUD: Australian Dollar
Language	Malay (Cocos dialect), English
Capital	West Island
Recent Alerts	None
Latest Alert	Not Available

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Cocos (Keeling) 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 of exposure to hepatitis A virus in this country through contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis B There is a risk for acquiring hepatitis B in this country.
Typhoid Fever Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in this country, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where water and food may not be safe.
Yellow Fever There is no risk of yellow fever transmission in this country. However, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers 1 year of age and older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Chikungunya Fever Chikungunya fever may occur in this country.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

Hepatitis A Vaccine There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A in this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine There is a 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, rural areas, or staying with friends and family.
Yellow Fever Vaccine There is no risk of yellow fever transmission in this country. However, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers 1 year of age and older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

None required.

Safety and Security in Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Emergency Numbers

000

(+61 8) 9162 7790 West Island fire and emergency

(+61 8) 9162 7562 Home Island fire and emergency

(+618) 0406329039 Volunteer marine rescue

Personal Safety

Although the crime rate in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is extremely low, petty crime or other theft can occur anywhere. Always remain vigilant.

Exercise caution when driving in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands as road conditions may be poor.

Due to the conservative nature of the islands’ culture, travellers are advised to dress modestly, covering shoulders/knees, with respect for the local customs. Travellers should also note that they can only enter a mosque accompanied by a local Cocos Malay person.

Always check the weather conditions and tides with local authorities before engaging in outdoor activities. Before hiking or exploring the islands, ensure someone is aware of where you are going and when you will return. Always heed the advice of locals and ensure you are prepared with the proper clothing and equipment. It is advised to travel with a guide.

Ensure travel insurance is purchased before departing as medical facilities are limited. In the case of a severe medical emergency, evacuation will likely be required.

As in Australia, same-sex marriage is legal in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

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Updated: December 15, 2020