Turks and Caicos Holidays
Overview
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Take a holiday to Turks and Caicos and you'll find unspoilt, exquisite beaches, surrounded by one of the world's largest coral reefs. Perfect for divers, who will discover one of the top 10 dive sites in the world. Visit deserted cays, the historical capital island Grand Turk, or just relax and experience the tranquillity of these Crown Colony Islands. Turks and Caicos holidays are often described as 'beautiful by nature'.
Turks and Caicos Highlights
Beaches: Life is most definitely a beach on a Turks and Caicos holiday, with 230 miles of stunning tropical shores. The Island of Providenciales is home to the famous Grace Bay and has a 12-mile stretch of powdery white sands and the astoundingly turquoise waters along the bays of Chalk Sound National Park are just two perfect places to relax and soak up the sun.
Diving: Turks and Caicos boasts one of the largest coral reefs in the world making it one of the most premier diving spots around. With visibility of up to 200ft, beautiful preserved reefs, a variety of marine life, shipwrecks and bountiful tropical fish and flora. From shallow dives to the thrill of deep diving there are courses and excursions for all ages and abilities.
Cheshire Hall: The 200 year old ruins of this former cotton plantation are one of the key historic attractions on Providenciales. The National Trust has carefully preserved the ruins, which were once home to its owner Thomas Stubbs an English patriot, and also over 384 slaves in the 1800's. The site offers fantastic views of the island as well as an in depth insight into their history.
Whale Watching: From the end of December to April approximately 2,500 Humpback Whales pass through the waters around Turks and Caicos on route to their annual migration destination. During these months if you are out diving you can often hear the songs of whales under the water. There are various excursions available locally giving you the opportunity to catch sight of these beautiful creatures.
Grand Turk Lighthouse: Constructed in 1852 on the island but originally brought in pieces from the UK this landmark has been carefully preserved and still works guarding the northern tip of Grand Turk. The lighthouse provides a perfect shaded picnic area and is an ideal spot for whale watching in February and March.
Turks and Caicos Factfile
When to go
Temperature Range: 23°C - 38°C
Most popular: December - April
Best value: End April, June, September, October and November
Best weather: December - June
Travel Information
Direct flights: British Airways
Indirect flights: American Airlines and British Airways
Visa information: None for British citizens
Health information: No special vaccines required but Hepatitis A, Polio and Typhoid recommended
Time Difference: GMT -5 hours
When To Go
Best Value
The Best value time to visit the islands is from mid April to end June and mid September to November. For the best value and best weather stick to April and June as prices are slightly cheaper but temperatures slightly cooler, whereas September to November prices are cheaper but temperatures can reach the mid thirties which may not be suitable for all.
Best Time to Go
The Best time to visit the Turks and Caicos Islands is from December to June, as the island experiences slightly cooler temperatures. December to April is the peak tourist season meaning the islands are slightly busier but also have more on offer in terms of trips and excursions.
Most Popular
Most people choose to visit the islands during the months of December to April, which coincide with public and school holidays, meaning prices can be slightly higher. Generally the islands encounter temperatures of around 25°C during these months making for a perfect escape from the cooler temperature back home.
Hottest
The hottest months in Turks and Caicos are June to November with August to October being notoriously the hottest. Temperatures during these months can reach as high as 38°C depending on how strong the trade winds are, however they are usually pretty constant meaning temperatures will usually fall around 32°C.
Climate
On average the islands encounter 350 sunny days per year and the least annual rainfall out of most of the Caribbean islands, meaning the climate is desert tropical. Hurricane season is historically June to November however the island generally does not suffer from storms. The Turks and Caicos Islands boast a yearly average temperature of 29°C.
Turks and Caicos Travel Information
Etiquette and Customs
Possession or trafficking illegal drugs will result in long prison sentences and heavy fines
Beach attire should be worn for the beach, beach bars and pool; it is not suitable for town, shops or restaurants.
Although crime is relatively low always be aware of possessions and do not draw attention to yourself with extravagant expensive jewellery.
Topless or nude sunbathing in Turks and Caicos is illegal.
Tipping
Some restaurant bills will automatically include a 10% service charge so check before you tip; you may want to leave a little extra for good service. Any tips for other services are at your discretion depending on the quality of service received.
Flight information
There are two main carriers we use offering flights to Turks and Caicos from the UK.
Direct Carriers: There is one direct carrier to Turks and Caicos from the UK which is British Airways from London Heathrow, however you will have a touchdown in the Bahamas although you will not have to change planes.
Indirect Carriers: American Airlines offer an indirect service from both London Heathrow and Manchester via Miami; you will have to change planes and clear immigration on this service. British Airways also offer an indirect route from most regional Airports going via London Heathrow with the brief touchdown in the Bahamas.
Fastest Flight Time: 12 hrs from London Heathrow to Providenciales on a direct flight with a touchdown in the Bahamas. 3 hrs from New York.
Visa information
British Passport holders do not require a visa to enter Turks & Caicos for tourist stays up to 30 days. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months on the date of return. There will be a departure tax payable locally on return of $20US per person.
