Shirley Heights Lookout

Entry requirements vary by passport. Check the requirements for your specific passport on the Antigua and Barbuda page at Yoogo.

The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD), which is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of approximately 2.70 XCD to 1 USD. US dollars are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, though local buses and small vendors generally prefer Eastern Caribbean dollars. Major credit cards are accepted at most tourist-facing businesses, but carrying some cash is advisable for markets, beach bars, and smaller establishments.

Antigua and Barbuda is generally considered one of the more peaceful Caribbean destinations, with most visits passing without incident. Petty theft can occur in tourist areas, so standard precautions with valuables apply, particularly on beaches and in busy market districts. Visitors should check their government's current travel advisory before departure.

Taxis are the most convenient option for tourists and are widely available at the airport, cruise terminals, and major hotels; agree the fare before setting off as they are not metered. Minibuses serve routes between Saint John's and the main villages at low cost, though schedules can be infrequent. Hiring a car gives the most flexibility for exploring the island, and drivers must hold a local visitor's permit, available from car rental agencies.

The dry season from December to April brings the most reliable sunshine, lower humidity, and temperatures typically between 22 and 29 degrees Celsius, making it the most popular and most expensive period to visit. April is widely regarded as the sweet spot, combining excellent weather with the spectacle of Antigua Sailing Week and fewer crowds than the peak Christmas period. The wetter months of June to November coincide with Atlantic hurricane season, though direct hits are relatively rare.

English is the official language and is spoken by virtually the entire population, making communication straightforward for most visitors. Antiguan Creole, a dialect blending English with West African linguistic influences, is also widely spoken in everyday conversation. Basic courtesies in standard English are universally understood and appreciated.

No vaccinations are legally required for entry unless arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever, though health authorities generally recommend being up to date on routine immunisations including hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus. The islands have no significant malaria risk, but mosquito repellent is advisable as dengue fever and chikungunya are present in the Caribbean region. Travellers should ensure their health insurance provides overseas coverage, as medical facilities on the islands are limited and serious cases may require evacuation.