Essential information for Antigua

When to go

Antigua has a warm and dry climate, with temperatures averaging between 25°C to 30°C all year, so there really is no bad time to go. The best weather can be found in the winter season between mid-December and mid-April, making this the most popular time for Antigua holidays, when the island is at its coolest and driest.

From June through to November the island experiences it’s rainy season. Although the sea and land are at their hottest at this time of year, its also Antigua’s hurricane season. While it’s unlikely you’ll see a hurricane, and cheap holidays to Antigua are particularly easy to find in this season, it is worth noting that showers may interrupt your sunbathing time.

Health and safety

Travellers to Antigua should be up to date with routine vaccination courses and boosters as recommended in the UK, including MMR, diphtheria, tetanus and polio. Depending on your planned activities you may also require Hepatitis A and B vaccinations, so it’s advisable to visit your GP at least six weeks prior to your trip to discuss any vaccinations and/or preventative measures that you need to take.

Although the tap water is safe to drink, it can still cause upset stomachs due to the difference in composition to the water you would normally drink. Most visitors to the island buy bottled water, which is readily available.

As with any holiday, you should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover yourself and family on your trip.

If you’re visiting Antigua specifically to take part in sports or watersports, including hiking, you should make sure your insurance covers this. See our holiday extras page for more information and for the latest health and safety information visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/antigua-and-barbuda/entry-requirements.

Passports and visas

British citizens don’t need a visa to enter Antigua but must have a valid passport valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry. By law, you must carry your passport with you and may need to show it when paying by credit card. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/antigua-and-barbuda/entry-requirements.

Getting around

Flights land at V. C. Bird International Airport, which is around five kilometres from Dickenson Bay, meaning transfer times are pleasingly short. Most tour operators include transfers as part of a holiday package so getting to your resort is simple, whether you’ve gone for All Inclusive Antigua holidays or a Half Board package.

You’ll find plenty of easy options to explore the island. Antigua is just 22 kilometres long and 18 kilometres wide, so wherever you’re staying, you can access the rest of the island almost instantly.

You can see most of the island by bus, or in privately owned mini-vans for just US $1 a ride. Operating on a set schedule which you can obtain from your hotel, be prepared for a bumpy ride as the roads are steep, winding and full of potholes.

Renting a car is an ideal way to discover more of Antigua, and for this you’ll need a permit, which you can apply for on arrival. Car rental agencies can assist you in acquiring the temporary license which costs US $20 and is valid for three months.

Taxis are available throughout Antigua, with the fares between the airport, harbour and many hotels fixed and can be confirmed upon arrival. Taxi drivers also work as tour guides for sightseeing trips, and rates can either be obtained through your hotel or negotiated by yourself.

Advice for travellers with children

The beaches in Antigua are perfect for building sandcastles and paddling in the shallow, warm water. Older kids will enjoy snorkelling and kayaking around mangroves while you relax under the shade of a palm tree.

Many hotels provide kids’ clubs, which are a great way for youngsters to make new friends while you enjoy some quiet time. Here, toddlers will enjoy paddling pools and treasure hunts while older children can take off on mountain bikes and yachts.

You’ll find well stocked supermarkets across the island selling most big name brands of nappies and wet wipes, though these are a little more expensive than in the UK. Different types of powdered milks and ready made baby food are also available, with soy options too.

Electricity

Connector type: A, B (adapter needed)

Voltage Info: 230V 60HZ

Emergency information

Emergency numbers for Antigua are the same as in the UK and USA, with both 999 and 911 connecting you to the emergency services.

British Consulate

There’s no British High Commission in Antigua. If you’re a victim of crime or affected by a crisis overseas, or if something happens to a relative or partner contact the British Consulate in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Address: British High Commission, Lower Collymore Rock, PO Box 676, Bridgetown, Barbados

Email: ukinbarbados@fco.gov.uk

Phone: + 1 246 430 7800

Hospitals

Mount St. John’s Medical Centre is a modern and well facilitated hospital in Antigua’s capital, which is equipped to deal with most emergencies.

Mount St. John’s Medical Centre

Address: Michael’s Mount, St. John’s, Antigua

Phone: + 1 268 484 2700