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Reviewed: 09 May 2012, 16:15 NZDT
Still current at:
19 May 2013
There is some risk to your safety in Trinidad and Tobago due to high levels of serious and violent crime.
Violent crime
There is a continued high level of violent crime, including assault, rape, kidnapping and murder. There have been reports of tourists being robbed at gunpoint in downtown Port of Spain and attacks in daylight hours including at popular tourist sites and shopping malls. All isolated areas including beaches such as Englishman’s Bay and King Peter’s Bay in Tobago are particularly dangerous and should be avoided, especially at night. On Trinidad there have also been attacks, some involving firearms, at tourist sites, including Fort George, the Pitch Lake and Las Cuevas beach. Due to the high levels of crime and violence, and the widespread availability of firearms, we advise New Zealanders to exercise caution, particularly in Port of Spain, San Fernando and other urban areas. Incidence of crime increases during holiday periods such as Christmas and Carnival.
Violent crimes including rapes, assaults and robberies have taken place in shared or “route” taxis in Port of Spain. For public transportation around Port of Spain you should only use private taxis which take you door to door and for travel between cities you should only use private taxis or full-sized intercity buses. Violent robberies have occurred when travelling from Piarco Airport. Driving at night should be avoided other than on major highways and you should avoid travelling on the Beetham Highway airport route late at night.
Expatriate residents and tourists have been violently attacked in their homes. New Zealanders should pay close attention to personal safety at all times and ensure that a high level of security is in place at their accommodation, including in private villas.
Civil unrest
New Zealanders should avoid large crowds and demonstrations as they have on occasion turned violent. Pay close attention to personal security and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks.
General advice
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Trinidad and Tobago should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders travelling or resident in Trinidad and Tobago are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for the Caribbean
Other Countries' Travel Advisories
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Contact details are
Street Address: 99 Bank Street, Suite 727, Ottawa, Canada, KIP 6G3
Telephone +1 613 238 5991 Facsimile +1 613 238 5707
Email info@nzhcottawa.org
Website New Zealand High Commission Ottawa [external link]
Office Hours: Mon - Fri 8:30am - 4:30am
