Frequently Asked Questions

Tobago lies south of the hurricane belt just off the coast of South America. It's located 21 miles northeast of its sister island, Trinidad, the most southerly island of the Caribbean. The island is surrounded by the tranquil Caribbean Sea on its North Coast with the less calm Atlantic Ocean on its southern and western sides.

Tobago has an area of 116 sq. miles (300 sq. km) and a population of 60,874 (as per the 2011 census). 

All visitors to Tobago must have a valid passport along with a return ticket to be allowed entry. Passports must be valid for the duration of your stay on the island.

Most countries generally do not require a visa for visits up to 90 days, however, you should still confirm whether you require a one and the steps to get started.

Be sure to confirm all of the required travel documents needed while planning your trip to Tobago.

English is spoken everywhere, with a Creole dialect taking elements from the island’s European colonizers (French, Dutch and British) and Amerindian. 

There are a number of banks across the island with international access to ABMs (ATMs). Ask your bank about added fees that may be incurred.

Currency can also be exchanged at all major banks. Look out for banks including First Citizens Bank (FCB); Republic Bank Limited (RBL); Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) and Scotiabank. 

The national currency used is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar, TT Dollar or TTD. It floats against the US Dollar at an average of TT$6.80 to US$1.00, however you can check with any bank online or the daily newspaper for the current rate.

Credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable since some smaller facilities and shops accept cash only. For cash transactions, businesses and individuals may accept US dollars.

Tobago boasts a warm, tropical, marine climate, with constant cool breezes from NE trade winds and year-round temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) to 32°C (89°F).

The island has two major seasons: dry and wet. The dry season typically occurs from December to May, while the months of June to November account for the rainier periods of the year, with average rainfall measuring 200cm (40in.)

The sun is extremely strong in Tobago and the UV Index can reach as high as 12. As you explore all of the unspoilt gems of Tobago, it’s very important to protect your skin during the day. Wearing sunscreen of SPF 50 or higher, hat, sunglasses, and long sleeves where possible go a long way in protecting your skin against the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Visitors can drive for up to 90 days on a valid foreign/international licence. Driving is on the left and the speed limit is 50kph (32mph) in Tobago.

By law, seatbelts are required at all times and the use of a mobile device without hands-free is illegal.

The Scarborough General Hospital is located in Signal Hill and there are a number of health centers across the island. 

Emergency health treatment is free to residents and visitors at all public health facilities; private health facilities often require payment upfront. Follow up with your travel insurance provider for further details on coverage. 

North American standard voltage (120/60) is used in Tobago.

There are two major providers of competitive cellular phone service in Trinidad and Tobago: Bmobile and Digicel. Both provide great mobile service and free and easy roaming facilities. International cellular roaming services are available and if visitors have installed a roaming application in their home country, they can simply turn on their sets and make calls.  

Fire: 990
Police: 999
Ambulance: 811
Tobago Emergency Relief: 211

Crime exists in Tobago, just like anywhere else in the world, however, it is at a minimum. We do strongly advise visitors to use common sense when traveling and exercise caution where need be. Just like anywhere else, never leave your valuables unattended, lock your doors and avoid flaunting expensive jewelry or large sums of cash. Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas, deserted beaches or scenic lookouts.  

If you are in doubt about an area in which you are staying or traveling get advice from the hotel staff or call your embassy. When using public transportation, especially from the airport to your destination, use an accredited taxi. You can ask for details on accreditation at the information booth at the airport. 

Trust your instincts – if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. The Emergency Number 999 will reach the Police Rapid Response Unit. While 211 is a local hotline for emergencies and also to obtain contact information on any business or organization on the island.