Trinidad and Tobago: Current Travel and Safety Information for 2026

The national state of emergency declared in Trinidad and Tobago to combat organized crime was lifted on September 17, 2026. Nevertheless, the security situation in the country remains tense: The crime rate and the number of violent crimes remain high, with an average of about one murder per day. Travelers planning a trip to the twin islands should therefore obtain detailed information about the current situation in advance and take appropriate precautions when planning their trip.

Particularly on the main island of Trinidad, certain neighborhoods are considered so-called “no-go zones” that are under the control of rival gangs. These include downtown Port-of-Spain east of Henry Street, as well as the suburbs of Beetham, Laventille, Morvant, Sea Lots, and Belmont; the Enterprise neighborhood and the area around Movie Towne in Chaguanas; and the Carapo neighborhood in Arima. However, robberies and violent break-ins have also occurred repeatedly in busy shopping centers and nightlife districts such as Ariapita Avenue in Port-of-Spain. In the past, bystanders have been injured in open gang clashes, some of which involved the use of semi-automatic firearms.

On Tobago, the situation is generally calmer, though isolated incidents related to gang rivalries have been reported. Pickpocketing is more common there, as are thefts and assaults involving the use of knockout drops—particularly in the southwest of the island, such as in Buccoo, Bon Accord, the Black Rock area, and Lambeau. Around holidays such as Christmas or Carnival, the number of pickpocketing incidents and opportunistic robberies rises even further. Burglaries at guesthouses, detached villas, and hotel complexes have also been reported repeatedly, with women traveling alone considered particularly at risk.

Caution is advised when using taxis and minibuses (maxitaxis). In particular, unregistered private shared taxis—so-called PH taxis with “P” license plates—have been linked to serious violent crimes against passengers. Instead, it is recommended to use hotel taxis, registered taxis with “H” license plates, or taxi apps featuring registered vehicles and drivers. Travelers should also remain vigilant during boat excursions or when anchoring near the coast, as sporadic robberies and isolated cases of piracy occur in the Eastern Caribbean.

General recommendations include being particularly vigilant in crowded places and at large events, keeping valuables and important documents secure, and having electronic copies on hand. When withdrawing cash, be mindful of your immediate surroundings to avoid being watched or followed. Do not enter private property marked with signs such as “No Trespassing,” and avoid unfamiliar, unpaved paths after dark.

Anyone planning a trip to Trinidad and Tobago should take care of the necessary entry documents well in advance. Through our platform, you can easily submit the appropriate visa application—travelers can find an overview of available visa types here, and the application itself can be conveniently submitted via our online application form. This leaves you more time before your trip to familiarize yourself with the latest safety advisories and adjust your travel plans accordingly.