The U.S. State Department updated its Trinidad and Tobago travel advisory, highlighting crime risks, emergency measures, and safety tips for travelers.
The U.S. State Department updated its advisory for Trinidad and Tobago this week. The Caribbean destination — popular among cruisers — remains at Level 3: Reconsider Travel, but the department has added specific areas of risk and removed kidnapping indicators. It continues to caution travelers due to the risk of crime in the country.
“Reconsider travel to Trinidad and Tobago due to crime. There is also a heightened risk of terrorism. Some areas have an increased risk,” the department says. It also notes that violent crime has declined since 2024 due to states of emergency imposed by the government, but crime remains a challenge. Tobago has a lower crime rate than Trinidad, and travelers should be cautious in Port of Spain.
Those employed by the U.S. government are not allowed to travel to various parts of the capital (Laventille, Piccadilly Street, Besson Street and more), and the department also discourages visiting beaches at night. “Exercise increased caution due to limited health care in rural areas on both Trinidad and Tobago. Medical services for routine and emergency procedures in those areas are limited.”
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In March, the government of Trinidad and Tobago extended the state of emergency for three more months. The emergency was first declared in December 2024 following gang violence, and the country spent most of 2025 under emergency measures as it grappled with a high crime rate. In the first three months of this year, the island nation recorded more than 60 killings.
During the state of emergency, the government has imposed a number of measures, including searching public and private properties, arresting people on suspicion, and suspending bail for suspects, the U.S. State Department warns. There are no curfews or restrictions, and that could change with little or no notice.
The U.K. Foreign Office advises, “The State of Emergency was introduced following persistent violent crime and criminal activity and gives authorities additional powers of search, arrest and detention.”
Related: 13 Under-the-Radar Caribbean Cruise Ports You Should Be Considering
A travel advisory does not mean a country is off-limits. You can still travel to destinations with higher risk on the advisory scale, but you are encouraged to remain aware and take additional precautions. Travel insurance is a must, even if it is more expensive for higher-risk destinations.
Flights are available from the U.S. to Port of Spain, and Royal Caribbean is still planning to stop there later this year. The 10-night itinerary takes cruisers to the Southern Caribbean from Panama, with a day in the capital.
If you decide to visit the Caribbean country, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). On March 26, the U.S. Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago launched a dedicated WhatsApp channel to share security alerts and advisories, updates during emergencies, and consular services. It is also wise to join this channel and stay informed.
The department also recommends that travelers avoid remote or poorly lit areas and drive at night with caution. Do not display signs of wealth and do not physically resist robbery attempts unless forced into a vehicle.