Last updated: 21 Nov 2023
British Virgin Islands
About
| Some may be aware that Norman Island, one of over 50 idyllic islands that constitute the archipelago of the British Virgin Islands. The Baths in Virgin Gorda is a unique rock formation of dimly lit grottoes and caves, most of which can only be reached by foot or boat. Visitors can snorkel amidst the stunning Coral Gardens of Dead Chest National Park. Sea lovers can set sail in the annual BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival or take it easy on a luxury crewed charter. West Indian houses and a colourful market can be found in Road Town, the capital of the British Virgin Islands. |
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| Capital: | Road Town (Tortola) |
| Currency: | US Dollar (USD) |
| Language: | English (Official), Spanish, Creole |
| Dialling code from SA: | + 1 284 |
| Time Zones: | UTC / GMT -4 (6 hours behind South Africa) |
| Public Holidays 2022: |
Jan 1; Mar 7; Apr 15, 18; Jun 6, 11; Jul 1; Aug 1-3; Oct 17; Nov 14; Dec 25-27 |
| Side of the Road: | Left (Persons staying in the territory under 30 days are not required to purchase a temporary driver’s license. However, if your stay is over 30 days a license is required.) |
| Best Time to go: | Dec - May |
| Best For: | Island Relaxation , Historical Sites |
| Plugs: | 110 volts, 60 Hz. Plugs are the same as in the US with two-pin flat blades and one with a third round grounding pin. |
| Drinking Water: | Mains water in hotels and towns is safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended for visitors. Outside of the main towns, water may be contaminated. |
| Health: | Medical facilities are very limited. Comprehensive health insurance is recommended and it should include emergency air evacuation coverage. |
| Customs: | Major credit cards are accepted in many, but not all establishments. Smoking is not permitted in public places, or within 50 feet of public places. Beachwear should be confined to the beach or poolside. It is considered impolite to take photographs of the local people without asking their permission beforehand. |
| Travel Tips / Warnings: | Major credit cards are accepted in many, but not all establishments. |
| Duty Free: | The following goods may be imported by persons over 18 years of age without incurring customs duty: • 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 230g of tobacco. • 0.95L of wine or spirits. |
| Prohibited Imports: | Prohibited and restricted goods include firearms, air guns, motorcycles with 125cc engines or bigger, caravans, jet skis, motor vehicles weighing over 5,000kg and video game machines. |
| Prohibited Exports: | The list of prohibited and restricted exports is identical to the list of prohibited and restricted imports. |
Visa Requirements
South African passport holders do not require a visa for tourism purposes, for stays of 30 days.
Entry Requirements:
- Return (or ongoing) tickets
- Evidence of adequate means of support and
- Pre-arranged accommodations during their stay
Visa Information can be viewed: bvi.gov.vg/
Travel Health
| Compulsory: | None |
| Recommended Travel Vaccines: | Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Polio |
