Welcome to Montserrat

Unique Facts

• The population of Montserrat has significantly declined since a mass exodus from the country after the Soufriere Hills volcano erupted in 1995. The capital before the eruption was Plymouth, but it has moved to Brades.
• Montserrat and Ireland are the only two countries to recognize St. Patrick’s Day as a public holiday. (Furthermore, the island is often called the “Emerald isle of the Caribbean” because of its similar shape to Ireland.)
• Two endangered species live on Montserrat, including the mountain chicken, which is actually a frog, and the yellow-shouldered volcano bat, found only here and on Guadeloupe.
• Due to the island’s volcanic nature, there are many black-sand beaches, including the most popular, Little Bay Beach. The other favorites for swimming are Isle’s Bay and Woodlands Beach.
• Your taxi or tour guide is likely to stop at Runaway Ghaut, where you’ll be urged to drink from the natural spring due to the local legend: “If you drink from this burn, to Montserrat you will return.”

Language

Montserrat’s official language is English.

When To Go

The best time to go to Montserrat is in the dry season between February and May.

Airports

John A. Osborne Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccines for most travelers when visiting Montserrat: Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B, Rabies and Yellow Fever vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types A and B. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 60Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar

Getting Around

Use caution when driving, riding in a vehicle or crossing the roadways on foot. Most roads are in poor condition.

Public transportation options include minibuses and taxis.

Driver’s License

A temporary driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Bridgetown
Wildey Business Park
Wildey
St. Michael BB 14006
Barbados, W.I.
Telephone: +(246) 227-4399
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(246) 227-4000
Fax: +(246) 431-0179
BridgetownACS@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Visitor Centre
Hubert Buffonge Building
Brades, Montserrat
Tel: 664-491-4703
info@visitmontserrat.com

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 911

Safety and Security

Crimes of opportunity, including petty larceny, burglary and automobile break-ins, occasionally occur. Use standard safety precautions.