Things To Do
in Montserrat

Montserrat is a small Caribbean island known for its volcanic landscape and lush greenery. It is a British Overseas Territory that has a rich cultural heritage influenced by African, Irish, and British traditions. The island is famous for its music scene, particularly calypso and reggae, as well as its stunning beaches and hiking trails.

Following a devastating eruption of the Soufrière Hills volcano in the 1990s, much of the island remains a natural paradise, making it a unique destination for eco-tourists.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Natural Beauty
morning
:

Start your day at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory to learn about the island's volcanic activity and enjoy breathtaking views.

afternoon
:

Take a guided hike to the Soufrière Hills volcano, where you can witness the stunning landscapes and unique geological features.

evening
:

Relax at a local beach, such as Little Bay, to watch the sunset while enjoying a picnic dinner.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Montserrat National Trust to understand the island's history and heritage through various exhibits.

afternoon
:

Explore the local arts and crafts at the Montserrat Arts and Crafts Centre, where you can also meet local artisans.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, followed by live music at a local bar showcasing local talent.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-30
Coffee$3-5
🏨Hotel Night$100-200
🚌Local Bus Fare$2-5
🍺Beer$4-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Less crowded than many other Caribbean destinations.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger islands.
  • Fewer amenities and services available.
  • Accessibility can be challenging due to limited transportation.
  • "Wah gwaan?" - What's going on?
  • "Mi deh yah" - I am here.
  • "Tank yuh" - Thank you.
  • "Likkle more" - See you later.
  • "Yuh good?" - Are you good?

Places to Visit in Montserrat

Visit one of these nice places.

Plymouth Ruins

The abandoned capital of Montserrat, showcasing the remnants of buildings engulfed by volcanic ash, providing a hauntingly beautiful backdrop.

Soufrière Hills

Capture the dramatic volcanic landscape and lush greenery, with breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean.

Brades Village

A picturesque village with colorful homes and scenic views, ideal for capturing the essence of local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Montserrat

Montserrat offers a delightful mix of Caribbean flavors with influences from African and British cuisines. Seafood is abundant, and local ingredients are often used in traditional dishes.

Montserrat Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Goat Water

A traditional stew made with goat meat, vegetables, and spices, often enjoyed on special occasions.

Must-Try!

Fried Fish and Festival

Freshly caught fish fried to perfection, served with sweet fried dumplings known as festival.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Little Bay Market

A local market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Montserrat enjoys a tropical climate with a dry season from December to April and a wet season from May to November. Temperatures typically range from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C) year-round. The island can be affected by hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November, although significant storms are infrequent. Humidity is generally high, especially during the wet season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Local Culture

Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and religious events.

Greetings

A friendly greeting is common; a handshake or a simple 'hello' goes a long way.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially when visiting places of worship or rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Montserrat is considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take common precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and securing valuables. Additionally, being aware of volcanic activity and following local advisories is crucial for safety.

Tipping in Montserrat

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

While Eastern Caribbean Dollars (XCD) are the official currency, US Dollars are widely accepted; most establishments also accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to April)

Expect sunny days, low humidity, and excellent conditions for outdoor activities like hiking and beach visits.

Wet Season (May to November)

Rainfall increases, especially from August to October, but lush landscapes and fewer tourists make it a beautiful time to visit.

Hurricane Season (June to November)

While Montserrat is less affected than other Caribbean islands, be aware of possible storms and check weather updates.

Festival Season

Throughout the year, various cultural festivals take place, notably during summer, providing a chance to experience local music and art.

Nightlife Guide

Montserrat at Night

Montserrat's nightlife is relatively low-key, focusing on local bars, live music venues, and occasional cultural events. Bars often feature local bands playing calypso, reggae, and soca music, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The island's small size means nightlife spots are usually close to one another, allowing for easy exploration.

Hiking in Montserrat

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Plymouth Trail

A scenic trail leading through the ruins of the old capital, Plymouth, offering views of the coastline and the volcano.

Montserrat's Centre Hills

A network of trails through lush forests, allowing hikers to experience a variety of ecosystems and wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Montserrat by plane.

John A. Osborne Airport (MNI)

The main airport on Montserrat, offering regional flights to Antigua and other Caribbean destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Montserrat is relatively walkable in certain areas, particularly in towns like Brades and Little Bay. However, the island's hilly terrain and occasional lack of sidewalks can make walking more challenging in some regions. It's advisable to plan routes ahead and be cautious when walking along roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Montserratian

The indigenous population that has a diverse cultural heritage and plays a vital role in preserving the island's traditions.

Expatriate Community

A small but vibrant community of expatriates, mainly from the UK and other Caribbean nations, contributing to the island's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is a beloved sport in Montserrat, with local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and enjoyed, with local leagues and community participation in matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Montserrat is light, with a small number of vehicles on the roads. Public transportation options include minibusses and taxis, which are reliable for getting around the island. However, many visitors opt to rent a car to explore more remote areas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

While traditional Montserratian cuisine includes meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, particularly focusing on local vegetables and fruits.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities on Montserrat are limited, with the main hospital located in Brades. For serious medical conditions, evacuation to larger islands or back to the mainland may be necessary. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Montserrat.