Welcome to Turks & Caicos These string of low sand cays boasts some of the world’s most spectacular coral reefs and beaches, and has built itself into a true luxury-tourism destination. You’ll be enchanted by colourful postcards of fading colonial glories, […]
Welcome to Turks & Caicos
These string of low sand cays boasts some of the world’s most spectacular coral reefs and beaches, and has built itself into a true luxury-tourism destination. You’ll be enchanted by colourful postcards of fading colonial glories, gobsmacked by the annual migration of thousands of humpback whales and spoiled with your pick of deserted beaches. The pace of life is easygoing, the local welcome genuine and the diving truly out of this world.
The Islands are a British Overseas Territory only 37 miles long and all together consist of 40 islands and cays, of which only 12 are inhabited. There are two main islands, Grand Turk (Turks Islands) and Providenciales (Caicos Islands).
Highlights in Turks & Caicos
Grace Bay Beach
This 19 kilometres World famous stretch of coast is powdered with white sand and close enough to the reef wall to see the Atlantic breakers. Though it is studded with hotels and resorts , its sheer size means that finding your own private square of paradise is a snap.
Grand Turk Island
Compared to Grace Bay, Grand Turk is a step back in time. At just 10.5 kilometres long this sparsely populated island is a brush covered paradise. Cockburn Town the main settlement has narrow streets frequently visited by wild horses and donkeys. Grand Turk is the port of call for most cruise ships coming to the Turks & Caicos islands. The island also offers excellent scuba diving and snorkelling close to shore.
Iguana Island
The smaller islands around Providenciales (Caicos) are known simply as the Cays, and most of them boast superb beaches and total isolation. They are accessible only by private boat charter.
Whale Watching
The annual migration of 2500 Atlantic Humpback whales is one of Caribbean’s greatest sights. Moving through the Turk island’s passage between January & March, the mighty creatures are on their way back to their breeding grounds. Local boats take visitors respectfully close to the action and its even possible to dive or snorkel with the whales. On land with a pair of binoculars, one can watch from the shores of Grand Turk & Salt Cay as they pass close to the passage.
Mudjin Harbor
One of Turks & Caicos most beautiful spots is Mudjin Harbor. Walking along the clifftop you will surprised to see a staircase appear out of nowhere leading in to the earth. Take it down through the cave and emerge on a secluded cliff lined beach. Looking seaward waves crash in to the offshore rocks in spectacular fashion. If one wants to explore beyond Mujdin, they can walk the lovely Crossing Place Trail.
Salt Cay
This is a sort of a hideaway that you search your whole life to discover. While the land is quiet, the sea surrounding the island is awash with life: Turtles, eagle rays and the majestic humpback whales all frequent the water. This place is a true haven for scuba divers and those seeking an escape from the modern world.
Provo Fish Fry
Locals and visitors alike flock to the Thursday Fish Fry in Bright Park for local fast food, drinking and entertainment. Makeshift stalls deliver conch salads, jerked chicken, rum punch and the like, while live music plays.
Fast Facts:
Location: The Turks and Caicos Islands are a British Overseas Territory located 575 miles south-east from Florida.
Currency: The currency used is US dollar.
Langauge: The primary spoken language is English (although Haitian Creole and Spanish are also spoken by minorities).
Weather & Best Time to visit
High Season : December – March : With drier air and slightly milder temperatures, this season offers the Caribbean weather that attracts many people.
Key Events:
- Junkanoo Jump Up (January)
- Valentine’s Day Cup (February)
Shoulder Season : April & May : This shoulder season is perfect for the traveler who doesn’t mind the occasional rain shower. Since it’s not at the height of the tourist season nor the peak of hurricane season, one is likely hit the sweet spot of affordability and good weather.
Key Events:
- Turks and Caicos Kite Flying Competition (April)
- South Caicos Regatta (May)
Low Season : June – November : One might want to visit during the quieter summer months to find up to 40 percent off on hotels. But this is the rainy season and there’s a slight chance of hurricanes. The afternoon sun of the summer months can get extra hot. Be sure to spend some time retreating in the shade during this season.
Key Events:
- Fools Regatta (June)
- Caicos Classic Billfish Release Tournament (July)
- Turks and Caicos Conch Festival (November)
- Museum Day (November)